Hyundai Staria ‘cruise ship’ people mover confirmed for Australia

All-new machine brings business class travel to the back seat, combining space-age looks with clever technology.

Hyundai hopes the Staria people mover can rejuvenate a flagging segment.

Hyundai has locked in plans to introduce its new Staria people mover to Australia.

Set to go on sale in the second half of 2021, the big van shapes up as an alternative to high-riding SUVs that dominate the new car sales charts.

Sleek exterior styling makes the machine look far more fashionable than the brand’s ageing Hyundai iMax people mover.

The Hyundai Staria people mover has a futuristic face.

But the Staria’s true appeal lies in a “cruise ship-inspired interior” promising to take comfort to a new level.

Range-topping models have “premium relaxation seats” that recline electronically at the touch of a button. The seats also swivel 180 degrees to allow passengers to face each other.

Premium versions of the Hyundai Staria people mover have swivelling seats.

Like a corporate jet, Hyundai reckons the Staria Premium is “ideal for corporate vehicles or mobile offices as passengers can turn their seats around and conduct meetings face-to-face”. Other luxury touches include 64-colour mood lighting, a Bose surround sound stereo, and sliding seats with plenty of leg room.

Hyundai promises the Staria people mover will deliver a luxurious experience.

The car also has a camera slowing drivers to keep an eye on passengers, along with a safety system preventing rear occupants from opening their door into the path of fast-moving traffic.

Aussie versions will be equipped with eight airbags.

Power comes a choice of 2.2-litre turbo diesel engine with 130kW and 431Nm or 3.3-litre petrol V6 with 200kW and 331Nm, both mated to eight-speed automatic transmissions.

The Hyundai Staria people mover is available with a wide range of layouts spanning two to eleven seats overseas.

Reworked suspension promises to make the machine more comfortable than its predecessor, making it a viable rival to the likes of Hyundai’s Santa Fe.

Full prices and specifications for the model will be available closer to its local debut.