Diesel engines are the preferred type of engines for pickup trucks, commercial vehicles, and in the case of the Philippines and most of South East Asia, minivans. The reason for that is simple, minivans like the Staria, the Hiace, and the Urvan need to haul lots of people and lots of stuff. Getting them moving requires a lot of low-end torque, a characteristic that can only be found in diesel engines. Plus, since minivans usually travel long distances, the combination of torque and fuel efficiency means diesel takes the cake as the favored option for these vehicles.
However, some countries with stricter emissions standards are moving away from diesel fuel, which leaves Hyundai and other car manufacturers to power their minivans with gasoline engines. To make up for the deficit in the pulling power of gasoline engines and make their minivan friendlier to the environment, Hyundai is turning to electricity.
In South Korea, the Hyundai Staria now offers a hybrid option alongside its traditional turbodiesel engine. This hybrid variant draws its powertrain from the recently upgraded Kia Carnival, as well as the hybrid models of the Hyundai Santa Fe and Kia Sorento.
Under the hood lies a 1.6-liter turbocharged engine paired with an electric motor. The engine delivers 177 hp and 265 Nm of torque on its own, while the electric motor contributes 72 hp and 304 Nm of torque. According to the company's specifications, this combination results in a total power output of 242 hp for the electrified van, surpassing the horsepower output of the familiar 2.2-liter turbodiesel engine. As an added bonus, the Staria Hybrid makes all that power without emitting as many pollutants.
In the style department, the Staria Hybrid maintains the same appearance as the standard Staria model, with minor distinctions such as fresh 18-inch alloy wheels and subtle blue accents within the cabin. Inside, enhancements include an updated touchscreen infotainment system that now displays the status of the hybrid system and tracks fuel consumption. Apart from these changes, the interior of the electrified people carrier remains consistent with the familiar design.
So with all that being said, will Hyundai Motor Philippines Inc. bring the Staria Hybrid into the country? Once we get an answer to that, we’ll be the first to let you know. For now, you can check out Hyundai’s lineup of vehicles on AutoDeal.com.ph., take a deep dive into our extensive Car Guide to get started on your car-buying journey today.
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