Hyundai Staria (2021) in the test: price, hp, consumption

Because whoever climbs through the electrically powered sliding doors as standard, enters a lounge with a consistently high standard. And because Hyundai is initially only offering the Staria in the top equipment, everyone who travels with it should feel like in a VIP shuttle.

It is not for nothing that two electrically adjustable individual seats are installed in the second row, which can keep up with any TV armchair: heated and ventilated, with reclining and footrests, they are so comfortable that you don’t even want to think about getting out.

There is also a sliding sofa in the third row and a trunk that can only hold a few jackets and handbags when fully seated. But if you only have four people on your shopping trip at Staria, you could probably invite more than your budget allows.

Lots of electrical helpers, but only one motor on offer

The driver’s job is also made as pleasant as possible. He sits behind a digital operating landscape that lights up in dozens of colors. And above all, there are numerous assistants at his side who make dealing with the giant easier.

In addition to the controls for lane guidance, distance and speed, there is camera monitoring for the blind spot and a 360-degree display for maneuvering, with which the Staria can be maneuvered effortlessly into narrow parking spaces. And because the car is so big, cameras and microphones inside help with communication between the front row and the rear. This creates an atmosphere that is familiar from a coach or plane.

While the Staria overtakes even the noblest versions of Bulli or Mercedes V-Class in terms of ambience and equipment, it cannot keep up with the drive. Because there is only one motor. And it’s not just quite conventional and has to get along without electrical support. Above all, it is less confident than one would wish for in a car designed for relaxed journeys.

Of course, the 2.2-liter diesel with its 130 kW / 177 hp has enough power. And the eight-speed automatic cannot be disturbed by anything. But despite the 430 Nm, the engine sounds a little strained at higher speeds. And as seductive as the space in the rear may be, even for discerning business customers, the Staria falls behind on the autobahn at the latest.

Because while the S-Class and Co can easily do 250 things, it ends here at 185 km / h. And with 12.4 seconds, the sprint from 0 to 100 km / h also takes a little longer. Not to mention the consumption: In the basic version, the Staria treats itself to 8.5 liters per 100 kilometers and has CO2 emissions of 222 g / km, with the all-wheel drive for an additional cost of 2,000 euros it is even a bit more.

Conclusion: It looks futuristic and its VIP seating is unrivaled. Of course, the Staria does not automatically become a bestseller in the home of the Bulli. But instead of just copying the VW like so many manufacturers, Hyundai is taking a refreshingly different path – with one weak point, however, the drive. But whoever has seen the Staria once, will at least not soon forget it.

Technical specifications

All data according to the manufacturer, GDV, Schwacke