(November 17, 2011) LOS ANGELES — The Azera was Hyundai's first truly entry-level near-luxury sedan when it was introduced in 2006. It was loaded with standard features, a healthy V-6 engine, and offered a sophisticated interior.

But in recent years the Azera was pushed into background, first with the more upscale Genesis in 2009 and the luxury Equus in 2010. The neglected sedan has become the worst selling Hyundai in the U.S. lineup with just 1,448 units sold through the first 10 months on 2011.



Hyundai wants to put the Azera back in the spotlight as a bridge between the mainstream mid-sized Sonata and the upscale Genesis. A new second-generation 2012 Azera with a fuel-efficient 293 horsepower 3.3-liter V-6 engine was introduced Wednesday at the Los Angeles Auto Show. The new V-6, mated to a six-speed automatic, is rated at 20 mpg city and 29 highway.

Hyundai sees its competitors as the Nissan Maxima, Ford Taurus, Toyota Avalon, Acura TL, Buick LaCrosse and Lexus ES 350. It is expected to start in the low $30,000 range.

It is the fifth vehicle to adopt the company’s signature Fluidic Sculpture design language. Hyundai says the Azera’s Fluidic Sculpture design takes inspiration from the mechanics of flight. The exterior of the all-new Azera is long, light and low. The unique, undulating beltline allows for a long, sleek roofline accented by the third window and wraparound LED taillights. A monoform side profile includes flowing lines. The face is masculine with a large powerful chrome grille and HID headlamps that integrate precise details. The stance is completed by available 19-inch multi-spoke wheels.

The Azera has a longer wheelbase and sits lower and wider than the outgoing version of the vehicle. The Azera is also longer and wider than the Sonata mid-sized sedan.

The new Azera will go on sale in February.