The Hyundai Grandeur is an executive sedan that has been in production since 1986. It is the flagship model of Hyundai in South Korea and other global markets, where it is also known as the Hyundai Azera. The Grandeur combines classic and elegant design with cutting-edge technology and performance, offering a premium and comfortable driving experience. The Grandeur also offers a hybrid option, which enhances its fuel efficiency and environmental friendliness. In this article, we will explore the history, features, benefits, and future of the Hyundai Grandeur, and why it is a great choice for discerning drivers.
The History of the Hyundai Grandeur
The Hyundai Grandeur was first launched in 1986 as a rebadged version of the Mitsubishi Debonair, a luxury sedan from Japan. Hyundai co-developed the Grandeur with Mitsubishi, using the latter’s platform, engine, and internal configuration. The Grandeur was Hyundai’s first front-wheel drive car, and it was designed to compete with the Daewoo Royale, another luxury sedan in the Korean market. The Grandeur was also the official sponsor of the 1988 Seoul Olympics, which boosted its popularity and prestige.
The Grandeur underwent several generations of development and improvement, with each generation introducing new design elements, engines, features, and technologies. The second generation, launched in 1992, was the first to be designed entirely by Hyundai, and it featured a more aerodynamic and modern look. The third generation, launched in 1998, was the first to be exported to the US market, where it was renamed as the Hyundai XG. The fourth generation, launched in 2005, was the first to adopt the name Hyundai Azera in the US and other markets, and it also introduced a new 3.3-liter V6 engine. The fifth generation, launched in 2011, was the first to offer a hybrid option, and it also featured a more sophisticated and luxurious design. The sixth generation, launched in 2016, was the first to use the Fluidic Sculpture 2.0 design language, and it also featured a new 3.5-liter V6 engine and an 8-speed automatic transmission. The seventh generation, launched in 2022, is the latest and most advanced version of the Grandeur, and it features a retro-futuristic design inspired by the first generation, as well as a new electric powertrain and a host of smart and safety features.
The Features of the Hyundai Grandeur
The Hyundai Grandeur offers a range of features that make it a comfortable, convenient, and safe sedan for drivers and passengers. Some of the main features of the Grandeur are:
• A spacious and luxurious interior, with high-quality materials, such as Nappa leather, velvet, and wood, and a retro bronze lighting system. The Grandeur also offers ample legroom, headroom, and trunk space, as well as various storage compartments and cup holders.
• A widescreen display with an integrated soundbar, which provides access to various infotainment and navigation functions, such as Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, wireless charging, and voice recognition. The Grandeur also features a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a head-up display, and a surround-view monitor.
• A hybrid option, which combines a 1.6-liter gasoline turbo engine with an electric motor and a battery, delivering a maximum output of 180 horsepower and a maximum torque of 27.0 kgf•m. The hybrid option also enhances the fuel efficiency and environmental friendliness of the Grandeur, as it can run on electric power alone for up to 50 kilometers, and emit less CO2 and noise.
• A suite of smart and safety features, such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, forward collision-avoidance assist, driver attention warning, and airbag system. The Grandeur also features a smart parking assist system, which allows the driver to park the car remotely using a smartphone app or a smart key.