Hyundai Staria

• The 3.5-litre V6 produces 272 hp of power and a solid 331 Nm of torque. The 8-speed automatic transmission is smooth, with seamless shifts

• Fuel consumption sits honestly at 10.8 km/litre, which is realistic for a vehicle of this size and weight carrying multiple passengers. Highway driving on open roads might push you toward 11-12 km/l on smooth stretches.

• Ground clearance sits at 185 mm, reasonable for paved roads and highways but not for serious terrain. This is an MPV, not an SUV and is suited for purpose-built roads.

• The seating configurations are a real strength of the Staria. For cargo use, there is a 3-seater version with a 2.5-meter cargo bed. For passengers, the 9-seater or 11-seater versions handle it well. You want premium comfort, then Captain's chairs with heating, ventilation, and adjustable backrests transform the cabin into a lounge on wheels. Also, swivelling independent seats for the second and third rows create conversational seating.

Some compromises:

• Fuel economy is modest. If you drive high mileage regularly, fuel costs add up quickly. The V6 is thirsty compared to smaller turbocharged engines.

• Handling isn't engaging; this is a utility vehicle designed around passenger comfort. If you want driving enjoyment, this isn't it.

• Parking this 5.25-meter vehicle is not easy; parking requires proper planning and experience.

• The 3-seater cargo version trades passenger comfort for hauling capacity. Interior noise and isolation aren't priorities when you're transporting cargo.

• Handling is certainly not sporty, and that is now what the buyers want. This is a multi-purpose vehicle focused on all-day comfort for multiple passengers. Aggressive driving is not the goal, but a stable and composed ride is. 

• The quality of the ride is also determined by the well-tuned suspension, which handles rough and uneven roads smoothly. The Staria is capable of tackling Saudi highways and local roads remarkably well without showing excessive harshness to passengers. The body stays composed on rough surfaces.

• Road and wind noise are present but not intrusive. The panoramic windows are large, so some wind noise is expected. It's not excessive. The cabin stays reasonably quiet for an MPV of this size.

• Cornering is stable. Electronic stability control works effectively without being noticeable. The vehicle tracks predictably on highways without fighting you. Long drives don't feel exhausting because the Staria is composed and predictable.

• Ride comfort improves with more passengers. Even with seven passengers and luggage, the MPV settles into its designed role or even single occupant, it feels slightly relaxed but still controlled.

• Most drivers will find the steering responsive for ease of driving, even if it carries a full load of people or cargo. The 360-degree camera helps with ease of parking for such a big vehicle, with moving object detection removed and sensors alerting you to nearby obstacles.

Some trade-offs:

• It is obvious that speed bumps are felt more than in luxury sedans. 

• If you're chasing fun driving, the Staria is not the perfect choice. It's composed, safe, and comfortable. Sportiness isn't its nature, and that's intentional.

• Full passenger loads and cargo reduce fuel economy noticeably, and so it is pertinent to plan accordingly on long journeys.

• The acceleration with a full cabin of people is relaxing, and this is expected and acceptable for the vehicle's purpose. Nobody buys an 11-seater for performance.

• The first impression of the cabin is that the design and the interior appear far better than a typical MPV.  The spacious layout doesn't feel like you're inside a van, and everything feels accessible and purposeful.

• What most buyers would consider highly is the seating flexibility; the captain's chairs on premium versions get ventilation to keep passengers cool in Saudi heat. The heating functions work for infrequent cold mornings, and adjustable backrests and legs-rests let passengers find comfortable positions on long journeys. The swivelling independent seats for the second and third rows make the cabin a special place used for meetings, work or gathering of a group on the road.

• The 64-colour ambient mood lighting and panoramic windows that flood the cabin with natural light are other highlights of the cabin. The overall passenger visibility is exceptional, crucially, for families, kids in the rear rows don't feel trapped or isolated.

• The base models get an 8-inch infotainment screen, and on higher trim gets a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, and both are easy to use. The AC is available at the front and rear, which can be independently controlled.

• One big highlight is the ample storage throughout, multiple cup holders, door pockets, and storage compartments are scattered where they matter.

• The cabin materials impress with quality; the upholstery on standard models is practical fabric that hides wear better than clean leather would on a multi-passenger vehicle.

• The 3-seater cargo version comes with a massive 5,070 litres of cargo space with the 2.5-meter cargo bed. Folding seats expand available space dramatically, and the flexibility for work and personal use is the entire point.

Honest impression:

• The Staria's interior feels designed by people who understand that MPVs transport real people with real needs. 

• Nothing is extravagant or unnecessary. The design is focused on function without any compromise on comfort. 

• It's not a luxury, but it's a practical space that happens to look and feel premium, and that sets it apart.

• The Staria safety looks comprehensive, with the most extensive features that are vital. Forward collision-avoidance assist monitors the road ahead using millimetre-wave radar and a camera. If danger is detected, the system alerts you. If a collision is imminent, it brakes automatically.

• Blind-spot collision-avoidance assist warns during lane changes and can apply corrective braking. Lane-following assist helps keep the vehicle centred on highways during long drives. Safe-exit assist prevents opening doors into oncoming traffic, protecting passengers.

• A total of 7 airbags protect the driver, front passenger, and side occupants. The system provides coverage for the cabin.

• Anti-lock braking system, traction control, and electronic stability control are standard. Brake assist plays a vital role in emergency stops. The acceleration skid control avoids spinning of wheels on slippery surfaces.

• The body is built with reinforced steel and positioned to absorb sharp impact. 

What's clear:

• Safety systems seem to be a high priority with Staria, something automakers no longer take for granted. 

• With enough early accident warning and assistance to prevent accidents, not just focus on mitigation.

• Most of the buyer segment, including Families and fleet operators, value a higher focus on safety and enhanced protection in the vehicle