Besides the outstanding warranty, Hyundai executives are touting another primary reason for buying the company’s cars – safety. Like its competitors, this Korean manufacturer designs all of its new cars to achieve five-star ratings in all crash tests (though the Azera hasn’t been officially tested yet, so the verdict is still out). To meet this goal, the 2006 Azera features the requisite front and rear crumple zones, hood buckling creases, side impact beams, and the usual gamut of structural enhancements. However, Hyundai has added a slew of standard equipment to help ensure that the Azera’s occupants are kept as safe as possible in the event of an accident.

That list starts with a standard four-wheel antilock braking system, complemented with electronic brake distribution, electronic stability control, and traction control. There are eight airbags fitted into each Azera – two in front, two front side, two rear side, and two full-length curtains. Though the rear center passenger doesn’t get an airbag, he does get a three-point seatbelt and an adjustable headrest. Riders up front get active headrests that feature a groovy adjustment feature, allowing for not only vertical movement but also three forward settings.