| As a full-sized luxury sedan, the 2011 Hyundai Azera faces stiff competition from the Toyota Avalon and Nissan Maxima. The Azera outshines them in terms of interior volume, and even with added power, refinement, and fuel efficiency from both available V6s, it is still priced at less than $25,000. |
| Hyundai has gone deep into the heart of the popular Azera for 2011, hoping to give buyers more of what they crave: extra power and better fuel economy.
The front-wheel-drive Azera GLS and Limited models return. The GLS comes powered by a new V6. The 3.3L unit utilizes Dual Continuously Variable Valve Timing (DCVVT) to deliver 263 hp and 233 ft-lb. of torque, with Hyundai estimating 20 mpg city and 28 mpg highway. The Limited, meanwhile, draws power from an all-new 3.8L DOHC V6, also with DCVVT. The engine is also used in the upscale Genesis sedan and coupe, and it produces 283 hp and 263 lb-ft. of torque. This engine is expected to return 19 mpg city and 27 mpg highway.
Both engines are mated to an all-new 6-speed automatic transmission, which Hyundai designed and built in-house. The unit features Shiftmatic manual control, which gives drivers greater flexibility in controlling shift points. Hyundai states the transmission is the most compact 6-speed auto on the market, and it is more than 20 pounds lighter than the version it replaces.
The Azera's underpinnings also have been revised, with a stiffer chassis and more responsive suspension and steering.
The Azera is little changed inside for 2011, though new bits include blue backlighting, a power rear sunshade, dual front climate control, power seats, power folding side mirrors and a brushed aluminum finish.
Standard features in the GLS include the above amenities, plus a 6-speaker MP3-compatible stereo, and premium cloth seating, while the Limited adds leather seating and a 10-speaker Infinity in-dash six-disc CD stereo.
The Premium Package adds leather seating, heated front seats, and a power sunroof. A Navigation Package includes an LG navigation system and 605-watt Infinity surround sound stereo. The Ultimate Package features the above stereo, plus the sunroof, power tilt/telescopic steering, adjustable pedals, seat memory, woodgrain accents and rain-sensing wipers.
All Azeras come standard with eight airbags, active front head restraints to help prevent whiplash, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), a Traction Control System (TCS) and Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), which optimizes brake performance. |
| For 2011, Hyundai's full-size sedan receives added power from its choice of two V6 engines. The 3.3L found in the GLS has been boosted from 234 hp to 260 hp. The 3.8L unit in the Limited is up 20 hp to 283 hp. Both engines benefit from Dual Continuously Variable Valve Timing (DCVVT), and the result is not just added power, but added fuel efficiency as well. Hyundai has also introduced a new 6-speed automatic transmission to pair up with the powerplants.
Outside, the Azera gets a new front fascia, with restyled headlights and fog lights, plus a new chrome grille. The rear bumper is new as well. Interior changes are minimal, though the use of grained aluminum has been added to the center console. |