The Hyundai H1 panel van was a major sales success capturing between 25-30% market share during it's model life.
With the new Staria range now completed with the launch of the Panel Van version joining the Bus and Multi-Cab models, Hyundai SA are looking to re-establish that dominance in this sector.
Firstly, the space-age looks (especially the front) of the Staria make it a visual stand out from the crowd. The second factor is the driver and cabin comfort levels that are provided as standard. The Panel Van features items like air-conditioning, automatic transmission, cruise control and other items to ensure that driver fatigue is limited in a commercial application.
The Staria Panel van is powered by the same 2.2l 4 cylinder diesel engine delivering 130kW and 430Nm to the front wheels through the 8 speed automatic transmission. This is the same drivetrain as the other Staria models as well as the Santa Fe and Pallisade SUV's.
The Staria Panel van is also much larger than the previous H1 model being 5253mm long, an increase of 103mm creating a total volume of 4935L whereas the H1 had a figure of 4426L. The dual side sliding doors and twin barn-style rear doors allow for easy loading.
A big market for the Panel van has been for conversion to ambulances and hearses. The increased size, and height in the case of ambulances, make the new model even more suitable for these uses.
As always with Hyundai, the full specification level with no options and a selling price of R599 900 make this a highly competitive offering in the market. A 6 year/ 90 000km service plan and 7 year/ 200 000km warranty are included.
Alan Rosenmeyer: MotorMatters: www.motormatters.co.za
