The Hyundai Grandeur/Azera VI (IG), produced from 2016 to November 2019, represented a significant step forward for Hyundai’s flagship sedan. Positioned as a premium offering, the IG generation aimed to compete with established luxury brands. This particular variant, the 3.3 GDi V6 paired with the Shiftronic 8-speed automatic transmission, served as the top-tier engine option for the Azera in many markets, including North America where it was primarily known as the Azera. It occupied the highest performance bracket within the IG lineup, offering a substantial upgrade over the base 2.5L engine. The IG platform was a dedicated front-wheel-drive architecture, emphasizing interior space and comfort.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Hyundai |
| Model | Grandeur/Azera |
| Generation | Grandeur/Azera VI (IG) |
| Type (Engine) | 3.3 GDi V6 (290 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) | 11.9 l/100 km (19.8 US mpg, 23.7 UK mpg, 8.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 8.4 l/100 km (28 US mpg, 33.6 UK mpg, 11.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 10.3 l/100 km (22.8 US mpg, 27.4 UK mpg, 9.7 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.8 kg/Hp, 172.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.9 kg/Nm, 203.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 290 Hp @ 6400 rpm |
| Power per litre | 86.8 Hp/l |
| Torque | 342 Nm @ 5200 rpm (252.25 lb.-ft. @ 5200 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 |
| 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 | 1680 kg (3703.77 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 and type of gearbox | 8 gears, 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 this Azera variant is Hyundai’s Lambda II 3.3-liter GDi (Gasoline Direct Injection) V6 engine, designated as the G6DM. This engine utilizes direct injection technology, injecting fuel directly into the combustion chamber for improved efficiency and power output. The engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, optimizing airflow for enhanced performance. The 60-degree V-angle provides a good balance between smoothness and compactness. The Shiftronic 8-speed automatic transmission, developed in-house by Hyundai, was a key component. It offered smoother shifts and improved fuel economy compared to older 6-speed automatics. The transmission featured a manual shift mode, allowing drivers some control over gear selection, though it wasn’t a performance-oriented system like dual-clutch transmissions.
Driving Characteristics
The 3.3L V6 and 8-speed automatic combination delivered a comfortable and refined driving experience. With 290 horsepower and 252 lb-ft of torque, the Azera offered brisk acceleration, capable of 0-60 mph times in the low-to-mid 6-second range. The Shiftronic transmission was tuned for smooth, almost imperceptible shifts during normal driving. In manual mode, response was adequate but not particularly sporty. Compared to the base 2.5L engine, the 3.3L provided significantly more power, making highway merging and overtaking much easier. While not as engaging to drive as some European competitors, the Azera prioritized ride comfort and a quiet cabin. The front-wheel-drive configuration contributed to predictable handling, but also limited the car’s ultimate cornering ability.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 3.3L GDi V6 trim typically came well-equipped, often representing the highest trim level available. Standard features generally included leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, a premium audio system (often Harman Kardon), a large touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, a panoramic sunroof, and a suite of advanced safety features like lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. Optional extras could include a head-up display, Nappa leather, and upgraded interior trim materials. The interior design focused on a clean, modern aesthetic with high-quality materials.
Chassis & Braking
The IG Azera utilized a front-wheel-drive platform with independent suspension at all four corners. The front suspension employed MacPherson struts, while the rear featured a multi-link setup. This configuration aimed to provide a comfortable ride while maintaining reasonable handling characteristics. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) was standard, along with electronic stability control. The suspension tuning was geared towards comfort, resulting in a softer ride quality. Stabilizer bars were present at both the front and rear to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
Critics generally praised the IG Azera for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and generous features list, especially considering its price point. The 3.3L V6 engine received positive reviews for its smooth power delivery and refinement. However, some reviewers noted that the Azera lacked the brand prestige and driving dynamics of established luxury rivals. Fuel economy, while respectable, wasn’t class-leading. Compared to the base 2.5L engine, the 3.3L offered a significant performance upgrade, but at the cost of slightly lower fuel efficiency. The 3.3L was often seen as a more compelling option for buyers who prioritized power and refinement over ultimate fuel economy.
Legacy
The Hyundai Grandeur/Azera VI (IG) 3.3 GDi V6 Shiftronic 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 8-speed automatic transmission has generally held up well over time. Common issues, when they arise, often relate to routine maintenance items such as oil leaks or sensor failures. The IG Azera represents a pivotal moment for Hyundai, demonstrating the brand’s ability to produce a genuinely competitive luxury sedan. Today, these vehicles offer a compelling value proposition for buyers seeking a spacious, well-equipped, and reliable used car with a comfortable ride.
