Hyundai did not disappoint when they launched the Stargazer back in 2022. It was a very refreshing offering in the MPV market that is somewhat going stale. Most contenders were trying to be an SUV outside but nothing really differentiated one another in terms of cabin amenities. It became an aesthetic contest in a way.
Enter the Stargazer that offered something different inside and out. Suddenly, we have an MPV that’s not trying to be someone else and instead, embraced what it means to be a family car.
Practical Looks
The Stargazer looks distinct from all corners. It has soft curves complemented by unique amenities like the wide H taillights that run across the tailgate, the DRL strip running across the edge of the hood, and headlight assembly that goes with the curvature of the corners.
What makes it great is the practicality that goes with such forward-driven design. The A pillar was angled in a way that gives the driver a wide view of the road. They didn’t bother being sleek at the rear end but that made for great headroom in the second and third rows of the Stargazer’s cabin.
This wasn’t compromised even with the more rugged looking Stargazer X trim. They only enhanced its look, added a few flairs in the cabin, but the core is the same. An MPV that looks great, but very useful once on the road.
Space Master
What really sets the Stargazer apart from its rivals is the amount of storage space you have inside the cabin which amounts to around 31 spaces. The dashboard itself has lots of cubby holes and nifty pockets for your belongings. You can even place things behind the infotainment touchscreen housing!
This continues to the second row that has a cubby hole behind the center console. Then there’s a table for the right passenger that’s perfect for those who work while on the road, kids doing last minute assignments, or if you want to eat while on the go during your road trip outside of Metro Manila. There are other pockets in the third row, seats, and door trims. Even the cargo area has additional segmented storage under the flooring for other things like shoes or clothes.
If you’d rather have personal space, there’s a Stargazer Premium 6-seater variant for you. It has the same amenities as the top of the line Stargazer Premium but features 2 captain seats in the second row for a more relaxed riding experience.
Smooth Drive
Another aspect that set the Stargazer apart from its rivals is its powertrain. It makes use of a 1.5-liter Smartstream engine that makes 115 horsepower and 144 Nm of torque, paired to Hyundai’s own Intelligent Variable Transmission or IVT. This IVT is basically Hyundai’s version of the Continuously Variable Transmission or CVT but better. It doesn’t have the usual tendency of a rubber band where you’re hearing the engine roar but movement or real-world acceleration is nowhere to be found. Hyundai’s IVT is more responsive and smooth in terms of acceleration either from stop or for overtaking.
They didn’t overlook efficiency either. The Stargazer can easily reach 20 km/l even if you’re traveling at an average of 90 kph. So for those who prefer cruising at a lower speed, that fuel economy figure can only get better.
The best part is this is available in all variants of the Stargazer. So it doesn’t matter if you’re on the base model or top of the line Stargazer X, you’ll be getting the same smooth and responsive drive without sacrificing fuel economy.
Future Proof
Just like its design, the Stargazer is future proof in terms of amenities. Select variants have an LED headlight, Power Folding Side Mirrors, Remote Engine Start, Supervision digital instrument cluster, 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, illuminated USB charging ports, and a Wireless Charger.
If you go for the higher Stargazer X trim, you’ll get additional Wireless Connection for the Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and Electronic Parking Brake with Auto Brake Hold that will make driving in stop-and-go traffic easier on your leg.
Safety is Paramount
Another aspect where the Hyundai Stargazer is head and shoulders above its rivals is the safety department. Unlike others that only have front airbags, the Stargazer has side and curtain airbags as well. There’s also a Tire Pressure Monitoring System, Manual Speed Limit Assist, Stability Control, and Hill Start Assist.
There’s also Hyundai Smartsense available for the Premium trim. It’s Hyundai’s suite of Advanced Driver Assist System that will definitely help you in your daily drive. It includes Forward Collision Avoidance Assist that can detect cars and pedestrians, Blind Spot Collision Avoidance Assist, Rear Occupant Alert, Lane Keeping Assist, Rear View Monitor, High Beam Assist, Rear Cross-Traffic Collision Avoidance Assist, Driver Attention Warning, Safe Exit Warning which is very useful for opening the door when parked on the side of the road, Reverse Parking Distance Warning, and Lane Following Assist.
If you go for the Stargazer X, you’ll get additional Cruise Control, Forward Parking Distance Warning and Rear Seat Alert with Ultrasonic Sensor.
Wide Range of Pricing
The Stargazer is available in 5 variants including the Stargazer X. It starts with the GL at PHP 1,068,000, followed by the GLS at PHP 1,198,000. The Premium 7-seater has all the features at PHP 1,288,000 while the Premium 6-seater is at PHP 1,298,000. Those looking for more style points and a bit more tech bits may look at the Stargazer X at PHP 1,348,000. Along with that is Hyundai’s 5-year or 200,000 km warranty which is one of the longest in the segment.
What’s more, Hyundai has a low cash-out promo for the Stargazer when you finance through BDO, BPI, or EastWest Bank. You can have it for as low as PHP 8,000 cash-out (depending on variant) and as little as 5.15% interest rate (depending on the amortization length).
You also have until September 30 to avail of the Free 2-Year (or 30,000 km) Preventive Maintenance Service Package for any variant of the Stargazer. You will be given a Free 2-Year PMS Certificate once you buy your very own Stargazer and you can avail that through any of Hyundai Motor Philippines Dealerships nationwide.
But even if you put aside the promos going on, there’s no doubt that the Hyundai Stargazer raised the bar for its segment. It has next-level practicality in the cabin matched by a very unique aesthetic inside and out. Along with that are the latest in tech amenities that are future proof, a fuel efficient engine combination, and the best safety features in the market today. You won’t find all of that in another vehicle at this price point.
