Hyundai launched the Alcazar in 2021 and we thought it was just an extended version of the Creta. Well, by design language, a little. However, with the price, features and a 2.0L petrol engine on offer, it surely hit the right market in India. Fast forward to 2022, we now have Kia Carens. Yes, both Kia and Hyundai share similar platforms and engine specs. Kia Carens gets an all-new design and features but as we all know, it is based on the Seltos itself. In this comparison, we pitch Hyundai Alcazar vs Kia Carens base model and share with you which value for money MPV you should pick.
Hyundai Alcazar vs Kia Carens Base Model - Dimensions and Capacity
| Specification | Hyundai Alcazar | Kia Carens |
| Length | 4500 mm | 4540 mm |
| Width | 1790 mm | 1800 mm |
| Height | 1675 mm | 1708 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2760 mm | 2780 mm |
| Ground Clearance | 200 mm | 195 mm |
| Boot Space | 180-litres | NA |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50-litres | 45-litres |
As you can see in the table, the soon to be launched Kia Carens scores against Hyundai Alcazar a big time. It is 40 mm longer, 10 m wider and is 33 mm taller than the Alcazar. Similarly, the wheelbase too of the Kia Carens is 20 mm more than its sibling. A longer wheelbase always accounts for a roomier cabin and this is seen in the Carens when we drove it. The link to that is here - Kia Carens Drive Review. On the other hand, Hyundai Alcazar scores well in the fuel tank capacity as it gets 50 litres compared to the 45 litres of the Kia Carens.
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Hyundai Alcazar vs Kia Carens - Engine and Transmission Options
| Petrol Engine | Hyundai Alcazar | Kia Carens |
| Capacity | 2.0L | 1.5L / 1.4L |
| Power | 157 bhp | 113 bhp / 138 bhp |
| Torque | 192 Nm | 144 Nm / 242 Nm |
| Transmission | 6-speed MT | 6-speed MT for both |
When Alcazar was launched, one good thing Hyundai did was to include a bigger petrol motor. The 2.0L petrol sourced from Tucson is the same but now makes more power. A total of 157 bhp on tap with 192 Nm of maximum torque. This engine is then mated to a 6-speed stick shift and an optional 6-speed torque converter unit. However, the base model gets equipped with a stick shift only.
On the other hand, Kia Carens get the same petrol engines as found in the Seltos. The 1.4L turbocharged petrol generates 138 bhp with 242 Nm of peak torque and the 1.5L non-turbo petrol makes 113 bhp and 144 Nm of healthy torque. A 6-speed manual transmission is observed for both engines. The higher variants do get a 7-speed DCT paired with the 1.4L turbo petrol for the base variant sticks with a manual gearbox only.
The diesel engine for both MPVs is the same. The 1.5L, four-cylinder oil burner makes 113 bhp with 250 Nm of peak torque. This engine is mated to a 6-speed manual transmission and an optional 6-speed AT. Again, the base variant of both the MPVs gets the stick shift unit only.
Hyundai Alcazar vs Kia Carens Base Model - Safety Equipment
Both the MPVs offer an anti-lock braking system with electronic braking distribution and electronic stability control. They also get vehicle stability management, hill start assist control, rear parking sensors, tyre pressure monitoring system and all-wheel disc brakes as standard in the base model. Additionally, Kia Carens gets 6 airbags as opposed to 2 found in the base model of Hyundai Alcazar. Kia Carens also scores ahead by providing downhill brake control.
The common features on both include ISOFIX child seat mounts, high-speed alert system, speed sensing door lock, front seat belt reminder, impact sensing auto door unlock and more as standard.
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Hyundai Alcazar vs Kia Cares Base Model - Features
Hyundai Alcazar Prestige variant is equipped with a host of features like trio beam LED headlights with LED daytime running lights and LED taillights. It also gets a huge panoramic sunroof, 64-colour ambient lighting, 7.0-inch instrument cluster, push-button start/stop, automatic climate control, cruise control, power-folding ORVMs, 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, reclining 3rd-row seats and among others.
The 2nd row of Kia Carens is available with a one-touch easy electric tumble. Furthermore, Carens also receives 2nd and 3rd-row AC vents mounted on the roof, 7.5-inch LCD cluster, 5 USB type C ports, adjustable headrests for all rows and 12V power sockets.
When the features of the base model of Alcazar is compared with that of Carens, the former stands out and is best for what your money can buy in a budget. Even the safety features of the Alcazar are somewhat similar to those found in the base model of Kia Carens. The only advantage Carens carries are four additional airbags.
Hyundai Alcazar vs Kia Carens - Prices
| Base Model Prices | Hyundai Alcazar Prestige | Kia Carens Premium |
| Petrol | Rs 16.34 lakh | Rs 14.89 lakh - 1.5L petrol / Rs 15.89 lakh 1.4L petrol (expected) |
| Diesel | Rs 16.75 lakh | Rs 15.29 lakh (expected) |
Given the price, the base variant of the Alcazar seems to be priced really well. It gets all the features that one looks for and also gets the safety equipment necessary. Kia Carens was showcased a couple of weeks ago but the prices for the same are not yet announced. It is expected to be launched in February and if it is priced well, the Carens will give a tough competition to its rivals.
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So this was our Hyundai Alcazar vs Kia Carens base model comparison on paper. Which of the MPV will you pick for yourself? Do let us know your thoughts in the comment section below. Also, make sure you are a member of our exclusive 91Wheels Whatsapp and 91Wheels Telegram group. Here, we bring you the latest news from the Auto Industry and you also get to interact with like-minded auto enthusiasts.
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