Hyundai PH set to launch 2024 Custo minivan

Just a few weeks ago, Hyundai officially revealed the Stargazer X at the 2023 Gaikindo International Auto Show (GIIAS). Essentially serving as the more rugged version of the brand’s popular MPV, the Stargazer X gets some nifty SUV features as well as a more luxurious interior.

It’s on its way to the country and is set to make its presence felt in Q4 later this year. In fact, Hyundai Motor Philippines Inc (HMPH) has already sent us an invite (and teaser image) for the soon-to-arrive rugged MPV.

But don’t expect the Stargazer X to be the only vehicle the automaker will be launching in the near future. While HMPH has yet to call it by its official name, it seems we can expect the Hyundai Custo minivan to also land in the country later this year.

Based on the teaser image Hyundai sent over, the Custo minivan appears also to be heading to the Philippines. Despite the shadowy teaser showing only a few details about the vehicle, its distinct alloy wheels somehow gave it away. Side-by-side with a press photo, it’s pretty apparent that one of the vehicles being teased by Hyundai closely resembles the Custo.

The exact specifications of the supposed Hyundai Custo are not yet available. However, we were able to get information about its powertrain. Just recently, the government approved a Hyundai powertrain for a vehicle that weighs 1735 kg. The engine, meanwhile, displaces 1497cc and is gasoline-powered.

Cross-checking with what the Custo gets in the PRC, it looks like the minivan will be getting a 1.5-liter turbocharged Smartstream engine mated to an 8-speed automatic gearbox. It puts out a healthy 170 PS along with a meaty 253 Nm of torque.

First launched in China in mid-2021 as a 2022 model year vehicle, the Hyundai Custo is a stylish minivan that borrows styling cues from the Tucson. It sits on the same platform as the Kia Carnival and also comes with a pair of power-sliding doors on the side. It can accommodate a total of 7 passengers thanks to a 2+2+3 seating layout, with the middle row getting captain seats for improved riding comfort.

With the Stargazer X and the supposed Custo set to be launched on October 16, 2023, we are only about a month away before Hyundai reveals its newest people carriers.