Hyundai Alcazar : The three-row SUV segment has exploded in recent years, with families demanding more space without stepping up to bus-sized vehicles. Hyundai’s answer is the Alcazar, essentially a stretched Creta with an extra row of seats.

But calling it just a “Creta XL” would be selling it short. After spending quality time with this family hauler, I’ve discovered it’s got its own distinct personality and some genuinely clever solutions to common three-row problems.

Hyundai Alcazar Design That Commands Respect

Park an Alcazar next to a Creta, and the family resemblance is obvious. But Hyundai’s designers have done more than just stretch the wheelbase.

The front grille is larger and more imposing, featuring chrome elements that catch sunlight dramatically. The cascading grille design looks properly upscale, especially in darker colors where the chrome provides striking contrast.

The side profile reveals the Alcazar’s true proportions. At 4,500mm long, it’s substantial without being unwieldy.

The extended rear overhang accommodates that third row while maintaining balanced proportions. Chrome window surrounds and roof rails add premium touches, while the 18-inch diamond-cut alloys fill the wheel wells nicely.

Around back, the connected tail lamp design creates visual width, making the Alcazar appear planted and stable.

The rear spoiler isn’t just for show – it actually helps with highway stability. Even details like the shark fin antenna and rear wiper are thoughtfully integrated rather than looking like afterthoughts.

Interior Space and Comfort

Opening the doors reveals where your money goes. The dashboard architecture might be familiar from the Creta, but material quality has been stepped up noticeably.

Soft-touch plastics cover most contact points, while the brown and black color scheme in higher variants creates a genuinely premium ambiance.

The second row is where Hyundai has been clever. Choose the six-seater captain’s chairs option, and you get individual armrests, decent legroom, and easy access to the third row.

The seven-seater bench configuration works better for families with young children who need child seats. Both configurations offer sliding and reclining functions, letting passengers find their ideal position.

That third row? It’s actually usable by adults for shorter journeys.

No, six-footers won’t be comfortable back there for hours, but for kids or average-sized adults on 30-minute drives, it’s perfectly acceptable. Crucially, even with all seats occupied, you still get 180 liters of boot space – enough for a few soft bags or weekly groceries.

Feature Overload (In a Good Way)

Hyundai has thrown technology at the Alcazar like they’re trying to embarrass luxury brands.

The 10.25-inch touchscreen runs Hyundai’s latest BlueLink connected car system, offering everything from remote start to location tracking. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto work wirelessly – a feature still missing from some premium Germans.

The Bose sound system deserves special mention. Eight speakers might not sound impressive on paper, but the tuning is spot-on.

Music sounds rich and detailed, while phone calls through the system are crystal clear. Rear passengers get their own climate control zones with roof-mounted vents ensuring everyone stays comfortable.

Safety tech includes everything you’d expect: six airbags, ABS with EBD, electronic stability control, hill start assist, and traction control.

The 360-degree camera system proves invaluable when parking this longer vehicle, while front and rear parking sensors provide extra confidence in tight spots.

Engine Options for Different Needs

Hyundai offers two engines: a 2.0-liter petrol producing 159 hp and a 1.5-liter diesel generating 115 hp. The petrol engine suits those who prioritize smoothness and refinement.

It pulls the Alcazar’s 1,630 kg mass adequately, though you’ll need to work it harder when fully loaded. The six-speed automatic transmission complements this engine well, shifting smoothly and keeping the engine in its sweet spot.

The diesel makes more sense for most buyers. Despite lower peak power, the 250 Nm torque advantage makes itself felt in real-world driving.

Overtaking is effortless, hill climbs don’t require constant gear changes, and fuel efficiency improves dramatically. Whether paired with the six-speed manual or automatic, the diesel feels like the more natural fit for this vehicle’s character.

Driving Dynamics That Work

Nobody buys a three-row SUV expecting sports car handling, and Hyundai knows this.

The Alcazar is tuned for comfort, with suspension that soaks up road imperfections admirably. Speed bumps that would jostle occupants in firmer-riding rivals pass underneath with barely a shudder.

The steering offers three modes – Comfort, Normal, and Sport – though honestly, Normal works best in most situations.

It’s light enough for easy parking yet weights up nicely at highway speeds. Body roll is present but well-controlled, inspiring confidence through sweeping corners.

What impresses most is the refinement. Road noise is well-suppressed, the diesel engine’s clatter stays outside, and wind noise only becomes noticeable above 100 kmph.

It’s a genuinely relaxing vehicle for long highway journeys, which is exactly what families want.

Practical Considerations

Living with the Alcazar reveals thoughtful touches everywhere. All three rows get charging ports – USB Type-A and Type-C – preventing family arguments about dead devices.

The wireless phone charger up front works reliably, cup holders are plentiful, and storage spaces accommodate everything from sunglasses to large water bottles.

The powered tailgate (on higher variants) proves its worth when your hands are full of shopping bags.

The memory function for the driver’s seat means multiple drivers can quickly find their ideal position. Even small details like the puddle lamps projecting the Hyundai logo add a premium touch to the ownership experience.

Value Proposition

Pricing positions the Alcazar in a competitive spot. It’s more expensive than compact SUVs but significantly cheaper than proper seven-seat SUVs from premium brands.

You’re essentially getting 90% of the space and features at 60% of the price – math that makes sense for budget-conscious families.

Running costs remain reasonable too. The diesel returns 18-20 kmpl in real-world conditions, service intervals are lengthy, and Hyundai’s warranty provides peace of mind.

Resale values should remain strong given Hyundai’s current market position and the Alcazar’s family-friendly nature.

Hyundai Alcazar Final Verdict

The Hyundai Alcazar succeeds by understanding its brief perfectly. It’s not trying to be a luxury SUV or a rugged off-roader. Instead, it’s a spacious, comfortable, feature-laden family vehicle that happens to look good too.

The third row might not rival a full-size SUV for space, but it’s usable when needed – which is exactly what most families want.

For growing families who need occasional seven-seat capability without the bulk and expense of larger SUVs, the Alcazar hits a sweet spot. It drives well, looks premium, and offers features that would have been luxury car exclusive just a few years ago.

Sometimes, the best vehicle is the one that does everything pretty well rather than one thing perfectly. The Alcazar embodies this philosophy brilliantly.