4 Minutes
Hyundai gives the Staria a thoughtful 2026 refresh
Hyundai has rolled out a careful mid-cycle update for the Staria minivan for 2026, choosing to refine the user experience rather than chase dramatic exterior changes. The result is a van that looks familiar from the outside but feels noticeably upgraded inside — a pragmatic move aimed squarely at families and buyers who value comfort, technology and daily usability.
What changed most: the interior
The headline update is the cabin. Previous dual 10.25-inch displays are replaced by two large 12.3-inch screens that serve as the digital instrument cluster and the infotainment system. These panels run Hyundai's latest software and support over-the-air updates, meaning the Staria can evolve with new features without a dealer visit.
Perhaps the most welcome change is the return of more physical controls. After criticism of overly sensitive touch panels, Hyundai has reintroduced tactile buttons and a redesigned center console to make in-car operation simpler and safer while driving. Other interior touches include redesigned HVAC vents, a refreshed dashboard storage tray, a more modern steering wheel, and an assist handle to ease driver entry on higher trims.
Highlights of the interior upgrade:
- Twin 12.3-inch displays with OTA software updates
- Redesigned center console with increased physical controls
- New upholstery colors and improved driver-assist standard features
- Column-mounted electronic shift lever on the luxury Lounge trim
Subtle exterior tweaks
On first glance the 2026 Staria remains recognizably the same. Hyundai resisted a radical exterior overhaul and instead made subtle refinements: the front LED strip is now a continuous unit with the Staria namework on its sides, and the lower main lamps sit more cleanly integrated into the bumper. The premium Lounge trim gets a refreshed grille with chrome detailing. New paint options such as Pearl Blue and Galactic Wine add some fresh choice for buyers.
Comfort and chassis changes
Engineers didn't ignore ride quality. Suspension tuning has been revised and new subframe bushings are used to deliver a smoother, more composed ride. Better cabin insulation reduces noise intrusion, improving comfort for long drives and daily commutes — a meaningful improvement for a family-focused minivan.
Powertrains and technical details
Mechanically, the 2026 Staria carries over the existing powertrain lineup. Buyers can choose between:
- A 3.5-liter V6 that can run on LPG, producing about 237 hp
- A hybrid system combining a 1.6-liter turbocharged engine and an electric motor for a combined output near 242 hp Hyundai is continuing development of a fully electric Staria, but an all-electric production model is not yet on sale.
Pricing and availability: sales in South Korea have started, with a base price of 32.59 million won (roughly $22,000) and the top Lounge trim priced around 48.76 million won (about $33,000). Global rollout is expected to follow in the coming months.
Why this matters
Hyundai's 2026 Staria facelift is a good example of listening to customers: instead of flashy cosmetics it improves the real-world daily experience — tactile controls, larger screens, smoother ride and quieter cabin. For buyers in the minivan market who prioritize practicality, technology and comfort, the updated Staria becomes a stronger contender.
Quote: "This refresh proves Hyundai understands what families use every day — not just what looks good in photos."
Whether you're evaluating the Staria against other family vans or simply looking for a comfortable, tech-forward people mover, the 2026 updates make a compelling case to test drive the new model.
Leave a Comment