Staring with the Creta, itself a roomy 5-seater sub-compact SUV, engineers lengthened the wheelbase to 2,760—an increase of 150 mm. This, according to Hyundai, results in a best-in-class wheelbase. Together with a 60/40 split-sliding-tumbling second row creates a truly roomy and flexible interior. Like the Innova, the Alcazar is available in both six and seven-seater configurations, with the six-seater getting a second-row console ala the CX-8.

So far, Hyundai has yet to reveal key convenience features of the Alcazar (except for the panoramic sunroof and 360-degree camera which are confirmed), but it is very likely to borrow heavily from the Creta. In that case, it may sport features such as a powered driver seat, a digital instrument cluster, ventilated front seats, automatic climate control, and a full-featured infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Despite being destined for developing markets (India gets it first), Hyundai spared no expense in developing the Alcazar. The body itself is made up of 75.6 percent Advanced and High-Strength Steel (AHSS and HSS). Together with the ring structure design built into the engine room, B-pillar, and D-pillar, it promises increased rigidity for enhanced handling, stability, and crash safety.

Powering the first-ever Alcazar is a choice between a normally-aspirated 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine or a 1.5-liter diesel 4-cylinder engine. The gasoline variant offers a commendable 159 horsepower and 191 Nm of torque, while the oil-burner has 115 horsepower and 250 Nm torque. Both engines are made available with a choice between a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic. When the 2.0-liter gasoline engine is paired to the 6-speed manual, Hyundai promises a 0 to 100 km/h of under 10 seconds.

While it’s yet to be confirmed, the Hyundai Alcazar is one of the vehicles reportedly being considered for production at the Korean carmaker’s recently announced assembly plant in Indonesia which will serve as the its ASEAN manufacturing hub, along with its 5-seater version, the Creta. 

With three-row MPVs and SUVs being very popular in the ASEAN region, the chances of seeing the Alcazar in ASEAN, including the Philippines is extremely high. If ever, expect it to arrive sometime in 2022 or 2023.