The Hyundai Galloper II 3.0 i V6 Sport, produced between 1998 and 2003, represents a significant step in Hyundai’s ambition to compete in the mid-size SUV market. Built upon the Mitsubishi Pajero platform – a result of a licensing agreement – the Galloper II offered Korean buyers a domestically produced, body-on-frame SUV with a focus on ruggedness and practicality. The “Sport” trim, powered by the 3.0-liter V6 engine, occupied a middle ground in the Galloper II lineup, offering a balance between performance and affordability. It was positioned above the base models with smaller engines and below the more luxurious, fully-equipped trims.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Hyundai |
| Model | Galloper |
| Generation | Galloper II |
| Type (Engine) | 3.0 i V6 Sport (161 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1998 year |
| End of production | 2003 year |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Maximum speed | 167 km/h (103.77 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.8 kg/Hp, 92.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.9 kg/Nm, 144.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 161 Hp @ 5000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 54.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 250 Nm @ 4000 rpm (184.39 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | Sigma / G6AT |
| Engine displacement | 2972 cm3 (181.36 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 91.1 mm (3.59 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 76 mm (2.99 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 8.9:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.3 l (4.54 US qt | 3.78 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1735 kg (3825.02 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2510 kg (5533.6 lbs.) |
| Max load | 775 kg (1708.58 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 663 l (23.41 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1386 l (48.95 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 75 l (19.81 US gal | 16.5 UK gal) |
| Length | 4085 mm (160.83 in.) |
| Width | 1770 mm (69.69 in.) |
| Height | 1860 mm (73.23 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2350 mm (92.52 in.) |
| Front track | 1435 mm (56.5 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1450 mm (57.09 in.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Torsion |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Cone worm with recirculation balls |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 265/70 R15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Galloper II 3.0 i V6 Sport is the Hyundai Sigma G6AT engine, a 2.97-liter naturally aspirated V6. This engine, derived from Mitsubishi’s 6G72 design, features a cast iron block and aluminum cylinder heads. It utilizes a multi-port fuel injection system, delivering fuel directly into the intake ports, and a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain with two valves per cylinder. The engine’s 8.9:1 compression ratio was a compromise between performance and the quality of fuel available in the Korean market. The 5-speed manual transmission was the standard offering for the Sport trim, providing direct control over the engine’s power. The transmission was chosen for its durability and suitability for off-road conditions, though it lacked the refinement of more modern automatic gearboxes.
Driving Characteristics
The 161 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque produced by the 3.0-liter V6 provided adequate, though not exhilarating, performance for the Galloper II. Acceleration was respectable, but the vehicle’s substantial weight (approximately 3,825 lbs) limited its responsiveness. The manual transmission allowed drivers to maximize the engine’s output, but the gear ratios were geared more towards low-end torque for off-road use rather than high-speed cruising. Compared to the smaller 2.0-liter inline-four engine offered in base Galloper II models, the V6 Sport provided a noticeable improvement in power and drivability. However, it didn’t match the performance of the later, more powerful engines found in some export markets.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The “Sport” trim level of the Galloper II offered a step up in features compared to the base models. Standard equipment typically included power windows, power steering, air conditioning, and a basic audio system. Interior upholstery was usually cloth, with a durable and practical design. Optional extras could include alloy wheels, a sunroof, and upgraded audio systems. The dashboard layout was functional and straightforward, prioritizing ease of use over aesthetic flair. The 3-door configuration of the Sport model meant rear seat access was somewhat limited, making it less practical for families than the 5-door version.
Chassis & Braking
The Galloper II utilized a traditional body-on-frame construction, providing a robust and durable platform for off-road driving. Front suspension consisted of torsion bars, while the rear employed coil springs. This setup offered a comfortable ride on paved roads, while still providing sufficient articulation for tackling rough terrain. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and drum brakes at the rear. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was included as standard equipment, enhancing safety and control during emergency braking situations. The steering system was a recirculating ball type, providing a direct feel but lacking the precision of more modern rack-and-pinion systems.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Hyundai Galloper II 3.0 i V6 Sport was generally well-received in the Korean market. Critics praised its ruggedness, practicality, and relatively affordable price point. Compared to imported SUVs, the Galloper II offered a compelling value proposition. However, some reviewers noted the engine’s lack of refinement and the vehicle’s somewhat dated interior. Fuel economy was also a concern, typical for a vehicle of this size and type. Compared to the smaller-engined Galloper II models, the V6 Sport offered a significant improvement in performance, but at the cost of slightly increased fuel consumption.
Legacy
The Hyundai Galloper II, and specifically the 3.0 i V6 Sport variant, holds a place in Korean automotive history as a pioneering domestic SUV. While it has been superseded by more modern and sophisticated models, the Galloper II remains a popular choice among enthusiasts and collectors. The Sigma G6AT engine, while not known for its cutting-edge technology, proved to be relatively reliable and durable. Used examples are still relatively common in Korea, and well-maintained vehicles can provide years of dependable service. The Galloper II’s legacy lies in its contribution to Hyundai’s growth as a major automotive manufacturer and its role in establishing a domestic SUV market in Korea.
