Hyundai Trademarks 'Staria' In India – Could Be A Maruti Ertiga Rival

Earlier, it was reported that Hyundai has trademarked the Staria nameplate in the Philippines. Recently, it was found out that Hyundai has also trademarked the name Hyundai Staria in India under the category of Automobiles, Vans, Trucks, Electric Vehicles and Hybrid Vehicles. It is possible that Hyundai will launch the “Staria” as a new MPV in our market.

The name "Staria" was trademarked by Hyundai in India

It is not a secret that Hyundai is working on an all-new MPV for our market. Besides the Indian market, it is also expected that Hyundai will launch this MPV in other developing markets like Indonesia and Brazil. In all likelihood, this upcoming MPV will be named Hyundai Staria.

According to the report, Hyundai’s new MPV will borrow the platform underpinning the Hyundai Creta. This platform is compatible with the seven-seater configuration as well. It should be noted that Hyundai is also carrying out testing on the 7-seater version of the Hyundai Creta with a longer wheelbase which is likely to be used on the upcoming MPV.

As to keep the price in check, Hyundai will carry forward a host of features from the Hyundai Creta SUV. It will come with a huge touchscreen infotainment system along with a wide range of connectivity features, Hyundai BlueLink system, digital instrument console, cruise control, automatic AC, wireless charger and USB ports.

Hyundai's upcoming MPV will be launched next year

With regards to the powertrain options, the new MPV will receive the same engine settings from the Hyundai Creta. These include two engine options, 1.5-litre petrol and a 1.5-litre diesel unit. The former is capable of making 113bhp and 145Nm while the latter is good for 113bhp and 250Nm. There will be both manual and automatic gearbox options on offer.

For the upcoming year, apart from the new MPV, Hyundai is also scheduled for several new launches, including the micro SUV Hyundai AX1 and the 7-seater Hyundai Creta. Hyundai AX1 will fare against the Tata HBX and the Maruti Ignis. On the other hand, the 7-seater Hyundai Creta will come up against the MG Hector Plus and Tata Gravitas. And the new MPV will go up against the likes of Maruti Ertiga and Mahindra Marazzo. It is likely that Hyundai’s new MPV will be positioned slightly above the Maruti Ertiga.