Grandeur IV (TG) vs S-Class W221: which is better?
Hyundai Grandeur IV (TG) (2005–2011) vs Mercedes-Benz S-Class W221 (2005–2013): specs, fuel economy, tax and common problems.
Hyundai Grandeur IV (TG)
Mercedes-Benz S-Class W221Specifications
| Hyundai Grandeur IV (TG) | Mercedes-Benz S-Class W221 | |
|---|---|---|
| Production years | 2005–2011 | 2005–2013 |
| Body | sedan | sedan |
| Fuel | petrol | petrol |
| Engines | 3.3 V6 | 3.5 V6 (S350) |
| Power, up to | 233 hp | 272 hp |
| Torque, up to | 304 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Gearbox | automatic | automatic |
| Drive | front-wheel drive | rear-wheel drive |
| Length | 4 895 mm | 5 076 mm |
| Width | 1 850 mm | 1 871 mm |
| Height | 1 490 mm | 1 473 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2 780 mm | 3 035 mm |
| Fuel tank | 75 L | 90 L |
| KZ tax 2026 (car under 10 years) | ≈ 66 975 ₸ | ≈ 68 375 ₸ |
The better value is highlighted in green.
Pros, cons and common problems
Hyundai Grandeur IV (TG)
Pros
- Powerful versions: up to 233 hp
- Conventional automatic, no robotized gearbox or CVT
- Large tank: 75 L
- Sold in all major markets of the region — parts and mechanics available
Cons
- Hyundai/Kia Lambda engine (V6): timing chain stretch at high mileage
- Hyundai/Kia automatic: jolts on 2–3 shifts and when braking
Engine (Hyundai/Kia Lambda (V6)): timing chain stretch at high mileage; oil leaks.
Gearbox (Hyundai/Kia automatic): kicks on the 2–3 shift and when braking; solenoid and clutch pack wear at high mileage.
Mercedes-Benz S-Class W221
Pros
- Powerful versions: up to 272 hp
- Conventional automatic, no robotized gearbox or CVT
- Large fuel tank: 90 L
- Sold in all major markets of the region — parts and mechanics available
Cons
- Engine Mercedes M272 (V6): balance shaft and intermediate shaft gear wear on engines before 2008
- Gearbox Mercedes 7G-Tronic (722.9): control board failure (speed sensors)
Engine (Mercedes M272 (V6)): wear of balance shaft and intermediate shaft gears on pre-2008 engines; intake manifold flap leaks.
Gearbox (Mercedes 7G-Tronic (722.9)): control board failure (speed sensors); valve body wear.
Which one to choose
- Grandeur IV (TG) — if you care more about: kz tax 2026.
- S-Class W221 — if you care more about: power, torque, wheelbase, fuel tank.
The condition of a specific car matters more than the model: check the service history and get the engine and gearbox inspected before buying.
FAQ
Which is more powerful: Grandeur IV (TG) or S-Class W221?
Grandeur IV (TG): up to 233 hp, S-Class W221: up to 272 hp.
What is the vehicle tax in Kazakhstan?
For 2026, for a car under 10 years old: Grandeur IV (TG) — about 66 975 ₸, S-Class W221 — about 68 375 ₸ (base engine). A 0.7 factor applies to cars aged 10–20 years and 0.5 to cars over 20.