The Alcazar is a three-row Hyundai and the only one to offer this combo. Right now, 7-seater SUVs are a rage as families are increasingly travelling together, but this space also has a lot of competition. Hence, last year Hyundai launched the Alcazar with a slight update to the looks but more importantly a new 1.5 L turbo petrol engine. This is an important powertrain since it made its debut in the new Verna and the Alcazar is the first Hyundai to get this. Further, this engine will make its way into the new Creta as well, which is due in a few days.
Unlike the earlier Alcazar, this new engine is a turbo unit and develops 160 hp and 253 Nm torque with a 7-speed DCT automatic transmission. You can get a manual as well but our top-spec Alcazar test car was an automatic, which makes sense as a family SUV. Compared to the earlier 2.0 Litre naturally aspirated petrol, the new turbo unit makes more torque, but more importantly, is more efficient. We drove it to Jaipur to see if this was a comfortable family car.
The engine at low speeds is quiet, but the gearbox is slightly jerky at low speeds while there is a tiny lag. That said, the power delivery becomes stronger and in 'Sports' mode it is quite fun to drive. We drove it in 'Comfort' mode and it was a relaxed cruiser, comfortably sitting at high speeds. The ride, too, gets better at high speeds but the crucial USP of the Alcazar is how good it drives. We felt it was the most agile 7-seater around as of now and it felt the lightest, even when tackling the narrow Jaipur lanes or manoeuvring tight traffic. On the other hand, the ride is a bit firm at low speeds with some road imperfections filtering through.
We like the fuel efficiency though, as a full tank was enough for a Delhi-Jaipur-Delhi run. It means that it put out a mileage of around 11 kmpl - better than the earlier 2.0 L petrol, which gave out single-digit figures in terms of fuel efficiency. The fact that it gets auto start/stop is also a factor.
The Alcazar is not the most spacious three-row SUV, but the second row is pretty big. A sun shade, table, and other amenities add to the convenience and comfort. It is also well equipped with a 360-degree camera, air purifier, cooled seats, a nice-sounding Bose audio system, and a massive panoramic sunroof. We did miss an electric tailgate, though.
With the top-end Alcazar costing around Rs 21 lakh, it is a nimble, fun-to-drive three-row SUV.
What we like: Performance, handling, features
What could be better: Softer ride, smoother gearbox at low speeds
Car loan Information:
Calculate Car Loan EMI