Last month saw Hyundai Motor Company (HMC) launch its new MPV line-up. Dubbed STARIA, a name which combines ‘star’ and ‘ria’, the future-fixated vehicles features a streamlined design combined with a strikingly futuristic and mysterious exterior, “resembling a spaceship”. The front is highlighted by a long, horizontal daytime running light and headlamps positioned underneath.
STARIA is equipped with various driver-centric features and futuristic design elements that deliver new experiences for drivers and passengers that make time in transit more productive and worthwhile.
Bang Sun Jeong, Head of Hyundai Motor Company Middle East & Africa HQs, said: “We are excited to be launching the STARIA Premium in what will be another excellent addition to our portfolio of vehicles in the region.
“It is characterised by a futuristic exterior design that really makes it look unlike anything else on the road and will provide a completely new experience for customers.”
STARIA Premium includes upgraded features and variant-exclusive finishes for a more luxurious look and feel. These include a tinted brass chrome treatment, applied to the Hyundai emblem, grille, headlamp bezels, front and rear bumpers, wheels, side mirrors and door handles to emphasize the vehicle’s premium and modern look.
Lowered beltlines and panoramic side windows improve overall visibility and create a feeling of openness. This sense of spaciousness — inspired by traditional Korean ‘hanok’ architecture — “allows passengers to feel as if the outside scenes are an extension of the vehicle interior”.
The driver’s seat has a futuristic high-tech look with an advanced 10.25-inch front display screen with the digital cluster located on top of the dashboard, providing an unobstructed view for the driver and giving the driver space superb operability and practicality.
STARIA Premium models receive Hyundai’s unique Parametric Pixel lamp design and garnish on top. The design theme carries over to the rear, featuring a wide window framed by elongated vertical tail lamps. The rear bumper is lowered so passengers can quickly load and unload cargo.
The 7-seat Premium model is equipped with Premium Relaxation Seats in the second row that recline electronically and have sliding capabilities for easy reach or maximising cargo space. The 9-seat Premium model’s individual seats in the second row can swivel 180 degrees to face passengers in the third row.
The flexible seating configuration makes STARIA Premium ideal for corporate vehicles or mobile offices as passengers can turn their seats around and conduct face-to-face meetings. Families will also find these swivelling seats convenient as rear-facing passengers will have easy access to those seated in the third row.
Jeong added: “Designed for both families and businesses, STARIA provides next-level mobility solutions that make time in transit more accommodating, productive and worthwhile.
It is a step forward in connecting us in a way where we can do more for ourselves in transit and get the most out of our everyday lives.”
A 64-colour ambient mood lamp, available in all STARIA Premium variants, provides a lush interior atmosphere. The harmonious direct and indirect lighting can selectively illuminate the cockpit, console, doors and cargo areas. The Bose sound system further enhances the premium feel.
