American Luxury as Defined by Seoul When I first saw
Hyundai's new Azera in photos last winter, then presented in Europe as the Grandeur, it appeared mighty
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| I can't say I'm particularly enamored with the Azera's design, at least from the outside, but those wheels are gorgeous. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press) |
attractive in its silver-blue paint scheme. And when compared to the somewhat derivative XG 350 that it replaces, I have to say that seeing it in the metal hasn't completely changed my opinion. That lovely blue hue gave way to a light green, also attractive but not a personal favourite. It's amazing, actually, how a colour can change a car's appearance. Or maybe it was seeing the car on the street, next to other cars, that had me concerned Hyundai didn't make its grille distinctive enough? And its rear end? Well,
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| The BMW 7-Series-like bustle-back trunk lid is definitely unique among entry-level brands, and large ovoid tail lamps bridged together with an "AZERA" appliqué reflector lamp look distinctive. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press) |
its BMW 7-Series-like bustle-back trunk lid is definitely unique among entry-level brands, and large ovoid tail lamps bridged together with an "AZERA" appliqué reflector lamp look distinctive, and while according to Hyundai work to deliver excellent aerodynamic efficiencies, I'm not particularly enamored with the design - especially next to our long-term Sonata that features one of the most attractive derrieres, let alone overall shape, in the business. Can't say what the reason for my change of heart was, other than not being able to see the Azera's rear end in the initial photos, but after getting my hopes up about the Korean carmaker's new flagship model I was starting to feel a little flat.