Hyundai’s bold and futuristic people mover, the 2026 Staria, is set to receive a series of design and technology upgrades ahead of its expected arrival in Australian showrooms sometime next year. Positioned as a distinctive alternative to the Kia Carnival, the updated Staria brings refinements rather than a full redesign, focusing on improved usability, comfort, and modern features. It is still unclear whether Hyundai will introduce the petrol-electric hybrid variant to Australia for the first time, which would expand the local lineup beyond the current powertrain choices. At present, Australian buyers can choose between a 3.5-litre V6 petrol engine driving the front wheels or a 2.2-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel paired with all-wheel drive. With the added equipment and convenience features, prices are expected to rise slightly from the current starting point of $49,750 plus on-road costs.
While Hyundai has yet to release full details on updates to the commercial-focused Staria Load van, it is anticipated that the changes will closely follow those applied to the passenger version. On the exterior, the revisions are subtle but meaningful. The front bumper now features a body-coloured lower insert designed to soften the controversial honeycomb design used previously. The signature daytime running light bar has also been simplified into a single continuous strip spanning the width of the front end, replacing the earlier three-piece layout. This light bar now incorporates engraved “Staria” branding, adding a more premium touch. In South Korea, flagship Lounge variants continue to stand out with extra chrome detailing and unique wheel designs, while select trims now feature black exterior badges for a sportier look.
Inside the cabin, the most noticeable upgrade is the larger infotainment display, which grows from 10.25 inches to 12.3 inches. This screen runs Hyundai’s latest ‘ccNC’ software, which is expected to support wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with built-in satellite navigation. A welcome change for many users is the removal of the touch-sensitive control panel previously used for infotainment and climate functions. In its place are physical buttons and rotary dials, improving ease of use and reducing fingerprint smudges. The redesigned centre stack also introduces an additional horizontal air vent for better airflow, along with a repositioned wireless phone charging pad. Higher-grade models also benefit from a larger 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster.
Further interior updates include a revised gear selection system. In South Korea, Lounge models now use a steering column-mounted electronic selector, similar to other modern Hyundai vehicles, while base versions retain a conventional gear lever. A newly designed steering wheel complements the refreshed cabin. Additional technology features include Digital Key 2 smartphone access, an upgraded built-in dashcam, and enhanced multi-zone voice recognition.
Underneath, Hyundai has fine-tuned the suspension for improved ride comfort and stability, added extra sound-deadening materials, and introduced hydro bushings in the Lounge variant to further reduce vibration. Overseas, the Staria is available with an LPG-powered V6, a new hybrid producing 180kW combined, and even an electric version under development, leaving the door open for future powertrain expansion in Australia.