About Hyundai Alcazar Executive Diesel

Choosing a new car is a big decision, especially in India where so many factors come into play. You're probably thinking about your budget, how safe your family will be, what your monthly maintenance costs will look like, if it has all the latest features, and of course, the reliability of the company's service network. Well, if a feature-packed, comfortable, and efficient 7-seater SUV is on your radar, then the Hyundai Alcazar Executive Diesel has likely caught your eye. Let's take a deep dive into what this popular Hyundai SUV offers and if it's the right fit for your garage.

Main Highlights

Engine Specifications

The heart of the Alcazar Executive Diesel is its robust and refined diesel engine, perfect for long highway cruises and city commutes alike.

• Engine Type: 1.5L CRDi Diesel Engine
• Maximum Power: 116 PS (at 4,000 rpm)
• Peak Torque: 250 Nm (between 1,500-2,750 rpm)
• Fuel Efficiency: Known for its impressive mileage figures, making it economical to run.

Design Overview

The Alcazar boasts a design that's both sophisticated and imposing, making it stand out on Indian roads.

• Exterior:
  • The Alcazar Executive Diesel sports a confident and mature SUV stance.
  • It features Hyundai's signature cascading grille, sharp LED headlamps, and DRLs (Daytime Running Lights).
  • Stylish 17-inch alloy wheels (specific to Executive trim) add to its premium appeal.
  • Chrome accents subtly highlight its robust proportions.
• Interior:
  • Step inside, and you'll find a spacious and thoughtfully designed cabin.
  • The dual-tone interior theme (depending on variant) provides an airy feel.
  • Comfortable seating for up to seven passengers, with easy access to the third row.
  • Quality materials and a well-laid-out dashboard create a premium ambiance.

Key Features (Executive Diesel)

While the Executive trim is positioned as a value-for-money option, it still comes loaded with essential and convenient features:

• Infotainment: 8-inch Touchscreen Infotainment System with Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Connectivity: Hyundai BlueLink Connected Car Technology (telematics, remote access)
• Convenience: Automatic Climate Control, Rear AC Vents
• Charging: Wireless Phone Charger, USB ports for all three rows
• Comfort: Cruise Control, Height Adjustable Driver's Seat
• Lighting: LED Headlamps, LED DRLs, LED Tail Lamps
• Entry: Smart Key with Push Button Start/Stop

Ground Clearance

The Hyundai Alcazar offers a practical ground clearance suitable for varied Indian road conditions.

• Ground Clearance: 200 mm

Boot Space

Versatility is key for a 7-seater SUV, and the Alcazar delivers on boot space.

• With all three rows up: Approximately 180 Liters
• With the third row folded down: Approximately 579 Liters

Dimensions

Understanding the car's size is crucial for parking and maneuverability.

• Length: 4,500 mm
• Width: 1,790 mm
• Height: 1,675 mm (with roof rails)
• Wheelbase: 2,760 mm

Powertrain Options

While we are focusing on the Executive Diesel, it's good to know the broader engine choices available for the Hyundai Alcazar.

• 1.5L CRDi Diesel Engine: (As detailed above) Available with 6-speed Manual Transmission or 6-speed Automatic Transmission.
• 1.5L Turbo GDi Petrol Engine: For those who prefer petrol, Alcazar also offers a powerful 1.5L Turbo Petrol engine (160 PS, 253 Nm) available with 6-speed Manual or 7-speed DCT (Dual Clutch Transmission).

Safety Features

Hyundai prioritizes safety, and the Alcazar is equipped with a comprehensive suite of active and passive safety features.

• Airbags: Up to 6 Airbags (Dual Front, Side, and Curtain Airbags)
• Braking: ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) with EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)
• Stability: ESC (Electronic Stability Control), VSM (Vehicle Stability Management), HAC (Hill-start Assist Control)
• Parking: Rear Parking Sensors, Rear Parking Camera
• Monitoring: TPMS (Tyre Pressure Monitoring System)
• Others: All-wheel Disc Brakes, ISOFIX Child Seat Mounts

NCAP Rating Table

Safety is non-negotiable, and the Alcazar demonstrates its commitment with strong crash test results.

Rating Body	Adult Occupant Protection	Child Occupant Protection
Global NCAP (for Alcazar, tested under newer protocols)	5 Stars	5 Stars
Bharat NCAP	Awaiting specific rating for Alcazar, but GNCAP rating is highly indicative.	Awaiting specific rating for Alcazar, but GNCAP rating is highly indicative.

Note: The Global NCAP 5-star rating for the Alcazar was achieved under their updated test protocols, which are similar to those followed by Bharat NCAP. This reflects a robust safety structure and equipment.

Rivals of Hyundai Alcazar Executive Diesel

The 7-seater SUV segment in India is competitive. Here are some key rivals you might also consider:

• Tata Safari
• MG Hector Plus
• Mahindra XUV700 (5-seater variants or base 7-seater)
• Kia Carens

How is the Car? (Pros & Cons)

Every car has its strengths and areas where it could improve. Here's a balanced look at the Hyundai Alcazar Executive Diesel:

Advantages (Pros)

• Refined Diesel Engine: The 1.5L CRDi engine is known for its smooth operation, good low-end torque, and impressive fuel efficiency, making it great for both city and highway driving.
• Premium and Spacious Cabin: Offers a comfortable and well-appointed interior with good quality materials, providing a pleasant experience for all occupants.
• Comprehensive Feature List: Even the Executive trim comes with essential modern features like a touchscreen infotainment system, connected car tech, automatic climate control, and more.
• Strong Safety Package: With up to 6 airbags and a host of active safety features, coupled with its 5-star GNCAP rating, it offers peace of mind.
• Hyundai's Service Network: Benefits from Hyundai's extensive and reliable service network across India, ensuring easy maintenance and support.
• Comfortable Ride Quality: The suspension is tuned for comfortable city driving, absorbing most bumps and undulations well.

Disadvantages (Cons)

• Third Row Space: While it's a 7-seater, the third row can feel a bit cramped for adults on longer journeys, best suited for children or short trips.
• Missing Some Top-Tier Features: Being the Executive trim, it misses out on premium features like a panoramic sunroof, 360-degree camera, and ventilated seats, which are available in higher Alcazar variants or some rivals.
• Not the Most Powerful: While efficient, the 1.5L diesel engine, though adequate, might not offer the same thrilling performance as some more powerful rivals in the segment.
• Pricing: Compared to some direct competitors, the Alcazar Executive Diesel's pricing might feel a little on the higher side for the features it offers at this specific trim level.
• Firm Suspension at High Speeds: While comfortable in the city, the suspension can feel a bit firm at higher speeds over broken patches, though it remains stable.

Conclusion

The Hyundai Alcazar Executive Diesel emerges as a very strong contender in the bustling 7-seater SUV segment in India. It strikes an excellent balance between premium features, a refined and fuel-efficient diesel engine, good safety, and Hyundai's trusted reliability. While it has a few compromises, particularly in third-row space and the absence of some top-end features in this specific Executive trim, its overall package is compelling for families looking for a comfortable, stylish, and safe vehicle for both daily commutes and occasional long drives. If budget, fuel efficiency, and a solid brand experience are your top priorities in a family SUV, the Alcazar Executive Diesel deserves a serious look. We highly recommend you take it for a test drive to experience its capabilities firsthand and see if it truly aligns with your family's needs.