Hyundai Reveals the STARIA Electric: We Want It, But Won't Get

Hyundai has pulled the wraps off the all-electric STARIA at the Brussels Motor Show, confirming that its large MPV lineup is headed into the EV space. Known for its focus on interior space and flexibility, the STARIA Electric applies Hyundai’s existing EV hardware to a vehicle aimed squarely at families, shuttle operators, and anyone who needs room first and foremost.

At its core, STARIA Electric takes the familiar STARIA shape and replaces the combustion drivetrain with an 84-kWh battery and a 160-kW (218-hp) front-wheel-drive electric motor. Hyundai says the estimated WLTP driving range is up to 400 kilometres (249 miles), with an 800-volt electrical architecture that allows DC fast charging from 10 to 80 percent in about 20 minutes under ideal conditions. An 11-kW onboard AC charger handles home and workplace charging.

Hyundai Europe CEO Xavier Martinet says the goal was to bring the brand’s EV experience into a segment where space, flexibility, and everyday usability matter most. That thinking shows up primarily inside the cabin. The flat floor made possible by the electric platform helps maximize interior room and wide sliding doors plus a large rear opening make passenger access and cargo loading straightforward.

Two seating layouts will be offered at launch. The Luxury version seats seven and is aimed at family and private use, with a focus on passenger comfort and flexible seating. The Wagon version seats nine and is designed more for group travel or shuttle duty, with significantly more cargo capacity behind the third row. Both configurations can be reworked to balance people and cargo, depending on how the vehicle is being used.

Up front, the dashboard uses a wide, horizontal layout with dual 12.3-inch displays for the digital instrument cluster and infotainment system. Hyundai has kept physical buttons for commonly used functions. A column-mounted shift-by-wire system frees up space in the center area. Depending on trim, seat heating and ventilation are available for the front and, in the Luxury model, the second row as well.

The STARIA Electric runs Hyundai’s latest ccNC infotainment system with over-the-air updates, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and Digital Key functionality. Vehicle-to-Load capability allows the battery to power external devices. High-output USB-C ports are spread throughout the cabin to support passengers and devices on longer trips.

Suspension tuning has been adjusted to handle varying passenger and cargo loads, and additional sound insulation has been added to keep highway cruising calm. Despite its EV setup, towing capacity is rated at up to 2,000 kg (4,410 lbs) when properly equipped, with thermal management systems designed to maintain performance under load.

Driver assistance systems include Hyundai SmartSense with adaptive cruise control, lane keeping and lane following assist, highway driving assist, blind-spot collision avoidance, rear cross-traffic alerts, surround-view monitoring, and driver attention warning.