The Hyundai Grandeur III (XG) 3.5i V6, produced from 1998 to 2002, represented a significant step forward for Hyundai in the mid-size luxury sedan segment. Positioned as the flagship model, the XG aimed to compete with established Japanese and American brands, offering a blend of comfort, features, and a relatively powerful V6 engine. This generation, internally designated XG, was a departure from the previous Grandeur, featuring a more modern design and improved refinement. It was sold as the Hyundai Azera in some markets, including the United States, starting in 2002, effectively continuing the XG’s lifecycle under a new nameplate. The 3.5i V6 with an automatic transmission was the top-tier offering within the XG lineup.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Hyundai |
| Model | Grandeur/Azera |
| Generation | Grandeur III (XG) |
| Type (Engine) | 3.5i V6 (197 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 1998 |
| End of production | 2002 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Power | 197 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 56.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 313 Nm @ 3500 rpm / 230.86 lb.-ft. @ 3500 rpm |
| Engine Model/Code | Sigma / G6CU |
| Engine displacement | 3497 cm3 / 213.4 cu. in. |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 93 mm / 3.66 in. |
| Piston Stroke | 85.8 mm / 3.38 in. |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.3 l / 4.54 US qt | 3.78 UK qt |
| Coolant | 11.2 l / 11.83 US qt | 9.85 UK qt |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 450 l / 15.89 cu. ft. |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l / 18.49 US gal | 15.4 UK gal |
| Length | 4865 mm / 191.54 in. |
| Width | 1825 mm / 71.85 in. |
| Height | 1420 mm / 55.91 in. |
| Wheelbase | 2750 mm / 108.27 in. |
| Front track | 1540 mm / 60.63 in. |
| Rear (Back) track | 1530 mm / 60.24 in. |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 160 mm / 6.3 in. |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.32 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11 m / 36.09 ft. |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 205/60 R16 H |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Grandeur III 3.5i was the Hyundai Sigma engine, specifically the G6CU variant. This 3.5-liter, naturally aspirated V6 engine featured a 60-degree V-angle and utilized a cast iron block with an aluminum cylinder head. The engine employed multi-port fuel injection (MPI) and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. This configuration allowed for a respectable 197 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 313 Nm (230.86 lb-ft) of torque at 3500 rpm. The engine’s design prioritized smooth operation and refinement over outright performance. Paired with the engine was a 5-speed automatic transmission, designed to provide comfortable and effortless cruising. This transmission wasn’t known for particularly quick shifts, but it was durable and well-suited to the engine’s characteristics.
Driving Characteristics
The 3.5i V6 automatic Grandeur offered a comfortable and relaxed driving experience. While not a sports sedan, the engine provided adequate power for highway merging and passing maneuvers. The automatic transmission, while smooth, did contribute to a slightly less responsive feel compared to the available manual transmission. The gear ratios were tuned for fuel efficiency and comfort, rather than aggressive acceleration. The front-wheel-drive layout provided predictable handling, but lacked the dynamic capabilities of rear-wheel-drive competitors. The suspension, tuned for comfort, absorbed bumps well, but could exhibit some body roll during cornering. Overall, the driving experience was geared towards providing a refined and comfortable ride for both driver and passengers.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 3.5i V6 represented the highest trim level of the Grandeur III XG. Standard features typically included leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats, automatic climate control, a premium sound system, and power windows and locks. Alloy wheels were also standard. Optional extras could include a sunroof, upgraded audio systems, and woodgrain interior trim. The interior design focused on providing a spacious and comfortable cabin with a relatively simple and intuitive layout. The dashboard featured analog gauges and a centrally-mounted audio system. The overall interior ambiance aimed to convey a sense of luxury and sophistication.
Chassis & Braking
The Grandeur III XG utilized a front-wheel-drive platform with a double wishbone suspension at the front and an independent multi-link suspension at the rear. This suspension setup aimed to balance ride comfort with handling stability. The braking system consisted of ventilated disc brakes at the front and solid disc brakes at the rear. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard, enhancing safety and control during emergency braking situations. The steering system employed a rack-and-pinion setup, providing reasonably precise steering feel. The tires were typically 205/60 R16 size, offering a good balance of grip and ride comfort.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Grandeur III XG 3.5i V6 was generally well-received by critics as a competent and well-equipped mid-size sedan. However, it often faced criticism for lacking the brand prestige of established Japanese and American competitors. Fuel economy was considered average for its class, and some reviewers noted that the automatic transmission could feel somewhat sluggish. Compared to the lower-trim 2.5L V6 models, the 3.5i offered a significant performance upgrade, but at a higher price point. The 3.5i also offered a more refined driving experience and a more luxurious interior compared to its siblings. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported minor issues with electrical components.
Legacy
The Hyundai Grandeur III (XG) 3.5i V6 played a crucial role in establishing Hyundai as a credible competitor in the mid-size sedan market. The powertrain, while not groundbreaking, proved to be relatively durable and reliable. In the used car market today, the XG 3.5i remains an affordable and comfortable option for those seeking a spacious and well-equipped sedan. Maintenance costs are generally reasonable, and parts availability is still relatively good. While it may not possess the same cachet as some of its rivals, the Grandeur III XG 3.5i V6 represents a significant milestone in Hyundai’s history and a testament to the company’s growing engineering capabilities.
