2006 Hyundai Azera Preview Connecticut

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Introduction

Automakers sure do love funky names. No disrespect intended, but come on: if your car is named after a coffee - as in Verona - or after a naval officer's title - consider the Commander - perhaps a visit to your advertising agency is in order. Worse yet is the numerical sequence name game, where automakers choose an obscure rationale, attach some numbers to it and slap it on the back of a car. Yep, that there is the XD456.

Hyundai is one of the worst at the name game, and a perfect example is the recent debut of its new flagship, the 2006 Hyundai Azera. Yes, it roles off the tongue a little - Ahhhzeerah - but it could be anything from a far-away news outlet to the name of a new jungle creature. But at least Azera is better than the non-descript moniker given to the outgoing XG350, the vehicle it replaces. Not that it really matters - if the car is good enough, you can call the thing anything you want - people will get used to it. If that happens with the Azera, a likely result will be plenty of smiles that have nothing to do with names, and everything to do with a nice ride, ageless styling and a great interior.

As the replacement for the XG sedan, Hyundai hopes that the Azera will compete with the big boys on the luxury block as a lower-end luxury choice. Their optimism isn't far off, judging from the initial reaction at the 2005 New York International Auto Show.

The 2006 Hyundai Azera is a new flagship sedan for the Korean automaker, and it replaces the XG350. The Azera holds Hyundai's hopes for a feasible luxury alternative to buyers in the US.

The name Azera comes from the French word azure, which means blue. To Hyundai, the significance of the color blue is up above, as in blue skies for the company, which they feel is best represented by this new luxury sedan. As the flagship replacement, Hyundai hopes that the Azera will compete as a higher-end choice.

Available in Hyundai dealerships later this fall, Hyundai claims that the Azera offers buyers segment-leading standard safety features including Electronic Stability Control (ESC), ABS with Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD), front dual active headrests, and eight airbags - including roof-mounted side curtain airbags.

Pricing has not been announced, but the feeling is that Hyundai will not necessarily price this as a discount lux-alternative. With loads of features and a grown up style, the 2006 Hyundai Azera will likely fetch a higher price than the outgoing XG. Standard equipment will include dual-zone climate control; electronic tilt and telescoping steering column; a memory system for the driver's seat, outside mirrors, steering column and foot pedals; a power rear sunshade; rain-sensing windshield wipers; and the requisite leather seating surfaces. The Azera will also be available with an Infinity audio system and steering-wheel-mounted audio controls. The 2006 Hyundai Azera will be offered in GLS, LX and Limited trim.