Hyundai Azera did always have an identity. Always the flagship mainstream model from Hyundai, it has traveled the motorway of evolution, steering clear of all accusations of plagiary that traced the path of the Sonata; the only charge against the Azera being a tame drive within a dated design. Well, welcome to the times of desirable Hyundais.
The drive quality of Azera 2012 is elegant and composed with 247 bhp on call, and an excellent mid and high range torque component to tide over a laidback start. Even at high speeds, the car is steady and the ride feels secure. Lane changing is a breeze, though there is a negligible feeling of “play” of the steering with which the Azera just stops shy of attaining the precision and pleasure that demarcates a Jaguar or an Audi of similar size. Yes, size is another thing that gets the Azera to stand out in the porch and lets your rear passengers to stretch their legs comfortably.
Getting ready for your first drive, quit fumbling around the seat-side. Electric seat adjustments are on the doors, shaped to suggest the anatomy of the seat itself. The electronic parking brake is a lift-up button on the transmission console that comes on as you stop. It automatically disengages when you safely shift to “Drive” mode with a foot on the brake. A little less bicep-training there but no more absent-minded drives with the park brake on.
Warning signs are everywhere – from the park brake ding to the speed limit dong. Navigator assisted local speed limit alert nudges you every time you step above the 60 or 80 mark, as the case may be. For those who find this irritating after a while, there is an option to shut it out by muting the sound on the navigator screen – at the risk of a radar ambush. On Jumeirah road, where the speed limit is an unusual 70, the system saved me twice!
One way to achieve greatness is by emulating greatness. The Azera not only offers much of what the guardians of luxury offer, but at times beats them at their own game too. The brand manages to carve out a character even as it is reminiscent of those revered icons. However, what it is yet to achieve is the unequivocal distinctiveness as a premium marque. But the Hyundai Azera 2012 appears to be on the right course to the lofty destination.
Get the full review at http://drivemeonline.com/hyundai-azera-review-the-car-that-has-everything…-almost/
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