Next Hyundai Azera/Grandeur (HG) Caught In Korea

We have just gotten a hold of the latest spy pictures of the next-generation Hyundai Azera/Grandeur, code-named "HG". Due to be launched later this year (though word is that unveiling might occur within a month), the new Grandeur is gearing up for a significant redesign for the 2012 model year.

As of this posting, details on the new Grandeur are relatively slim. We do know that it will share the front-drive configuration platform with the Kia K7/Cadenza sedan. Powertrain details are ballpark guesses at this point, but judging by the new Grandeur's position in the Hyundai line-up - slotting between the Sonata and the Genesis - we can definitely expect the 3.5L or 3.8L Lambda II V6 (280-300 hp) powerplants as plausible options. With Hyundai's efforts for better fuel economy, the turbocharged gasoline direct-injected (GDI) 4-cylinder found in the Sonata is also a possible candidate.

In addition to the new Azera/Grandeur, we have a lone spy photo (found after the jump) of a Hyundai prototype that we can't quite put a finger on as to what it is. The subcompact test car is a near dead-ringer of the already-unveiled 2012 Accent/Verna, yet the front fascia sporting a new design arouses questions as to what the prototype is really.