The Indian automotive market is teeming with exciting options for families seeking a spacious and feature-rich 7-seater SUV. Two contenders vying for your attention are the Mahindra XUV700 AX5 Select (or AX5 S) and the Hyundai Alcazar Prestige Turbo. Both boast petrol engines, seating for seven, and a compelling list of features, all priced around Rs 17 lakh (ex-showroom). But with such close pricing, choosing the right one for your needs can be a challenge. This comprehensive guide dives into the key aspects of both SUVs to help you make an informed decision.
Breaking Down the Price Factor
A Look at the Variant-Wise Pricing
| Feature | Mahindra XUV700 AX5 S | Hyundai Alcazar Prestige Turbo |
|---|---|---|
| Transmission | Manual | Manual |
| Price (Ex-showroom) | Rs 16.89 lakh | Rs 16.77 lakh |
| Transmission | Automatic | – |
| Price (Ex-showroom) | Rs 18.49 lakh | – |
As you can see, the Alcazar Prestige holds a slight edge in terms of the starting price for the manual transmission variant. However, the XUV700 offers the option of an automatic transmission at an additional cost of Rs 1.6 lakh, a feature missing from the Alcazar Prestige.
Value Proposition and Target Audience
The XUV700 AX5 Select caters to a wider audience with its availability in both manual and automatic transmissions. This caters to drivers who prioritize the convenience of an automatic gearbox. However, the price jump for the automatic option is a significant factor to consider.
The Alcazar Prestige, on the other hand, focuses on offering a feature-rich package at a competitive price point for those comfortable with a manual transmission.
Unveiling the Powertrains
Performance Specs
| Feature | Mahindra XUV700 AX5 S | Hyundai Alcazar Prestige Turbo |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 2.0-liter turbo-petrol | 1.5-liter turbo-petrol |
| Power | 200 PS | 160 PS |
| Torque | 380 Nm | 253 Nm |
| Transmission | 6MT, 6AT | 6MT |
The XUV700 boasts a clear advantage in terms of performance with its larger 2.0-liter turbo-petrol engine churning out 200 PS of power and 380 Nm of torque. The Alcazar Prestige uses a smaller 1.5-liter turbo-petrol engine producing 160 PS and 253 Nm of torque. This translates to a more spirited driving experience and potentially better acceleration in the XUV700.
Considering Diesel Options
Both the XUV700 and Alcazar offer diesel engine options as well. The XUV700 gets a 185 PS 2.2-liter unit, while the Alcazar offers a 116 PS 1.5-liter unit. Both engines come with manual and automatic transmission options. If fuel efficiency is a top priority, the Alcazar’s smaller diesel engine might be a better choice. However, the XUV700’s diesel engine offers more power for those who prioritize performance.
Feature Showdown: XUV700 AX5 Select vs. Hyundai Alcazar Prestige Turbo
Now, let’s delve into the features offered by both SUVs in this variant comparison.
Examining Exteriors and Interiors
| Feature | Mahindra XUV700 AX5 S | Hyundai Alcazar Prestige Turbo |
|---|---|---|
| Exterior | Halogen headlights, LED DRLs, LED tail lights, 17-inch steel wheels with covers, flush-fitting door handles | LED headlights, LED tail lights, LED DRLs, 17-inch alloy wheels, rear spoiler |
| Interior | Fabric upholstery, adjustable headrests for all window seat passengers, front center armrest with storage, 60:40 split second row with one-touch tumble, 50:50 split third row, dual-tone interiors | Fabric upholstery, adjustable headrests for all window seat passengers, front center armrest with storage, 60:40 split second row with a one-touch tumble, 50:50 split third row, dual-tone interiors |
FAQs
Q: Which SUV offers more space?
While the XUV700 has larger overall dimensions, the Alcazar boasts a longer wheelbase, which can translate to more legroom in the cabin.
Q: Which SUV is more fuel-efficient?
The fuel efficiency figures for both SUVs will vary depending on the chosen engine (petrol or diesel) and transmission (manual or automatic). It’s recommended to check manufacturer-claimed figures and user reviews for a more accurate comparison.
Q: Are there any other 7-seater SUVs I should consider?
Yes, there are several other options in the Indian market, including the Tata Safari, MG Hector Plus, and Toyota Fortuner. The best choice depends on your budget, desired features, and brand preference.
