Hyundai is continuing its trend of giving its models substantial midcycle refreshes. Set for a global debut this third week of July, the 2026 Stargazer is shaping up to look beefier and much more masculine than the current MPV.
Typical of teasers, the new version of the MPV is yet unnamed and is covered in darkness. However, a look at the photo’s filename reveals the words, “Stargazer Cartenz” indicating that the MPV might be getting an appended name for the refresh (perhaps to replace the Stargazer X, at least in Indonesia).
Cartenz refers to the highest peak in Indonesia which ties in with Hyundai wanting to emphasize that the Stargazer is “Made for Indonesia.” The shot copy that comes with the photo summarizes it best:
Designed not just to move, but to conquer every tight corner, sudden pothole, and steep incline that define our roads. This car isn’t just comfortable — it truly gets you.
This could be changed when it debuts in the Philippines, perhaps where it will keep the Stargazer X name.
Along with the new second name, it’s changing design inspiration from Hyundai’s line of MPVs to SUVs for its redesign.
It’s shaping up to look like a baby Palisade which necessitated a change of the entire front-end. The fenders, hood, and bumpers have all looked modified, making it more upright for a stronger, beefier stance. The eye-catching full-length front LED light bar remains, but is now made to connect the vertically-oriented DRLs (as opposed to the seamless horizon design of old). Like the front, the interconnected lighting remains, but again, the graphic has been made much more aggressive than ever. Flush-type roof rails also appear as part of the regular Stargazer kit.
The Stargazer X / Stargazer Cartenz will now follow the likes of the Mitsubishi Xpander Cross in gaining an even more SUV-like design. Shown from the three-quarters rear, it’s very clear that it’s sporting fender flares, large roof rails, and an extended rear spoiler—all of which look like they’re finished in a contrasting black finish. The tailgate also looks new as the number plate placement has been moved from the tailgate to the lower bumper. It may also be wearing chunkier wheels and tires.
Expect the Stargazer to retain the services of its 1.5-liter Smartstream G engine making 115 horsepower and 144 Nm of torque. This is paired to Hyundai’s ingenious Intelligent Variable Transmission or IVT which is basically a CVT with pre-programmed ratios.
However, a part of us is hoping that the turbocharged 1.5-liter would also make an appearance in the new Stargazer. If it appeared in the Creta, there’s no reason why it won’t in the Stargazer, especially if they want to cement the sporty reputation of the sportier SUV variant.
Whatever the powertrain, it will likely have a longer list of standard equipment which may include not just a widened array of Hyundai Smart Sense safety features, but also a redone interior with a new gauge/infotainment cluster design, 360-degree camera, and seat design.
All eyes will be on the new Hyundai Stargazer / Stargazer X when it makes its global debut this July 23.
Seems like it won't look any better than it is now. Just hoping that Hyundai does a more successful design overhaul inside.
ReplyDeleteLooks more like a mini New Palisade
ReplyDeleteHyundai Indonesia will continue to use the old engine and transmission of the Stargazer
This really completes Stargazer now
ReplyDeletereally had good features and space but the design really was questionable
going blocky as well.
ReplyDeleteNot a looker.....it somehow reminds me of the new Subaru Outback, also not the prettiest.
Wait for it in the metal
ReplyDeleteIf it have the adaptive cruise control and 360 camera, it will be a game changer in the mvp segment. Esp, now BYD SL6 is killing the car market with its futuristic features at a very attractive price.
ReplyDeletelooks better than the egg-shaped SG
ReplyDelete