Hyundai Stargazer vs Toyota Veloz: RM100k, can the new Korean contender challenge Toyota's Market Status?

In the sub-RM100,000 seven-seater market, the Toyota Veloz has always been the default “safe bet”. Its sister model, the Perodua Alza, captures budget-conscious family buyers at a lower price point, while the Veloz holds the fort at RM95,000 for those who want the Toyota badge, seven seats, and hassle-free ownership.

Now, Hyundai has entered the fray. The Stargazer officially debuted in September 2026, offering three variants starting from RM99,800.

Spec Comparison

Note: ASEAN NCAP ratings are based on 2022 test results.

Pricing & Variants

The Stargazer offers a broader variant spread than the Veloz. The base Style starts at RM99,800, the mid-tier Prime sits at RM109,800, and the range-topping X retails at RM121,800.

In contrast, the Veloz is available in a single variant priced at RM95,000.

The Stargazer starts RM4,800 higher than the Veloz. The real question is: does the entry-level Stargazer Style offer enough kit to justify the premium?

Powertrain

The Stargazer is powered by a 1,497 cc 4-cylinder naturally aspirated engine producing 115 PS and 144 Nm, paired with Hyundai’s Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT). This gearbox uses a chain drive rather than a conventional push-belt CVT, offering better theoretical reliability and power delivery efficiency.

The Veloz runs a 1,496 cc 4-cylinder naturally aspirated engine delivering 105 hp and 138 Nm, mated to a D-CVT gearbox. It includes a Power Mode that simulates stepped downshifts to aid overtaking.

On paper, the Stargazer has a slight edge of 10 PS and 6 Nm. In daily driving, however, this gap is hardly noticeable as both are tuned primarily for smooth, progressive power delivery. Fully loaded with seven passengers on an incline, both will require a firm prod on the throttle.

Dimensions

The Stargazer Style and Prime measure 4,575 mm long, 1,780 mm wide, and ride on a 2,780 mm wheelbase—making it 100 mm longer overall with a 30 mm longer wheelbase than the Veloz.

The crossover Stargazer X expands further to 4,610 mm in length and 1,820 mm in width courtesy of its rugged body claddings.

The Veloz measures 4,475 mm long, 1,750 mm wide, 1,700 mm tall, with a 2,750 mm wheelbase.

The Stargazer’s extra length and longer wheelbase translate directly into more generous third-row legroom and cargo capacity.

With all seven seats up, the Veloz offers just 137 litres of boot space—hardly enough for more than a couple of backpacks. In contrast, the Stargazer provides 185 litres with all seats up, expanding to 585 litres with the third row folded, and a massive 1,892 litres with both rear rows folded flat.

It is also worth noting that the Veloz shares its DNGA platform and powertrain with the Perodua Alza, with both rolling off Perodua’s manufacturing line.

The Alza offers virtually the same cargo capacity as the Veloz for roughly RM20,000 less. That said, when cross-shopping strictly between the Stargazer and the Veloz, this sibling relationship remains a separate consideration.

Cabin & Seating

The Stargazer Style and Prime feature a conventional 2+3+2 seven-seater layout, matching the Veloz. However, the Stargazer X introduces a rarity in this segment: a 2+2+2 six-seater configuration with second-row Captain Seats.

The walk-through centre aisle makes ingress and egress to the third row seamless, eliminating the need to tumble the middle row.

For families who regularly utilise all three rows and appreciate extra middle-row comfort over an extra seat, the Stargazer X 6-seater is an attractive proposition. The Veloz does not offer this layout.

Safety & Driver Assistance

This is where buyers must scrutinise the spec sheet closely.

The Stargazer Style gets only two airbags and misses out on active safety.

Only the Prime and X variants step up to six airbags and the full Hyundai SmartSense ADAS suite, which includes Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go, Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Lane Following Assist, Collision-Avoidance Assist, Rear Cross-Traffic Assist, and Exit Warning.

By comparison, the Veloz comes standard with six airbags and the full Toyota Safety Sense (TSS) suite, comprising Pre-Collision System, Lane Departure Warning, Lane Departure Prevention, Adaptive Cruise Control, and Blind Spot Monitor.

It also boasts a full 5-star ASEAN NCAP safety rating with an overall score of 79.99 points.

The Stargazer holds a 4-star ASEAN NCAP rating with an overall score of 66.48 points, trailing the Veloz primarily in Child Protection and Motorcyclist Safety.

Simply put, if you opt for the entry-level Stargazer Style, you are getting a car with just two airbags and no ADAS. To match the Veloz’s standard safety kit, you have to stretch to the Stargazer Prime, which commands a RM14,800 premium over the Toyota. At this price junction, the Veloz maintains a clear value advantage in safety.

Warranty & Residual Value

The Stargazer comes backed by an 8-year / 160,000 km myHyundaiCare package, alongside a guaranteed future value programme: 70% buyback assurance at Year 3 (up to 60,000 km), 60% at Year 4 (up to 80,000 km), and 50% at Year 5 (up to 100,000 km).

For buyers wary of Korean car depreciation, this programme offers substantial peace of mind.

The Veloz, meanwhile, relies on Toyota’s rock-solid brand equity and thriving secondhand market, where strong resale value remains an inherent strength.

Stargazer or Veloz?

If your budget is strictly under RM100k and you are eyeing the Stargazer Style, the verdict is simple: go for the Veloz.

Within the sub-RM100k bracket, the Veloz delivers six airbags, a comprehensive TSS safety suite, and a 5-star ASEAN NCAP rating. The Stargazer Style’s safety compromises cannot be offset by an extra 10 PS or a slightly larger body.

If you can stretch your budget to around RM110k, the Stargazer Prime becomes a compelling alternative.

It matches the Veloz’s safety credentials, outclasses it in exterior dimensions and boot practicality, and provides slightly punchier performance. The trade-off is the RM14,800 premium, trading Toyota’s brand certainty and extra cash-in-hand for more cabin space and a fresher product.

Finally, if individual second-row Captain Seats are high on your priority list, the Stargazer X is your only option here. At RM121,800, it costs RM26,800 more than the Veloz, but delivers a distinctive 6-seater cabin experience alongside a fully loaded equipment list.