The 2024 Hyundai Alcazar has undergone a significant facelift, bringing a new level of luxury, styling, and performance enhancements to this popular seven-seater SUV. With a keen focus on improving the rear seat experience, the updated Alcazar makes a strong case for itself in the competitive mid-size SUV market. With two powerful engine options, fresh interior features, and a sleek new design, it’s clear that Hyundai has made the Alcazar a more compelling package. Here’s our first drive review of the 2024 Hyundai Alcazar.
Fresh Styling and Enhanced Exterior Design
When Hyundai launched the updated Creta earlier this year, it was only a matter of time before its bigger sibling, the Alcazar, followed suit. The 2024 Alcazar features a refreshed exterior design that sets it apart from its predecessor. The front of the vehicle now sports the sleek H-shaped DRLs (daytime running lights), and the rear has been updated with a full-width LED light bar and more modern taillamps.
The Alcazar’s styling has evolved beyond its Creta roots, adopting a bolder, more upscale look. The split headlamps, slimmer grille, and black-chrome elements on the bumpers add a sporty touch to the vehicle. The roof rails are now functional and robust enough to carry a roof box, adding practicality to its good looks. Moreover, the Alcazar’s longer wheelbase — 150mm longer than the Creta — is designed to provide more rear-seat comfort.
Interior Comfort and Technology
Inside, the Alcazar’s updates truly shine. The cabin has a modern look, dominated by twin 10.25-inch displays on the dashboard, which are similar to those in the Creta. The interior color scheme has been upgraded to tan and navy blue, a more luxurious and practical alternative to the stain-prone white interiors of the Creta.
As expected from Hyundai, the equipment list is impressive, with features like dual-zone climate control, a Bose audio system, a 360-degree camera, and wireless phone charging. But the Alcazar sets itself apart with some unique additions, such as an electrically adjustable front passenger seat, ventilated rear captain seats, and a memory function for the driver’s seat. Notably, the diesel variant no longer includes a sunroof, likely due to the added weight from chassis reinforcements.
The second-row experience in the Alcazar is where it truly excels. Captain seats are available on the six-seater variant, equipped with BMW-style extendable thigh supports and ventilated seats, offering next-level comfort for rear passengers. Features like tray tables, manual sunblinds, and a wireless charger enhance the experience, making it ideal for long drives.
Engine Options and Performance
The 2024 Hyundai Alcazar comes with two engine options — a 1.5-litre turbo-petrol and a 1.5-litre turbo-diesel. The naturally aspirated petrol engine from the previous model has been phased out, making way for the more efficient turbo-petrol unit. The 1.5-litre turbo-petrol delivers 158 bhp and 253 Nm of torque, providing quick acceleration with a 0–100 kmph time of just 9.6 seconds. The engine is available with both a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT) and a 6-speed manual.
The turbo-petrol engine is smooth and refined, delivering strong power across the rev range. With paddle shifters and drive modes like Eco, Normal, and Sport, drivers can easily switch between comfort and performance. Hyundai has also added traction modes like Mud, Sand, and Snow, although these are less relevant for a front-wheel-drive SUV like the Alcazar.
For those seeking better fuel efficiency, the 1.5-litre turbo-diesel option remains a strong choice. Although slightly heavier due to chassis reinforcements, the diesel engine still offers excellent performance and economy, making it ideal for longer drives and heavier loads.
Ride and Handling
Hyundai has made structural improvements to the Alcazar, increasing the vehicle’s rigidity and crash absorption capabilities. These changes, along with a retuned suspension, have resulted in a more comfortable and composed ride. The Alcazar feels more plush and refined than before, especially when driving over rough surfaces. However, the vehicle’s comfort is best experienced with fewer passengers; when fully loaded, the ride might feel less smooth due to the additional weight.
While the Alcazar isn’t as nimble as the Creta, it offers competent handling for its size. The longer wheelbase contributes to a more stable ride but slightly reduces the vehicle’s agility in corners. Nevertheless, for a seven-seater SUV, the Alcazar provides a well-balanced mix of comfort and capability, especially at moderate speeds.
Pricing and Verdict
With prices starting at Rs 15 lakh and going up to Rs 21.4 lakh for the top-spec turbo-petrol variant, the 2024 Hyundai Alcazar is positioned to attract buyers looking for a practical, seven-seater SUV with premium features. It sits comfortably between compact SUVs like the Kia Carens and larger, more rugged options like the Tata Safari and Mahindra XUV700.
The Alcazar may not offer the off-road ruggedness of its competitors, but it excels in delivering a refined on-road experience, particularly for those prioritizing backseat comfort. With a more luxurious cabin, upgraded technology, and powerful engine options, the 2024 Hyundai Alcazar is a compelling option for buyers who want a stylish, comfortable, and feature-packed SUV.
