Hyundai Replaces H1 with New Staria Panel Van

Complete with the ‘spaceship’ nose that is the signature hallmark of the Hyundai Staria, the newest addition in the form of a three-seater Panel Van comes with high specification levels, including Electronic Stability Control.

The longer, wider and taller Staria Panel Van replaces the H1 – and offers 509 litres of additional load space.

Longer, taller and wider Staria

“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 more enjoyable,” says Stanley Anderson, sales and operations director at Hyundai Automotive South Africa.

Under the bonnet of the new Panel Van is the same 2,2-litre turbo-diesel engine that delivers excellent fuel economy in the people-carrying Staria variants and will make it a popular choice considering the high fuel prices.

The H1 Van recorded a second spot with a 22% market share in its segment in 2021. The expectation is for the well-endowed new Staria Panel Van to be the first choice for more buyers.

A notable feature is the decision to opt for dual swing doors at the rear in place of a single tailgate.

Multi-function steering wheel and digital access to comfort features

The dimensions of the new Hyundai Staria create an option for conversion into a hearse or an ambulance, where, in the latter application, the increased height in the cargo area is a prime factor. 

The 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. 

Hyundai claims overall fuel consumption of 8,7 l/100 km and a maximum towing capacity of 2 500 kg (braked) and 750 kg (unbraked).

MacPherson struts in the front and a rigid rear axle with heavy-duty leaf springs to carry big loads serve the Staria Panel Van well. The ride quality belies the fact that this is a commercial, cargo-carrying vehicle.

Dual swing rear doors

Standard luxury features include Electronic Stability Control (ESC), auto-adjusting headlights, daytime running lights, 17-inch alloy wheels, heated and electrically adjusted outside rear-view mirrors and audio and Bluetooth remote control buttons on the steering wheel, in addition to cruise control.

The retail price of the Staria Panel Van is R599 900, which includes a 7-year / 200 000 km warranty, a 6-year / 90 000 km service plan, and 5-year roadside assistance or 150 000 km. The service interval is 15 000 km.