The Hyundai Alcazar 1.5 T-GDi, produced from February 2023 to August 2024, represents a significant offering in Hyundai’s lineup as a three-row SUV designed primarily for the Indian market, with limited availability in other regions. Positioned as a more premium alternative to the Creta, the Alcazar aimed to cater to families seeking increased space and features. The 1.5 T-GDi variant, equipped with a turbocharged gasoline engine producing 160 horsepower, served as a mid-range option within the Alcazar family, slotting between the naturally aspirated 1.5-liter petrol and the diesel variants. It was designed to balance performance with fuel efficiency, appealing to buyers who desired a more engaging driving experience than the base engine offered.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Hyundai |
| Model | Alcazar |
| Generation | Alcazar |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5 T-GDi (160 Hp) |
| Start of production | February, 2023 |
| End of production | August, 2024 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Power | 160 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 108 Hp/l |
| Torque | 253 Nm @ 1500-3500 rpm |
| Torque (lb-ft) | 186.6 lb.-ft. @ 1500-3500 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | Smartstream / G4LH |
| Engine displacement | 1482 cm3 |
| Engine displacement (cu. in.) | 90.44 cu. in. |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.2 l |
| Engine oil capacity (US qt) | 4.44 US qt |
| Engine oil capacity (UK qt) | 3.7 UK qt |
| Coolant capacity | 6.3 l |
| Coolant capacity (US qt) | 6.66 US qt |
| Coolant capacity (UK qt) | 5.54 UK qt |
| Engine systems | Start & Stop System |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l |
| Fuel tank capacity (US gal) | 13.21 US gal |
| Fuel tank capacity (UK gal) | 11 UK gal |
| Length | 4500 mm |
| Length (in.) | 177.17 in. |
| Width | 1790 mm |
| Width (in.) | 70.47 in. |
| Height | 1675 mm |
| Height (in.) | 65.94 in. |
| Wheelbase | 2760 mm |
| Wheelbase (in.) | 108.66 in. |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Coil spring, Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Torsion |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 215/60 R17; 215/55 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 17; 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Alcazar 1.5 T-GDi utilizes Hyundai’s Smartstream G4LH engine, a 1.5-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine features direct injection and a single scroll turbocharger with an intercooler, contributing to its improved power output and efficiency. The engine employs a Dual Variable Valve Timing (DVVT) system, optimizing valve timing for both intake and exhaust to enhance performance across the rev range. The 6-speed manual transmission was the sole transmission option offered with this engine, providing drivers with a more connected driving experience. The engine’s architecture is designed for relatively low internal friction, aiding in fuel economy. The Smartstream engine family is known for its relatively quiet operation and smooth power delivery.
Driving Characteristics
The 160 hp output of the 1.5 T-GDi engine provided a noticeable improvement in performance compared to the naturally aspirated 1.5-liter petrol engine available in other Alcazar trims. Acceleration was brisk, particularly in the lower gears, making overtaking maneuvers easier. The turbocharger provided a boost in torque from around 1500 rpm, offering good responsiveness in everyday driving situations. However, the 6-speed manual transmission, while engaging, required more driver involvement than the automatic transmissions offered with other Alcazar variants. The gear ratios were tuned to prioritize fuel efficiency, meaning the engine could feel slightly strained at higher speeds or when fully loaded with passengers and luggage. Compared to the diesel Alcazar, the 1.5 T-GDi offered a more refined and quieter driving experience, but lacked the low-end torque of the diesel engine.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.5 T-GDi variant was typically offered in mid-to-high trim levels, such as the Prestige and Signature trims. Standard features included automatic climate control, a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, rear parking sensors, and a rearview camera. Higher trims added features like a panoramic sunroof, leather upholstery, ventilated front seats, and a premium sound system. Safety features such as six airbags, ABS with EBD, and Electronic Stability Control were standard across all Alcazar trims. The interior design focused on providing a comfortable and spacious cabin, with ample legroom and headroom for all three rows of passengers.
Chassis & Braking
The Alcazar utilizes a McPherson strut front suspension and a torsion beam rear suspension. This setup provides a comfortable ride quality, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road effectively. The front and rear disc brakes offered adequate stopping power for the vehicle’s weight and performance. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, enhancing braking safety. The steering system employed an electric power steering (EPS) system, providing light and precise steering feel. The chassis was tuned to prioritize ride comfort over sporty handling, making it well-suited for everyday driving and long journeys.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Hyundai Alcazar 1.5 T-GDi was generally well-received by automotive critics in India. It was praised for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and improved performance compared to the naturally aspirated petrol engine. However, some critics noted that the 6-speed manual transmission could be tiring on long drives, and that the engine lacked the refinement of some of its competitors. Compared to the diesel Alcazar, the 1.5 T-GDi offered a more refined driving experience but less fuel efficiency and low-end torque. Against competitors like the Tata Safari and Mahindra XUV700, the Alcazar 1.5 T-GDi offered a compelling package of features, comfort, and performance.
Legacy
The Hyundai Alcazar 1.5 T-GDi, despite its relatively short production run, established itself as a capable and well-rounded SUV in the Indian market. The Smartstream engine proved to be reliable, with few reported issues. On the used car market, the 1.5 T-GDi variants tend to command a slightly higher price than the naturally aspirated petrol models, reflecting their improved performance and features. The Alcazar, as a whole, helped Hyundai strengthen its position in the competitive three-row SUV segment, and the 1.5 T-GDi variant offered a compelling option for buyers seeking a balance of performance, efficiency, and features.
