Hyundai just rolled out its Neira Prototype MPV at the 2026 Gaikindo Indonesia International Auto Show. It stands as a modern, fully electric seven-seater, which the brand plans to assemble and sell in Indonesia.
However, while it is called a prototype—suggesting further developments will be made—it is actually a rebadged Kia Carens. For the uninitiated, the Carens most recently received a facelift for its fully electric version in May 2025. The Philippines last saw the nameplate in 2018, around the time it was discontinued.
At the same motor show, Kia separately announced that the Carens EV will also be built at the Hyundai Motors Manufacturing Indonesia Plant. It looks like Hyundai is aiming to maximize this electric MPV with two models for domestic sale.
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Hyundai and Kia have not released any specifications of their shared EV, but we have an idea of what the cars will look like. Launch images show that Neira and the Carens will share Kia’s thin and angular DRLs and lightbar, while the former will get a Stargazer-like grille and front bumper.
Wheel designs also vary, with the Carens’ industrial four-spoke finish and the Neira’s five-spoke pattern. Up top, the roof rack remains standard across the two cars, along with the non-flush door handles and the side garnishes.
It will be interesting to see another Hyundai EV outside of the Ioniq series, as those typically offer more accessible pricing and simpler finishes. While this will not likely enter the Philippine market, Hyundai’s fully electric MPV could inform future Stargazer development, or whatever else the brand has cooking in the people-hauling department.
