The Hyundai Grandeur/Azera VI (IG), produced from 2016 to 2017, 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 3.3 GDi V6 variant equipped with the Shiftronic automatic transmission occupied the top-tier position, offering the highest level of performance and features. It was primarily marketed towards buyers seeking a comfortable, well-equipped, and powerful full-size sedan, competing with established players like the Toyota Avalon and Buick LaCrosse in the North American market, and similar large sedans in other regions.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Hyundai |
| Model | Grandeur/Azera |
| Generation | Grandeur/Azera VI (IG) |
| Type (Engine) | 3.3 GDi V6 (297 Hp) Shiftronic |
| Start of production | 2016 |
| End of production | 2017 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 12.4 l/100 km (19 US mpg, 22.8 UK mpg, 8.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 10.2 l/100 km (23.1 US mpg, 27.7 UK mpg, 9.8 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.6 kg/Hp, 177.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.8 kg/Nm, 207.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 297 Hp @ 6400 rpm |
| Power per litre | 88.9 Hp/l |
| Torque | 346 Nm @ 5200 rpm (255.2 lb.-ft. @ 5200 rpm) |
| Maximum engine speed | 6800 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | Lambda II / G6DM |
| Engine displacement | 3342 cm3 (203.94 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 92 mm (3.62 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 83.8 mm (3.3 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11.5:1 |
| 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 | 1671 kg (3683.92 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space (minimum) | 546 l (19.28 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal | 15.4 UK gal) |
| Length | 4920 mm (193.7 in.) |
| Width | 1860 mm (73.23 in.) |
| Height | 1470 mm (57.87 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2845 mm (112.01 in.) |
| Front track | 1606 mm (63.23 in.) |
| Rear track | 1607 mm (63.27 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.29 |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.12 m (36.48 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| 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 | 245/45 R18; 245/40 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 18; 8.0J x 19 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Grandeur/Azera 3.3 GDi is Hyundai’s Lambda II V6 engine, specifically the G6DM code. This 3.3-liter, naturally aspirated engine utilizes direct fuel injection (GDi) to maximize efficiency and power output. The engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, contributing to its responsive nature. The direct injection system precisely meters fuel directly into the combustion chamber, improving combustion efficiency and reducing emissions. The Shiftronic automatic transmission is a 6-speed unit designed to provide smooth and efficient gear changes. It offers a manual shift mode, allowing drivers some control over gear selection, though it’s primarily geared towards comfortable, effortless cruising.
Driving Characteristics
The 297 horsepower and 255 lb-ft of torque delivered by the 3.3 GDi V6, coupled with the 6-speed automatic, provided a comfortable and capable driving experience. While not a sports sedan, the Grandeur/Azera offered brisk acceleration and ample power for highway merging and overtaking. The automatic transmission was tuned for smoothness rather than aggressive shifts, prioritizing comfort. Compared to the base 2.4L four-cylinder engine, the V6 offered a substantial performance upgrade. It also contrasted with potential future turbocharged options, providing a more linear power delivery. The gear ratios were optimized for relaxed cruising, with a focus on minimizing engine noise and maximizing fuel efficiency at highway speeds.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 3.3 GDi V6 Shiftronic trim represented the highest level of equipment available for the Grandeur/Azera. Standard features typically included leather upholstery, a premium audio system, a large touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, a panoramic sunroof, and a suite of advanced safety features such as lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. Optional extras could include upgraded interior trim materials, a rear-seat entertainment system, and a head-up display. The interior design emphasized spaciousness and comfort, with a focus on high-quality materials and a refined aesthetic.
Chassis & Braking
The Grandeur/Azera VI (IG) utilized a front-wheel-drive platform with a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension. This setup aimed to balance ride comfort with handling stability. The 3.3 GDi variant typically featured larger brakes than the base models, with ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) was standard. While not a performance-oriented chassis, the suspension was tuned to provide a comfortable and controlled ride, absorbing bumps and minimizing body roll. Stabilizer bars were included at both the front and rear to further enhance handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 3.3 GDi V6 Shiftronic Grandeur/Azera was generally well-received by critics for its smooth ride, spacious interior, and generous features list. However, some reviewers noted that the handling wasn’t as engaging as some of its competitors. Fuel economy, while adequate, wasn’t a standout feature. Compared to the base 2.4L engine, the V6 offered a significant performance boost, but at the cost of increased fuel consumption. The V6 also positioned itself above the potential for more fuel-efficient turbocharged four-cylinder options that were becoming increasingly common in the segment. Reliability reports have been generally positive, with the Lambda II V6 engine proving to be a durable and dependable powerplant.
Legacy
The Hyundai Grandeur/Azera VI (IG) 3.3 GDi V6 Shiftronic represents a pivotal moment for Hyundai, showcasing the brand’s ability to compete with established luxury brands. The Lambda II V6 engine has proven to be a reliable and long-lasting powertrain, and examples of this generation Grandeur/Azera continue to be sought after on the used car market for their combination of comfort, features, and value. While not a collector’s item, the IG generation Grandeur/Azera is remembered as a significant step forward for Hyundai, solidifying its position as a major player in the global automotive market.
