Here’s something fresh off the press. Word going around is that Hyundai Motor Indonesia has just dropped a teaser image that seems to preview a mid-cycle update for the Stargazer compact MPV. This subtle move hints at a possible global reveal sometime soon. And you know what that could mean—an eventual Philippine launch, which we’re betting might land either late this year or early next.
From what we can make out in the photo, the updated Stargazer takes on a more refined version of its already distinct design. After adjusting the image brightness a bit, what popped out is something that, at least to this writer, gives off a bolder, more mature “let’s get down to business” vibe. The styling now leans a bit more “boxy,” almost as if it’s out to prove it’s grown up.
And tell me this—doesn’t the teased update give off some Kia Palisade energy? It certainly reminds us of it. But don’t just take our word for it. That said, considering Hyundai owns about a third of Kia, there could very well be some shared styling cues between the two.
Back here at home, the Hyundai Stargazer has carved out its own space in the local market since debuting in late 2022 under Hyundai Motor Philippines, Inc. (HMPH). It stands as the brand’s challenger in the competitive compact MPV segment, going up against the likes of the Toyota Avanza, Suzuki Ertiga, and Mitsubishi Xpander, to name a few.
Powering the Stargazer is a 1.5-liter gasoline engine rated at 113 hp and 144 Nm of torque, paired with a CVT. And we don’t expect Hyundai to change much—if anything—under the hood, given how well this powertrain has performed across Southeast Asia, including our own tropical roads.
For now, we wait. Nothing’s confirmed yet, but the signs are there—and they look promising.
