It seems Hyundai Motor Philippines Inc. (HMPH) is set to reveal an electrified version of its popular people carrier. Not to be outdone by Kia Philippines, we recently noticed that the Land Transportation Office (LTO) released new homologation documents for new and upcoming vehicles.

One model that immediately caught our attention was the Hyundai Staria Lounge. This is a surprise since the brand's top-of-the-line version of the Staria is called Premium+. This could mean the new Lounge variant may serve as the new range-topping variant of the Staria lineup. Even more surprising is that the Staria Lounge comes with a 1600cc gasoline-hybrid engine that makes a total system output of 180 kW or 245 PS.

After cross-checking the numbers and checking the powertrains available for the people carrier, it looks like HMPH is preparing to reveal the Staria Hybrid. First launched last year in Korea, the Staria Hybrid swaps out the 2.2L turbo-diesel engine for a 1.6L turbo-gasoline inline-four that's assisted by an electric motor and a lithium-iron phosphate battery. The result is a total system output of 245 PS and 367 Nm of torque which is similar to the Kia Carnival HEV's output. Power is then sent to a 6-speed automatic gearbox.

Size-wise, the electrified Staria Lounge for the PH market will measure 5255mm long, 1995mm wide, 1990mm tall, and will have a 3275mm wheelbase. It will also have 160mm of ground clearance, a curb weight of 2310 kg, a cargo-carrying capacity of 570 kg, and will roll on 18-inch alloy wheels wrapped in 235/55 tires. Last but not least, the Staria Lounge will have seating for 7 people, just like the Staria Premium+.

With Hyundai Motor PH setting the stage for the Staria Hybrid's eventual debut, we'll be curious just how the automaker will price it since the Kia Carnival HEV is currently selling for PHP 3.488 million. We'll also be keeping a close eye on whether Hyundai will continue selling the turbo-diesel versions of the Staria once the electrified MPV is launched.