If the Azera is supposed to conjure the peaceful easy feeling of blue skies, it hits the mark – and that’s both bad and good. It’s good because it carries with it a nice, smooth style that will avoid polarizing potential buyers. But that’s also the bad part – the exterior styling is not a head turner. This will likely pay dividends, as a classic sedan design ages slowly, whereas something new and edgy fades and looks, well, amateurish and nervous after a few years on the road. According to Hyundai, compared to the 2005 XG350 the all-new Azera is longer, wider and rides on a wheelbase stretched 1.1 inches over the XG350.

Inside, it’s surprising that the Azera is a Hyundai. Really. There’s dual-zone climate control; an electronic tilt and telescopic 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 leather seating surfaces that almost shout “Lexus.” Add to that an available Infinity audio system featuring a seven-channel, 315-watt digital amplifier; 10 speakers and a subwoofer; speed-sensitive volume; steering-wheel-mounted audio controls; and an in-dash six-disc CD changer, and you’ve got yourself quite a comfy ride.