The Stargazer can be seen as one of the most important models of Hyundai in the Philippines today. It has done an astounding job in bringing back the popularity of the Korean auto brand in the country. This makes the seven-seater MPV worthy of an update, and so, Hyundai Motor Philippines Inc. (HMPH) did, meet the new Stargazer X.
HMPH welcomed the last quarter of the previous year with the introduction of the Stargazer X along with the all-new Hyundai Custin. The X model features several updates which bring the Hyundai MPV model to a whole new level. HMPH recently organized a leisure drive to Pampanga with select members of the local motoring media to check out the new Stargazer X.
The day started at The Mess Hall in Chino Roces, Makati City. The group was welcomed by a lineup of Stargazer X finished in Red Dragon Pearl, Magnetic Silver Metallic, and Creamy White Pearl. Upon closer look, the exterior updates on the new X model is pretty evident. Similar to that of the Staria Premium, the new 3D front grill makes the X model standout from the base. It also features an exclusive hood design. Other features that differentiate the X from the base are its blacked out roof, roof railings, and fender accents. The Stargazer X also has a taller 200mm ground clearance over the normal Stargazer thanks to its 17-inch alloy wheels. Another update that made it to the X model are rear disc brakes, adding improved braking efficiency. On the rear, the X model features rear roof spoiler and a new rear tailgate garnish which further sets it apart from the base.
After filling up with a sumptuous lunch, we hit the road. Traversing the busy stop-and-go afternoon Makati traffic, the X model offers the same riding comfort the base Stargazer was known for. A notable feat considering its larger wheels and taller stance.
Inside, the Stargazer X features a blacked out interior with piano black and red accents, complementing the sportier exterior design it carries. Personal favorite among the interior features of the X model is its new instrument panel console which is slimmer and cleaner-looking than that of the first batch Stargazer in the country.
The traffic was better in Skyway 3 and just a few minutes later, we were in NLEX heading north. An hour after, we arrived at our first stop, the Pampanga Pottery in Santo Tomas, Pampanga where the group was given the chance to express their artistic side and paint their own clay pot. As everyone had their own mental reset thanks to the therapeutic coloring session, we got back on the road. From Santo Tomas, we are then heading to the trip’s final destination, The Mansion in Clark, Pampanga where we got treated to delicious Korean dishes and fun movie marathon under the cold moonlight.
During my time behind the wheel of the Stargazer X, I was reminded of my love for Hyundai’s IVT. The smooth operation of conventional CVT without the delayed response. Also, it was this time when I was able to appreciate the new and, I believe, the biggest update on the Stargazer X, the Hyundai SmartSense. These safety features alert the driver in such a helpful manner. Not the irritating buzzing sound of others’.
Adding a huge value to the new Hyundai seven-seater is the brand’s proprietary suite of safety and driver assist features which assure safety everytime you hit the road. The Stargazer X now has Forward Collision-avoidance Assist, Lane Following Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, High Beam Assist, Blind-spot Collision-avoidance Assist, Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist, Cruise Control, Forward and Reverse Parking Distance Warning, Driver Attention Warning, and Rear Seat Alert. Having all these features together with the aesthetic upgrades the X model received for just less than a hundred thousand peso difference over the top-of-the-line Stargazer, it shows how much value the X model offers.
The Stargazer will fit car buyers who value safety and appreciate getting more out of what they are paying for. The SmartSense alone is worth more than the price difference it has over the base. Add to that the other features the X model offers which makes it more fitting for various lifestyles. The Stargazer X is your refined family MPV that carries a sporty appeal. Definitely a welcome option for MPV buyers who are looking for more.
