New Hyundai Alcazar vs Mahindra XUV700

The Korean auto giant has launched the latest version of the popular 6/7-seat SUV, the Alcazar, with tons of modern equipment and safety features

The new Hyundai Alcazar finally makes it to our market as we compare it to the Mahindra XUV700. Alcazar is a 6/7-seat SUV based on the Creta. Note that while the Creta was updated earlier this year, the new Alcazar was long overdue. Finally, the Korean carmaker took the wraps off the SUV yesterday. The new SUV comes with loads of modern tech and safety features which differentiate it from the outgoing model significantly. On the other hand, XUV700 is the flagship model from the Indian automaker. It has been immensely popular in our market since its inception. Let us compare these two in terms of specs, prices, features and more.

New Hyundai Alcazar vs Mahindra XUV700 – Price Comparison

The biggest criterion while comparing any two vehicles in India is the price. The new Hyundai Alcazar ranges from Rs 14.99 lakh to Rs 21.40 lakh, ex-showroom. These are introductory prices and can be revised soon. On the other hand, the Mahindra XUV700 retails between Rs 13.99 lakh and Rs 26.04 lakh, ex-showroom. Hence, the base trim of the XUV700 has an edge over the base version of the Alcazar but things take a sharp turn towards the top end of the spectrum where the Alcazar looks more enticing.

New Hyundai Alcazar vs Mahindra XUV700 – Specs and Mileage

The new Hyundai Alcazar bears certain changes to the powertrain options in comparison to the outgoing model. This time around, the Alcazar borrows the engine and transmissions from the mighty Creta. Hence, there is a 1.5-litre 4-cylinder direct injection turbo petrol engine which generates a cool 160 PS and 253 Nm of peak power and torque. In addition to that, there is a 1.5-litre 4-cylinder turbo diesel mill which churns out 116 PS and 250 Nm of peak power and torque. Performing the transmission duties are either a 6-speed manual, a 6-speed automatic and a 7-speed DCT gearbox. Hyundai even released the mileage figures. With petrol, the ARAI numbers are 17.5 km/l (Petrol manual) and 18 km/l (Petrol DCT), while with diesel, these stats are 20.4 km/l (Diesel manual) and 18.1 km/l (Diesel automatic). In essence, the customers will be able to get every engine-transmission combination according to their requirements.

On the other hand, the Mahindra XUV700 also comes with powerful engines and multiple transmission alternatives to take care of its buyers. These include a potent 2.0-litre mStallion turbo petrol mill which belts out a ginormous 200 hp and 380 Nm and a 2.2-litre turbo diesel engine which is available in two states of tune – 155 hp / 360 Nm and 185 hp / 420 Nm (450 Nm with automatic transmission) of peak power and torque, respectively. One can choose between a 6-speed manual or an automatic transmission. In the higher versions, the XUV700 even offers an all-wheel-drive configuration for off-roading adventures. The petrol versions offer a claimed mileage of 15 km/l (MT) and 13 km/l (AT), while the diesel trims have 17 km/l (MT) and 16.57 km/l (AT) of fuel economy.

New Hyundai Alcazar vs Mahindra XUV700 – Design and Dimensions

The new Hyundai Alcazar bears a rather modern and imposing appearance. It benefits from the “Sensuous Sportiness” design philosophy of Hyundai. At the front, the viewers get to witness a colossal rectangular grille with sleek H-shaped LED DRLs on the bonnet connected via an LED light bar and LED headlamps below them. I particularly like the rugged skid plate integrated into the front bumper. On the sides, you will experience the diamond-cut alloy wheels, sturdy side body cladding, solid roof rails, and black side pillars for the floating roof effect. At the rear, there is a connected LED light bar, joining the taillamps, a shark fin antenna and another adventurous skid plate section on the rear bumper. The overall road presence of the new Alcazar certainly puts it into a league of its own.

On the other hand, the XUV700 is already a good-looking vehicle. Despite the fact that it has not received any significant update for a long time, it looks sporty and premium. The front fascia is dominated by the C-shaped LED DRLs which encapsulate the LED headlamps. They flank the chrome-finished grille with vertical slats and a contoured bumper with fog lamps on the extreme edges. On the sides, there are elegant alloy wheels and black side pillars with chrome belts around the window frame. At the rear, the striking LED taillamps ooze a premium vibe. All in all, there is hardly anything to choose between the two in terms of styling.

Features Comparison

This is a key area which people really care about in this modern era. Vehicles have essentially become gadgets on wheels in today’s day and age. Hence, carmakers need to ensure that they equip their products with the latest tech, convenience, connectivity and safety amenities. I am happy to report that neither of these vehicles disappoint in this regard. The new Alcazar offers:

• Multi-LED Lighting and Ambience
• Front and Second Row Ventilated Seats
• 8-way Powered Front Seats
• Driver Seat Memory Function
• 19 ADAS Level 2 Features (Hyundai SmartSense)
• 70+ Total Safety Features including 40 Standard Safety Features
• Bluelink Connected Car Tech with 70+ Features
• OTA Map Updates
• Thigh Cushion Extension
• Second-row Wireless Charger
• Rear Window Sunshade
• Second-row Sliding and Reclining Function
• Digital Key with upto 3 User Profiles
• Dual-Zone Automatic Temperature Control
• Electro Chromic IRVM
• Wireless Charging
• 10.25-inch Digital Instrument Cluster
• 10.25-inch Touchscreen Infotainment Display
• Surround View Monitor Display
• 8-speaker BOSE Premium Sound System
• 270+ Embedded Voice Commands
• Driver Modes and Terrains Modes with Paddle Shifters (AT)
• Hill Descent and Hill Start Assist Control

Similarly, the top highlights of the Mahindra XUV700 are:

• 10.25-inch Dual Touchscreen Infotainment and Instrument Cluster
• Amazon Alexa Virtual Assistant
• Panoramic Sunroof
• AdrenoX Connected Car Tech System
• Wireless Charging
• Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• 360-degree Camera
• Sony 3D Surround Sound System
• Auto Booster Headlights
• Air Purifier
• Smart Door Handles
• Powered Front Seats with Memory Function
• ADAS Active Safety Features
• 6 Airbags
• Adaptive Cruise Control
• Driver Drowsiness Detection
• 6-way Powered Driver’s Seat
• Ventilated Front Seats
• Reverse Camera and Park Assist
• Electric Parking Brake

Our View

Both these SUVs are immensely compelling propositions. In essence, you just need to consider the use cases. If you want an all-wheel drive with powerful engines, going for the Mahindra XUV700 makes a lot of sense. However, you must be ready to pay a premium for that. On the other hand, if you want the latest product, are a little tight on the budget and can do without the AWD configuration, the new Hyundai Alcazar presents itself as a great option as well. I would encourage our readers to visit the showrooms to experience these SUVs in the flesh to make up your minds.

Also Read: New Hyundai Alcazar vs Kia Carens – Which One To Buy?