MBABANE – Hyundai has introduced a new contender to the Eswatini SUV market with the launch of the Alcazar, a fuel-efficient seven-seater aimed at cost-conscious families looking for value without sacrificing features.
The Alcazar replaces the outgoing Grand Creta and enters the midsize SUV category, positioned between the compact Creta and the larger Tucson. It offers both petrol and diesel engine options and comes in three variants, starting at E499 900 in South Africa – a pricing benchmark expected to be closely mirrored in Eswatini dealerships.
Speaking at the regional launch, Hyundai Automotive South Africa’s CEO, Gideon Janse van Rensburg, said the brand’s focus remains on offering quality mobility solutions at an affordable price. He noted that the Alcazar follows in the footsteps of recent launches like the Hyundai Exter and revamped Tucson, both of which saw feature upgrades despite lower entry prices.
Stanley Anderson, the company’s Director of Sales and Operations, described the Alcazar as more than a replacement. “It’s a step up in quality and comfort, while remaining accessible for families,” he said.
Under the bonnet, the base Executive model is powered by a 2.0-litre petrol engine producing 117kW and 191Nm, with a top speed of 190km/h and claimed fuel usage of 7.5 litres per 100km. However, the spotlight is on the 1.5-litre turbodiesel option, available in both Executive and Elite trims. Despite a modest 85kW output, the diesel engine’s 250Nm torque ensures it handles daily driving with ease—while offering impressive real-world consumption below the official 5.9 litres per 100km figure.
During a recent test drive hosted for regional motoring journalists, the diesel-powered Elite variant showcased its ability to stretch every litre of fuel, a notable advantage over many Chinese competitors that tend to consume more petrol despite lower purchase prices. With fuel costs exceeding E20 per litre in Eswatini, Hyundai appears to be banking on long-term affordability as a key selling point.
Inside, the Alcazar delivers a premium experience. The Elite model includes fold-out tray tables for second-row passengers, USB ports across all three rows, and a flexible seating configuration that turns the SUV into a cargo hauler when needed. The cockpit is headlined by a dual-screen display with wireless phone charging, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto connectivity, as well as physical controls for climate and audio—features designed for ease of use on the go.
Safety equipment includes six airbags, ISOFIX mounting points, stability control, and hill-assist systems. The Elite grade adds driver aids such as blind spot monitoring, lane keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control—technologies increasingly valued on Eswatini’s intercity roads and mountain passes.
Local pricing is expected to reflect South Africa’s structure, with the petrol-powered Executive starting at around E499 900, and diesel Executive and Elite trims priced at approximately E599 900 and E669 900, respectively. Each vehicle includes a seven-year/200 000km warranty and a three-year/45 000km service plan.
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