Taming velocity is another Azera specialty thanks to its powerful, fully vented 4-wheel antilock disc brakes bolstered by
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| Taming the velocity are fully vented 4-wheel antilock disc brakes bolstered by Electronic Brake-Force Distribution (EBD). (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press) |
Electronic Brake-Force Distribution (EBD). These binders functioned flawlessly, however a stomp upon the pedal induced moderate nosedive. This said its reaction to aggressive braking was absolutely nothing near as dramatic as the big dip taken by Kia's Amanti when its binders locked on.
Hyundai's chassis engineers certainly did their homework in blending the juxtaposing dynamics of handling and ride comfort. The Azera spoils its occupants with a ride typical of a premium luxury car without tossing handling prowess out with the bath water. No, this isn't a 5-Series Bimmer - not even close. But its fully independent suspension with front and rear stabilizer bars and gas-charged
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| The Azera's fully independent suspension with front and rear stabilizer bars and gas-charged shocks deliver sure-footed, predictable performance in the corners. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press) |
shocks deliver sure-footed, predictable performance in the corners. For pleasurable, real-world driving this delightful setup is near perfect.
And its that sort of motoring that really allows the Azera to shine. On the road this family sedan is extremely quiet. Hyundai has worked hard to eliminate or minimize the usual sources of noise, vibration and harshness, and it's paid-off. The Korean automaker claims that the Azera is quieter at idle and at 100 km/h than the Lexus ES 330 and the Nissan Maxima, and that it generates less idling vibration and wind noise than either of the Japanese rivals - and yes you read that correctly, the Lexus ES 330!
