Words: Kyle Cassidy
Published 30 June 2026
Hyundai New Zealand will soon have its updated Staria Load van on sale here, and it brings an interesting addition in the form of a petrol-hybrid powertrain.
The hybrid setup combines a 1.6-litre turbo-petrol four-cylinder engine with a 54kW/304Nm electric motor for a total system output of 180kW and 367Nm. The parallel hybrid system sees the two power units work through a six-speed automatic transmission, driving the front wheels. It uses a small 1.5kWh battery, runs on 91-octane petrol, and Hyundai quotes fuel consumption at 7.2L/100km.
The 2.2-litre diesel produces 130kW and 430Nm and, paired with an eight-speed automatic, is rated at 8.1L/100km, with CO2 emissions of 212g/km versus 163g/km for the hybrid.
At present, the hybrid does not have a tow rating, if that matters, whereas the diesel can haul 2.5 tonnes braked. Service intervals for the hybrid are every 12 months or 10,000km, while the diesel requires servicing every 15,000km or 12 months.
The updated Staria Load features refreshed styling with new bumpers and lighting, while the interior has also been upgraded. The redesigned cabin layout includes a new 12.3-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a wireless charging pad and a new steering wheel.
The Staria Load still offers 4,935 litres of cargo space, with cargo length quoted at 2.5m. Hyundai says this allows it to carry three Euro pallets in the rear. These can be loaded via the sliding side door or through the optional twin barn-style rear doors.
The hybrid carries a price premium, retailing for $69,990, while the diesel is priced at $64,990. The hybrid powertrain is also an option for the updated Staria passenger van, powering the top-spec seven-seat Lounge variant, which goes for $99,990.
Hyundai New Zealand says the first units will arrive in dealerships from September.
