SUVs are dominating the global market, and Hyundai’s Alcazar is no exception. Positioned between the ever-popular Creta and the premium Tucson, the new Hyundai Alcazar Facelift 2024 has been designed to stand out in the highly competitive SUV segment. This facelift comes with an overhauled design, more tech, and a powerful engine to appeal to both Indian and US audiences.
The Alcazar is available in both diesel and petrol engines, but the spotlight falls on the 1.5L Turbo Petrol DCT variant. In this comprehensive review, we’ll explore everything the new Alcazar has to offer—ranging from its design and comfort to its performance and features.
Design and Exterior:
Hyundai has clearly taken the feedback from customers and critics alike and given the Alcazar a more aggressive and refined appearance. The front bumper now sports a bolder design with revamped lighting that sets it apart from its smaller sibling, the Creta.
The three-row SUV offers a clean, modern look that appeals to families and urban drivers alike. The dual-tone brown and black color scheme exudes a premium vibe, which makes it look more upscale than its price bracket might suggest. Hyundai has also focused on improving the aerodynamics, making the SUV more agile, particularly in city environments.
Key Exterior Features:
- Aggressive front bumper and lighting
- 18-inch alloy wheels for a sporty look
- Dual-tone color schemes for a premium feel
- Available in both 6-seater and 7-seater configurations
Interior and Comfort:
Stepping inside the Alcazar is like entering a mini luxury lounge. Available in both 6-seater and 7-seater options, the Alcazar excels in comfort, especially with its captain seats in the 6-seater version. These seats come with a variety of features like adjustable thigh support, cozy headrests, and even sunblinds for an enhanced backseat experience.
Rear passengers will find plenty of space, though Hyundai could have focused a little more on the legroom in the third row, which feels cramped for long journeys. However, for short trips, it’s more than adequate. With electrically adjustable seats, cooled seats, a wireless charging pad, and even a foldable table with a cup holder, the Alcazar ensures that long drives are comfortable for every passenger.
Noteworthy Interior Features:
- 6-seater option with captain seats for premium comfort
- Wireless phone charger conveniently placed
- Sunblinds and foldable table with cup holder for rear passengers
- Dual-zone climate control and panoramic sunroof
Performance: 1.5L Turbo Petrol DCT
The 1.5L Turbo Petrol engine paired with a 7-speed Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) is one of the highlights of the new Alcazar. With 160PS of power, the Alcazar is smooth, agile, and fast enough to provide a thrilling driving experience without compromising comfort.
The DCT system is responsive and makes city driving a breeze. While the low-speed jerkiness still exists, it’s minimal compared to some of its competitors in the same segment. The car feels lighter and more manageable than its size would suggest, which is great for urban drivers.
Performance Highlights:
- 160PS Turbo Petrol engine
- Smooth DCT with paddle shifters
- Agile handling for city traffic
- Quiet and comfortable ride, ideal for long journeys
Technology and Features:
When it comes to technology, the new Hyundai Alcazar does not disappoint. Many of the features mirror those of the Creta, but Hyundai has added several new innovations that make the Alcazar stand out. Among the most notable are the ADAS Level 2 system and a new digital key feature that allows you to start the car with your smartphone.
Other advanced features include a voice-enabled panoramic sunroof, cooled seats, a power handbrake, and a Bose sound system. These features are designed not just for convenience but also to make the driving experience much more enjoyable.
Standout Features:
- ADAS Level 2 for semi-autonomous driving
- Digital key that replaces the traditional car key
- Bose audio system for premium sound quality
- Voice-enabled panoramic sunroof
Drawbacks:
While the Alcazar is packed with features, it’s not without its flaws. The third-row space is one of the most notable downsides, as it is too cramped for adults to sit comfortably on long drives. Additionally, the ride quality, particularly at low speeds, feels a bit firm due to the 18-inch wheels, which could have been softer for better comfort in city driving.
What We Like:
- Refined design and premium look
- Feature-packed with advanced tech
- Smooth, powerful 1.5L Turbo Petrol engine
- Agile and easy to drive in cities
What We Don’t Like:
- Cramped third-row seating
- Low-speed ride is on the firmer side
Price and Conclusion:
With a starting price of Rs 15 lakh and going up to Rs 21 lakh, the new Hyundai Alcazar offers great value for money. It comes loaded with features that are typically reserved for more expensive SUVs, making it an attractive option for families looking for a three-row SUV that can handle both city and highway driving.
The new Alcazar, with its turbo petrol engine, high-tech features, and premium look, is poised to be a strong competitor in its segment. While the third-row space may not be its strongest suit, the overall package makes it a worthy contender against its rivals.
Specifications Table:
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine | 1.5L Turbo Petrol |
| Transmission | 7-speed DCT with paddle shifters |
| Power Output | 160PS |
| Seating Options | 6-seater, 7-seater |
| Starting Price | Rs 15 lakh |
| Key Features | ADAS Level 2, Digital Key, Bose Audio |
| Third Row Comfort | Cramped for long journeys |
| Fuel Options | Petrol and Diesel |
