What is it?
The Staria is Hyundai's replacement for the iMax, sharing its underpinnings with the Santa Fe and Sonata. The lunar lander aesthetic, full-width DRL bar, and concept-car glasshouse make it the only people mover on sale in Australia that you would actually call interesting to look at.
The lineup runs from Staria Load at $45,990 plus on-roads, through to Highlander Diesel at $79,000 plus on-roads. Warranty cover sits at 5 years, unlimited km.
Interior and Technology
AWD standard on the 2.2L turbo diesel is rare in the segment. Genuine 8-seat capacity with proper third-row headroom, and a Staria Load van entry under $46k.
No hybrid powertrain. Kia's Carnival HEV undercuts the Staria on running costs and warranty length, and that will matter to fleet buyers.
Should you buy the Staria?
Reasons to buy
- AWD standard on the 2.2L turbo diesel is rare in the segment. Genuine 8-seat capacity with proper third-row headroom, and a Staria Load van entry under $46k.
- Warranty: 5 years, unlimited km.
- 5-star ANCAP (2022), full driver-assist suite.
- Braked towing rated at 1,500 kg.
Reasons to wait
- No hybrid powertrain. Kia's Carnival HEV undercuts the Staria on running costs and warranty length, and that will matter to fleet buyers.
- You want a hybrid (Kia Carnival HEV), you want a 7-year warranty (Carnival again), or you want a luxury van feel with eHybrid (VW Multivan).
- 5-year warranty trails Kia's 7-year on the Carnival. Highlander pushes near $80,000 plus on-roads, into Carnival HEV money.
- Top trim climbs to $79,000 plus on-roads.
CarTell.tv review of the Hyundai Staria is coming. Subscribe on YouTube and you will be first to see it.
