Hyundai Staria vs Cadillac Optiq
What's the difference?

Hyundai Staria

$47,740 - $73,740

2026 price

View pricing & specs

Cadillac Optiq

$80,000 - $80,000

2026 price

View pricing & specs

Volkswagen Transporter

Volvo C40

Summary

2026 Hyundai Staria

2026 Cadillac Optiq

By Mark Oastler

By Andrew Chesterton

Safety Rating

Engine Type

Turbo 4, 1.6L

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Fuel Type

Premium Unleaded/Electric

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Fuel Efficiency

6.5L/100km (combined)

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Seating

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Likes

Hybrid performance & economy
One-tonne-plus payload
ANCAP safety rating

Sharp pricing in premium land
Punchy dual-motor powertrain
Considered and comfortable cabin

Dislikes

No tow rating
Cargo load volume
Cabin noise at highway speeds

Ride can feel brittle on harsh road surfaces
Slow DC charge rate
Five-year warranty feels underdone these days

2026 Hyundai Staria Summary

Hyundai has recently launched an updated Staria Load range, with the most significant addition for buyers of mid-size (2.5 tonne-3.5 tonne GVM) commercial vans being the first-time availability of a hybrid drivetrain.

On paper this new HEV (Hybrid Electric Vehicle) option brings numerous advantages over its diesel sibling, so we recently spent a week at the wheel to see if they are sufficient to win over traditional diesel van buyers.

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2026 Cadillac Optiq Summary

The lonely Cadillac Lyriq finally has some company, with the iconic US brand tripling its range down under with the launch of the much bigger Vistiq (which we've already tested) and this entry-level Optiq, which Cadillac describes as the gateway to its electric family.

It's a medium all-electric SUV with plenty of equipment and – depending on whether you see it as an established premium player or another newcomer brand – pretty sharp pricing.

Cadillac says it has the German big three in its sights with the Optiq, so how does it stack up?

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Deep dive comparison

2026 Hyundai Staria 2026 Cadillac Optiq

Verdict

The Staria Load HEV offers numerous advantages over its diesel equivalent including superior fuel economy, lower exhaust emissions, higher power output and a bigger payload. However, it also has a higher purchase price and no tow rating, so careful analysis of your specific work requirements will determine if Hyundai’s new hybrid van is fit for purpose.

Verdict

A taste test, but so far so good for the Cadillac Optiq, which is already my favourite model in the Caddy range. More space than you think meets a lovely cabin experience and a punchy powertrain.

Note: CarsGuide attended this event as a guest of the manufacturer, with accommodation and meals provided.

Note: The author, Andrew Chesterton, is a co-owner of Smart As Media, a content agency and media distribution service with a number of automotive brands among its clients. When producing content for CarsGuide, he does so in accordance with the CarsGuide Editorial Guidelines and Code of Ethics, and the views and opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the author.

Hyundai Staria vs Cadillac Optiq What's the difference?

Summary

Deep dive comparison

Verdict

Verdict

Hyundai Staria vs Cadillac Optiq
What's the difference?