The Hyundai Alcazar is the Korean brand’s push to enter the midsize three-row SUV space that currently houses models such as the Mahindra XUV500, MG Hector Plus and the Tata Safari. While, at first glance, the Alcazar looks quite familiar to the Creta – as the SUV is based on it – it features plenty of unique design detailing and changes under the skin to set it apart. We take a look at what makes it different.
It will have the longest wheelbase in the segment
When it launches, the Alcazar will have the longest wheelbase amongst its rivals. In a bid to free up space within the cabin and accommodate a third row, Hyundai has not only extended the rear overhang but has also stretched the SUV’s wheelbase by a notable 150mm over the Creta. At 2,760mm, the Alcazar’s wheelbase is 10mm more than the Hector Plus – currently the longest in the segment – and 19mm more than the Safari.
It gets unique design elements
With that out of the way, let’s talk design changes. Starting from the front, the basic nose design is in line with the Creta, though the Alcazar gets a more prominent chrome-studded grille and revised fog lamp housing. The bumper also gets a smaller faux skid plate, as compared to the Creta. Down the sides, the stretched length, spoken of above, does become visible, as do the changes behind the C pillar, with a large rear quarter glass behind the rear door. Round the back, you’ll notice a more upright tailgate, and larger, more conventionally styled tail-lamps. The Alcazar will also sit on larger 18-inch alloys, as compared to the Creta’s 17-inchers, in fully-loaded form.
It will be available with a 6- or 7-seat layout
As with most three-row SUVs in the segment, the Hyundai Alcazar will come with two seating configurations – a 6-seater with captain’s seats in the middle row and a 7-seater with a regular bench seat. In our review of the prototype, we found the middle-row seat – particularly the captain’s seats – to be comfortable, with the ability to recline the backrest and fore-and-aft adjustment helping to liberate legroom; you can read more about it here. Additionally, a unique feature to the 6-seat Alcazar is the central floor console between the middle-row chairs that houses storage bins, the central armrest and cup holders.
The third row too gets an adjustable backrest, and though they are best for children, they can also seat adults over shorter trips.
It gets a more powerful 2.0-litre petrol enigne
Coming to the engine and gearbox, the Alcazar will use the same tried and tested 1.5-litre diesel that powers the majority of Hyundai and Kia cars in India. The unit will develop an identical 115hp and 250Nm as in the Creta but will be tuned differently. The petrol engine though is new. While the Creta uses either a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol or 1.4-litre turbo-petrol, the Alcazar will use a larger 2.0-litre naturally aspirated engine. The unit in question is an upgraded version of the powerplant from the Elantra and Tucson and will develop 159hp (up by 7hp) and 192Nm of torque. Both engines will come with either a 6-speed manual or automatic gearbox. The SUV will also come with disc brakes at all four corners.
It is expected to launch in May 2021
Originally expected to launch by the end of April, the launch of the Alcazar has been postponed due to the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic in the country. The SUV is now expected to arrive by the end of May 2021.
Also see:
Hyundai Alcazar aimed at existing Creta owners
Tarun Garg talks about the upcoming Hyundai Alcazar, supply chain issues and more
Hyundai Alcazar prototype video review