Hyundai Staria Lounge Hybrid officially recognized by the DOE

It's looking a lot more likely that Hyundai Motor Philippines Inc. (HMPH) will launch several more hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) this year. After surprising everyone with the return of the Hyundai Kona as a hybrid, HMPH's next electrified vehicle could be the Palisade Hybrid.

Just last week, the Hyundai Palisade Hybrid appeared on the Department of Energy's (DOE) list of recognized HEVs. With a 2497cc hybrid gasoline engine listed in its initial specifications, it coincides with the regulatory approval the automaker received several weeks ago. With 334 PS on tap, the Palisade Hybrid is more than capable of hauling seven people with ease, along with their luggage.

So, where does the Hyundai Staria Lounge Hybrid fit into all of this? Earlier this year, the Land Transportation Office (LTO) homologated the electrified Staria for the Philippine market. Not only does it come with a 1.6L turbo-hybrid powertrain, but it was billed to be the new top-of-the-line model in the Staria range. Now, the DOE has officially recognized the Staria Lounge Hybrid as an HEV.

Based on the DOE listing, the Staria Lounge Hybrid will have a maximum engine power of 133 kW or 180 PS, while the electric motors put out 54 kW or 73 PS. This gives the electrified MPV a total system output of 245 PS. It is then assisted by a 1.49 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, which is the same capacity that can be found on international versions of the Staria Hybrid.

Size-wise, the electrified MPV measures 5255mm long, 1995mm wide, and 1990mm tall. Its combined torque output wasn't mentioned, although based on our previous report, it will have 367 Nm of pull. Last but not least, the powertrain will be mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission.

Based on the output figures, the Staria Lounge Hybrid makes the same amount of power as the Kia Carnival HEV. That means these two MPVs will go head-to-head in the electrified people carrier segment. The only question now is, how much will Hyundai price the Staria Lounge Hybrid once it's officially revealed?