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HYUNDAI Grandeur / Azera Models/Series Timeline, Specifications & Photos

Generations: 3
First production year: 2005
Engines: Gasoline, Hybrid, Diesel
HYUNDAI Grandeur photo gallery

Sold as the Grandeur in Korea and as Azera on the export markets, Hyundai's flagship model reached its seventh generation six years after the launch of its predecessor.

When the Korean automaker introduced the 2022 Azera, it blurred the lines between its flagship model and the Genesis brand products, Hyundai's premium brand. The new top-shelf vehicle tried to attract more customers from other premium brands and carmakers that provided vehicles in the same price range. Still, they didn't offer the same level of performance and luxury.

For starters, the design was highly advanced for its era. It featured an LED strip named Seamless Horizon Lamp that ran across the entire front fascia from side to side. It was placed above the parametrically designed grille that was flanked by headlights. The vehicle's profile revealed its retractable door handles and the curved beltline that connected the front daytime running lights to the rear taillights. Moreover, the greenhouse emphasized the luxurious appearance by adding a third window behind the rear doors. Finally, at the back, the Azera featured another light strip from side to side like the front one; only this one was red.

The cabin boasted premium and sustainable materials to create a warm and welcoming interior. Translated into regular words, it featured man-made leather and recycled materials for the front bucket seats and the rear bench. Thanks to its generous wheelbase, the Azera provided plenty of legroom for rear passengers. The dash panel featured a neatly integrated digital instrument panel, continued by a touchscreen display for the infotainment system. Another screen was placed under the dashboard and above the center console for the HVAC unit. In a way, it resembled the design of older Hyundai vehicles.

full description and technical specifications
HYUNDAI Azera photo gallery

Hyundai introduced the fifth generation of the Grandeur/Azera in 2011 at the Los Angeles Auto Show, trying to breach into the full-size sedan market segment.

While the Korean automaker enjoyed success in the budget car market with other products, the large sedan segment was forbidden for it. Not even the XG30 or the TG could reach the hearts of customers. But, after a total change in its design language, it introduced the 2012 model-year Grandeur as an upgrade for those who had already enjoyed the Sonata.

Even though the new-edge-design trend was long forgotten by many automakers, it didn't mean that others couldn't use it and make it better. And Hyundai proved that with the Grandeur (sold as the Azera on specific markets). The car's overall look showed fluid lines with long, while the front fascia featured swept-back headlights and a broad chromed grille. From its profile, the beltline showed a suddenly raised line over the rear doors and onto the quarter panels. With these lines, it tried to compete against the Avalon from Toyota or the LaCrosse from Buick.

Hyundai packed the Grandeur with plenty of standard options on the interior. Thus, the bolstered front seats featured heating and cooling, while the driver could enjoy a touchscreen navigation system and an infotainment unit above the car's price level. It allowed Bluetooth connectivity for calls and music streaming via the Logic 7 sound system with 12 speakers provided by Infinity. Moreover, the rear passengers had enough legroom, although the bench seat was most comfortable for two occupants.

Under the hood, Hyundai installed a 3.3-lite V6 fitted with a gasoline direct injection system paired with a six-speed automatic. Its independent suspension in all corners also made the car comfortable on the road.

full description and technical specifications
HYUNDAI Grandeur photo gallery

Hyundai was the fastest-growing carmaker in modern history and its flagship model, the Sonata, gained high scores in satisfaction surveys.

The Korean carmaker introduced the Azera/Grandeur lineup on the market in 2006 as an upper version of the Sonata. Even though both vehicles were built on the same platform, the Azera received more luxurious items and was treated with more attention to detail by Hyundai.

Hyundai's design department burned the midnight oil to make the car looks like a premium vehicle, with sleek lines and a sloped rear window. At the front, the chromed details around the grille and the rectangular headlights featured a timeless design. Its long red strip over the trunk lid and wide taillights offered a European-inspired look that attracted more customers in the back.

Inside, Hyundai offered the Azera a luxurious-looking interior, but it lacked in the technology department. It offered a simple audio system, and there was no navigation unit on the options list. But that didn't stop its buyers from getting their hands on the Azera since it offered more than enough room for five adult passengers.

Under the hood, Hyundai installed a choice of two gasoline and one turbo-diesel engine, depending on the market. In Europe, it offered the car with a five-speed manual, and an option for a five-speed automatic, while in the U.S., it included the latter as a standard feature.

full description and technical specifications