As a tech-savvy gadget lover, you want only the best cars with advanced technology, or top cars with the latest features in India. We look at the Hyundai Alcazar and Kia Carens, and see how their top-end diesel variants fare in terms of technology and gadgets.
In this article, we will share
- What a tech-savvy gadget lover looks for in a car
- Hyundai Alcazar vs Kia Carens – a comprehensive analysis of their variants, technology, features and gadgets
- How to pick the right car for you
Do these cars have innovative gadgets? And can these models be considered the most feature-rich cars in the MPV and premium SUV segments? Let’s find out.
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What a Tech-savvy gadget lover looks for in a car
Here’s what to look for in a car as a tech-savvy buyer:
- Hi-tech features: What advanced features such as infotainment system does the car have
- Driver assistance: Does the car have tech-driven features to assist you in driving
- Connectivity: Does the car have internet connectivity
- Convenience: What features does the car have to enhance convenience
A tech-savvy buyer wants a car loaded with the latest gadgets and technology. A large high-resolution touchscreen, connected tech like Android Auto/Apple CarPlay, multiple USB charging ports and premium sound system are must-haves.
ADAS safety features, electric seats, ambient lighting, heads-up display, wireless charging further enhance the tech quotient. Strong engine performance and smooth automatic transmission add driving pleasure.
Why Hyundai Alcazar and Kia Carens are popular
The Hyundai Alcazar and Kia Carens are both equipped with extensive technology and gadgets that appeal to tech-focused buyers.
The high-resolution 10.25 inch touchscreens come with Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and built-in navigation. Multiple USB charging ports, Bose sound system with 8 speakers, ambient lighting create an immersive in-car experience. ADAS tech like blind view monitor, surround view camera and driver attention alert add both safety and novelty.
The responsive petrol and diesel engines offer smooth power delivery when paired with the torque converter automatic gearbox. Premium materials and features like ventilated front seats, wireless charger, air purifier further enhance the high-tech ambiance. Overall, a cutting-edge package for gadget lovers.
Hyundai Alcazar and Kia Carens Top-end Diesel Variants in Rs 19-22 Lakh Range
For Hyundai Alcazar, we have:
| Variant | Price (INR) as on 14 November 2023 |
| Signature(O) Diesel AT | ₹20,88,000 |
| Signature(O) Diesel AT Dual Tone | ₹21,13,000 |
For Kia Carens, we have:
| Variant | Price (INR) as on 14 November 2023 |
| Luxury Plus Diesel AT 6 STR | ₹19,05,000 |
| X-Line Diesel AT 6 STR | ₹19,45,000 |
Hyundai Alcazar Signature(O) Diesel AT
The Hyundai Alcazar Signature(O) Diesel AT is priced at ₹20.88 lakhs but offers an exhaustive tech kit including 10.25inch screen, Bose sound, wireless charging, blind view monitor and more. The torque converter automatic suits the refined diesel engine. Overall, a technology haven for gadget lovers.
Hyundai Alcazar Signature(O) Dual Tone Diesel AT
The Alcazar Signature(O) Dual Tone Diesel AT costs ₹21.13 lakhs but adds only cosmetic differentiation over the monotone variant. The tech experience remains similar making the additional expense hard to justify. You can also read our comparison of the Alcazar and Carens for family-focused car buyers.
Kia Carens Luxury Plus Diesel AT
The Kia Carens Luxury Plus Diesel AT at ₹19.05 lakhs offers comparable features like 10.25inch display, Bose sound, wireless charging, surround view camera in a strikingly futuristic styling. A value for money option. If you enjoy long drives, you can check out our comparison of the Carens with Maruti Suzuki Ertiga.
Our Pick for the Best top-end diesel variant among Hyundai Alcazar and Kia Carens for Tech-savvy gadget lovers
For the tech-focused buyer, the Kia Carens Luxury Plus Diesel AT variant represents the best combination of latest gadgets and technology at a reasonable price point.
At ₹19.05 lakhs, the Carens Luxury Plus is significantly more affordable than the equivalent Alcazar Signature (O) priced at ₹20.88 lakhs. Yet it offers the same cutting edge equipment – 10.25 inch HD touchscreen, wireless charging, Bose sound system, ambient lighting, surround view camera and more.
The Alcazar’s additional features like air purifier and blind view monitor are minor addons that don’t warrant the steep price premium. Both SUVs offer a refined diesel AT combination delivering smooth performance.
The Carens’ uniquely futuristic exterior and interior styling also enhances its high-tech appeal compared to the relatively safe design of the Alcazar. The premium materials and floating screen layout make the cabin look more special.
With comparable gadgets and technology at a lower price point, packaged in eye catching futuristic styling, the Kia Carens Luxury Plus Diesel AT becomes the top choice for a tech-focused buyer. We have also compared the Carens with Maruti XL6 for their design and style.
The Top 3 choices
- Kia Carens Luxury Plus Diesel AT
- Hyundai Alcazar Signature(O) Diesel AT
- Hyundai Alcazar Signature(O) Diesel AT Dual Tone
| Attributes | Kia Carens Luxury Plus Diesel AT | Hyundai Alcazar Signature(O) Diesel AT | Hyundai Alcazar Signature(O) Diesel AT Dual Tone |
| 10.25 inch Touchscreen | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Wireless Charging | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Bose Sound System | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Surround View Camera | Yes | No | No |
| Ventilated Front Seats | Yes | Yes | Yes |
How to Pick the Right Car for You
- The Kia Carens Luxury Plus Diesel AT is the top pick for its extensive gadgets, futuristic styling and competitive pricing. The technology and equipment match is at par with the more expensive Alcazar.
- The Hyundai Alcazar Signature(O) Diesel AT comes second thanks to its high-resolution touchscreen, Bose audio, ADAS tech and more. But it commands a significant price premium over the Carens.
- The Alcazar Signature(O) Diesel AT in Dual Tone trim takes third spot. The only differentiation is cosmetic, while the high price remains. Overall gadget experience is similar to the monotone variant.
The Kia Carens combines the best of cutting-edge tech and futuristic styling at an attractive price point. For the tech enthusiast buyer looking for the latest automobile gadgets, it delivers the most value making it the top choice.
If you’re interested in reading more such face-to-face comparisons of popular car variants, head over to our Buying Advice section.
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