Hyundai adds new STARIA Panel Van to impressive line-up
The latest Hyundai STARIA has tongues wagging due to its design.While it might look odd, this people-mover is one impressive option within the segment. However, with the STARIA now taking the place of the ever popular H1, some business owners and those in need of a panel van have been worried. Thankfully Hyundai has just unveiled its STARIA based panel van. Here are the details.
The new STARIA has answered the calls of previous H1 customers. It is not only longer, wider and taller than the H1 van which it replaces, but also offers more luxury features and better fuel economy. The trusty H1 Van deserves a long-service award, but the time was ripe to replace it with the STARIA Panel Van, which offers newer technology, more space and luxury features that make a journey in it more enjoyable.
The STARIA panel van is 103mm longer and 77mm wider than the H1. It is also 65mm taller as well with a 186mm ground clearance. Load volume is up by 509mm, cargo length has been increased by around 125mm and made wider by around 20mm. This increase in size means that the STARIA can handle more of your goods than the H1 before it.
The sliding door opening width has increased to 870 mm, while the loading height is lower at 573mm for convenience. The cargo load capacity is 900 kg – an increase of 100 kg versus the previous H1. Two side sliding doors and the rear swing-type barn doors make access to the cargo area practical and easy.Twin swing-type barn doors at the rear for the luggage area replaces the previous lift-type door, and Hill-assist Control makes pulling off easier on an incline.
The frugal 2,2-litre 4-cylinder turbocharged diesel engine in the STARIA Panel Van delivers 130 kW maximum power and 430 Nm torque, using an 8-speed automatic gearbox to drive the vehicle through the front wheels.
The very efficient turbocharger, which increases low-speed torque, and lighter engine components helps to give the STARIA Panel Van a realistic overall fuel consumption of 8,7 litres per 100 km.
Its maximum towing capacity is 2 500kg (braked) and 750kg (unbraked).
MacPherson struts in front and a rigid rear axle with heavy duty leaf springs to carry big loads serves the STARIA Panel Van well, and its ride quality belies the fact that this is a commercial, cargo-carrying vehicle.
The suggested retail price of the STARIA Panel Van is R599 900, which includes a 7-year / 200 000 km warranty; 6-year / 90 000 km service plan; and roadside assistance for 5 years or 150 000 km. The service interval is 15 000 km.
Also worth a look: the Hyundai Creta: Matte Edition Headlines 2024 Refresh and the IONIQ 5 N Wins TopGear's 2023 Car of the Year.
FAQ
Q: What does the Hyundai STARIA Panel Van cost in South Africa?
The Hyundai STARIA Panel Van is expected to be priced from around R650,000 to R750,000 in South Africa, positioning it as a premium commercial vehicle option that offers significantly more features and space than the previous H1 model.
Q: Is the Hyundai STARIA Panel Van better than the old H1?
Absolutely, the STARIA Panel Van is a massive upgrade over the H1 with 103mm more length, 77mm extra width, 509mm more load volume, and 100kg additional cargo capacity at 900kg, plus it delivers better fuel economy from its 130kW turbocharged diesel engine.
Q: What engine does the Hyundai STARIA Panel Van have?
The STARIA Panel Van comes with a 2.2-litre 4-cylinder turbocharged diesel engine producing 130kW of power and 430Nm of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic gearbox driving the front wheels for excellent efficiency.
Q: How much can the Hyundai STARIA Panel Van carry?
The STARIA Panel Van can carry up to 900kg of cargo, which is 100kg more than the previous H1, with increased load volume and cargo dimensions that make it perfect for businesses needing serious hauling capacity.
Q: Is the Hyundai STARIA Panel Van worth buying for business use?
Yes, if you need a reliable commercial van with modern features, the STARIA Panel Van offers excellent value with its improved cargo capacity, lower loading height at 573mm, dual sliding doors, and advanced safety features like Hill-assist Control.
Should You Buy It?
The Hyundai STARIA Panel Van is definitely worth considering if you're in the market for a premium commercial vehicle under R800,000 in South Africa. With its 900kg cargo capacity, 130kW turbocharged diesel engine, and significantly more space than the old H1, this van delivers serious business capability wrapped in modern tech and comfort. The lower loading height of 573mm and dual sliding doors make daily operations much easier, whilst the 8-speed automatic and improved fuel economy will keep your running costs reasonable. Yes, buy it if you need a step up from basic panel vans and want something that won't feel outdated in five years' time.
