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May 2, 2007

Hyundai Grandeur

The Grandeur TG is a full-size sedan introduced for the 2006 model year. A redesigned XG350, it shares a platform with the Sonata. It is sold as the Hyundai Azera in North America, China, Taiwan, Philippines, Iran , Malaysia, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates, South Africa, and Chile.

Being a step up from the Sonata, the Azera is priced at US$24,995 for a base model, US$27,495 for the Limited version, and $29,995 for the Ultimate Package. The flagship Azera will be the most luxurious sedan Hyundai is selling outside of Korea, China, and the Middle East, until 2008, when an all-new rear-wheel drive luxury sedan called the Genesis is released under the Hyundai name in North America to test the waters for a future luxury brand.

The Azera has a four-wheel independent suspension (multi-link in the rear) and uses the company's new 3.8 L Lambda V6, which produces 263 hp (196 kW). The power is sent to the front wheels through a five-speed automatic transmission with "Shiftronic" manual gear selection. Hyundai claims 6.0 s to accelerate to 60 mph (97 km/h) and a top speed of 157 mph (252 km/h). Fuel economy of 19 mpg (12.4 L/100 km) in the city and 28 mpg (8.4 L/100 km) on the highway is expected.

The 2.2 VGT CRDI diesel engine from the Santa Fe is also available in Europe.

The Limited trim level adds 17 in alloy wheels, heated front seats, leather seat-upholstery, and a power sun shade in the rear window. The Ultimate Package includes an enhanced audio system with 10 speakers and a 6 CD changer, a power sunroof, telescopic steering wheel, and rain-sensing windshield wipers.

The Azera was named "Best New Family Car (over CAN$35,000)" in the 2006 Canadian Car of the Year awards. It also was awarded by Car and Driver as having slightly more rear legroom than a BMW 5 Series. It is also said to have more overall interior room than the BMW 5 Series.

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