We've already seen the Hyundai Staria Lounge get regulatory approval from the Land Transportation Office (LTO) and even receive HEV recognition from the Department of Energy (DOE) as the Hyundai Staria Lounge Hybrid. But despite getting approvals from both the LTO and the DOE last year, the electrified Staria never came to be.

Perhaps the automaker decided to delay its launch, or perhaps the approvals were for a gray market importer. However, the automaker seems to have finalized the specifications and regulatory approvals for the yet-to-be-revealed hybrid MPV.

Just recently, we checked if the DOE updated its list of recognized HEVs in the countries and noticed that there have been some changes. Gone is the Staria Lounge Hybrid, and in its place is the Hyundai Staria HEV, which has been listed as a 2026 model year vehicle. Moreover, there will be two variants of the electrified MPV: 1.6T HEV GLS 6AT 9S and 1.6T HEV Premium Plus 7S.

Based on variant names, the GLS model will likely be a 9-seater, while the Premium Plus variant will be a 7-seater MPV. Regardless of seating arrangements, both Staria HEV models will be powered by a 1.6L turbo-hybrid powertrain. The DOE lists its maximum engine power at 132.4 kW or 180 PS, while its maximum electric power is rated at 54 kW or 73 PS.

Combined, the Staria HEV has a combined system output of 245 PS with 367 Nm of torque, which is quite similar to what the Hyundai Santa Fe HEV makes, as well as the Kia Carnival Hybrid, which is the Staria HEV's closest sibling. Power is then sent to the wheels via a 6-speed automatic gearbox.

Also worth mentioning is the fact that Hyundai Motor Philippines Inc. (HMPH) recently received regulatory approval to bring a passenger vehicle. Based on the approval, the mystery vehicle is powered by a 1598cc gasoline engine and has a curb weight of over 2,400 kg. Based on how much the Staria HEV weighs in other markets, it looks like the Staria HEV is getting ready for its Philippine debut.

With the Kia Carnival Hybrid getting a head start as early as November 2024, is Hyundai Motor PH too little too late in launching the Staria HEV? Combined with the growing popularity of plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) from Chinese automakers, Hyundai may have its work cut out for it.