Fresh off the quiet introduction of the facelifted Palisade, Hyundai Motor Philippines (HMPH) is now bringing in yet another new model: the all-new Stargazer.
Holding true to its word that the MPV will arrive this year, HMPH is now set to challenge the likes of Toyota and Mitsubishi in the subcompact MPV segment, as the new Stargazer will compete directly with the ever-popular Avanza and Xpander. We know a lot of you are looking forward to this, so we’re here to run through all the specs and features of this new seven-seater.
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Variants and prices
Three variants of the Stargazer are available, but only one engine and transmission setup will be available. HMPH has yet to announce the official prices, though, as it has only opened pre-booking for now—all we know is that the introductory retail price of the base 1.5 GL trim is P998,000. Perhaps we’ll have more details as we move closer to the public launch scheduled on November 9. Rest assured, we’ll keep you posted.
Hyundai Stargazer 2023 prices:
- Hyundai Stargazer 1.5 GL IVT – P998,000*
- Hyundai Stargazer 1.5 GLS IVT – TBD
- Hyundai Stargazer 1.5 GLS Premium IVT – TBD
*Introductory retail price
Exterior
The Stargazer sits in the middle of the Xpander and Avanza in terms of length and height and is similar to both in terms of width. It measures 4,460mm x 1,780mm x 1,695mm with a 2,780mm wheelbase and 185mm of ground clearance.
The MPV has that undeniably Hyundai-like design. In fact, it’ll even pass off as a baby Staria with that front fascia highlighted by the thin light bar on the hood. The headlamps and the grille with the intricate design, meanwhile, give it that Tucson- and Creta-like look.
At the rear, there are loud, diamond-shaped taillights accentuating the liftgate. The pair is also connected by a thin lightbar stretching the width of the vehicle. Underneath, only 16-inch alloy wheels are available, but these come in either a two-tone or a monotone finish depending on the variant.
Interior
The base Stargazer variant gets fabric seats inside the cabin, while the two higher trims are fitted with leatherette seats. The interior has a very modern design, with the instrument cluster enclosed by a chunky plastic panel on which the infotainment system is also mounted.
There are a few storage options in the front row as well. Apart from the flat dash on the passenger’s side, there’s a hidden tray below wherein everyday stuff such as smartphones, wallets, and keys can be stowed. There are also foldable snack trays in the second row and an expandable luggage compartment at the rear.
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Engine and specs
As mentioned earlier, only one engine option is available with the Stargazer—that’s a 1.5-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder gasoline engine that generates 113hp at 6,300rpm and 144Nm of torque at 4,500rpm. This can only be spec’d with Hyundai’s proprietary Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT), the same tranny available on the Kia Seltos.
The Stargazer’s suspension setup is comprised of MacPherson struts up front and a torsion beam at the rear. Stopping power is provided by front disc and rear drum brakes.
Extra features
Another accessory the Stargazer borrows from Kia is the eight-inch infotainment system available in GLS variants. This head unit comes with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity and a 4+2 speaker system. These same variants also get a smart keyless entry system with push-to-start ignition.
Dual front airbags and ABS come as standard across the range, but only GLS variants get electronic stability control, hill-start assist, a reversing camera with parking sensors, and rear alert. The top-of-the-line GLS Premium also has forward, blind-spot, and rear cross-traffic collision avoidance assist, lane-keep assist, driver-attention warning and a tire-pressure monitoring system.
“The share in the market of MPVs continues to increase year-on-year. And along with this growth are the evolving considerations when choosing the right one,” said HMPH managing director Cecil Capacete. “As a brand, our focus on humanity is driven by our commitment to understand what people want in life so we can offer them an ownership journey that is meaningful and rewarding. Which is why Hyundai Motor is bringing in the Stargazer as it is not just a head-turner, but a game-changer.
“With the Stargazer we wish to set a new benchmark in its segment. We recognize the emergence of the modern lifestyle and needs among Filipino families. And we intend to address these through our future-oriented design, top-of-class advanced safety and technological systems and unmatched driver and passenger comfort.”
More photos of the Hyundai Stargazer 2023:
