The B-segment MPV segment in Malaysia has a new contender in the form of the Hyundai Stargazer, launched today with a price range from RM99,800 – RM121,800.
3 versions
The sixth model in the Korean’s automaker’s offering for the Malaysian market comes in 3 versions – Style, Prime and X. It is available as a 6-seater (X only) or 7-seater, and imported from Hyundai Motor’s regional production hub (for the Stargazer) in Indonesia. A generous vehicle warranty of 8 years or maximum of 160,000 Kms comes with every Stargazer.
Made in ASEAN
This is the first time that Hyundai Motor has developed a model specifically for the ASEAN markets. It comes after some 20 years of trying to figure out what type of vehicle would be suitable for the region. When the Korean automaker began to look at growing its sales in this region after the Asian Financial Crisis of the late 1990s, it found difficulty in deciding on a single model type.
In Thailand, the pick-up was the most popular – and Toyota was the leader, with Isuzu being a strong contender. Malaysia was largely a passenger car market which the Japanese and Malaysian brands dominated. Indonesia was MPV territory but there too, Toyota was dominant with the Kijang.
In the end, they have probably seen the MPV being their best bet, with a degree of overlap with SUVs which are preferred over sedans and hatchback today. Built on the same platform as the Creta and Kia Carens, the specific ‘customisation’ for the ASEAN region is added ground clearance and a more robust chassis to cope with flooded roads and rough ground in rural areas.
The Stargazer has actually been on sale since 2022 when it made its debut in Indonesia. After that, it was progressively introduced in Vietnam, the Philippines, Brunei, Middle East and Thailand. After Malaysia, South Africa will also get the Stargazer in early 2027. To date, 166,000 units have been delivered.
Strong visual presence
The MPV’s styling has a strong visual presence with its large and futuristic front grille (and huge side ‘intakes’) which uses some elements of the current Hyundai design language. The grille can be seen as an interpretation of the Parametric Pixels that are used on its EVs.
Under the bonnet, there’s a 1.5-litre Smartstream engine with 115 ps/14 4Nm output. Power goes to the front wheels via an 8-speed Intelligent Variable Transmission (CVT) with shift-by-wire control.
Convenience features in the premium-feel cabin include rear air-conditioning with vents in the ceiling and fold-out trays behind the front seats. Captain’s Chairs are also available and as with other MPVs, the backrests of the third row can be folded to increase cargo volume which is a minimum of 182 litres when all seats are in use.
Level 2 ADAS
Designed as a vehicle for families, safety provisions are extensive, with Smartsense Level 2 Advanced Driver Assistance System. The Adaptive Cruise Control, for example, is active right down to 0 km/h and resumes automatically.
Besides a driver drowsiness monitor, a notable safety feature is the Rear Occupant Alert which will remind the driver if a child, pet or belongings are left behind when exiting from the vehicle. No more tragedies of children left to bake inside by forgetful parents.
Resale Value Protection Programme
With the launch of the Stargazer, Hyundai Malaysia also introduces the Stargazer Resale Value Protection Programme, reinforcing its commitment to long-term ownership value. Declaring this an unmatched initiative, the programme guarantees a predetermined resale value when customers upgrade to a new Hyundai vehicle, helping protect their investment while making future ownership transitions more seamless and rewarding.
Customers can choose when to upgrade their car at the following values: 70% in the third year with up to 60,000 kms mileage; 60% in the fourth year with up to 80,000 kms mileage; and 50% in the fifth year with up to 100,000 kms mileage.
Hyundai Protection Plan to be offered to Malaysian customers