In the last two years, the MPV market has thrived. Interestingly, the best-selling MPVs cost around 300,000 to 400,000 yuan (56140$). The 200,000 yuan (28070$) segment is relatively quiet. Consumers have few choices in this price range. Only a handful of MPVs focus on passenger use in the 150,000 to 200,000 yuan (28070$) range. Among joint ventures, Beijing Hyundai’s Kusitu stands out as a unique option.
Recently, the “lone seedling” underwent an annual update. Designers optimized and adjusted details in the interior and exterior. Let’s see how the new Kustoo performs. Before diving in, here are some key points! As an annual update, the body dimensions remain unchanged. The length, width, and height are 4950×1850×1734mm, with a wheelbase of 3055mm. The exterior features adjustments. The front now includes chrome grille designs. New hidden daytime running lights and smart welcome lights enhance the look. The sides sport 18-inch wheel rims with a dense spoke design. The interior design framework stays the same. Some models now include low-frequency speakers, commonly known as subwoofers. The window materials receive upgrades. The sound insulation, privacy, and UV protection of the glass improve significantly. Kustoo offers excellent space. The second and third rows lead the class in spaciousness. The second-row seats feature 10-way power adjustment, ventilation, heating, and the popular zero-gravity function. In terms of power, it still offers two options: 1.5T and 2.0T, both paired with an 8AT transmission. Based on the editor’s test drive experience, this powertrain proves mature and reliable, with smooth output and decent power reserves. A brief analysis of the interior and exterior design follows.
The exterior design takes the spotlight. The new model keeps the overall shape of the front unchanged. However, the grille now features a high-gloss material. The air intakes on both sides add luxurious chrome mesh. The design also includes hidden daytime running lights and smart welcome lights. When off, they blend seamlessly with the front grille. When lit, they offer a refined look and clear visibility.
The side design remains sharp. This time, the editor photographed the two-tone version. The roof, side mirrors, and tailgate trim all feature gloss black. This choice lightens the car’s visual impact. As an annual update, the body dimensions stay the same. The new model measures 4950×1850×1734mm, with a wheelbase of 3055mm. It is larger than the dimensions of the Elgrand and Odyssey.
The new model features 18-inch dense spoke wheels. The added chrome elements at the front enhance the car’s luxury feel. In its price range, the Kustu stands out for its quality. The new windows also received upgrades. The glass now offers better sound insulation, privacy, and UV protection.
The interior layout remains unchanged. The design from three years ago still feels high-quality and visually appealing. The hardware includes a 10-inch digital instrument panel, a D-shaped steering wheel, a 10.4-inch central control screen, and a space-saving SBW button-style electronic gear shifter.
The front middle area features a bridge design. It offers a sense of embrace. There is ample storage space below. This design balances practicality and aesthetics. The new model upgrades include a low-frequency speaker, commonly known as a “subwoofer.” This, along with improved sound insulation, should enhance audio quality significantly.
The overall interior design impresses. The space and ergonomics receive praise. However, the in-car system lacks distinction in the current market. Its basic functionality works well. Yet, the smart features fall short. The screen display does not stand out.
The interior uses many hard materials. These materials feel less luxurious. However, they are easy to maintain. The Kusu has allocated costs to other features. One downside is that all USB ports are Type-A. There is no Type-C port. This does not align with current market trends. The space is quite good.
The space in the Kustu remains a key advantage. The new model perfectly inherits this feature. The second row has independent seats. It offers a maximum legroom of 1128mm and shoulder space of 1494mm.
The second-row seats offer ten-way electric adjustment, one-button recline, seat ventilation, and seat heating. They lack seat massage and a refrigerator, but they are nearly fully equipped. Sitting in the second row, you see the rich features and the cheap materials of the small table. You can’t tell if it’s high-end or not.
The second row features small tables. They have short dimensions and grooves to secure tablets. A cup holder pops out on the left side. This design considers the scene and space thoughtfully. The second-row seats adjust with one button and offer three modes. The 90° position is the standard mode, making it easy for passengers to enter and exit. The 110° position is for watching movies, used with the small table. The 135° position is for sleeping.
Generally, seven-seater models are not ideal. Compact MPVs face size limitations. Most mid-to-large MPVs struggle with multi-link rear suspensions. Now, mid-to-high-end MPVs often use range extenders or plug-in hybrid systems. The rear motor and battery pack take up significant space. The Kustoo avoids these issues. It has ample size and a pure fuel power system. It lacks four-wheel drive, motors, and battery packs. Its rear suspension uses a space-saving torsion beam design. Therefore, its third-row space is genuinely spacious.
The third-row seatbacks adjust. Each side has cup holders, air vents, and storage compartments. The basic convenience features are complete.
In standard condition, the trunk offers 262L of space with the third row of seats in use. Fold the third row down to expand the capacity to 707L. The entire lineup features an 8AT transmission, perfect for family use.
Since its launch, Beijing Hyundai Kustu offers two engine options: 1.5T and 2.0T. All models feature an 8AT transmission. This combination is mature and reliable, providing smooth performance. The editor tested the 1.5T version. It delivers a maximum power of 125 kW at 5500 rpm and a peak torque of 253 N·m from 1500 to 4000 rpm. The top speed reaches 200 km/h.
In terms of driving experience, this power system feels subtle. As an MPV, smoothness is the priority. The power output is very linear. The shifting is nearly imperceptible. Of course, the shifting speed isn’t very fast. Who seeks fast shifts in an MPV?
In the past two years, I tested various vehicles. Their power systems were either pure electric, range-extended, or plug-in hybrids. Now, driving the pure gasoline Kustoo feels familiar. The power response and acceleration aren’t as sharp as electric motors. However, I don’t feel much discomfort returning to a gasoline engine. In typical driving scenarios, its acceleration meets most drivers’ expectations. It’s an MPV, so the second and third rows often carry family and friends.
The suspension tuning offers great comfort. Despite the wheelbase exceeding 3 meters and the body length around 5 meters, the driving feels agile. The suspension isn’t overly soft. Under normal driving, it shows minimal body roll. The shock absorbers handle bumps well. They effectively manage most jolts. Larger potholes feel slightly underwhelming at high speeds. However, for an MPV priced under 200,000, this is understandable. In summary, the new Kustu shows a significant improvement in exterior appeal. The quality feels elevated. The interior features more detailed adjustments. The space, configuration, and design excel. The main drawbacks are the infotainment system and interior materials. Overall, considering its size, class, and features, the Kustu offers great value. It allocates costs wisely to space and features while aiming for an affordable price. Compromises are necessary; it can’t excel in every area.