Latest Update (18-June-2021): – Hyundai Alcazar has been finally launched in the Indian market at a starting price of Rs 16.30 lakh (ex-showroom). Click here for more details.
The most-awaited Hyundai Alcazar SUV has finally made its debut in the Indian market. It is basically a three-row version of the Hyundai Creta compact SUV with some unique design elements that provide it its individual identity. It will be offered with both 6 and 7-seats configurations.
Based on Hyundai’s global Sensuous Sportiness design language, the Hyundai Alcazar shares most of the design bits with the Creta save for the redesigned chrome studded grille with additional chrome surrounding extended towards the split headlamp setup, new bumpers at both ends, a size larger 18-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels, taller rear end, rear quarter glass panel, and redesigned rear profile with a new taillamp. Though it’s obvious that the Alcazar is a bit longer than the 5-seater Creta, Hyundai has also extended the wheelbase by 150mm to accommodate the third row of seats. For reference, Creta’s wheelbase measures 2,610mm. In fact, it is also 9mm, 10mm, and 60mm bigger than the Tata Safari, MG Hector, and current-gen Mahindra XUV500, respectively.
The carmaker also claims that the Alcazar features an extensive application of 75.6 % Advanced and High-Strength Steel (AHSS & HSS). The brand has done some modifications to the suspension setup of the car to increase vehicle stability and control. It gets a hydraulic rebound stopper in the front strut, which is said to provide better rebound control and offer a pleasant ride quality over uneven roads. The rear suspensions, on the other hand, will get a more upright shock absorber which is claimed to improve body control and will give the SUV a more planted feel.
Inside, the Alcazar features a similar dashboard layout as the Creta, albeit in a distinct black-brown theme. As mentioned earlier, there will be two seating configurations on offer: – a 6-and a 7-seater. While the former will get two captains in the middle row fitted with a premium console armrest, the latter will get a bench-type seat. While the second-row seat will get a tip-and-tumble and slide function to access the third row, the last-row seat will get a reclining feature as well as a 50:50 split-folding function to further extended the 180-liters of standard boot space. Besides this, the third-row passengers will also get their own dedicated AC vents with speed controls.
Hyundai is yet to disclose the details of the features, it is likely to retain most from the Creta, which means it could get features like a 10.25-inch infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, BlueLink connected car tech, a Bose sound system, wireless charger, inbuilt air purifier, auto climate control, a panoramic sunroof, powered driver’s seat and many more. Besides this, it could also get some additional features over its younger sibling like a fully digital instrument cluster, front parking sensors, 360-degree camera, and ADAS (advanced driver assistance system) technology.
Another difference from the Creta lies under the hood as the Alcazar borrows its engine options from the Elantra sedan that includes 2.0-liter petrol (152PS/192Nm) and a 1.5-liter diesel unit (115PS/250Nm). Both motors will come with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed torque converter automatic transmission.
While the carmaker hasn’t yet revealed its official launch date, it’s likely to arrive in May 2021. Except it to command a premium of around Rs 1 lakh over the Creta, which currently retails between Rs 9.99 lakh to Rs 17.53 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi). In the Indian market, the Alcazar will be positioned against the likes of Tata Safari, MG Hector Plus, and the new-generation Mahindra XUV500.
