2006 Hyundai Azera (photo : Hyundai Motors)

Azera's interior is the most luxurious Hyundai has ever produced, claims Cosmai, with ''interior appointments to rival the finest premium brands, and it offers amenities befitting a flagship model, such as dual-zone climate control, an electronic tilt and telescopic steering column, an integrated memory system for the driver's seat, outside mirrors, steering column and foot pedals, a power rear sunshade, rain-sensing windshield wipers, and sumptuous leather seating surfaces.''

Azera will be like the XG 350 in the way it comes with pretty much everything standard, says Jamie Smith, of Hyundai Auto Canada, though there will be an option or two. For example, consumers can order an Infinity audio system featuring a seven-channel, 315-watt digital amplifier with10 speakers and a subwoofer, speed-sensitive volume, steering-wheel-mounted audio controls, and an in-dash 6-disc CD auto-changer.

To further enhance its luxury appeal, says Cosmai, the Azera's interior is ''tastefully appointed with attractive woodgrain trim and distinctive metal accent pieces.''

The new Azera is longer and wider than the 2005 XG350, and sits on a longer wheelbase, which means an interior that's larger than its predecessor, and has more interior volume than the BMW 760i and Mercedes-Benz S-Class.

Azera will be 4,895 mm long on a 2,780-mm wheelbase, 1,850 mm wide, and 1,490 mm high, with an estimated curbweight of 1,620 kg.

Cosmai says that when the Azera arrives in the fall it will ''offer buyers the best value in the segment,'' with a segment-leading list of standard safety features including Electronic Stability Control with traction control, anti-lock brakes with Electronic Brake Distribution, front dual active head restraints, and eight airbags -- advanced dual front airbags, front and rear seat-mounted side-impact airbags, roof-mounted side curtain airbags for both front and rear outboard seat occupants.

''The XG350 has been an exemplary sedan,'' says Cosmai, ''and this all-new Azera takes luxury appointments and personal comfort to a whole new level of sophistication. In addition, it continues to offer the roominess and luxury of cars costing much more and delivers on Hyundai's promise of superior value.''