Hyundai's Grandeur Sedan Gets a Major Tech and Style Refresh for 2026

Daily Car

09/03/2026

Hyundai is preparing a significant mid-cycle update for its flagship Grandeur sedan, set to debut around April or May 2026. This refresh, coinciding with the model's 40th anniversary, brings notable exterior styling tweaks and a dramatically modernized interior featuring a large, Tesla-esque portrait infotainment screen. While the powertrain options are expected to remain the same, the updated Grandeur aims to solidify its position as Korea's best-selling car and maintain its premium appeal.

Key Takeaways

A mid-cycle facelift for the Hyundai Grandeur is imminent.
Exterior updates include revised bumpers, lighting, and grille.
The interior receives a substantial upgrade with a large portrait infotainment display and new software.
Powertrain options are expected to carry over from the current model.
The facelifted Grandeur will launch in Korea around April or May 2026.

Exterior Enhancements

The exterior of the updated Grandeur will feature a redesigned front bumper, moving away from the vertical split LED headlights to a more horizontal lighting arrangement. These lights will be integrated into a larger, chrome-accented honeycomb grille. While the side profile is largely expected to remain unchanged, new paint colors and wheel designs may be introduced. Slim LED elements on the front fenders, reminiscent of Genesis models, are also a possibility. The rear of the sedan will see a revised bumper with chrome trim around the diffuser and updated LED graphics in the full-width light bar, incorporating turn signals previously hidden in the rear bumper trim.

Interior Revolution

Inside, the Grandeur takes a significant leap into the digital age. The centerpiece is a towering, portrait-oriented display that dominates the center console, replacing the previous infotainment and climate control screens. This new screen runs Hyundai's Android-based Pleos infotainment software, which is slated for a wider rollout across the brand's lineup. Despite the digital overhaul, Hyundai has retained a row of physical buttons and knobs for tactile control. A slimmer digital instrument cluster is positioned higher on the dashboard for better driver visibility. The steering wheel also adopts a cleaner, more contemporary design. The gear selector has been moved to a column-mounted toggle, freeing up center console space for dual wireless charging pads.

Powertrain Continuity

Under the hood, the facelifted Grandeur is expected to maintain its existing powertrain options. These include a turbocharged 1.6-liter hybrid setup, a naturally aspirated 2.5-liter gasoline engine, and a range-topping 3.5-liter V6 available in both gasoline and LPG variants. The most powerful option remains the V6, producing 295 horsepower and optionally available with all-wheel drive.

A Legacy of Luxury

The Hyundai Grandeur, known as the Azera in export markets, has a long history dating back to 1986. It was a staple in North America until 2016, when it was phased out to make way for the Genesis luxury brand. In its home market of Korea, however, the Grandeur has consistently been a strong seller, currently holding the title of the country's best-selling car.

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