Renault Master vs Hyundai Staria
What's the difference?

Renault Master

—

2027 price

View pricing & specs

Hyundai Staria

$47,740 - $73,740

2026 price

View pricing & specs

Summary

2027 Renault Master

2026 Hyundai Staria

By Byron Mathioudakis

By Laura Berry

Safety Rating

Engine Type

Diesel Turbo 4, 2.2L

Fuel Type

Diesel

Fuel Efficiency

7.2L/100km (combined)

Seating

Likes

Modern presentation inside and out
Enjoyable to drive
As practical as ever

Comfortable ride
Great visibility
Easy to drive

Dislikes

No adaptive cruise control option
No traditional van grab handles inside
No hybrid availability

Diesel engine is noisy, dirty and expensive
Heavy manual sliding side doors
Goofy looking

2027 Renault Master Summary

It's only taken the whole decade so far, but the 3.5-tonne van – you know, the really, really big ones – has finally been dragged into the 2020s with the latest version of the Renault Master.

Now in its fourth generation since 1980, this oversized box on wheels from France is said to leapfrog all its ageing rivals as a result, including the Fiat Ducato, Ford Transit, LDV Deliver9, Mercedes-Benz Sprinter and Volkswagen Crafter that all debuted some years ago now.

So, how does France’s big new van fare? And where’s the promised all-electric version? Read on to find out.

View full pricing & specs

2026 Hyundai Staria Summary

Hyundai’s Staria people mover has been updated for 2026 and while the new hybrid and coming EV versions will get most of the attention, many folks will still go for the diesel with its good fuel economy and tried-and-tested workhorse powertrain. Which is why we’re testing it.

Rivals to the Staria people mover include the segment-leading Kia Carnival for about the same price or more expensive competitors such as the Ford Tourneo, Volkswagen Caravelle and Multivan.

@carsguide.com.au There are multiple ways to get inside a 2026 Hyundai Staria! The sliding door might be a better bet. The model year update brings changes including a multimedia update and the addition of a new hybrid powertrain. We drive the tried and tested diesel to see if it’s still a solid pick against rivals like the Ford Tourneo and Volkswagen Multivan. #Hyundai #Staria #van #cartok #fyp ♬ original sound - CarsGuide.com.au

View full pricing & specs

Deep dive comparison

2027 Renault Master 2026 Hyundai Staria

Verdict

There is a lot to like about the latest Renault Master. Leaning on five decades of experience, it proves France knows how to build a comfortable, versatile, practical, enjoyable and quite attractive large van for this decade. A few disappointing specification anomalies do not ultimately detract from a fine, premium workhorse/plaything proposition.

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

Verdict

The Staria diesel is easy to drive with a great ride and excellent visibility. This van is super practical for families, too, offering lots of space, cargo room and good accessibility, although the manual side doors are heavy.

Diesel would not be this testers first choice of fuel due to its noisy nature, high price and the pollution factor.

The low window line was fun only until I realised my daughter's car seat sat level with it.

The petrol, hybrid and EV versions would be a better choice for those looking for all the same features but with a quieter and cleaner powertrain.

Renault Master vs Hyundai Staria What's the difference?

Summary

Deep dive comparison

Verdict

Verdict

Renault Master vs Hyundai Staria
What's the difference?