Hyundai has launched a totally new 'European designed' Grandeur replacing the outgoing model that was last sold here in Australia in 2004.
It sits above the recently launched NF Sonata in terms of model positioning in the Hyundai family. Two models are available, the Grandeur V6 and the Grandeur Limited. The Grandeur comes with a high level of specification and both models share a larger capacity version of the new V6 engine fitted to the Sonata.
Value for money
Pricing
There are two models available - the Grandeur and Grandeur Limited. Grandeur has a RRP of $42,990 and the Limited is an additional $4,000 - the RRP is $46,990. Likely opposition include the Honda Accord V6 - entry level model starts at $36,990 and their Luxury version is $44,990. Mazda have a four cylinder Mazda6 luxury sedan that's priced under $40,000; Ford have the Fairmont six cylinder at $43,195 and the all new VE Holden Berlina is $39,990. Most companies have something in their line-up that competes in this congested class.
Standard features
The Hyundai luxury models have always been big on features - the latest is no exception. It comes with the usual 'standard' features, automatic climate control airconditioning, seventeen inch alloy wheels, power steering, power windows and external mirrors, park distance control, a six disc CD player, dual front airbags, side airbags, Electronic Stability Program (ESP), electric front seats - these are some of the highlight features for the V6 sedan. The Grandeur Luxury comes with additional features, a power tilt and slide sunroof with reactive solar glass, heated front seats and external mirrors, a two position memory function for the electric front seats, automatic on/off Xenon headlamps, rain sensitive wipers and an electric blind for the rear glass.
Design & function
Space & practicality
Thanks in part to the high curvy roofline, internal occupant space is generous in all seating positions. Boot space is equally generous. The boot has a flat floor and underneath sits a full sized alloy spare wheel. The rear seats are a 60/40 split fold design that are also lockable. When folded there is almost 2 metres of cargo length available even with the front seats in their rearmost position.
Comfort
Front seats are all electric in adjustment and have a two position memory and are heated - a feature surely appreciated in colder climates. They're large, soft and comfortable and like a lot of softer seats support falls away when cornering. Rear seat comfort is good. The seat base and backrest are nicely sculpted, legroom abounds and headroom is as good in the rear as it is for front seat occupants. The steering wheel is electrically adjustable for tilt and reach.
Ergonomics
The foot operated handbrake is awkward to use, plenty of people are critical of their existence at all, but I recall some similar foot operated park brakes from years gone by having a much more comfortable action to operate. Park brake aside and the unusual placement of the boot and fuel release in the side of the drivers door - the Grandeur doesn't have any surprises. It's an easy car to jump in to and drive off. The centrally placed speedometer and ancillary gauges are easy to read and at night are lit with a classy white hue.
Safety
The Grandeur comes highly equipped with both active and passive safety features. Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control, ABS brakes with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist provide a high level of active safety. Eight airbags provide the basis for occupant safety, Front, front side and full length side curtain airbags and for rear occupants rear side airbags.
Build quality & finish
The test vehicle was nicely finished inside and out, the interior was finished in light beige with 'timber' highlights. Like all light trims it will be more prone to show up marks and dirt. The Grandeur Limited still presented well despite the rigours of being a test vehicle. The boot area was nicely trimmed and a cargo net provided to secure luggage.
Security
Remote central locking, keyless entry with boot release and Hyundai's anti theft system with engine immobiliser are features of the new Grandeur. NRMA Insurance's security rating of 64 out of 120 places the Grandeur around the middle of its class.
On the road
Fuel
The 3.8 Litre V6 engine requires 91 Ron unleaded fuel, and has a fuel tank capacity of 75 litres. On test we recorded a best of 9.5 litres per 100 kms and an average of 10.9.
Performance
Both model Grandeurs are powered by enlarged versions of the aluminium "Lambda" V6 engine that powers the latest generation Sonata. At 3.8 litres the V6 Grandeur develops 194kW at 6,000 rpm, and 348Nm of torque at 4,500 rpm. Matched to this is a five speed automatic with manual mode. It's a pretty lively combination - accelerate hard away from a standing start and the power delivery is a little abrupt. Traction control eventually cuts in to calm things down, it seemed to be a little unrefined for this type of vehicle. Cruising along, the engine torque keeps the Grandeur loping along, accelerate hard for an overtake and there is an abundance of power to execute the operation safely.
Ride
This is an area where the new Grandeur gives a good account of itself. Ride quality is up there with its competitors. It's soft and indulgent, cruising at moderate speeds the Grandeur insulates occupants from any harshness.
Handling & steering
The Grandeur has received the 'European' suspension package rather than the softer US specification, thankfully as the US specification is usually biased too much towards ride comfort.
There is plenty of grip available from the 235/55 seventeen inch tyres, when pushed along though the Grandeur's 1600 plus kilos and softish suspension settings make things busy especially through tighter sections of road. Hyundai's Electronic Stability Control system comes in early and compared to some other vehicles tested recently it seems a touch too intrusive.
Braking
Braking is handled by four wheel disc brakes. The fronts are ventilated and measure 303 mm and the rears are solid discs measuring 284mm. To further help four channel, four sensor ABS with Electronic Brakeforce assist is standard. On test the brakes hauled the 1600kg plus mass of the Grandeur to stop in under 26 metres and provided adequate feel back to the driver.
Smoothness & quietness
Driven smoothly the Grandeur is as refined as any of the vehicles in its class. Engine and transmission combine nicely to give a polished conveyance. It has a bit of a 'Jekyll and Hyde' character though, when you push it along it becomes a little less refined and balanced, but in most driving situations the Grandeur is fine.
Summary
The new Grandeur has taken a large step forward compared to its predecessor. It's stacked with features and build quality has improved, but with plenty of established competition to compete with, it may take a while for this new model to make a mark for itself in the marketplace.
Test vehicle supplied by Hyundai Australia.
