As the Creta slowly faded from the roads, the manufacturer introduced its replacement – the Alcazar – from the Hyundai stables before the dust could completely settle.
Top Revs took this seven-seater diesel new-kid-on-the-block, boasting bags full of luxury and comfort, for a drive to get a feel for the hype.
While the car’s ‘box’ is reminiscent of past Hyundai innovation, it has a clean and spacious interior, with a minimalist dashboard and consoles.
Deodat Beukes from one of the local dealers describes the Alcazar as a revised and brand new look for the Creta that comes in three different trimmings.
He highlights the Hyundai trademark in the form of the ‘H’ shaped head and tail lights, which Top Revs can vouch for. The question remains whether this is a fashion statement or a good marketing tool? Be that as it may, it is stylish, and as Beaukes informs us, part of the brand’s design language.
Despite being a budget car, the Alcazar offers more than the eye can see. Expect functions like a full digital screen display for the cluster and infotainment system, wireless phone charing bay, and an electric handbrake.
All three seating rows of the seven-seater are fitted with USB and type-C charging points. The airconditioning is spread across the vehicle, with rear passengers being able to set the air vents to their own comfort.
The vehicle is available in both diesel and petrol. The diesel Top Revs viewed was quite nippy with its 1.5 litre, four-cylinder engine. Kicking out 84kW and 250Nm through its six-speed auto gearbox makes the car more than capable of long drives or even town hopping.
The fuel consumption will surely make this car a desirable addition to any fleet. At 5.9L/100 km (almost 17 km/L), it will give you a driving range of around 850 km on a filled tank under normal driving conditions.
The car is also available with a bigger 2.0L, four-cylinder petrol engine delivering a 117kW and 191Nm through a six-speed auto box.
The various models come with additional features, such as the Elite, which includes a driver-assistance kit with forward collision-avoidance, lane following assist, and driver attention warning. Another addition is adaptive cruise control, distinguishing it from conventional cruise control.
The car’s ground clearance of 200mm is a bit more than its predecessor, the Creta’s, 190mm, making it more of a sport utility vehicle for gravel travel.
The vehicle is backed by a seven-year/200 000km manufacturers warranty.
Perhaps you’re wondering about the name Alcazar? It’s derived from Arabic, meaning ‘fortress.’ So, let your fortress be with you along the roads.
In an age of information overload, Sunrise is The Namibian’s morning briefing, delivered at 6h00 from Monday to Friday. It offers a curated rundown of the most important stories from the past 24 hours – occasionally with a light, witty touch. It’s an essential way to stay informed. Subscribe and join our newsletter community.
The Namibian uses AI tools to assist with improved quality, accuracy and efficiency, while maintaining editorial oversight and journalistic integrity.
Stay informed with The Namibian – your source for credible journalism. Get in-depth reporting and opinions for
only N$85 a month. Invest in journalism, invest in democracy –
Subscribe Now!
