Filipinos love their compact seven-seaters. These MPVs are easy to drive, highly versatile, comfortable, fuel-efficient, and affordable. But which one?
The Hyundai STARGAZER is an easy choice. Hyundai’s popular MPV has been given not just a new refreshed look, but upgraded features and enhanced convenience as well. The new STARGAZER features heavily revamped styling that swaps the futuristic, rounded look of the previous model for a bolder, more SUV-esque look.
It sports new front and rear ends that take after the latest Hyundai SUV design. The new Sheriff-style front combination lights—now mounted just below the hood (in contrast to the bumper-mounted lighting units of its predecessor)—and highly detailed grille are the biggest changes to the fascia. The rear highlights a sharp refresh on the distinctive H-signature LED taillights and bumper.
Under the hood, the new STARGAZER is powered by a smooth and silent 1.5-liter gasoline engine delivering 115ps and 144Nm of torque. Mated to a smooth-shifting yet responsive Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT), the drivetrain of the STARGAZER enables it to achieve fuel efficiency of as much as 16.95 km per liter.
Looks and fuel economy aside, what exactly makes the STARGAZER the consummate family car? There are five aspects, to be exact. Here they are:
1. Space
Families are about road trips. And nothing makes a journey more enjoyable than having lots of space inside the car. This type of MPV is said to be in the subcompact class. Truth be told, the STARGAZER solidly belongs in the compact class. Its class-leading 2,780mm wheelbase is even longer than that of most compact sedans.
That generous distance between the front and rear wheels enables the Stargazer to offer class-leading cabin space, particularly in terms of legroom, whether you’re in the front, middle or third-row seats.
Flexibility is also a defining feature of the STARGAZER, with the 60-40 split-folding and full-flat seat configuration that allows easy adaptation for either passengers or cargo, offering a maximum capacity of 1,892 liters for all kinds of family adventures.
Exclusive to the STARGAZER X is a new functional bridge-type roof rail to complement active lifestyles. This can accommodate extra cargo storage of up to 100kg—perfect for quick weekend getaways or family adventures.
2. Comfort
Inside, the STARGAZER has been thoughtfully upgraded for both the driver and passengers. Its low NVH (noise, vibration, and harshness) performance ensures a quiet and stress-free cabin, perfect for those long drives or peaceful moments with the little ones on board.
New ambient lighting further enhance the relaxing atmosphere inside, aside from giving the cabin an upscale feel. Numerous cupholders, bottle holders, and storage areas make travelling in the STARGAZER much more fun and convenient.
3. Safety
The new STARGAZER allows for added peace of mind on the road with an improved array of Hyundai SmartSense features such as Smart Cruise Control with Stop and Go, Forward Collision Avoidance Assist, Lane Following and Keeping Assist, and Blind Spot Collision Avoidance Assist.
The new STARGAZER X is also equipped with six SRS airbags to protect the driver and passengers during collision, providing safety for everyone on board.Combined with its 17-inch alloy wheels and long wheelbase, the STARGAZER offers more stability andsafety to its segment.
4. Tech
The STARGAZER’s cockpit showcases Hyundai’s technology leadership with two first-in-segment 10.25” displays: a digital instrument cluster with Tire Pressure Monitoring System, as well as an integrated infotainment display that supports Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Other tech features include an automatic climate control system and a wireless charging pad, among many others.
5. Practicality
The best part is, the new Hyundai STARGAZER is surprisingly affordable, with a starting price of just Php, 1,118,000 for the STARGAZER 1.5 GL Plus IVT. The next higher variant in the lineup is the STARGAZER 1.5 GLS IVT, which has a retail price of Php 1,228,000.
The more SUV-inspired models are the STARGAZER X 1.5 GLS Plus IVT, which retails for Php 1,318,000, and the top-of-the-line STARGAZER X 1.5 Premium IVT, which is priced at a very palatable Php 1,378,000.
All things considered, these five attributes underscore the core competences of the Hyundai STARGAZER, making it easily one of the best buys in its class.
The STARGAZER is available in five colors: Dragon Red Pearl, Magnetic Silver Metallic, Creamy White Pearl, Titan Gray Metallic, and Midnight Black Pearl. The STARGAZER X, meanwhile, comes in exclusive two-tone colors with a black roof: Creamy White Pearl, Magnetic Silver Metallic, and Dragon Red Pearl.
Hyundai offers worry-free ownership: free 1-year Preventive Maintenance Service (PMS), as well as free pick-up and delivery for PMS and General Job repairs, on top of Hyundai’s 5-year warranty.
