Chicago Auto Show: 2011 Hyundai Azera
By Andrew C., 30 Aug, 2010. 0 Comments
2011 Hyundai Azera
To spice up its lineup, Hyundai made some amazing updates for the 2011 Azera range to rival the Buick LaCrosse, Lexus ES350, and Toyota Avalon. This smaller, front-wheel-drive luxury sedan is now offered with updated powertrain options -- a 3.3-liter V-6 or the 3.8-liter Lambda V-6 engine, mated to Hyundai's new, in house built, six-speed automatic transmission. The 3.3-liter, DOHC V-6, which comes standard for the Azera GLS, produces about 260hp and 233 lb-ft of torque and is estimated at 20 city / 28 highway mpg. Powering the Azera Limited is the Lamba 3.8-liter, DOHC V6 engine found in the Genesis sedan and coupe. It produces about 283hp and 263 lb-ft.
The Azera Limited is capable of 19 city / 27 highway mpg. Mated to each engine is Hyundai's own six-speed automatic with its Shiftmatic manual control feature, which Hyundai claims to be the most compact and lightest six speed automatic on the market. It is also about 26 pounds lighter than the five speed it replaces and uses 62 fewer parts, designed so that the transmission fluid will last for the life of the vehicle under normal circumstances. Azera features a double-wishbone front and multi-link rear four-wheel independent suspension. To add rigidity, Hyundai used more high strength steel in certain places.
Furthermore, Hyundai improved the Azera's steering and suspension for a smoother ride and for more precise handling. Its appearance also got a few tweaks. It has a reworked front fascia that features redesigned headlamps, an updated grille, and round fog lights. At the back of the car, we see LED taillights, along with an updated bumper, chrome tailpipes and decklid treatment. Other updates include new 17-inch alloys and revised side mirrors now sporting puddle lamps. The Azera boasts of decent updates but many share the opinion that it is far from the bold new 'fluidic sculpture' design of the new Sonata. For its interior, the car refined the trim accents, and also incorporated a USB audio input (which can control iPods) as standard equipment. The limited models are available with a new navigation system, which also adds a 12-speaker Infinity sound system.
Gallery: 2011 Hyundai Azera
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