When discussing the Hyundai product line, terms like 'economical' and 'value' or 'best warranty in the business' usually come to mind. Would you ever consider using words like luxurious or premium when talking about Hyundai?
You would if you knew about the all-new 2006 Hyundai Azera, the manufacturer's second effort in the entry-luxury market. Their first attempt was the XG 300, which later blossomed into the XG 350.
I didn't care much for the XG. It was underpowered and unimpressive. Thankfully for Hyundai, the Azera is significantly improved and very likable. Azera delivers a plush and luxurious ride with premium amenities at an attainable price.
With a starting price of under $25,000, the new 2006 Azera is the most luxurious Hyundai ever. From its design and spaciousness to its features and appointments, it advances the art of building an affordable premium sedan. The Azera offers appointments befitting a flagship model and rivaling the finest premium brands.
Azera's physique is slightly larger and much more elegant than its predecessor. The fit and finish seem to be at or above the level of its competitors. I like the LED brake and taillamps. I was also impressed with the level of refinement found inside my Azera tester.
The front-wheel drive Azera comes in two well-equipped trim levels: SE and Limited. Both are powered by a sophisticated 263-horsepower 3.8-liter V6 engine. Mated to the V6 is a smooth-shifting 5-speed automatic transmission with Shiftronic manual control.
Azera's V6 employs variable valve timing to provide good power for accelerating from a stop and for passing on the highway.
Azera's V6 engine is strong and smooth. Very little engine noise enters Azera's amazingly quiet and tranquil cabin.
My tester was the uplevel Limited model, which features leather upholstery and loads of amenities. Overall, the cabin feels very refined. Consumers in this segment who choose a competing model will spend thousands more to get everything included here.
The ride is definitely on the plush side. The Azera is not meant for taking corners at high speeds. There is a fair amount of body roll when cornering and the steering felt a bit over-assisted. However, I never tired of cruising around in my Azera Limited tester.
The spacious cabin easily accommodates five large adults. Azera's cargo capacity measures 16.6 cubic-feet. There's plenty of room for trips to the mall or trips across country.
Thanks to Azera's low price of admission, choosing Azera over its competitors will certainly allow for more trips to the mall, or wherever you want to go.
The Azera SE provides a host of standard features including Electronic Stability Control (ESC) with Traction Control System (TCS), a six-speaker AM/FM/CD audio system with MP3 capability, auto dimming inside rear view mirror with HomeLink, power driver and passenger seats, active front head restraints and eight airbags.
The Limited, which has a starting price of just $26,835, adds 17-inch 10-spoke alloy wheels, leather-trimmed seating, heated front seats, and an electroluminescent gauge cluster. The Limited also has steering-wheel wood trim, a power rear sunshade, and bumper moldings with chrome-inserts.
The option list includes a 10-speaker Infinity audio system with subwoofer and an in-dash 6-disc CD changer, power adjustable tilt-and-telescopic steering column, integrated memory system, power-adjustable foot pedals, and rain-sensing wipers.
The Hyundai Azera is worth a serious look. Not only do you get loads of amenities and safety features, but like all Hyundai products, Azera includes a 5-year/60,000 mile bumper-to-bumper warranty and a 10-year/100,000 mile powertrain warranty.
2006 Hyundai Azera Limited
Engine: 3.8-liter (263 hp) V6
Transmission: 5-speed automatic
Drive Type: FWD
Fuel Economy: 19 city/28 highway
Base Price: $26,835
As Tested: Not available
Website: http://www.hyundaiusa.com |
