The best way to describe the new Alcazar is like its a slightly longer sequel to the Creta but probably even better. There is a lot of buzz over this new SUV and to come straight to the point, we drove the SUV for up-to 10kms in its camouflaged avatar in prototype form. But first a bit on the positioning of the Alcazar. There is a lot of demand for spacious SUVs with three row seating due to our love for roads trips or travelling with our families/friends, hence the need for a 6seater/7seater SUV. The Alcazar, based on the Creta, is exactly that but instead of just adding a third row, Hyundai has gone ahead to differentiate it from the Creta via different styling and new features plus, more importantly, bigger engines.
The specifications indicate that as with a wheelbase of 2760mm, the Alcazar beats its competitors easily. Standard would be a 7-seater with a bench style seating while we assume the 6-seater lay-out with captain seats is for the top-end versions. Our proper review will test out the space and other factors but the second row seating has a console in the middle for wireless charging and an arm-rest, while it continues to build on the Creta features list and more over the panoramic sunroof, connected car technology plus 360 degree camera etc. Access to the third row is via one-touch tumble mechanism and you can slide forward to have more space in the second or third row. The seats would be plush too. However, we are here to drive and that is crucial since Hyundai has just not put in the same Creta spec engines here. The Alcazar does not get the 1.5l petrol or the 1.4 turbo one but instead a new 2.0l petrol would form the main highlight of the Alcazar range. This is the same 4-cylinder engine found on the Elantra and Tucson but reworked plus having more power. It makes 159bhp and 192Nm while gearbox options include a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed automatic- a torque converter.
There is a diesel too with a 1.5l unit which makes 115bhp and 250Nm but this engine has been reworked for the Alcazar. It also gets a 6-speed manual/6-speed auto option. We drove the petrol only with a 6-speed manual. First impressions are positive as it is a refined motor and smooth as well. On narrow lanes, the engine has enough torque so that it does not need constant downshifts. A bigger 2.0 surely adds a lot of appeal to the Alcazar as it adds a better cruising ability. The 6-speed manual is also light in typical Hyundai fashion. What I also liked is the strong performance which builds power in a linear fashion. It is a relaxed and powerful SUV to drive but less sporting than a Creta which is what it should be. The engine would be enough for long journeys and also would be enough even when the car is loaded with passengers/luggage.
On some bad roads, the Alcazar has a firm but well rounded suspension which tackles nasty road surfaces very well. The bigger 18-inch wheels do not affect the ride but instead with the refinement/composure, it is probably amongst the most rounded/comfortable cars in its class. The steering while light felt direct and throwing the car around some corners, the Alcazar was fun mainly thanks to the bigger engine. We see this 2.0l unit with the automatic to be the best seller. We expect the launch to be around the end of this month and the car does look different/premium from the Creta with the longer length, bigger wheels and differently styled rear. In short the Alcazar is not a XXL sized Creta but an impressive effort with the 2.0l petrol being the biggest highlight. Do wait for this one, if you are shopping for a new SUV at this price.
What we like- engine performance, comfort, easy to drive, space
What we do not- No AWD.
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