PODCAST: Hyundai Alcazar counts on diesel to make an impact
The Hyundai Alcazar has officially replaced the Grand Creta in the Korean carmaker's local portfolio.
The seven-seater SUV slots in above the Creta and underneath the Tucson in Hyundai's SUV family.
The three-model range starts at R499 900 and offers a choice of two engines. A naturally aspirated petrol mill that makes 117kW of power and 190Nm of torque and an 85kW/250Nm 1.5-litre diesel engine. Both are hooked up to six-speed automatic transmission.
Hyundai Alcazar makes a Pitstop
In this week's episode of The Citizen Motoring's Pitstop podcast, we take a closer look at two of the Hyundai Alcazar's main virtues. We believe the diesel engine and its seven-seat configuration give it a definite edge in a tough segment.
While there are plenty of Chinese SUVs on offer at the same price point and even lower, they do not offer diesel powertrains. Oil-burners are getting few and far apart, with the recent discontinuation of the diesel Renault Duster a prime example.
On paper, the Hyundai Alcazar's 85kW does not seem like a lot. But with 250Nm of torque to boot, there is no shortage of pulling power.
ALSO READ: Hyundai Alcazar has an ace up its sleeve against Chinese SUVs
Frugal sipper
But by far the oil-burner's best attribute is its miserly fuel consumption. Hyundai claims that it will only sip 5.9 litres per 100km and it proved even more frugal during our launch drive. This is much lower compared to petrol-powered Chinese SUVs, which will make a big difference in the long run.
In flagship Elite guise, the Alcazar boasts a jam-packed specification list. It features 18-inch diamond cut alloy wheels, panoramic sunroof, rear window blinds, ventilated front seats, push-button start and LED lighting.
A comprehensive set of safety features include adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, blind spot monitoring, driver attention alert, forward collision avoidance assist, lane follow assist and rear cross traffic alert.
The Hyundai Alcazar is sold with a seven-year/150 000km warranty and three-year/45 000km service plan.
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