Toyota launched the new Avanza, Mitsubishi launched the refreshed Xpander, and recently, Nissan launched the Mitsubishi-based Livina. Now, Hyundai is about to join this hot competitive segment with the new Stargazer. At this point, we can probably call 2022 the year of the seven-seater MPV.
For this size comparison, we’ll be pitting the Korean carmaker’s new small MPV against the popular Xpander. Let’s see how the new kid on the block stacks up against the popular established small MPV. Let the battle of the seven-seater family haulers begin.
OTHER STORIES YOU MIGHT HAVE MISSED:
Mitsubishi Xpander vs. Toyota Avanza: Which MPV is the better family transport?
Spec-sheet brawl: Toyota Veloz 1.5 G CVT vs. Mitsubishi Xpander GLS AT
The new Stargazer measures 4,460mm long, 1,780mm wide, and 1,695mm tall, this makes it 135mm shorter, 30mm wider, and 55mm lower than the Xpander. The Hyundai MPV rides on a 2,780mm wheelbase, which is 5mm longer than its Mitsubishi counterpart. The Stargazer’s ground clearance measures 185mm, or 40mm less than the Xpander’s crossover-like 225mm ground clearance.
Hyundai’s MPV comes with 16-inch alloy wheels shod with 205/55 R16 rubber, this is an inch less than the wheel and tire package of Mitsubishi’s MPV. For those curious, the figures we mentioned apply to all variants of each brand’s MPV. It’s interesting to note that the Stargazer’s dimensions are closer to the shorter pre-facelift Xpander and the related Livina. Both MPVs feature each carmaker’s interpretation of a sleek stylish modern seven-seater wagon. The Stargazer’s face and wedge-like profile were influenced by the larger futuristic Staria van, while the Xpander’s XM Concept-based design blends MPV styling with SUV styling elements.
The Stargazer and Xpander both have a monocoque or unibody construction and use a front-wheel-drive platform with a transversely mounted engine. Both MPVs feature the common independent front MacPherson strut and rear torsion beam suspension setup. This design is lightweight and cheap, and allows carmakers to optimize interior space. Like most MPVs in this price point, both come equipped with disc brakes up front, and drums at the rear. The Stargazer and Xpander both come with a segment-standard 1.5-liter in-line-four gasoline mill.
Here’s a little trivia: Hyundai manufactured a licensed version of the Mitsubishi Space Wagon called the ‘Santamo’ from 1995 to 2002. Hyundai’s finally back in the small MPV game, but now with a vehicle that it developed on its own. Better late than never.
What do you think of the new Hyundai Stargazer? Do you think the South Korean carmaker has a chance to dominate the small MPV segment? Let us know what you think in the comments.
