Korean SUVs which currently exist in our market from the house of Hyundai and Kia have proven to be a runaway success. Hyundai is looking forward to continuing that streak with its Alcazar, otherwise known as the 7-seater version of the Creta. But whatever information we have received so far, it is pretty evident that the Alcazar is a lot more than just a 7-seater version of the Creta. And now, the company has officially showcased its highly anticipated SUV.
More details
The unveiling event was held at the picturesque Alila Fort, Bishangarh and needless to say, it served as the perfect backdrop for a major unveil like this one!
Powertrain options
This is another area where the Alcazar is quite different from the Creta. While Hyundai Creta is available with three engines — 1.5-litre petrol, 1.4-litre turbo petrol, and 1.5-litre diesel — the Alcazar is available with a choice between a 2.0-litre petrol engine and a 1.5-litre turbocharged diesel powerplant. The petrol unit is the third generation Nu 2.0 unit that puts out best-in-segment 157 bhp and 191 Nm of peak torque. Hyundai noted that the Alcazar petrol can go from zero to 100 km/h in less than 10 seconds. The 1.5-litre diesel engine, on the other hand, develops 113 bhp and 250 Nm of peak torque, which is the same as in Creta diesel. Both the powerplants are available with a choice between a six-speed manual gearbox and a six-speed automatic transmission. Hyundai claims that both the engines on the Alcazar deliver best-in-segment fuel economy. These gearboxes have been taken from Creta but the company claims to have improved them for better performance.
Design
Both the SUVs have the same tri-beam LED headlamp setup but the Alcazar gets a slightly different chrome-studded cascading grille. The rear overhang seems longer than before and that has been done to accommodate the extra row of seating. The profile of this SUV is quite similar to Creta except that its visually longer, thanks to 2,760 mm of wheelbase, which is 150 mm more than that available on the Creta. The increased length is further reinforced by the step-board and the new design for the 18-inch alloy wheels sets the Alcazar apart from its five-seater sibling.
Expected feature list
The feature list could also be identical to the 5-seater version of the Creta. It is expected to come with a digital instrument cluster, panoramic sunroof, BOSE sound system, and a 10.25 inch touchscreen infotainment system with support for Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Connectivity platform Blue Link will also be available, although there may be some changes in the list of features. Being a more premium offering as compared to the Creta, the Alcazar is expected to be even more feature-loaded!
The process
Featuring an extensive application of 75.6 % Advanced and High-Strength Steel (AHSS & HSS), the stricture of Hyundai Alcazar epitomizes rugged elegance and superior durability that is crafted in an Industry 4.0 enabled shop floor. The underbody has been designed to absorb and disperse impact energy.
Ring structure design in Engine Room, B-Pillar and D-Pillar increase rigidity for enhanced handling and stability. Application of Hot Stamping parts for frontal crash energy flow and strengthened connectivity for side impact strength.
Official statement
Commenting at the unveil of Hyundai ALCAZAR, Mr. S S Kim, MD & CEO, Hyundai Motor India Ltd., said, “With a deep rooted understanding of our customer’s aspirations, our R&D Centre has invested countless man hours to ensure every aspect of Hyundai ALCAZAR exudes magnificence. And combined with our premium and superior manufacturing capabilities & rich heritage of ‘Make in India’, we have crafted the perfect masterpiece of grandeur. Hyundai ALCAZAR is well set to enter a new segment, marking Hyundai’s genesis into uncharted territories. With bold new moves, we are on a conquest of redefining benchmarks to exceed the aspirations of our customers.”