TG grandeur

HYUNDAI thought the time had arrived for it to venture back into luxury land with the second-generation Grandeur, the TG.

And this time around Australian models scored a European suspension pack, benefiting from some minor suspension tuning specifically formulated at the behest of HMCA to make it more suitable to our conditions.

Hyundai offered two models: the V6 and the better-equipped Limited.

Both were powered by a 3.8-litre version of the new Lambda 3.3-litre V6 that debuted in the NF Sonata in June 2005.

Equipped with continuous variable-valve timing, it delivered 194kW of power at 6000rpm and 348Nm of torque at 4500rpm to the front wheels. The only gearbox available was a five-speed sequential-shift automatic.

Suspension was by independent double wishbones and coils up front and a rear multi-link arrangement, complete with anti-roll bars.

Standard equipment included climate control air-conditioning, keyless entry, Infinity high-end CD/MP3 audio, leather upholstery and 17-inch alloy wheels.

Electronic stability and traction controls, anti-lock brakes with Electronic Brake Force Distribution and Brake Assist, active front head restraints and eight airbags made up the Grandeur’s standard safety kit.

A number of changes were implemented for the MY09-series Grandeur.

These include a new diesel engine option together with revisions across the range, including minor exterior and interior cosmetic and feature changes, and a $3000 price reduction for the V6 model.

The 2.2-litre CRDi develops a claimed maximum of 114 kW of power at 4000 rpm and 343 Nm peak torque at 1800 to 2500rpm.

It is linked to a five-speed automatic transmission with Selectronic and its fuel consumption average is a claimed 7.9L/100 km.

The 3.8-litre petrol V6 has the same claimed 194 kW of peak power at 6000 rpm and 348Nm peak torque at 4500 rpm as the 2008 model.

Other changes include Hyundai’s Active Locking Operation (HALO) system. HALO is a speed-sensing central locking system, which automatically locks all doors when the vehicle reaches 45 km/h. The doors automatically unlock when the ignition key is removed.