Update: Hyundai Australia confirms no new Grandeur for Australia.
As the elder statesman in the Hyundai line-up, it was only a matter of time until the fourth-generation Grandeur gave way to a new model.
Today, the Korean carmaker has released the first images of the new 2012 Grandeur, which will be sold in the company's homeland as the fifth-generation Azera.
Hyundai has yet to reveal any technical details for the new model, however it's clear that the 2012 Grandeur will feature the same 'Fluidic Sculpture' design language that has directed the styling of Hyundai's newest models.
Entering the Hyundai line-up between the i45 and the Genesis (not available in Australia), the new Grandeur will bridge the gap between the affordable volume-selling family car segment and the large luxury saloon class.
- Click to read TMR's review of the Hyundai Grandeur
- Click to learn more about the Hyundai Grandeur
- Click to read TMR's review of the Hyundai i45
Little else is known about the 2012 Grandeur, although it will likely be built on the same platform as the Korean-market Kia Cadenza, which will not be offered in Australia - raising questions on whether the new Hyundai will makes its way to local showrooms.
Australia
Speaking with TMR today, Hyundai Australia's Senior Manager for Product Communications, Ben Hershman confirmed that the new Azera/Grandeur will not be offered in Australia.
"At this point, we're focused on building the i45's place in the Australian market," Mr Hershman said. "We passionately believe that the i45 is an excellent car, and its success remains our priority."
As for large cars - a class filled only by the recently-updated Grandeur in Hyundai's range - Mr Hershman said that it is simply too early to say what the company's next move will be in the local large car segment.
The Australian-delivered Grandeur was given an update earlier this year, gaining a lightly restyled front and back, along with a number of specification updates.
- Interested in buying HYUNDAI GRANDEUR? Visit our HYUNDAI GRANDEUR showroom for more information.
1 Comments
They are right not to bring this car over here yet, think they are still gathering opinions/critique about i45. New Elantra is nearly out, I'm sure many out there are more interested in that car..