The Hyundai Grandeur/Azera VI (IG), produced from 2016 to November 2019, represented a significant step forward for Hyundai’s flagship sedan. This generation, known as the IG, aimed to elevate the brand’s image with a focus on luxury, technology, and refinement. Within the IG lineup, the 3.0 GDi V6 with the Shiftronic automatic transmission occupied a premium position, offering a balance of performance and comfort. It served as a step up from the base 2.4L engine, targeting buyers seeking a more powerful and sophisticated driving experience. The Grandeur/Azera, while primarily marketed in South Korea and select international markets, aimed to compete with established luxury sedans from Japanese and European manufacturers.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Hyundai |
| Model | Grandeur/Azera |
| Generation | Grandeur/Azera VI (IG) |
| Type (Engine) | 3.0 GDi V6 (266 Hp) Shiftronic |
| Start of production | 2016 |
| End of production | November, 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 11.5 l/100 km (20.5 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 8 l/100 km (29.4 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 9.9 l/100 km (23.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.1 kg/Hp, 163.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.3 kg/Nm, 190.2 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 266 Hp @ 6400 rpm |
| Power per litre | 88.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 310 Nm @ 5300 rpm (228.64 lb.-ft. @ 5300 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | Lambda II / G6DG |
| Engine displacement | 2999 cm3 (183.01 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.5 l (6.87 US qt | 5.72 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 8.5 l (8.98 US qt | 7.48 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1630 kg (3593.53 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal | 15.4 UK gal) |
| Length | 4930 mm (194.09 in.) |
| Width | 1865 mm (73.43 in.) |
| Height | 1470 mm (57.87 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2845 mm (112.01 in.) |
| Front track | 1602 mm (63.07 in.) |
| Rear track | 1610 mm (63.39 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 8 |
| Gearbox type | automatic transmission Shiftronic |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 225/55 R17; 245/45 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.0J x 17; 7.5J x 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Grandeur/Azera VI 3.0 GDi is Hyundai’s Lambda II V6 engine, specifically the G6DG code. This 2.999-liter (183.01 cubic inches) engine utilizes direct gasoline injection (GDi) technology to enhance fuel efficiency and power output. The engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, optimizing airflow for improved performance. The Lambda II engine is known for its relatively smooth operation and respectable power delivery. The Shiftronic 8-speed automatic transmission was paired with this engine, offering smooth shifts and a wide range of gear ratios. This transmission allowed for both comfortable cruising and responsive acceleration. The Shiftronic system also included a manual shift mode, giving drivers more control over gear selection.
Driving Characteristics
The 266 horsepower and 310 Nm (228.64 lb-ft) of torque provided by the 3.0 GDi V6 and Shiftronic transmission resulted in a comfortable and capable driving experience. While not a sports sedan, the Grandeur/Azera offered brisk acceleration, particularly when utilizing the transmission’s manual shift mode. The 8-speed automatic was well-tuned for everyday driving, providing seamless gear changes. Compared to the base 2.4L engine, the 3.0 GDi offered a noticeable improvement in power and responsiveness, making it more suitable for highway cruising and overtaking maneuvers. The front-wheel-drive configuration provided good traction in most conditions, although it lacked the dynamic handling characteristics of rear-wheel-drive competitors.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 3.0 GDi V6 trim of the Grandeur/Azera VI typically came well-equipped with features aimed at enhancing comfort and convenience. Standard equipment often included leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats with heating and ventilation, a premium audio system, a large touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, and a suite of advanced safety features such as lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking. Optional extras could include a panoramic sunroof, adaptive cruise control, and a head-up display. Interior trim levels varied depending on the specific market and package selected, but generally focused on providing a luxurious and refined cabin environment.
Chassis & Braking
The Grandeur/Azera VI utilized a front-wheel-drive platform with a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension. This suspension setup aimed to provide a comfortable ride while maintaining reasonable handling characteristics. The 3.0 GDi variant typically featured ventilated front disc brakes and solid rear disc brakes, providing adequate stopping power for its weight class. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) was standard, enhancing safety during emergency braking situations. Stabilizer bars were included both front and rear to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Hyundai Grandeur/Azera VI 3.0 GDi V6 was generally well-received by critics for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and generous equipment list. However, some reviewers noted that its styling was somewhat conservative compared to its competitors. Fuel economy was considered average for its class, with the combined fuel consumption of 9.9 l/100 km (23.8 US mpg) being comparable to other V6-powered sedans. Compared to the 2.4L version, the 3.0 GDi offered a significant performance upgrade, but at a higher price point. It positioned itself as a competitor to vehicles like the Toyota Avalon, Honda Accord V6, and Buick LaCrosse.
Legacy
The Hyundai Grandeur/Azera VI 3.0 GDi V6 has proven to be a relatively reliable powertrain in the used car market. The Lambda II V6 engine is known for its durability, and the Shiftronic 8-speed automatic transmission has also demonstrated good long-term reliability. Routine maintenance, such as oil changes and timing belt replacements (if applicable), is crucial for maintaining the engine’s health. While not without its potential issues, such as occasional sensor failures, the 3.0 GDi variant generally offers a good balance of performance, comfort, and reliability, making it a desirable option for buyers seeking a well-equipped and spacious used sedan.
