The Hyundai Grandeur/Azera VI (IG, facelift released in November 2019) represents a significant iteration of Hyundai’s flagship sedan, primarily aimed at the South Korean domestic market and select export regions. This version, produced through November 2022, offered a range of powertrains, with the 3.0 LPi V6 Automatic being a prominent offering. The “LPi” designation indicates the engine is designed to run on Liquefied Petroleum Gas, a popular fuel source in Korea due to tax incentives and infrastructure. This variant positioned itself as a comfortable, well-equipped, and relatively powerful option within the Grandeur lineup, appealing to buyers prioritizing a smooth driving experience and spacious interior over outright sporty performance. It served as a step up from the more economical 2.5L gasoline engine, while remaining more accessible than potential hybrid options.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Hyundai |
| Model | Grandeur/Azera |
| Generation | Grandeur/Azera VI (IG, facelift 2019) |
| Type (Engine) | 3.0 LPi V6 (235 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | November, 2019 |
| End of production | November, 2022 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 15.6-15.8 l/100 km (15.1 – 14.9 US mpg, 18.1 – 17.9 UK mpg, 6.4 – 6.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 10.7-11.1 l/100 km (22 – 21.2 US mpg, 26.4 – 25.4 UK mpg, 9.3 – 9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 13.3-13.7 l/100 km (17.7 – 17.2 US mpg, 21.2 – 20.6 UK mpg, 7.5 – 7.3 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 177-182 g/km |
| Fuel Type | LPG |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7 kg/Hp, 143.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.9 kg/Nm, 170.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 235 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 78.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 280 Nm @ 4500 rpm (206.52 lb.-ft. @ 4500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | Lambda II / L6DB |
| 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 | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.7 l (6.02 US qt | 5.02 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 8.5 l (8.98 US qt | 7.48 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1640-1700 kg (3615.58 – 3747.86 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space | 360 l (12.71 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 64 l (16.91 US gal | 14.08 UK gal) |
| Length | 4990 mm (196.46 in.) |
| Width | 1875 mm (73.82 in.) |
| Height | 1470 mm (57.87 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2885 mm (113.58 in.) |
| Front track | 1602-1612 mm (63.07 – 63.46 in.) |
| Rear track | 1610-1620 mm (63.39 – 63.78 in.) |
| Drivetrain | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Tire size | 225/55 R17; 245/45 R18; 245/40 R19 |
| Wheel rim size | 17; 18; 19 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Grandeur variant is the Hyundai Lambda II 3.0-liter L6DB V6 engine. This engine is a naturally aspirated, 60-degree V6 featuring a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) design with four valves per cylinder. The multi-port fuel injection (MPI) system delivers fuel directly into the intake ports, providing a balance between efficiency and responsiveness. Designed specifically for LPG operation, the engine incorporates reinforced components to withstand the different combustion characteristics of propane and butane. The engine produces 235 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 280 Nm (206.52 lb-ft) of torque at 4,500 rpm. Paired with this engine is a 6-speed automatic transmission, offering smooth shifts and optimized gear ratios for comfortable cruising. This transmission isn’t known for particularly quick shifts, prioritizing refinement over performance.
Driving Characteristics
The 3.0 LPi V6 Automatic Grandeur delivers a comfortable and refined driving experience. While not a performance-oriented vehicle, the engine provides adequate power for everyday driving and highway merging. The automatic transmission is tuned for smoothness, and while it lacks the responsiveness of some modern transmissions, it contributes to the overall relaxed character of the car. The weight of the vehicle (1640-1700 kg) is noticeable, and acceleration isn’t particularly brisk. Compared to the 2.5L gasoline version, the LPi offers a more substantial power increase, resulting in improved responsiveness. However, it falls short of the performance offered by potential hybrid variants, which prioritize fuel efficiency and instant torque. The front-wheel-drive configuration provides predictable handling, but doesn’t offer the dynamic capabilities of an all-wheel-drive system.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 3.0 LPi V6 Automatic trim typically came well-equipped, positioning it as a mid-to-upper level offering within the Grandeur range. Standard features generally included leather upholstery, automatic climate control, a touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, rear parking sensors, and a suite of safety features like ABS, ESC, and multiple airbags. Higher trim levels offered options such as a panoramic sunroof, premium sound system, ventilated front seats, and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like lane departure warning and adaptive cruise control. Interior color schemes typically included shades of black, beige, and gray. The dashboard layout is characterized by a clean, modern design with a focus on user-friendliness.
Chassis & Braking
The Grandeur VI utilizes a front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout. The front suspension employs an independent McPherson strut setup, while the rear features an independent multi-link suspension. This configuration provides a comfortable ride quality, effectively absorbing bumps and irregularities in the road. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, enhancing braking performance and stability. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering. The steering system utilizes a rack-and-pinion setup, providing precise and responsive steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 3.0 LPi V6 Automatic Grandeur was generally well-received in the South Korean market, where LPG vehicles enjoy significant tax benefits and a well-established refueling infrastructure. Critics praised the car’s comfortable ride, spacious interior, and smooth powertrain. Fuel economy, while not exceptional, was considered reasonable for a vehicle of its size and engine displacement. Compared to the 2.5L gasoline version, the LPi offered a noticeable performance upgrade, making it a more appealing option for drivers who prioritize power and responsiveness. However, the LPi’s reliance on LPG infrastructure limited its appeal in markets where LPG refueling stations are scarce.
Legacy
The Lambda II 3.0 LPi V6 engine has proven to be a relatively reliable powertrain, with reports of good long-term durability. The 6-speed automatic transmission, while not the most advanced, is also generally considered dependable. In the used car market, the 3.0 LPi V6 Grandeur remains a popular choice for buyers seeking a comfortable, spacious, and well-equipped sedan. Maintenance costs are generally moderate, although sourcing specific LPG-related components may require specialized knowledge. The continued availability of LPG in South Korea ensures that this variant will remain a viable option for years to come, offering a compelling blend of comfort, practicality, and affordability.
