Hyundai has refreshed its futuristic Staria minivan with key updates focused on interior technology, ride refinement, and minor exterior styling changes. The update, rolling out now in South Korea, addresses the need to keep the model competitive as it approaches its fifth year on the market. While the core design remains familiar, the changes are aimed at improving the overall user experience.
Exterior Tweaks Maintain Futuristic Look
Visually, the Staria maintains its distinctive, spaceship-like appearance. Updates include an integrated full-width LED light bar at the front with engraved “Staria” logos, more seamlessly placed lower headlights, and reworked cooling intakes. The higher-end Lounge trim receives a lightly revised grille with chrome accents for a more polished aesthetic.
Hyundai has not yet detailed any changes to the Staria Electric variant, though prototypes have been spotted testing with unique front bumper designs—suggesting a more substantial update may be on the horizon. New color options, including “Classy Blue Pearl” and “Galaxy Maroon Pearl” (for the Lounge trim), expand personalization choices.
Upgraded Interior Features Larger Screens and Physical Controls
The interior is where the most noticeable improvements are found. Both the digital instrument panel and central infotainment screen have grown from 10.25 to 12.3 inches, running Hyundai’s latest software with over-the-air update support. The dashboard has been redesigned with new climate vents and a storage tray, while the center console now features more physical buttons instead of touch-sensitive controls—a change likely responding to user feedback.
Other enhancements include a modern steering wheel, an updated electronic shift control (Lounge trim), an auxiliary handle for easier driver access, and new upholstery colors. Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) features have also been expanded as standard equipment. The Staria continues to offer versatile seating configurations, ranging from two-seat utilitarian layouts to eleven-seat family arrangements.
Improved Ride Quality and Powertrain Carryover
Hyundai has also focused on improving ride comfort. Suspension tuning and subframe bushings have been revised, with the Lounge variant benefiting from hydro bushings for a smoother experience. Enhanced sound insulation further reduces cabin noise.
The Staria carries over its existing powertrains: a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 237 hp (which can also run on LPG) and a self-charging hybrid system combining a turbocharged 1.6-liter engine with an electric motor for a combined output of 242 hp. A fully electric version remains under development.
Availability and Pricing
The updated 2026 Hyundai Staria is available for order in South Korea, with prices starting at approximately $22,000 for base models and rising to around $33,000 for higher trims. A wider global rollout is expected to follow.
This refresh demonstrates Hyundai’s commitment to keeping the Staria competitive in the minivan segment by prioritizing interior improvements and comfort upgrades over radical design changes. The move to more physical controls and larger screens addresses common consumer preferences, while the ride enhancements and noise reduction further elevate the vehicle’s appeal.
