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.
But hey -- if the car is good enough, you can call the thing anything you want. People will buy it anyway, and we think plenty of people are going to buy the Azera, thanks what will likely be 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.
But about that name: 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. 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.
On the performance side, the Azera offers a 3.8-liter V6 engine that makes an estimated 265 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 257 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,500 rpm, the 2006 Hyundai Azera should get down the road with no trouble. Emissions ratings are projected to be Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (ULEV). Controlling the engine is a five-speed automatic transmission with Shiftronic manual control. While that sounds nice, if Hyundai dealers can get people to sit inside the car, it will sell. The leather is comfortable, controls are nicely designed and there are plenty of luxury touches, such as dampened controls and wood grain. The style focuses on traditional luxury sedan design with a few touches of personality - probably fine for the buyers that Hyundai seeks. Whether you like the look or not, however, the 2006 Hyundai Azera is a clear step up from the XG350, and looks to be another win for Hyundai.
--By Brian Chee
