1997 HYUNDAI Satellite 2.5L TD 5MT FWD (80 HP)

Vehicle Overview

Also known as the H1 or Starex, the Hyundai Satellite was a light commercial vehicle built as an MPV as well by the Korean carmaker.

In 1997 Hyundai was still relying on its partnership with the Japanese carmaker Mitsubishi. Its partnership gave them access to new ideas, platforms, and engines. The Satellite was a rebadged version of the Mitsubishi Delica/L400/Space Gear, but it didn’t feature all the drivetrains as its Japanese sibling.

From the outside, the passenger version featured a front fascia with narrow headlights and a small grille between them. The designers cut a wider opening through the bumper to ensure better engine cooling. The Satellite featured a sliding door on the curbside for the rear passengers and a big liftgate in the back to provide easy access to the trunk/cargo area.

Inside, the carmaker offered the Satellite a few seating options, with room for up to nine occupants, including the driver. Hyundai offered the minivan with a six-seat configuration and a passage-through the middle row to the back for more comfort. The lack of a sliding door for both sides was considered more of a sour point than a safety measure. For the driver, the carmaker installed a broad dashboard and a car-like instrument cluster. To enhance the driving experience, the car featured a floor-mounted gear-stick.

Hyundai installed two engine choices under the Satellite’s hood. There were a 2.4-liter gasoline engine and a 2.5-liter turbodiesel. Over time, the vehicle received new engine choices, including a naturally aspirated 3.0-liter V6 gasoline unit. For specific markets, Hyundai offered the Satellite with an all-wheel-drive system.