Used Hyundai Grandeur review: 2008-2010

While it began with small cars it was always Hyundai's aim to expand into more segments as it grew in this market and the Grandeur was its entry into the family car segment. Sales have been slow to be brutally honest. When it was first introduced the Hyundai brand was still finding its way with local buyers and cars like the Commodore and Falcon were the dominant players in the segment the Grandeur was in. Today, Hyundai is well and truly established with a strong reputation, which makes revisiting the Grandeur a worthwhile exercise.

In 2009, Hyundai revised the specifications of the Grandeur and reduced the price in the hope of getting sales moving. There were some minor cosmetic changes in the form of a new grille, new flashers on the sides, and new alloy wheels. The features list was revised, with the sunroof, xenon low-beam headlights and pop-up rear headrests all deleted, while rain-sensitive wipers, heated front seats, and new trim was added. But perhaps the biggest news was under the bonnet where Hyundai offered a turbo-diesel engine option alongside the existing V6.

The 3.8-litre V6 was unchanged with 194kW and 348Nm and delivered decent punch on the road. The 2.2-litre turbo-diesel, the same engine that powered the Santa Fe SUV, developed 114kW and 343Nm.

Both engines were linked to a five-speed auto transmission that offered a manual shift option.

On the road the Grandeur offered good ride quality, light steering, while the cabin was impressively roomy.

IN THE SHOP

From small beginnings the Hyundai brand has blossomed into a well- respected one with a suite of well-built, well-specced and overall reliable models.

Where once CarsGuide would regularly receive complaints from Hyundai owners they are few and far between these days, which is a sure sign of improved design and production quality.

Check for a service record to confirm vital maintenance has been carried out in accordance with Hyundai's service schedule, and also inspect bodywork looking for dodgy panel repairs.

IN A CRASH

ANCAP doesn't give a rating for the Grandeur, but with ABS braking, emergency brake assistance, electronic brakeforce distribution, and electronic stability control, overlaid by front, head and side airbags it's fair to say that the Grandeur was well equipped with safety features.

UNDER THE PUMP

The new turbo-diesel engine was the fuel economy star in the Grandeur range, with the company claiming 7.9L/100km as an average.

The V6 petrol, which required at least 91-octane regular unleaded but would happily run on E10 blend, would average 10.8L/100km according to Hyundai.

HYUNDAI GRANDEUR - 2008-2010

Price new: $39,990 to $41,990
Engines: 3.8-litre V6 petrol; 2.2-litre 4-cylinder turbo-diesel
Transmission: 5-speed auto
Economy: 10.8 L/100 km (V6), 7.9 L/100 km (diesel)
Body: 4-door sedan
Variants: V6 and CRDi

VERDICT

Smooth driving, good-looking, comfortable prestige sedan but lacks in chassis refinement