What are the best cars for long drives, or highway driving in India? Today, we take a look at the Mahindra Scorpio-N and Hyundai Alcazar, and their variants to find out what makes them comfortable cars for road trips in India.
In this article, we will share
- What a long-distance road trip lover looks for in a car
- Mahindra Scorpio-N vs Hyundai Alcazar – an in-depth analysis of their features, fuel efficiency, space, and safety
- How to pick the right car for you
Also read: 10 DC Design cars & how they look in the REAL world: Maruti Swift to Mahindra XUV500
What a Long-Distance Road Trip Lover Looks for in a Car
What a long-distance road trip lover should look for in a car:
- Fuel Efficiency – The car should have high fuel efficiency so that long-distance trips are economical
- Space – The car should have good space for a comfortable and enjoyable trip
- Safety – The car’s safety ratings should be high, and adequate safety features
- Handling – The car’s handling must be superior, and it should have high-speed stability
Long-distance road trip enthusiasts prioritize comfort, safety, and performance in their vehicles. Key features include comfortable seating with ample legroom and adjustable positions, a reliable climate control system for consistent temperature management, and a high-quality audio system for entertainment.
Safety features like a robust GNCAP rating, airbags, and advanced driver assistance systems are crucial. Efficient fuel economy, both in city and highway conditions, and a substantial fuel tank capacity ensure fewer stops and longer range.
Stable high-speed performance, minimal body roll, and good visibility enhance the driving experience, while ample boot space is essential for luggage.
Why Mahindra Scorpio-N and Hyundai Alcazar are Popular
The Mahindra Scorpio-N and Hyundai Alcazar stand out in the SUV market for long-distance travelers. Both models offer spacious and comfortable interiors, crucial for extended journeys.
The Scorpio-N is known for its robust build and off-road capabilities, making it ideal for varied terrains. It offers a high GNCAP safety rating, substantial fuel tank capacity, and efficient overall mileage, which are significant for long trips.
The Hyundai Alcazar, with its stable high-speed performance and advanced features like ventilated seats and a high-quality Bose audio system, provides comfort and entertainment on the road. Its turbocharged engine ensures smooth power delivery, and features like adaptive cruise control and a 360-degree camera add to its appeal for safety-conscious drivers.
Both models also offer a range of convenient tech features like touchscreen navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, and ample charging ports, enhancing the overall travel experience.
Mahindra Scorpio-N and Hyundai Alcazar Variants Shortlist in Rs 18-20 Lakh Range
For Hyundai Alcazar, we have:
| Variant | Price (INR) as on 27 Decemeber 2023 |
| Platinum Turbo 7 Seater | ₹1,868,000 |
| Platinum (O) Turbo DCT 7 Seater | ₹1,999,000 |
| Platinum (O) Turbo DCT | ₹1,999,000 |
For Mahindra Scorpio-N, we have:
| Variant | Price (INR) as on 27 Decemeber 2023 |
| Z4 Diesel E 4×4 | ₹1,850,000 |
| Z8 Diesel | ₹1,880,000 |
| Z8 AT | ₹1,998,000 |
Hyundai Alcazar Platinum Turbo 7 Seater
This variant offers a balance of comfort and technology, making it ideal for long trips. Its stable high-speed performance, coupled with features like ventilated seats and a touchscreen navigation system, ensures a comfortable journey. The Arkamys audio system enhances entertainment options. If you’re a tech-savvy gadget lover, you can read our comparison of the Alcazar with Kia Carens.
Hyundai Alcazar Platinum (O) Turbo DCT 7 Seater
This variant steps up with the DCT transmission, providing smoother shifts and better fuel efficiency. Additional features like the Bose audio system and advanced safety features make it a more luxurious choice for long drives. If you’re a family-focused car buyer, you can check out our comparison of the Alcazar with MG Hector Plus.
Mahindra Scorpio-N Z4 Diesel E 4×4
For those who venture off the beaten path, this 4×4 variant is ideal. It offers robust off-roading capabilities without compromising on comfort and safety. The manual seating adjustments and OEM audio system are practical for rugged travels. If you’re an off-roading enthusiast, you can read our comparison of the Scorpio-N with Mahindra XUV700.
Mahindra Scorpio-N Z8 Diesel
This variant balances off-road prowess with daily driving comfort. Its turbocharged diesel engine provides enough power for various terrains, while the genuine leather upholstery adds a touch of luxury.
Mahindra Scorpio-N Z8 AT
This automatic variant of the Scorpio-N provides convenience and ease of driving, especially in traffic. It’s ideal for those who prefer a more relaxed driving experience without sacrificing power or off-road capabilities.
Our Pick for the Best Variant Among Mahindra Scorpio-N and Hyundai Alcazar for Long-Distance Road Trip Lovers
After analyzing the variants, the Hyundai Alcazar Platinum (O) Turbo DCT 7 Seater stands out as the best option for long-distance road trips. This variant strikes a perfect balance between luxury, comfort, and performance.
The DCT transmission ensures smooth power delivery and better fuel efficiency, essential for long drives. Its advanced safety features, coupled with the high GNCAP rating, offer peace of mind. The Bose audio system and ventilated seats provide unparalleled comfort, making it ideal for extended periods on the road.
Additionally, the Hyundai Alcazar’s turbocharged engine offers quick acceleration and stable high-speed performance, which are crucial for highway driving. The 360-degree camera and adaptive cruise control further enhance the driving experience, making it the top choice for long-distance road trip lovers.
The Top 3 Choices
- Hyundai Alcazar Platinum (O) Turbo DCT 7 Seater
- Mahindra Scorpio-N Z8 AT
- Hyundai Alcazar Platinum Turbo 7 Seater
| Attribute | Alcazar Platinum (O) Turbo DCT 7 Seater | Scorpio-N Z8 AT | Alcazar Platinum Turbo 7 Seater |
| Price (INR) | 1,999,000 | 1,998,000 | 1,868,000 |
| Highway Mileage (kmpl) | Good | Good | Good |
| City Mileage (kmpl) | Good | Average | Good |
| Seating Adjustments | Manual | Manual | Manual |
| GNCAP Rating | 4 | 5 | 4 |
| Climate Control | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Touchscreen Navigation | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Bluetooth Connectivity | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Fuel Tank Capacity (l) | 50 | 57 | 50 |
| Airbags (number) | 6 | 6 | 6 |
| Audio System (Brand) | Bose | OEM | Arkamys |
| Ventilated Seats | Yes | No | Yes |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | Yes | No | No |
| 360-degree Camera | Yes | No | Yes |
| Turbocharging | Yes | Yes | Yes |
How to Pick the Right Car for You
- For long-distance road trip enthusiasts, the Hyundai Alcazar Platinum (O) Turbo DCT 7 Seater emerges as the top choice due to its blend of luxury, comfort, and advanced features.
- The Mahindra Scorpio-N Z8 AT follows closely, offering robust performance and convenience of an automatic transmission, suitable for varied terrains.
- The Hyundai Alcazar Platinum Turbo 7 Seater provides a balance of technology and comfort at a more accessible price point.
These three variants collectively offer a range of features that cater to the needs of long-distance travelers, including safety, comfort, entertainment, and driving ease, making them the best choices for extended road adventures.
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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