Hyundai Grandeur — BrandWiki

Hyundai Grandeur

Overview

Sixth generation

model code	IG
aka	Hyundai Azera
production	2016–2022
assembly	South Korea: Asan (Hyundai Motor Asan Plant)
body style	4-door sedan
platform	Y7 platform (pre-facelift) N platform (facelift)
related	Kia Cadenza Hyundai Sonata Kia Optima
engine

The Hyundai Grandeur is an executive sedan[1] manufactured and marketed by the South Korean manufacturer Hyundai since 1986, over seven generations.

From 1986 to 1996, the Grandeur was the flagship for Hyundai's South Korean range before the Hyundai Dynasty was introduced. It is marketed globally as the Hyundai Azera. As the Azera, it was the flagship of Hyundai's US and Canadian lineup until the arrival of the Genesis sedan. After the launch of the separate Genesis brand, the Grandeur/Azera resumed its place as the company's flagship.

As of the 2017 model year, the Azera is no longer marketed in the United States and Canada.[2] The sedan continues to be available in South Korea and the Middle East.

First generation (YFL; 1986)

The first Grandeur was a rebadged

motor	52 PS Electric motor

transmission	6-speed automatic 8-speed automatic

drivetrain	HEV

battery	High-voltage Li-ion battery

wheelbase	2845 mm (pre-facelift) 2885 mm (facelift)

length	4930 mm (pre-facelift) 4990 mm (facelift)

width	1865 mm (pre-facelift) 1875 mm (facelift)

height	1470 - 1480 mm

weight	1550 - 1647 kg (2.4L/2.5L) 1616 - 1719 kg (3.0L/3.3L/3.5L) 1675 kg (Hybrid)

Background

Before the 1988 Seoul Olympics, most of the luxury car market of South Korea was held by Daewoo Motors and its Royale Series. From October 1978, Hyundai's top offering in South Korea was a locally built Ford Granada Mark II. The Daewoo Royale, however, was dominating the Granada in the market place, and Hyundai tried to enter the luxury car market with its own design. In the face of tough competition from Daewoo Motors' powerful brand, Hyundai abandoned this attempt and instead borrowed the platform, technology, and internal configuration from Mitsubishi Motors to create the first Hyundai Grandeur.

In the early eighties, Mitsubishi Motors also wanted to renew its aging Debonair model, which had not been substantially updated since its market launch in 1964. Given the existing relationship of sharing technologies and innovations, Mitsubishi accepted Hyundai's request to share a platform, internal configuration, and most importantly, an engine. As Hyundai was an official sponsor of 1988 Seoul Olympics, it used this opportunity to notify all the executives and important people about their new car, the Grandeur. Because of its Mitsubishi basis and good quality, it became very popular in Korea.

Also called "Gak (angular)-Grandeur", it succeeded the Hyundai-built Granada. Official Olympic sponsor Hyundai Motor co-developed the Grandeur with Mitsubishi Motors of Japan, and launched it in July 1986, well in advance of the 1988 Summer Olympics. The design was done by Hyundai Motors, but the internal configuration was done by Mitsubishi. It was the second FF layout model in Korea after Hyundai Excel. Originally, only a four-cylinder 2,000 cc engine and manual transmission were offered, but later a 2,400 cc engine, a 3,000 cc V6 engine, and automatic transmission became available. The Grandeur became Korea's best-selling large car by a considerable margin.[3] It was also sold in Japan as the Mitsubishi Debonair V, but the demanding class was already absorbed by the Toyota Crown, Nissan Cedric/Gloria, Mazda Luce, and Honda Legend, and the Debonair was not competitive in its home market.

The Grandeur's taillight design was changed in 1989, and ABS first became available in 1991. It had 4-speed automatic transmission or 5-speed manual transmission. It was discontinued in September 1992, after 122,074 had been built.[3]

Grandeur EV

Hyundai restomodded an example of the first generation Grandeur as an EV concept version called 'Hyundai Grandeur Heritage', using the "Parametric Pixel" design language from the Ioniq line. It celebrates the 35th anniversary of the Grandeur, and debuted at Hyundai Motorstudio Goyang on November 12, 2021.[4][5] It is the second Heritage Series restomod EV after the Pony EV, and will be followed by the Galloper EV.[6]

Third generation (XG; 1998)

The third-generation Grandeur is marketed as the Grandeur XG, mirroring its internal development code. In North America and Japan, it was marketed as the Hyundai XG. The first two generations were essentially rebadged Mitsubishi Debonairs, with the third generation developed entirely by Hyundai, with technical experience learned from the first two generations. The Kia Opirus (Amanti in North America) shared a modified variant of the Grandeur/XG platform. After this generation, Hyundai developed the next generation on their own from the ground up with technology accumulated through past generations, enabling export of the XG outside South Korea without legal complications.

Leveraging its luxurious image, the XG moniker later was also applied to the domestic market Hyundai Trajet which uses the same platform with the Grandeur XG.<[9]

XG250

The XG250 debuted in 1999 with a 2.5 L Delta V6. It was also marketed as the XG25 in some markets and was produced until 2005. There was a two-litre model called the XG20 for some markets, including South Korea.

Performance
Acceleration: 0–60 mph in 10.6 seconds
Top speed: 204 km/h
Power: 165 bhp

XG300

The XG300 debuted in 1999 with a 3.0 L Sigma V6.

It was manufactured from 2001 to 2003 and marketed as the XG30 in Europe and in Asian countries. A 2.5-litre model, called XG25, was also marketed in some countries, including as France.

In the United States, the XG300 equipped with the 3.0-litre V6 engine was available for the 2001 model year only. The "L" model included heated front seats, rear seat reading lamps, two-position driver's side memory seat and outside mirrors, power moonroof, 6-speaker Infinity AM/FM/CD/cassette stereo system, wood-tone accented steering wheel, electrochromic rearview mirror with a built-in three-channel HomeLink-compatible garage door opener, and a parking aid feature that automatically tilted the dual exterior mirrors downward when the transmission is in reverse. Automatic electronic climate control was available option, along with a power moonroof on the base model, and a trunk-mounted eight-disc CD changer for the L model.

Performance
Acceleration: 0–60 mph in 9.8 seconds
Top speed: 214 km/h
Power: 181 bhp

XG350

The 2002 XG350 models were equipped with a larger 3.5-litre V6 Sigma 194 hp engine. While providing 2 hp more horsepower than the previous engine, it offered an additional 38 lbft of torque, now rated at 216 lbft. 16-inch bright 10-spoke alloy wheels were an inch larger than for the 2001 model year. In the United States, the power moonroof was no longer an option on base models. 2003 brought a new instrument cluster, and updated graphics for the console trip computer.

In the 2004 model year, the XG350 received larger front brakes (discs went from 10.9- to 12-inch), which in turn required a 16-inch spare tire as standard equipment, replacing the 'space-saver' design used since 2001. Also new this year were restyled front and rear bumpers, bodyside moldings, headlights (now with HID availability), driving lights, tail lamps, grille, and deck lid with recessed license plate holder. The high-mounted stop lamp in the rear window went to an all-new LED design. The interior wood-tone trim changed to a lighter shade, glove compartment and storage bins were now covered in charcoal gray material (formerly black), the door-mounted power window switch panels now matched the interior color (previously, they were high-gloss wood-tone), recessed seat tethers allowed for secure installation of child seats in all three rear seat positions, and the trunk hinges were now supported using hydraulic pistons. Standard equipment leather upholstery was available in solid deep charcoal or a two-tone finish featuring a tan interior with brown dashboard/center console and upper door trim. The L versions were equipped with specific 12-spoke silver-painted alloy rims featuring center caps covering the lug nuts. Minor equipment changes inside included redesigned levers for the hood release and tilt steering column, an updated cruise control switch, a recessed trunk pull-down handle, and leather trim around the console armrest tray.

2005 was the last model year for the XG350, as it would be replaced at the top of the Hyundai line-up by the 2006 Azera. Both the base and L models now offered the formerly optional carpeted floor mats as standard equipment, while the L model was now equipped with a standard trunk-mounted eight-disc CD changer.

Fourth generation (TG; 2005)

The Grandeur TG is a mid-size sedan introduced for the 2006 model year. A redesigned XG350, it shares a platform with the Sonata. It is sold as the Hyundai Azera in North America, China, France, Taiwan, Philippines, Iran, Malaysia, The GCC (Persian Gulf states), South Africa, Singapore, Peru, Chile and Brazil. In Europe (except in France), Australia, New Zealand and Japan it was sold as the Grandeur. A few (approx 27) 3.3l Grandeurs were imported into the UK in around 2008/9 for use by Hyundai UK executives. These then later entered the used car market. In Belgium, it was launched as the Grandeur, and renamed Azera in 2006.<[10]

The Grandeur/Azera had been the most expensive Hyundai model outside of Korea, China, and the Middle East—until the 2008 introduction of the Genesis.

The Azera has a four-wheel independent suspension (multi-link in the rear) and uses the company's new 3.8 L Lambda V6, which produces 265 hp. The power is sent to the front wheels through a five or six-speed automatic transmission with a "Shiftronic" manual gear selection. Hyundai claims 6.0 s to accelerate to 60 mph and a top speed of 155 mph. Fuel economy of 19 mpgus in the city and 28 mpgus on the highway is expected.

The 2.2 VGT CRDI diesel engine from the Santa Fe is also available, with the addition of the 2.4 Theta and 2.7 Mu petrol engines in South Korea.

The Limited trim level adds 17-inch alloy wheels, heated front seats, leather seat-upholstery, and a power sun shade in the rear window. The Ultimate Package includes an enhanced audio system with 10 Infinity speakers and a 6-disc CD changer, a power sunroof, powered tilt-telescopic steering wheel, and rain-sensing windshield wipers.

The 2007 model featured a revised gauge pattern and steering wheel controls.

The 2008 model introduced the optional LG Navigation system. It was the first automobile to provide a dual display monitor. The SE models are removed in favor of a GLS model that shares the same 17-inch wheels as the Limited models, and the Aubergine colour is no longer available. A wood-trimmed steering wheel is now only available with the Ultimate Package.

The 2009 model featured revised grille, 17-inch 10-spoke alloy wheels, blue back lit gauges and dashboard lighting (vs. the previous green), dark brown wood grain accents and available hands free Bluetooth phone capability. The audio player display takes the same design as the 2009 Hyundai Sonata, and the controls for the audio player have been redesigned. An auxiliary input jack and iPod integration system became standard, though these were deleted with the navigation system on the Limited trim level. The Limited trim level received a wood-trimmed steering wheel and "hyper-silver" alloy wheels.

The Korean Grandeur offers features not available in North American version, including as Proximity Key with Push Button Start and Bluetooth hands-free capability. A refreshed 2010 model was released on 16 December 2009 that incorporated new 7 split-spoke alloy wheels, LED taillights, rectangular exhaust pipe designs, new side mirrors, redesigned headlights, and new front fascia and grille. New interior amenities include Alcantara leather seats and rear passenger audio and climate controls.

For the 2010 model year the Hyundai Azera was dropped in Canada due to slow sales.

For model year 2011, Hyundai restyled the Azera with new front and rear fascias, new alloy wheels, and new fog lamps. The engines were updated with dual variable valve timing and the transmission received one more forward speed for a total of six. The 3.3L V6 was now rated at 260 hp, while the 3.8L V6 now made 283 hp. The fuel economy was also improved with 20/28 for 3.3 and 19/27 for 3.8 (EPA rating pending).

In November 2010, Hyundai sued Avera Motors, a start-up automaker based in Rockledge, Florida, over the use of the name "Avera," claiming it was too close to the Azera name.< As a result, Avera changed its name in March 2011 to Rivian Automotive.<[11]

Safety

The Azera comes standard with front airbags for driver and passenger, front and rear head curtain airbags and front and rear seat-mounted torso airbags.

According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety the Azera received a Good overall score in the frontal crash test and an Acceptable overall score in the side impact test. The driver's pelvis/leg in the side impact category was given a Poor score and the structure/safety category rated Marginal.<[12]<[13]

NHTSA Azera<[14]

Frontal Driver:

Frontal Passenger:

Side Driver:

Side Rear Passenger (earlier models):

Side Rear Passenger (later models):

Rollover:

Fifth generation (HG; 2011)

The fifth generation Grandeur/Azera was unveiled at the 2011 Los Angeles International Auto Show as a 2012 model. It was developed over a period of three and half years with a cost of 450 million dollars. The fifth generation was marketed as the Grandeur in South Korea — and in most export markets as the "Hyundai Azera."

Dimensionally, the Azera fit between the mid-size Sonata and the rear-wheel drive Genesis.< The Azera's competitors include cars such as the Ford Taurus, Dodge Charger, Chevrolet Impala, and entry-level luxury (or near-luxury) cars such as the Buick LaCrosse, Nissan Maxima, Toyota Avalon, Chrysler 300.<<[15]

Initial release

The Grandeur HG was released by Hyundai with an all new appearance and an engine The Grandeur HG followed the "fluidic sculpture" design of modern Hyundai vehicles. This design is dubbed as the "Grand Glide" concept.<[16]<[17]

The four-cylinder has a fuel economy of 12.8 km/L (7.8 L/100 km) and the V6 is rated at 11.8 km/L (8.5 L/100 km). The Premium model features adaptive cruise control and a semi-automatic parking assist system.<[18]

Early Korean models of Grandeur include Theta II 2.4 GDI, Lambda II 3.0 GDI. In Korea an E-VGT R2.2 Diesel engine with 202 PS is available. Korean version equipment includes auto high beam, lane departure warning, blind spot detection, and electric park brake.<[19]

Powertrain

All models come standard with a 6-speed automatic transmission and is the only transmission available.

Hyundai Grandeur Hybrid (2013–2017)

It is a version of Hyundai Grandeur for South Korea market, with 2.4-litre Theta II MPi (159PS) engine, 47PS electric motor, projector beam headlights, LED tail lights, a dual exhaust system, 17-inch aluminum wheels, Nappa leather seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and wood grain trim, dual-zone automatic climate control, heated seats, a rear view camera, a USB charging system, an infotainment system with a 6-inch display. Options include a panoramic sunroof, a premium audio system and GPS navigation.

The vehicle went on sale on December 17, 2013.<[20]

Powertrain

All models come standard with a 6-speed automatic transmission and is the only transmission available.

Hyundai Grandeur Hybrid (2013–2017)

The vehicle went on sale on December 17, 2013.<[20]

2014 model year update

Changes to US models of Hyundai Azera include lower starting price of $31,000 ($1,250 reduction from 2013), refined steering feel and precision, standard 6-inch colour LCD audio display with rear view camera, standard driver blind-spot mirror, new electroluminescent gauge cluster with colour LCD trip computer, new 8-inch navigation system standard on Limited, power-folding side mirrors standard on Limited, Hyundai Assurance Connected Care telematics services standard for three years.<[21]

Hyundai Grandeur

First generation (YFL; 1986)

Background

Grandeur EV

Second generation (LX; 1992)

Powertrain

Public reaction

Third generation (XG; 1998)

XG250

XG300

XG350

Fourth generation (TG; 2005)

Safety

Fifth generation (HG; 2011)

Initial release

Powertrain

Hyundai Grandeur Hybrid (2013–2017)

Powertrain

Hyundai Grandeur Hybrid (2013–2017)

2014 model year update

Sixth generation (IG; 2016)

Facelift

Engines and transmissions

Seventh generation (GN7; 2022)

Powertrain

Sales

See also

External links

References

Awards