Zakirin
Competition in the Malaysian B-segment MPV market is set to heat up. The Hyundai Stargazer X has been officially previewed in Malaysia, making its public appearance at the Hyundai Durian Runtuh event held at MBPJ Stadium in Kelana Jaya.
Imported completely built-up (CBU) from Hyundai’s manufacturing plant in Indonesia, the Stargazer X brings a fresh crossover-inspired design, a 6-seater layout, and premium cabin features to challenge established rivals like the Toyota Veloz and Mitsubishi Xpander.
6-Seater Layout with Second-Row Captain Seats
The major selling point of the Hyundai Stargazer X compared to other MPVs in its class is its seating configuration. For the Malaysian market, this flagship X variant debuts a six-seater (2+2+2) setup—a first for the local Stargazer lineup.
Instead of a traditional three-person bench seat in the second row, the Stargazer X features individual Captain Seats. These standalone seats offer superior comfort, better body support on long highway drives, and an aisle in the middle that allows effortless access to the third row.
To keep all occupants comfortable in tropical heat, roof-mounted rear air blower vents are provided with independent speed controls for the second and third rows.
Rugged Crossover Styling Meets Practical MPV Proportions
From the rear and side, the Stargazer X maintains practical MPV proportions designed to maximize cabin space, but it receives a rugged, off-road-inspired aesthetic package.
- Modern Lighting: The front fascia is equipped with LED projector headlights paired with a continuous thin LED daytime running light (DRL) strip across the front bonnet line. At the rear, the distinctive LED taillight bar creates an eye-catching ‘H’ signature.
- Exclusive Crossover Touches: The Stargazer X gets beefier front and rear bumpers, silver skid plate accents, black wheel arch claddings, and a blacked-out front Hyundai emblem.
- Sporty Stance: The vehicle rides on 17-inch gloss black alloy wheels. Practical roof rails on top complete the crossover look, offering real utility for active families carrying extra gear.
Driver Cockpit and Tech
Inside, the cabin layout feels open, modern, and uncluttered.
A full digital instrument cluster replaces traditional analog dials, offering clear graphics for driving data. The redesigned steering wheel provides a modern grip, while the floating center console houses user-friendly climate controls.
Positioned conveniently to the right of the driver is a dedicated Drive Mode selector toggle, making it easy to switch driving characteristics on the fly without taking your eyes off the road.
Powertrain: Smartstream 1.5L and IVT
Under the hood, the Stargazer X is powered by a proven naturally aspirated engine paired with an efficient transmission:
| Feature | Specification |
| Engine | 1.5-litre Smartstream G MPI 4-cylinder naturally aspirated petrol |
| Power Output | 115 PS @ 6,300 rpm |
| Max Torque | 143 Nm @ 4,500 rpm |
| Transmission | Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT) with chain-drive design |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) |
Unlike conventional CVTs that use a push belt, Hyundai’s IVT uses a chain belt, offering more direct throttle response and durability under heavier passenger loads.
Estimated Pricing and Launch Timeline
An official launch is expected in the fourth quarter (Q4) of this year. While final pricing has yet to be formally confirmed, estimated figures presented during the preview place the lineup across three price bands:
- Style Variant (Base): Expected to start under RM100,000 (around RM99,000).
- Prime Variant (Mid-Spec): Estimated at around RM109,000.
- Stargazer X (Flagship Crossover): Estimated around RM120,000 to RM121,000.
With its CBU import status from Indonesia, unique captain seat configuration, and competitive estimated pricing, the Stargazer X positions Hyundai strongly to make serious inroads into the local family MPV segment.
