When CAR sampled Hyundai’s new flagship in South Korea last year, we were told the Azera would arrive in SA in March and cost “around R300 000”. Sure enough, the R299 900 saloon has just hit the market, and offers an alternative option for buyers in the entry-level executive saloon market.
When CAR sampled Hyundai’s new flagship in South Korea late last year, we were told that the Azera would land in South Africa in March and cost “around R300 000”. Sure enough, the R299 900 saloon has just hit the market, and offers an alternative option for buyers in the entry-level executive saloon market.
The Azera, which is 4 895 mm long, 1 850 mm wide and 1 490 mm high, has a 3,3-litre all-aluminium V6 under its bonnet and Hyundai claims the big car can sprint from zero to 100 km/h in 7,8 seconds. The petrol-powered powerplant develops 171 kW at 6 000 r/min, 304 N.m of torque at 3 500 and is mated with a five-speed electronically-controlled H-matic automatic transmission.
Bearing a strong family resemblance to the Sonata, the Azera has LED safety rear lights that highlight the purposeful rear treatment while Xenon headlights are an option. Seventeen-inch alloy wheels with 235/55 tyres and dual exhaust pipes are standard.
Overall levels of refinement and build quality are good, thanks to double door seals and extensive sound-deadening material under the Azera’s bonnet, inside the engine compartment and under the floor. Hyundai claims the car’s “graceful dashboard lines and sporty design for the instrument panel” contributes to the leather-, wood-, and metallic-trimmed cabin’s “feel good” ambience.
Click here to view the gallery and specifications of the Azera.