2022 Hyundai Staria 10-seater Max Review

The popularity of the MPV market has been continuously rising in Malaysia in recent years. More and more families and business users are leaning towards models with flexible space and rich configurations. As one of the representatives of commercial-grade MPVs, the Hyundai Staria 10-seater Max has become a focus of attention for many consumers thanks to its high-spec seat functions and fully flat folding rear seat layout. The core purpose of this test drive is to verify whether its space practicality and dynamic performance can truly meet the needs of multi-person travel or business receptions, and at the same time see whether its configurations justify the price of RM 209,888.

The exterior design of the Staria 10-seater Max follows a simple and atmospheric route with overall straight lines that maximize the use of interior space. At the front, the LED headlights and daytime running lights are integrated, complementing a large-sized grille, giving it decent recognition. The side of the vehicle avoids overly complex lines, and the 18-inch tire specifications (235/55 R18) are proportionate to the body, avoiding a top-heavy appearance. The rear design is relatively understated, while the LED taillights echo the front design. Rear fog lights come as standard equipment, giving an overall sense of solidity, which aligns with its positioning as both a commercial and family vehicle.

Upon entering the cabin, the quality of materials stands out. The center console layout is clear, and the 8-inch touchscreen is positioned perfectly within the line of sight, making it very user-friendly. The steering wheel features a multifunctional design, and the standard HUD head-up digital display reduces the frequency of having to look down at the instrument panel while driving. The 10.25-inch TFT LCD instrument panel provides comprehensive information. The driver's seat supports 8-way electric adjustment and comes with heating and ventilation functions, ensuring comfort even during long drives; the front passenger seat also features 4-way electric adjustments with heating and ventilation, a testament to attention to detail. The highlight of the rear seats is that the second, third, and fourth rows can all be folded flat, making it very convenient for transporting cargo or expanding space. The 220V/230V power outlet and front and rear zoned air conditioning can also meet the needs of different passengers.

In terms of space, the Staria 10-seater Max measures 5253mm in length, 1997mm in width, and 1990mm in height, with a wheelbase of 3273mm, ranking medium to high within the same MPV class. The legroom in the front and second rows is very spacious, leaving over two fists of space for passengers with a height of 175cm. Although the third and fourth rows have slightly less space, adults can still sit comfortably for short trips. The trunk space offers 1024L in standard configuration, which can be further expanded by folding the rear seats, accommodating several large suitcases or bulk items without issue.

In terms of power, the Staria 10-seater Max is equipped with a 2.2L naturally aspirated diesel engine, delivering a maximum horsepower of 177PS and a maximum torque output between 1500-2500rpm. During actual driving, it starts smoothly, with prompt acceleration response at low to medium speeds, making overtaking and lane changes in urban areas effortless. Even at a highway speed of 100km/h, there is sufficient power reserve for further acceleration, without any noticeable lack of power. The transmission is of an AT type, offering smooth gear shifts without apparent jerkiness. There are several driving modes available, and switching to sport mode makes the throttle response more sensitive.

The handling and chassis performance are average. The steering wheel is precise with minimal play, making it very easy to get accustomed to during daily driving. The suspension system is tuned for comfort; it can filter out most vibrations when going over speed bumps or bumpy roads, so rear passengers won't feel overly jolted. The body stability is good, and the body roll is well-controlled during high-speed cornering, with no obvious swaying. The braking system features ventilated discs both front and rear, providing stable braking performance and a very linear feedback when applied.

In terms of fuel consumption, although the official combined fuel consumption figure hasn’t been provided, in actual driving, the urban fuel consumption is approximately 8-10L/100km, while highway consumption can drop to below 7L/100km. For a 10-seater MPV, this fuel efficiency can be considered quite economical. Noise control is well-executed, as both engine noise and tire noise are not significantly noticeable during highway driving, allowing for normal conversations inside the car. The seat comfort is excellent, with the front seats offering heating and ventilation functions, which are practical for different seasons, while the rear seats provide good support, ensuring passengers won’t feel fatigued during long rides.

Overall, the Staria 10-seater Max's main highlights lie in its flexible space usage, extensive configurations, and comfortable driving and riding experience. Compared to MPV models in the same class, its seat functions (heating, ventilation, electric adjustment) and the full-flat folding design of the rear seats are significant advantages. Additionally, the safety configuration is comprehensive, including six airbags, blind-spot monitoring, lane departure alert, and more. Although the RM 209,888 price tag is not low, considering the features, the value for money is still relatively high.

This vehicle is well-suited for families that prioritize practical space and a comfortable ride, especially those who frequently travel with multiple passengers. It’s also a good choice for business receptions, as the premium seating configuration enhances the passenger experience. If you are looking for a 10-seater MPV with ample space, complete features, and excellent comfort, the Staria 10-seater Max is worth considering.