The Azera is a large car, at least on the inside. In fact it provides more interior volume and spaciousness than found in Toyota's
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| The Azera provides more interior volume and spaciousness than found in Toyota's Avalon, BMW's 7-Series and Mercedes-Benz's S-Class. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press) |
Avalon,
BMW's 7-Series (non-"L" platform), and quite astoundingly, the Mercedes-Benz S-Class. At 4,895 mm (192.7 inches) in overall length, the Azera is equal to the Avalon but shorter than the BMW by 144 mm (5.7 in) and more so when compared to the Mercedes-Benz. Those size differentials can be very rewarding when slotting into a tight parking space or maneuvering around obstacles at the mall. However, the smaller body of the Azera is to my eye, less exciting visually than any of the three examples in this comparison. There's certainly nothing undesirable about the Azera's pillow-soft shape or its expansive use of glass, and maybe that in itself is the issue for me, it's just too milquetoast for its own good. My socks would really have been knocked off if appearance-wise, the Azera came out swinging like Toyota's new Avalon or the latest mid-size offerings from Lexus and Infiniti; nonetheless, style appreciation is a personal thing.
Moving
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| This is a very beautifully constructed cabin, exhibiting ample restrained elegance and class. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press) |
inside, the Azera introduces that aforementioned space, as well as comfort and a conservatively appealing design. This is a very beautifully constructed cabin, exhibiting ample restrained elegance and class. The materials used are first-rate and highly pleasing to the senses of sight and touch. Controls and switchgear function smoothly and are sensibly designed and laid-out. The instrument panel features large, easy to read analogue gauges, plus a smooth centre stack containing audio and HVAC controls. Highlighting the interior is a substantive centre console finished with a textured metal overlay and woodgrain trim. Five-position seat heater switches reside on the centre console just ahead of the leather and wood trimmed shift lever. Matching woodgrain trim also runs horizontally throughout the Azera's airy cabin, imparting a touch of elegance.
