The Hyundai Grandeur, known as the Azera in North America, represents Hyundai’s flagship sedan, positioned above the Sonata and Elantra. The sixth generation, designated IG, was produced from 2016 to 2018 and marked a significant step forward in terms of design, technology, and refinement for the brand. Within the IG lineup, the 2.2 CRDi Shiftronic variant offered a compelling blend of fuel efficiency, performance, and comfort, aimed at buyers seeking a premium driving experience with the practicality of a diesel engine. This model was primarily targeted towards markets outside of North America, where diesel engines maintain a stronger presence due to favorable fuel costs and emissions regulations.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Hyundai |
| Model | Grandeur/Azera |
| Generation | Grandeur/Azera VI (IG) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.2 CRDi (202 Hp) Shiftronic |
| Start of production | 2016 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.6 l/100 km (30.9 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.7 l/100 km (41.3 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.8 l/100 km (34.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.3 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.8 kg/Nm |
| Power | 202 Hp @ 3800 rpm |
| Torque | 440 Nm @ 1750-2750 rpm (324.53 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | R II / D4HB |
| Engine displacement | 2199 cm3 (134.19 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.3 l (6.66 US qt | 5.54 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 9.1 l (9.62 US qt | 8.01 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1675 kg (3692.74 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 |
| Number of gears | 8 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission Shiftronic |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| 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 2.2 CRDi is the Hyundai R II diesel engine, specifically the D4HB variant. This 2.2-liter inline-four cylinder engine utilizes a sophisticated common-rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressures for optimized combustion. A variable geometry turbocharger (VGT) with an intercooler further enhances performance by increasing air intake and reducing intake air temperature. The engine produces 202 horsepower at 3800 rpm and a substantial 440 Nm (324.53 lb-ft) of torque between 1750 and 2750 rpm. This broad torque curve provides strong acceleration and effortless cruising. The engine also features four valves per cylinder and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) configuration for improved breathing and efficiency. The “Shiftronic” transmission is an 8-speed automatic, offering smooth and responsive gear changes. It allows for manual gear selection, providing drivers with greater control when desired.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.2 CRDi Shiftronic variant of the Grandeur delivers a refined and comfortable driving experience. The abundant torque allows for brisk acceleration in everyday driving situations, making overtaking and merging onto highways effortless. While not a sports sedan, the engine provides sufficient power for confident performance. The 8-speed automatic transmission is well-tuned, offering smooth shifts and contributing to the car’s overall refinement. Compared to the naturally aspirated gasoline engines offered in the IG Grandeur, the 2.2 CRDi provides significantly more torque, resulting in a more relaxed driving experience, especially when fully loaded. Compared to other diesel variants, the 202 hp output positioned this trim as a mid-range offering, balancing performance with fuel economy.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.2 CRDi Shiftronic trim typically came well-equipped, reflecting its position as a premium offering. Standard features often included leather upholstery, automatic climate control, a touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, rear parking sensors, and a suite of safety features such as ABS, electronic stability control, and multiple airbags. Higher trim levels added features like a panoramic sunroof, premium sound system, ventilated front seats, and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) such as lane departure warning and adaptive cruise control. Interior color schemes typically included black, beige, and gray options. The dashboard layout was modern and ergonomically designed, with a focus on user-friendliness.
Chassis & Braking
The Grandeur IG utilizes a front-wheel-drive platform with a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension. This setup provides a comfortable ride quality while maintaining good handling characteristics. The steering is a rack-and-pinion system with electric power assistance. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, enhancing safety during emergency braking situations. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Hyundai Grandeur 2.2 CRDi Shiftronic was generally well-received by automotive critics in markets where it was sold. It was praised for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and fuel-efficient diesel engine. The Shiftronic transmission was also noted for its smooth operation. Compared to its gasoline-powered siblings, the 2.2 CRDi offered superior fuel economy and torque, making it a popular choice for long-distance drivers. However, some critics noted that the diesel engine was slightly noisier than the gasoline engines. In terms of reliability, the R II diesel engine has proven to be generally robust, although regular maintenance is crucial to ensure longevity.
Legacy
The Hyundai Grandeur IG 2.2 CRDi Shiftronic represents a significant milestone in Hyundai’s evolution as a premium automaker. It demonstrated the brand’s ability to produce a refined, comfortable, and fuel-efficient sedan that could compete with established European and Japanese rivals. On the used car market, these models are generally sought after for their value proposition and reliability. While diesel engines are facing increasing scrutiny due to emissions concerns, the Grandeur 2.2 CRDi remains a viable option for buyers seeking a spacious, comfortable, and economical sedan, provided it has been well-maintained. The powertrain, when properly cared for, can offer long-term durability, making it a relatively dependable choice in the used car segment.
