IN a time when subcompacts are larger than what were considered three decades back as compact cars (and in turn compacts now out-sizing the midsize sedans from the past), it’s expected that the Hyundai H350, billed as a minibus, would dwarf its Grand Starex sibling — which is “merely” a full-size van, after all. And yet the difference in size between the two remains surprising. This is because the scale of the H350, especially when the vehicle is seen for the first time in spots one usually parks, is unbelievable. Simply, It resets whatever idea one considers as a big car.
+
• The H350’s driver can ferry 13 passengers comfortably, each one getting a seat that reclines and is fitted with a headrest and an armrest (for outboard ones). Unlike in smaller vans, especially those targeted for commercial purposes, the seats in the H350 are spaced apart properly. This means there’s adequate legroom for all passengers regardless of which aisle they may end up in.
• Hyundai pitches the H350’s roof height as a USP — and for good reason. Tall people (even one standing six-foot-three, according to Hyundai adverts) can stand fully upright inside the vehicle, not needing to stoop when walking from one end of the cabin to the other. Obviously, this height makes for an airy interior.
• Besides being tall and wide, the H350 is long, too. This allows for a good amount of cargo to fit behind the rearmost, fourth-row seats, with the bay easily accessed from the back via a pair of doors that swing out.
• Passengers’ access to the cabin is equally easy. A huge sliding door helps here, of course, but Hyundai went the extra mile by installing a thoughtful step board that slides out from underneath the vehicle. Activating this feature is entertaining, too; simply press a button on the console.
• A subcompact hatchback (yes, even by present definition) does not need a reversing sensor. The H350 needs one, and thankfully it comes fitted with this.
• Despite its immensity the H350 has light controls — steering, pedals and the gearshift all require minimal effort to operate. Its ride quality is difficult to criticize as well as the suspension remains pliant and cushioning even if the vehicle is nearly empty.
• Climate control inside the H350 is superb. Credit here goes to a huge air-conditioning unit in the rear that seems capable of turning the car into a freezer.
Condo-rivaling floor space can mean an equally vast array of options with which to personalize or transform the H350’s cabin.
• Combination of a high driving position and large windows all around leads to excellent frontal and side visibility — heaven-sent during traffic-crawling.
–
• The same lofty perch requires quite a climb onto the driver’s seat.
• Sixteen-inch wheels (wrapped in 235/65 tires) seem woefully small for the vehicle’s ample dimensions — especially its height. This may limit payload capacity.
• Cargo-hauling capacity is hampered if vehicle comes in 14-seat spec.
• Tall roof necessitates constant evaluation whether the vehicle can clear parking buildings and foliage. Plus, it lands the H350 into truck classification on toll ways, doubling fees.
=
That said, the H350 can accommodate three cars’ worth of passengers and cargo, so the higher toll cost can actually be offset if the vehicle is packed — think of the fuel savings, too. Or, considering the H350’s acreage, the pricier toll fees may still come out cheaper than real estate taxes. — Text and photos by Brian M. Afuang
Bluffer’s Box
Hyundai H350 Bus
Price: Starts at P2.688 million
Engine: 2.5-liter, inline-four, turbo-charged, intercooled, direct injection diesel; 167hp @ 3,300rpm, 422Nm @ 1,750rpm
Transmission: Six-speed manual
Drivetrain: Rear-wheel drive
Wheels/Tires: 16 inches, 235/65
Key features: 14-seating capacity; daytime running lamps; electrically operated side step board; central locking; keyless entry; power windows (front); multimedia system with auxiliary, USB connectivity; 12-volt power outlet; vehicle dynamic control
