When it comes to proper three-row SUVs, pickings are slim. In fact it’s a wonder India isn’t a bigger market for minivans which are the only vehicles that offer truly uncompromising third-row leg room. Probably something to do with our irrational and undying love for SUVs. When it comes to the likes of the Mahindra XUV 700, the Tata Safari and the vehicle in question, the Hyundai Alcazar, the third row is strictly for emergencies. It serves no real utility other than to eventually be folded away to reveal cavernous storage space. That’s where the real appeal lies.
Although based on the best selling Creta, the Alcazar failed to make an impact when it was first introduced in 2021. It was a rare misfire for a brand that has put out consistent hits. To make up for that, the brand has launched a facelifted version with sharper looks, and, in typical Hyundai fashion, an abundance of tech aimed at contemporising the Alcazar and putting it ahead of the incumbents.
What’s new?
At the surface level, this seems like an all-new Alcazar. It’s not, but the changes to the design seem to be more extensive than whatever qualifies as a facelift these days. The Alcazar, not surprisingly features the same front-end as the newly launched Creta, with H-shaped LED DRLs, a horizontal DRL strip connecting the two units, below which are the Quad beam LED headlamps. The bonnet is now flatter, the grille larger and the skid plates wider. This is an Alcazar on a high protein diet and while that does not translate to more power, it certainly does wonders for its road presence and form factor.
The Alcazar also gets new 18-inch, diamond-cut alloys, a new taillight design and a new spoiler. On the whole it’s still the same silhouette, the same shoulder line and the same overall proportions so don’t expect an increment in terms leg room.
Having said that, the biggest changes lie on the inside. The cabin has now been consummately overhauled and, at least in the top-end 1.5 Turbo DCT petrol variant, it is a very plush and comfortable space to be in. The focus on middle-row comfort is enhanced with the option of ventilated captain seats making the middle row the place to be. There’s also something called “boss mode” which allows the rear passenger, presumably the boss, to stretch their legs while the front passenger seat reclines forward. It’s not quite as seductive as an S-Class, but it is a nifty addition to what is ultimately considered to be a chauffeur driven vehicle.
The front is the most visually appealing part of the cabin with a larger touch screen, optional dual tone interiors with tan leatherette dashboard and seats with a dual screen setup with two 10.25-inch screens serving as the infotainment unit and information cluster. In terms of features you get dual zone climate control, wireless charging, panoramic sunroof (petrol only) and of course, a whole array of ADAS features which include Blind View Monitor, Lane Keeping Assist, Front Collission Warning and Avoidance – the works. It also gets a host of features as standard including six airbags, four disc brakes, parking sensors, rain sensing wipers, ESC, hill hold etc.
It is a curious thing, this Alcazar. On one hand Hyundai has added features like remote key, which allows you to lock/unlock the car through your iOS or Android device (works only with specific top-end phone models that aren’t more than 2-3 years old). And yet, Hyundai has missed out on wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Powertrain
In typical Hyundai fashion there are various permutations to pick from. You get a 1.5-litre turbo petrol, mated to a six-speed manual or a 7-speed DCT. The latter makes it the only three-row SUV in its class to get a dual clutch option, as both the Safari and the XUV get a torque converter. This certainly adds a spring to the Alcazar’s step. The efficiency-oriented may stick with the CRDi diesel but the real party piece is the 158hp strong turbo-petrol which helps mask the vehicle’s considerable bulk. Of course it’s not as fun as it is in something like the Verna, but it still manages to make the Alcazar an engaging driving experience.
Verdict
The IPO-bound Hyundai India has clearly done it’s home work when it comes to alotting features to the Alcazar. The diesel, meant for the more fuel economy-focussed customers, comes without the option of a sunroof or a spare tyre, which helps it shed 50kg and therefore increase fuel efficiency. The petrol is for the truly comfort-oriented, featuring all the bells and whistles, maximum power and an all-around thrilling and enriching driving experience.
Discover the latest Business News, Sensex, and Nifty updates. Obtain Personal Finance insights, tax queries, and expert opinions on Moneycontrol or download the Moneycontrol App to stay updated!
