Page 18 - Motoring Summer 2021

SA LAUNCH HYUNDAI

Hyundai Staria

he H1 bus has been a success story for Hyundai in SA, currently holding a 25% market
share in its segment. Taking into account that the H1 is 11 years old, this is a great
Tachievement.
The challenge was how to replace the H1 and, this time, Hyundai has gone for Revolution
not Evolution (as is often the case in the motor industry).
The Staria is extremely futuristic in design, especially when viewed from the front. The
bold grille, available in both black and copper colouring, and the light bar across the front of
the top luxury model, make a statement.
All models are powered by the proven 2.2l diesel engine coupled to the 8-speed
automatic transmission driving the front wheels. The ‘drive by wire’ system for the gearbox
is the same as the new Santa Fe and Palisade models. Interestingly, in the Staria the engine is
tuned to provide 130kW and 430Nm.
On the road, the vehicle, with three people on board, always felt like it had sufficient
power for overtaking and cruising was smooth. Open road fuel economy on the launch was
around 8l/100km.

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