The Hyundai Alcazar, launched in 2021 and receiving a significant facelift in August 2024, represents Hyundai’s entry into the mid-size three-row SUV segment, primarily targeted towards the Indian market and select emerging economies. The Alcazar aims to provide a more premium and spacious alternative to Hyundai’s popular Creta subcompact SUV. The 1.5 T-GDi variant, producing 160 horsepower, occupies a mid-range position within the Alcazar lineup, offering a balance between performance and fuel efficiency. It slots above the naturally aspirated petrol engine and below the diesel options, appealing to buyers seeking a turbocharged experience without the higher cost of the diesel models.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Hyundai |
| Model | Alcazar |
| Generation | Alcazar (facelift 2024) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5 T-GDi (160 Hp) |
| Start 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/UK qt) | 4.44 US qt | 3.7 UK qt |
| Coolant capacity | 6.3 l |
| Coolant capacity (US qt/UK qt) | 6.66 US qt | 5.54 UK qt |
| Engine systems | Start & Stop System |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l |
| Fuel tank capacity (US gal/UK gal) | 13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal |
| Length | 4560 mm |
| Length (in.) | 179.53 in. |
| Width | 1800 mm |
| Width (in.) | 70.87 in. |
| Height | 1710 mm |
| Height (in.) | 67.32 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 turbocharged inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine is part of Hyundai’s newer Smartstream engine family, designed for improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions. The engine employs direct injection, delivering fuel directly into the combustion chamber for precise control and enhanced performance. The turbocharger, coupled with an intercooler, provides increased air density for improved power output. The engine features a Dual Variable Valve Timing (DOHC) system, optimizing valve timing for both low-end torque and high-end horsepower. The 6-speed manual transmission is the sole transmission option for this variant, providing drivers with full control over gear selection.
Driving Characteristics
The 160 hp and 186.6 lb-ft of torque offered by the 1.5 T-GDi engine provide a noticeable improvement in performance compared to the Alcazar’s naturally aspirated petrol engine. Acceleration is brisk, particularly in the mid-range, making overtaking maneuvers easier. The manual transmission allows for engaging driving experience, although the gear ratios are tuned more for fuel efficiency than outright performance. While not a sports SUV, the 1.5 T-GDi offers sufficient power for everyday driving and occasional highway trips. Compared to the diesel variants, the petrol engine is quieter and smoother, but lacks the low-end grunt of the diesel. The manual transmission, while engaging, requires more driver involvement than the automatic transmissions offered with other Alcazar trims.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.5 T-GDi trim typically comes well-equipped, positioning itself as a mid-range offering. Standard features generally include automatic climate control, a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, rear parking sensors, and power windows. Higher trim levels within the 1.5 T-GDi range add features such as a panoramic sunroof, leatherette upholstery, ventilated front seats, and a more advanced sound system. Safety features such as ABS, electronic stability control, and multiple airbags are standard across all Alcazar variants. The interior design emphasizes a modern aesthetic with a focus on space and comfort, particularly in the second and third rows.
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 irregularities in the road surface effectively. The front and rear disc brakes offer adequate stopping power for the vehicle’s weight and performance. The electric power steering provides light and precise steering feel, making it easy to maneuver in urban environments. Stabilizer bars are included both front and rear to reduce body roll during cornering. Tire sizes vary depending on the trim level, with 17-inch and 18-inch alloy wheels being common options.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Hyundai Alcazar 1.5 T-GDi has been generally well-received by automotive critics in the Indian market. Reviewers have praised its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and the improved performance offered by the turbocharged engine. However, some have noted that the manual transmission might not appeal to all buyers, and the overall driving experience is not as engaging as some of its competitors. Compared to the naturally aspirated petrol Alcazar, the 1.5 T-GDi offers significantly better performance and fuel efficiency. When compared to the diesel variants, it provides a quieter and smoother driving experience, but lacks the low-end torque of the diesel engine.
Legacy
The Hyundai Alcazar, and specifically the 1.5 T-GDi variant, represents a significant step forward for Hyundai in the mid-size SUV segment. The Smartstream engine technology demonstrates Hyundai’s commitment to improving fuel efficiency and reducing emissions. While it’s still relatively early to assess the long-term reliability of this powertrain, Hyundai has a generally good reputation for building durable and reliable vehicles. On the used car market, the Alcazar 1.5 T-GDi is expected to hold its value reasonably well, particularly among buyers seeking a spacious, well-equipped, and relatively fuel-efficient SUV. Its combination of performance, practicality, and features should ensure its continued popularity in the years to come.
