Nine times out of ten, when an automaker unveils a concept car, it’s futuristic-looking. Not Hyundai, though. Instead, the automaker seduced us with ’80s nostalgia when it unveiled the Heritage Series Grandeur.
If the name ‘Grandeur’ sounds familiar, that’s because it was Hyundai’s flagship sedan in 1986. Clearly, it held a special place in the automaker’s heart back then, so the brand decided to reimagine it for the 21st century and beyond.
Looking Back to Look Forward
If, like us, you were hoping to drive the Grandeur Heritage Series, sadly, it will never be produced. Instead, Hyundai says, “The Heritage project is a chance for us to look at our back catalog to inspire future designs.” Well, that’s that then.
The project, led by Hyundai’s interior design team, was carried out on a genuine first-generation Grandeur. The team made sure that the new model retained most of the original design cues.
That being said, the first-gen Grandeur was completely overhauled and redesigned as an all-electric car with an ultra-modern interior wrapped in burgundy velvet and Nappa leather. The modern-day Grandeur also highlights the brand’s Parametric Pixels, just like the IONIQ 5.
Heritage Meets Cutting-Edge Technology
Granted, the Heritage Series Grandeur retains much of its old charm from the outside, but if you look closely, you can see several updates have been made. It’s got new side mirrors, covered wheels, slide cladding, Parametric Pixel headlights with taillights to match, and an electric powertrain consisting of a battery and a motor.
However, inside, it’s a different story. Here, Hyundai used the Newtro (newness + retro) concept theme to create a new interior.
The interior is lit with atmospheric retro bronze lighting and has been equipped with a suite of next-generation technology and features, including a widescreen display with an integrated soundbar. But it also boasts a combination of the past and present.
Although entirely remodeled, the interior maintains the Grandeur’s ’80s vibe and features some of the sedan’s original features, which were completely new at the time. The single-spoke steering wheel and jet airplane-style gear selector are perfect examples.
The upper part of the dashboard now has a modern and eye-catching ultra-wide display. The long vertical display at the bottom of the center fascia serves as the main controller of the infotainment system.
This controller allows drivers to access multimedia content and select their driving mode. Below the dashboard, another vertical display displays HVAC and infotainment system controls.
Luxurious Finishes
Velvet connects the 1986 Grandeur and the Heritage Series Grandeur. This soft and exquisite fabric adds an element of luxury and nostalgia to the upholstery.
You hardly see velvet in car-making today, but it was considered one of the highest-quality materials, like Alcantara or Nappa leather when the 1986 Grandeur sedan originally went on sale. Inspired by the original Grandeur’s velvet and fabric-finished door trim, Hyundai used both leather and velvet to cover the seats.
The front seats are fitted with burgundy velvet, inspired by the original Grandeur, with an unexpected twist. On the back, there’s elegantly stitched and laced-up auburn Nappa leather, with leather also being used for the center console in the first and second rows and in the door trim to give the interior a lavish feel.
The storage spaces were also elevated to rival the work of experienced leather craftsmen or makers of high-end furniture. The storage box in the door trim was inspired by luxury clutch bags, while the simple, classy storage covering of the center console and dashboard was inspired by the materials used on classic speakers and grand pianos, respectively.
Perhaps best of all, the center console has a hidden watch slot, which can store all kinds of valuables. But that’s not the only trick the Heritage Series Grandeur has up its sleeve.
Compose Songs on the Road
The digital display at the bottom of the center fascia is home to yet another interesting feature—a virtual piano. Inspired by famous artists who have been composing music in their cars instead of studios, Hyundai decided to provide a richer in-vehicle musical experience in collaboration with musical instrument manufacturer Samick.
How-To Geek’s Take
While it’s a crying shame the Heritage Series Grandeur will never be produced, it’s exactly what we’d like to see other automakers attempt. After all, everyone loves a throwback, right?
On a more serious note, the concept emphasized Hyundai’s evolution from an affordable, value-oriented brand to one that can create stylish, high-tech, and luxurious vehicles. It was a statement of Hyundai’s growing ambition to challenge established luxury automakers.
We can’t wait to see what the Korean automaker has up its sleeve next. Hopefully, we don’t have to wait too long to find out.
Source: Hyundai
