Meet Hyundai Verna's MPV Cousin, The Stargazer 6 Seater

• The Stargazer sells in Asian markets like Malaysia & Thailand
• Comes in both 6 & 7 seater configurations
• Priced 15% cheaper than Creta internationally

Hyundai currently does not have a proper people mover in the Indian portfolio. The 6/7 seater family MPV is currently dominated by models like the Maruti Ertiga, Nexa XL6 and the Kia Carens. Hyundai can certainly make an entry into this space with the Stargazer MPV - this model recently went on sale in yet another Asian country, Thailand. Here is a quick look at the model that was displayed at the recently concluded Bangkok International Motor Show.

The Stargazer, like the 2023 Hyundai Verna, gets a rather unconventional and future ready front end design. The slim horizontal DRL runs across the width of the MPV and the headlights are placed under it, on either side of the huge grille.

Same future ready design is also seen at the rear with tallish tail lights and a horizontal DRL bar. Frankly, such designs do look good on an SUV but not on a budget people carrier.

The cabin isn't as radical as the exterior design and this is a good thing. The steering wheel seems right of some of the Indian Hyundai models and the 'connected' twin displays look nice. AC vents as well as the dashboard gets a horizontal line design theme and this helps in aiding a sense of space inside the Stargazer. Though it is sold in both 6 and 7 seater configurations, the Motor Show had the former - yes individual captain seats in the second row.

The Hyundai Stargazer MPV is powered by the same non turbo 1.5-litre petrol engine we see in multiple Hyundai and Kia models in India and internationally. No diesel or turbo petrol, for now. This 1.5 unit is good for 115 PS of power and 144 Nm of torque. The engine is mated to a CVT automatic gearbox and you do get four drive modes.

The Stargazer is price about 20% less than the Creta in Thailand. This means if it is manufactured in India and launched here, it could be priced in the Rs 8 to 12 lakh bracket, thereby under-cutting both the XL6 and the Carens. Yes it looks unconventional but could be a great alternative to the Ertiga. Will Hyundai do this? Our fingers are crossed!