Hyundai Grandeur EV with retro cues to release in 2023 – Report [Update]

Update: ‘Dashboard’ sub-section of the ‘New Hyundai Grandeur Interior & Features’ section updated.

According to a report from The Korean Car Blog, the launch of the 7th generation Hyundai Grandeur will come with a neat surprise in 2023 as Hyundai is planning an all-electric variant with a retro design inspired by the Grandeur Heritage EV concept.

What we know about the Hyundai Grandeur EV

It will be interesting to note the specifications of the Hyundai Grandeur EV, especially if it will share platforms with the new Grandeur (codenamed GN7), and the Kia K8, which ride on the Hyundai-Kia N3. Another route for Hyundai is to opt for its E-GMP electric-only architecture, which should have no trouble accommodating the 5-meter length of a sedan since large SUV (Kia EV9) is planned on it anyway. However, the E-GMP seems unlikely for the immediate generation.

The Hyundai Grandeur EV should be impressive even if it turns out to be a conversion of the next-gen Grandeur. In this case, the Grandeur EV may launch as an AWD model with two motors, one for each axle, similar to the Genesis derivative EVs. They could generate around 270 kW of combined power and approximately 700 Nm of combined torque. An 87.2 kWh battery pack with a multi-charging system supporting ultra-fast charging could be standard. The range as per the South Korea certification method could fall between 400 and 450 km (249-280 miles).

New Hyundai Grandeur Design

The 2021 Grandeur Heritage Concept features quarter glass panels free from the rear window, just as the first generation of the Hyundai Grandeur. Designers will achieve this with their production Grandeur EV by 2023. Image – Hyundai

The Korean Car Blog report cites industry sources stating that Hyundai wants its next flagship product (now that it has defined Genesis as a luxury sub-brand, the Grandeur can reclaim its throne) to see design influences from the first generation Grandeur. The report hints at a retro-futuristic design formula, evidenced by spy shots that have since then emerged on Korean auto forums.

For example, the first generation Grandeur saw free-standing rear quarter glass panels, which appear on the Grandeur Heritage concept, and would make its way to the new Hyundai Grandeur. Further, the taillight elements of the Grandeur EV should incorporate the shape of its ancestor but will be finished using only LEDs.

The next-gen Hyundai Grandeur will feature a retro-style sedan design on the sides with angular windows and an old-school rear quarter glass, as seen in this test prototype. Image Source: Naver/motorsjason

At the front, Hyundai will opt for a revolutionary design with influences from the Staria. Unofficial digital sketches hint at a full-width light bar (‘Welcome Light’), a large grille with hexagonal structures, and rectangular daytime running lights surrounding the headlights. On the sides, in stark contrast to the sporty and dynamic design of the sixth-gen Grandeur, the 2022 model will bear a more mature look. Spy pictures (view on Naver) suggest that the car will aim to look like a traditional sedan, with a flattish roofline, a straight beltline, vertical rear quarter glass, and edgy windows. The next-gen model should have additional rear headroom from the higher and flatter roof.

Naver user soonjung8116 has also published spy pictures stating that the all-new Grandeur will feature electric flush-fitting door handles and 20-inch wheels. The new door handles provide more of a luxury car feel but also improve aerodynamic efficiency. The additional benefit could mean increased driving range, which would particularly matter in the electric variant. To make the most of the available battery, Hyundai could offer aero-optimized wheel designs for the electric variant.

The next-gen Hyundai Grandeur and its all-electric variant would feature a conventionally shaped rear-end but in an understated design, without large tail lights or dollops of chrome. Image Sources: YouTube/우파푸른하늘Woopa TV & YouTube/Gotcha Cars

Judging from the spy photos, the rear-end would have a minimalist design and project a prestigious look. The rendering from Gotcha Cars previews a sportier rear-end for the next-gen Grandeur. It features a noticeably thinner, full-width tail light, a ducktail spoiler, a block-lettered model inscription below the tail light, and thin fog lights and reverse lights in the lower bumper. The exhaust pipes are hidden, keeping the design ready for the emission-free all-electric variant.

Reports indicate that the GN7 Grandeur will exceed the 5-meter mark in length. The implication is more interior space, as the sedan appeals to chauffeur-driven markets in the Middle East, China, and its home market in South Korea. Hyundai has sold over 2 million units of the nameplate since its launch in 1986, and in 2020, it was the best-selling car in South Korea for the fourth consecutive year, appreciated for these strengths.

New Hyundai Grandeur Interior & Features

Inside, the Hyundai Grandeur EV should have every feature available to premium Hyundais, like the Palisade, for example. A rear entertainment screen with Harmon Kardon speakers, temperature-controlled cupholders, air purifier, head-up display, 3-zone climate control, and the Safe Exit Assist (which alerts passengers opening the rear door if traffic is approaching, using radar) should be on the sedan’s wishlist.

Dashboard

According to a new interior spy shot emerged on KCB on February 21, 2022, the Grandeur’s dashboard appears free of physical buttons. There’s ample digital real estate inside, with two screens in a single glass panel — one screen functions as the driver’s display and the other as the infotainment system. The glass panel is possibly curved. There’s also a retro-styled flat-bottomed steering, whose design harks back to the original Grandeur. The render by S.Korean portal Hitekro shows a third display below for the HVAC controls.

The dashboard of the 1986 Hyundai Grandeur shown below. The Hyundai Grandeur EV will sport a modern iteration of this layout as depicted in the render (top) by Hitekro. Image: Hyundai.

The gear selector will be a steering-mounted unit, as in the Ioniq 5, sources have informed TheKoreanCarBlog. Expect the rear seats to offer a reclining function. Hyundai will offer a four-seat version for customers seeking more comfort and luxury. An 85 mm increment in the length (4,930 mm to 5,015 mm) should lead to an extended wheelbase for more cabin space.

Rendering artist NYMammoth has created an interior design similar to that of Hitekro, where the illustration shows a traditional layout for the AC vents, with four separate units integrated into the dashboard. The third touchscreen panel on the console is in the same floating style, providing a sleek and luxurious look.

This rendering of the next-gen Grandeur from auto illustrator NYMammoth suggests an interior that will make occupants feel luxurious. Image Source: Instagram/NYMammoth

Individual rear seats

The Korean Car Blog reports that Hyundai will offer an ultra-luxurious version with the individual rear seats, which should get electric adjustments and leg rest. The middle seat could see foldable working tables, while the seatback could house a mini-fridge to accommodate a champagne bottle. In terms of safety, the new Grandeur should get FCA (Forward Collision Avoidance Assist), Lane Keeping Assist, BCA (Blind Spot Collision Avoidance assist), and a surround-view camera.

On the New Hyundai Grandeur Hybrid

The Hyundai Grandeur Hybrid is South Korea’s best-selling hybrid car and packs 2.4-liter petrol with a 38 kW (51 PS) electric motor. The company’s investor document from March 2021 confirmed that a new Grandeur Hybrid is in the pipeline for this year (2022).

Hyundai’s investor presentation released in March 2021 confirmed eight new launches, including the new Hyundai Grandeur Hybrid, for this year (2022). Note that launch schedules witness frequent disruptions due to semiconductor chips, and timetables could be revised. Image: Hyundai

The Hyundai Grandeur GN7 could see a more powerful variant of the Sonata Hybrid’s 2.0-liter setup or opt for the turbocharged route. According to The Korean Car Blog, Hyundai could also use the Kia K8’s 1.6-liter turbo hybrid powertrain, which combines a 180 PS gasoline engine with a 44 kW (59 PS) electric motor.

Hyundai Grandeur sales

The Grandeur is a legend in the South Korean car market, and the launch of a Grandeur EV would be a banner moment. The best-selling Hyundai in the brand’s home market from the last five years (via mk.co.kr) saw a total sales of 89,084 units in 2021. While the car was once again the no. 1 Hyundai in terms of sales last year, the volume has fallen considerably since 2020. A full redesign should help sales recover to a six-digit figure this year.

YearHyundai Grandeur sales (S. Korea)201668,4092017131,9502018113,1012019103,3492020145,463202189,084

Hyundai Grandeur sales in South Korea (Source: Hyundai)

Hyundai EV strategy

Hyundai Motor Company aims to sell 1.87 million EVs annually and take a 7% market share in the global EV market by 2030, President and CEO Jaehoon Chang announced at the company’s 2022 CEO Investor Day on March 2, 2022. It plans to introduce 17 EVs by 2030, 11 with the Hyundai badge and 6 with the Genesis emblem. Three of the 11 upcoming Hyundai EVs will be sedans, one of which will likely be the Grandeur EV.

The exact specifications of the new Grandeur are a mystery, but we’ll be on top of it and update this page as we find out more!

Hyundai Grandeur EV FAQs

What is the Hyundai Grandeur EV release date?

The third quarter of 2023 could see the market launch of the Hyundai Grandeur EV. Standard & hybrid variants arrive this year.

What is the expected price of the Hyundai Grandeur EV?

The Grandeur EV should cost the equivalent of USD 50,000 when it launches.

Will Hyundai release the Grandeur Hybrid/EV globally?

While there could be a small volume of exports earmarked, the focus of the new Grandeur should be on S.Korea where it is a best-seller.

Featured Image – Rendering of new Hyundai Grandeur with Heritage Concept Design influence, courtesy of 갓차

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