Hyundai Stargazer Confirmed for Malaysia in Q4 2026 – New 1.5L B-MPV Set to Challenge Veloz & Xpander
Malaysia’s affordable MPV space has been relatively quiet lately. Beyond the popular Perodua Alza and its twin, the Toyota Veloz, buyers looking for practical three-row transport haven’t had many fresh options, unless stepping up to something larger like the Nissan Serena.
That’s about to change.
Hyundai Stargazer officially heading to Malaysia
Hyundai Motor Malaysia (HMY) has previewed the Hyundai Stargazer during its recent Chinese New Year media gathering, confirming that a new B-segment MPV will arrive in Q4 2026. While the company stopped short of naming it outright, all signs point clearly to the Stargazer.
The move signals Hyundai’s serious intent to enter the heart of Malaysia’s family car market, a segment driven by value, space, and practicality.
Proven formula from Indonesia
Malaysians may already recognise the Stargazer from Indonesia’s highly competitive Low MPV segment. There, it competes directly against models such as the Toyota Avanza/Veloz twins, Mitsubishi Xpander, and Kia Carens.
The Stargazer received a facelift in Indonesia last year, gaining the “Cartenz” suffix, inspired by Puncak Jaya, the highest peak in the country. Buyers can choose between the standard Stargazer and the more rugged-looking Stargazer X, mirroring the Xpander/Xpander Cross approach.
Expect Malaysia to receive a well-equipped variant, given local market preferences.
Image Source : https://paultan.org/2025/07/25/19482025-hyundai-stargazer-cartenz-launched-in-indonesia038/2025-giias-hyundai-stargazer-cartenz-5/
Engine & drivetrain – simple, reliable formula
In Indonesia, the Stargazer is powered by a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder Smartstream MPI engine producing:
- 115 PS
- 144 Nm of torque at 4,500 rpm
The engine is paired with Hyundai’s Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT), essentially a chain-driven CVT designed for smoother and more durable operation. A six-speed manual is available there, though Malaysia is highly likely to receive the IVT automatic.
This puts it directly in line with the segment’s established players.
Bigger than Alza – practical dimensions
Dimensionally, the Stargazer holds a slight advantage over the Alza:
- Length: 4,575 mm
- Width: 1,780 mm
- Wheelbase: 2,780 mm
That makes it 150 mm longer and 50 mm wider than the Alza, with a 30 mm longer wheelbase, suggesting potentially improved cabin space.
Boot capacity stands at:
- 185 litres with all seats up
- 585 litres with the third row folded
The Stargazer X adds extra visual bulk thanks to black cladding, making it 35 mm longer and 40 mm wider than the standard model.
Image Source : https://paultan.org/2025/07/25/19482025-hyundai-stargazer-cartenz-launched-in-indonesia038/2025-giias-hyundai-stargazer-cartenz-x-18/
What about pricing?
In Indonesia, pricing ranges from 269.9 million to 391.9 million rupiah (approximately RM63k to RM92k). However, Malaysia’s pricing will depend heavily on whether Hyundai opts for:
- CBU (imported) initially, like the Tucson and Santa Fe
- Or local CKD assembly from launch
A CKD strategy would be crucial for competitive positioning against the Alza and Veloz.
A serious new contender?
The Stargazer brings a modern, futuristic design language that stands out in a segment traditionally dominated by conservative styling. Combined with Hyundai’s improving brand perception in Malaysia, it could present a compelling alternative for families seeking something different from the usual Japanese choices.
Will Malaysians embrace a Korean alternative in the practical MPV segment?
Q4 2026 suddenly looks much more interesting.
