Many people load their vehicles with work-related items and visit clients on weekdays, while taking family members on trips on weekends. However, for consumers who find it burdensome to maintain separate vehicles for business and family use, the Hyundai Motor Staria LPG is an option that can handle both roles. This is thanks to its spacious interior, sufficient driving performance, and the economic efficiency of LPG.
The vehicle recently test-driven was the 'The New Staria' Tourer 11-seater LPG 3.5 Smart trim. The Staria underwent a partial model change after approximately five years since its launch in 2021. The exterior maintains the existing futuristic design while refining detailed elements. The front daytime running lights have been changed from the previous three-part structure to a single, connected horizontal lamp.
The first thing felt upon sitting in the driver's seat was the quietness of the LPG engine. Even after starting the engine and beginning to drive, the engine noise entering the cabin was not significant. When the accelerator pedal was pressed, the large vehicle body smoothly increased its speed. Contrary to the preconception that LPG vehicles lack power, it was difficult to feel any dissatisfaction with output during everyday driving.
The Staria LPG is equipped with a 3.5-liter engine and an 8-speed automatic transmission. The maximum output is 240 horsepower, and the maximum torque is 32.0 kgf·m. This is sufficient performance to move such a large vehicle body. Engine noise was not significantly bothersome even while driving, allowing for comfortable operation. Hyundai explained that it improved the front and rear suspensions of this partial model change version and reinforced sound-absorbing materials to enhance ride comfort and quietness. However, it is necessary to note that, as an 11-seater passenger vehicle, its top speed is limited to 110 km/h.
Space utilization is another appeal of the Staria. While all 11 seats can be occupied, it appeared more practical to adjust the seats according to the actual number of passengers. Although there was virtually no space for luggage when all seats were used, folding down the rear seats secured ample cargo space. It is also sufficiently usable when a family of five goes on a trip. In other words, it can be utilized for various purposes, such as loading work-related items on weekdays and going on trips with family on weekends.
There were also points of regret. The large vehicle body became a burden when parking. The test drive vehicle did not have a surround view monitor that allows the driver to check the area around the car at a glance, making parking in narrow spaces somewhat inconvenient. This is a factor to consider for consumers who frequently use the vehicle for business in urban areas or live in places with limited parking space.
The economic efficiency of LPG is also a strength of the Staria. The certified combined fuel economy is 6.7 km per liter, which is not particularly high, but this is compensated by the relatively cheap price of LPG fuel. It is worth considering from the perspective of maintenance costs for drivers who frequently travel for work or often go on family trips. Unlike diesel vehicles, there is no need to replenish urea, which is also convenient.
The Staria LPG is not a car suitable for everyone. The large vehicle body can be burdensome in narrow parking spaces, and it may not be common to utilize all 11 seats. However, the situation changes for consumers who need ample cargo space for work but enjoy traveling with family on weekends. The Staria, which combines sufficient output and quietness with the economic efficiency of LPG, can be an attractive option for drivers who want to take care of both work and family.
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