William Maley

ummm.. Hmm, I'll get back to you on that

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Back in August, Infiniti showed off the concept version of their new seven seat crossover called the JX. Jump ahead to November and Infiniti is showing off the production version of the JX. The JX’s exterior takes some ideas from Infiniti's Essence coupe with a sloping roof and unique treatment to the d-pillar. The front end has Infiniti's signature chrome grille and a “double-wave” hood.. Inside the JX, you find three rows of seating for seven people and access to reach the third row is easy, thanks to a new middle seat design. Up front, the dash and center console is from the Infiniti M sedan. The JX's powertrain is a 3.5L V6 producing 265 HP and 248 lb-ft of torque paired with a one choice CVT Transmission. Buyers can choose between FWD and AWD models. Infiniti is also adding some new technology to JX, including a new Backup Collision Intervention (BCI) which can apply the brakes if it senses a rear collision. Other tech in the JX include Infiniti Connection with Google Calendar, Around View Monitor with Moving Object Detection, Lane Departure Warning and Intelligent Cruise Control. Base price of the Infiniti JX is at $40,450, with the AWD model bumping that to $41,550. Press Release is on Page 2 2013 Infiniti JX Delivers Inspired Style, Performance, Roominess and Innovation – All-New Luxury Crossover Challenges Current Segment Conventions with Roomy 3-Row Seating, Luxurious Versatility and Advanced Technology Features – LOS ANGELES - The 2013 Infiniti JX will shake up the status quo when the innovative 7-passenger luxury crossover joins the Infiniti lineup in spring 2012. As a fresh, bold alternative to the many flavors of vanilla currently dominating the luxury crossover segment, the all-new Infiniti JX is designed to excel in the areas that luxury crossover buyers desire most – interior flexibility and roominess, safety, and advanced hospitality features. The JX offers real 3-row utility, plus all the premium features, performance and innovations that Infiniti has become known for worldwide. “The all-new Infiniti JX embraces family customers in a way no luxury crossover has done before – recognizing their need to grow up, but without growing old,” said Infiniti Americas Vice President Ben Poore. “Responsibility should come as a reward, rather than as a restriction on the things and activities you enjoyed as a single person or a couple.” Key features of the 2013 Infiniti JX include: Emotive styling and craftsmanship, featuring the new Infiniti design language direction initiated with the Essence concept Segment-leading overall passenger volume Segment-leading rear cargo volume (3rd row seats folded, 2nd row seats in forward-most slide position) More 2nd and 3rd row legroom than a Cadillac Escalade Access to 3rd row without removing a 2nd row child seat Infiniti Connection with Google Calendar™, Drive Zone/Speed Alert and Infiniti Personal Assistant Around View™ Monitor (AVM) with Moving Object Detection Extensive safety and security technologies, including available world’s first Backup Collision Intervention (BCI) system Available Bose® Cabin Surround® 15-speaker sound system with digital 5.1-channel decoding and a new Acoustic Waveguide subwoofer “Every element of the Infiniti JX is designed to connect the driver and passengers to the world, rather than shield them from it as many luxury crossovers try to do. Our goal is to heighten awareness of your surroundings, so you can get more out of every day,” added Poore. “Saying ‘no’ to boring luxury starts right here, right now with the inspired design and advanced technology of the 2013 Infiniti JX.” A Bold New Expression of 7-Passenger Luxury The demarcation line between the Infiniti JX and other 3-row luxury crossovers starts with the idea that 7-passenger seating should actually and easily welcome all seven passengers. Utilization of a flat platform floor not only enhances 3rd row roominess and provides a long 2nd row total adjustment of 5.5-inches fore and aft for versatile roominess and cargo carrying capacity, it also allows use of a more dramatic styling approach. With a long wheelbase and short overhangs, as well as a low roofline that doesn’t compromise interior headroom, the platform provides the benefits of a large family passenger vehicle without the usual exterior styling restrictions. The aerodynamic shape of the new JX, with a coefficient of drag of 0.34, not only enhances fuel economy but also adds to its emotive styling. A front underbody spoiler, integrated rear spoiler and rear tire deflectors also help contribute to its zero front and rear lift for enhanced road holding. Combining modern design with a touch of warmth, the new JX exterior is highlighted by the dramatic, double-arch front grille/headlight shape, double-wave hood, and crescent-cut D-pillar and greenhouse design. Automatic on/off High Intensity Discharge (HID) bi-functional xenon headlights with manual levelizers are standard, along with fog lights. Large LED taillights add a distinctive touch to the rear, while a standard power rear liftgate enhances utility. The JX advances the Infiniti design language, sharing signature styling cues of the Infiniti Essence concept, yet interprets those elements in ways suitable to the needs of a family luxury crossover. It stands out without trying to be something it’s not, with good visibility from every seat, easy entry to and exit from all rows and practical access to the cargo area. Other JX exterior features include flat blade variable intermittent front windshield wipers, available rain-sensing front windshield wipers, rear window intermittent wiper and defroster with timer, power folding heated outside mirrors with available reverse tilt-down feature, front door handle courtesy lights, and UV-reducing solar glass and rear privacy glass. A power sliding tinted glass moonroof with one-touch open/close, tilt feature and sliding sunshade is standard, while an available panoramic moonroof with power rear sunshade adds an open, airy feeling for rear passengers. The special JX exterior color palette includes exclusive colors Emerald Graphite, Glacial Mist and Diamond Slate, along with Liquid Platinum, Black Obsidian, Midnight Garnet and Moonlight White (colors that are available on other Infiniti models). Unsurpassed Luxury and 2nd Row Flexibility Beyond its stunning exterior, the new JX clearly sets a new standard for both space and hospitality. Equally important to active families is JX’s unique flexibility, which starts with nearly six inches of 2nd row seat travel – allowing legroom and cargo space to be conveniently adjusted between the 2nd and 3rd rows as needed. The 3rd row isn’t the typical penalty box either, with ample headroom and knee room for adults or children. And there are two more unexpected aspects of JX’s 2nd and 3rd row design – access to the 3rd row is surprisingly easy due to the wide door openings and long forward slide of the 2nd row seat. Plus, the multi-mode 2nd row seat’s unique forward movement function overcomes the typical problem of having to remove a 2nd row child seat for entry or exit. The installed child seat moves forward with the 2nd row seat (40 percent side of 60/40 split-folding seat) without limiting 3rd row access. In addition, both 2nd and 3rd row seats are split folding (60/40 2nd row, 50/50 3rd row) and recline for greater occupant comfort. “With the new JX, you are able to leave a child seat securely latched to the 2nd row while getting in or out of the 3rd row – just another example of the vehicle’s inspired flexibility and versatility,” added Poore. “It might seem like a small detail, unless you’ve ever tried to use a 3rd row in a vehicle with child seats, and then it’s ‘why didn’t someone think of this before?’” Beyond the practical innovations, the JX’s interior design combines elegance and fine craftsmanship. Key design features include the signature driver-oriented cockpit, thin chrome accents, and an interior color palette that provides an elegant color harmony – Wheat, Graphite or Java leather appointments with Kasane Washi trim or available Maple trim accents. Along with its wave-like flow, the JX instrument panel is highlighted by a new Infiniti Intelligent-View display in the center meter cluster, along with large, easy-to-read Fine Vision electroluminescent gauges, and standard 7-inch color vehicle information display. Leather-appointed seating is standard, along with heated front seats with 8-way power driver’s seat and 6-way power front passenger’s seat. Climate-controlled front seats (heating and cooling) are optionally available, as well as heated 2nd row outboard seats and heated steering wheel. Also offered is a dual occupant memory system for the driver’s seat, steering wheel and outside mirrors. An Enhanced Intelligent Key that stores an occupant memory position and last-used audio, climate control and navigation settings is also available (an Infiniti Intelligent Key with Push Button Ignition is standard). Keeping all occupants comfortable regardless of the temperature outside are a Tri-Zone Automatic Temperature Control system with microfilter, rear-seat heater ducts under the 1st and 2nd row seats, and rear console-mounted and 3rd row side trim air vents. Available as part of the Deluxe Touring Package is an Advanced Climate Control System (ACCS) with Plasmacluster™ air purifier, Grape Polyphenol filter and auto recirculation. Other interior comfort and convenience items include RearView Monitor®, sequential welcome lighting illuminated entry system, eight cupholders and six bottle holders, front and 2nd row armrests with storage, Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System, six-speaker AM/FM/CD audio system, USB Connection Port for iPod® interface and other compatible devices, XM® Satellite Radio (XM® subscription required, sold separately), power windows with one-touch up/down with auto-reverse feature, power door locks with automatic locking feature, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, and much more. A Connection with a Human Touch The 2013 Infiniti JX also offer technologies designed to make owners’ lives a bit easier and more efficient, such as a 15-speaker Bose® Cabin Surround® sound system with Acoustic Waveguide bass technology and an innovative Infiniti Connection telematics system that can provide navigation guidance to appointments and automatically synch the owner’s schedule through Google Calendar™. The Infiniti JX is the first vehicle in the lineup to offer Infiniti ConnectionTM and Infiniti Connection PlusTM services, which will be added to other Infiniti navigation-equipped models in the near future. Infiniti Connection services include 24-hour Automatic Crash Notification, Emergency Call, Enhanced Roadside Assistance, stolen vehicle reporting, Remote Door Lock/Unlock, Alarm Notification, Maintenance Alert, Scheduled Maintenance Notification and My Schedule (via Google Calendar™). The system also allows owners to set up Drive Zone boundaries and Speed Alert, which parents will find useful in monitoring young drivers’ vehicle usage. Infiniti Connection will send a notification via text, e-mail or phone if the boundary has been crossed or the speed exceeded. In addition, owners can route road trips with a Journey Planner and personalize news, sports and stock reports via Mobile Information Services. Both Infiniti Connection and Infiniti Connection Plus are included complimentary for the first year of ownership. And, like all current Infiniti new model purchases, the new JX will also feature the Infiniti Personal Assistant, Infiniti’s personal concierge service with 24-hour access to a live team of professional assistants. The Infiniti Personal Assistant benefit is offered free-of-charge for four years with every 2012 Infiniti. It allows owners to make reservations, get directions, find points of interest, make dinner reservations, access gift services, answer trivia questions, and receive a wide variety of other services at the touch of a button from inside the vehicle or through the owner’s mobile or home phone. On vehicles equipped with Infiniti Connection, owners can have their Infiniti Personal Assistant find a restaurant, make the reservation, and have directions sent directly to their JX’s Infiniti Hard Drive Navigation System. “We believe the JX’s special combination of connected services adds convenience and confidence – and is completely flexible depending on the situation, task, request or just for times when you’d rather have a human connection instead of an electronic one,” said Poore. “And for parents with teenage drivers, the ability to set boundaries or maximum speeds through the Drive Zone/Speed Alert function can be priceless.” The World’s Only Backup Collision Intervention The Infiniti JX continues Infiniti’s tradition of developing world’s first technologies, adding a new feature, Backup Collision Intervention (BCI), to the currently available Blind Spot Intervention™ (BSI) system. With this technology, when the transmission is in reverse, the JX will help the driver detect crossing vehicles and objects behind the JX and, if necessary, the system can automatically engage the brakes to help avoid a collision. “This innovative Backup Collision Intervention system can detect vehicles approaching from either side when you back up. If a vehicle appears to be entering your path, it provides three layers of warning – visual, audio and gas pedal force feedback – and ultimately can apply brake pressure to help you avoid a collision if you don’t take action yourself,” said Poore. “It’s just one of many ‘tomorrow’s technologies’ that Infiniti is proud to lead the industry on today, and one of the many ways Infiniti sees the world differently.” Another advanced system utilized as part of the all-around protection philosophy is the Around View™ Monitor (AVM) with Moving Object Detection (MOD). Building on the capabilities of the AVM system, which shows the driver a virtual 360-degree image of the area around the JX, the new MOD function helps enhance the driver’s situational awareness by providing visual and audible warnings (front or back range object detection) if the system detects moving objects (such as anther vehicle) within the displayed image in situations such as when pulling out of a parking space. Using sophisticated image processing technology, the system detects moving objects within the “top view” (when the vehicle is in Park). When starting off or backing up, it detects moving objects crossing within the front or rear views. The addition of BCI is the latest of nine technologies that comprise the “All-around Safety Shield” of the new JX. Other available technology includes both Infiniti’s Lane Departure Warning (LDW) and Lane Departure Prevention (LDP) systems. The LDW and LDP systems use a small camera installed behind the windshield to detect lane markers in front of the vehicle, calculate its position relative to those lane markers and help warn the driver of a potential unintended lane departure with a visual indicator and audible buzzer. If the driver does not return the vehicle back toward the center of the travel lane, the LDP system assists the driver with a gentle application of the brakes on the opposite side of the drift. A Blind Spot Warning (BSW) system is also available. It illuminates an indicator light if another vehicle is detected in the blind spot area. If the driver then activates the turn signal, the indicator flashes and an audible warning sounds. In addition, the available Blind Spot Intervention™ (BSI) system provides selective braking if the vehicle approaches an adjacent lane while another vehicle is detected in the blind spot area to help the driver return the vehicle back toward the center of the lane of travel. (BSI only activates if another vehicle is detected and the driver uses a turn signal in that direction.) The new JX also offers an advanced Intelligent Cruise Control (Full-Speed Range), which, using a combination of laser sensors, throttle and brake actuators and the JX’s braking system, measures the distance to the vehicle ahead and automatically adjusts the vehicle speed to help maintain a pre-selected following distance. Distance Control Assist (DCA), which intuitively prompts the driver to release the throttle and applies the brakes in slowing traffic, is also offered – along with Intelligent Brake Assist (IBA) with Forward Collision Warning (FCW) and front Pre-Crash Seat Belts. The Infiniti JX’s extensive list of standard safety features includes an Advanced Air Bag System (AABS) with dual-stage supplemental front air bags with seat belt and occupant classification sensors; roof-mounted curtain side impact supplemental air bags with rollover sensor for outboard occupant head protection for all three rows; front seat-mounted side impact supplemental air bags; 3-point front seat belts with pretensioners, load limiters and seat belt reminder; 3-point seat belts for all rear seat occupants (including center position); LATCH System (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren), Zone Body construction with front and rear crumple zones and steel side-door guard beams. The standard Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) includes an individual tire pressure display and Tire Inflation Indicator. Maintaining proper tire pressure helps to maintain handling performance, achieve good fuel economy and long tire life. The Tire Inflation Indicator provides both visual and audible signals to help owners conveniently maintain correct tire pressures without the use of a gauge. While the owner inflates the tire, the hazard lights flash letting the customer know to continue filling the tire. When the tire reaches the appropriate pressure, the horn will sound letting the owner know to stop filling the tire. Drivers can also monitor individual tire pressures from the interior display. The Infiniti JX also offers a Remote Engine Start System, which allows the owner the option of starting the JX remotely using the remote keyless entry system. The system is ideal for warming or cooling the interior, prior to driving, as desired. A Powerful and Efficient Drivetrain Offered in both front-wheel drive and with Intelligent All-Wheel Drive, the JX addresses the growing desire among luxury crossover drivers to have both responsive performance and good fuel efficiency. The standard 3.5-liter DOHC V6 is mated to a sport-tuned Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) to provide high responsiveness and seamless, efficient shifting feel – the first Infiniti to utilize a fuel-efficient CVT. The transmission can mimic a step transmission when the Sport mode of the Infiniti drive selector is engaged. The CVT design also features a wide gear ratio and low friction design. The engine is rated at 265 horsepower @ 6,400 rpm and 248 lb-ft of torque @ 4,400 rpm. The design includes a variable induction control system to improve volumetric efficiency at low and middle speed ranges, while an efficient belt layout improves maintenance and fuel economy. Fuel economy is expected to be rated at 23 mpg Highway, 17 mpg City and a real-world 19 mpg Combined – while still offering the power to carry a full load or passengers and cargo. “While many ‘people movers’ drive more like a van or bus, we heard from potential buyers that they didn’t want to give up the driving feel of their previous sports sedans just because they have growing families,” explained Poore. “For the JX, we again focused on applying advanced technology, such as the sport CVT, to meet the demand for better fuel economy without sacrificing driving pleasure.” Another welcome feature of the new JX is the Infiniti Drive Mode Selector, technology exclusive to Infiniti vehicles. Using a rotary switch mounted in the center console, the driver can choose between four drive modes – Standard, Sport, Eco and Snow – depending on road and climate conditions. The system varies throttle response and shift schedules to optimize performance. Responsive handling and flat ride comfort is provided by an independent strut front and multi-link rear suspension with front and rear stabilizer bars – which combine with the high stiffness/low vibration sensitivity body to help create a quiet, comfortable interior environment for all occupant. Linear, easy-to-operate steering comes from the vehicle-speed-sensitive power steering system. The available Active Trace Control system utilizes the JX’s standard Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) system to help improve cornering feel, such as at freeway speeds, by automatically applying the brakes or smoothing engine torque characteristics while accelerating. The JX’s braking system is a 4-wheel vented disc design with Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist. Stylish 18-inch split 5-spoke aluminum-alloy wheels with 235/65R18 T-rated all-season tires are standard on every JX, with 20-inch split 5-spoke aluminum-alloy wheels with 235/55R20 H-rated all-season tires available. Polished 20-inch forged aluminum-alloy wheels are also available. Choose to Be Inspired The all-new Infiniti JX is offered in two models, the JX35 FWD and JX35 AWD and with five available equipment packages – allowing customers to custom-equip their vehicles to precisely meet their family driving and budget needs. The Premium Package includes an Infiniti Hard Drive Navigation System with 8-inch WVGA color touch-screen display, Infiniti Voice Recognition, XM NavTraffic® with Real-Time Traffic Information, XM NavWeather™ with Real-Time Weather and 3-day forecast (XM® subscription required, sold separately) and Zagat Survey® Restaurant Guide, Streaming Audio via Bluetooth®, Infiniti Connection, Around View® Monitor with Moving Object Detection and front and rear sonar sensors, and Bose® 13-speaker Premium sound system with Acoustic Waveguide bass technology The Premium Package also includes a dual occupant memory system front driver’s seat, steering wheel and outside mirrors, entry/exit assist for driver’s seat and steering wheel, Enhanced Intelligent Key, outside mirrors with reverse tilt-down feature, Maple interior accents and auto-dimming inside mirror with HomeLink® Universal Transceiver. The Deluxe Touring Package adds Bose® Cabin Surround® 15-speaker sound system with digital 5.1-channel decoding and Acoustic Waveguide bass technology, 20-inch split 5-spoke aluminum-alloy wheels with 235/55R20 tires, panoramic moonroof with power rear sunshade, Advanced Climate Control System (ACCS) with auto recirculation, Plasmacluster™ air purifier and Grape Polyphenol Filter, climate-controlled front seats, and heated 2nd row outboard seats. The Theater Package includes dual 7-inch color monitors, two wireless headphones, wireless remote control, auxiliary audio/video input jacks, 120V power outlet and rear headphone jacks with volume control. Also offered is the Driver Assistance Package with Backup Collision Intervention (BCI), Intelligent Cruise Control (Full Speed Range), Intelligent Brake Assist (IBA) with Forward Collision Warning (FCW), Blind Spot Warning (BSW) system, Distance Control Assistance (DCA), Active Trace Control, Eco Pedal, heated steering wheel and remote engine start. Finally, the Technology Package includes all of the features of the Driver Assistance Package, as well as Lane Departure Warning (LDW) and Lane Departure Prevention (LDP) systems, Blind Spot Intervention™ (BSI) system and front Pre-Crash Seatbelts. “The all-new 2013 Infiniti JX, as Infiniti’s first venture into the 3-row luxury crossover segment, is true to both the Infiniti brand and to Infiniti design,” concluded Poore. “Infiniti has always been about standing out from the crowd, combining intelligent technology, refined performance, and sophisticated craftsmanship. That’s exactly what this new JX achieves.” View full article

Remember the Hyundai Azera? Yeah, me neither. The Azera was introduced in 2008 to compete with the likes of the Toyota Avalon, Ford Taurus, and Nissan Maxima. However, the car has fallen into the darkness with Hyundai introducing more stylish vehicles. Well, today at the LA Auto Show Hyundai shined some light on the new Azera. Design of the new Azera has many cues of Hyundai's "fluidic sculpture" design language, putting it more with the Sonata and Elantra. Up front, new headlamps and a prominent chrome grille incorporates a central indentation that extends onto the hood. Around back, a new trunklid and taillights that wraparound and extend onto the lid. The most prominent design cue lies in the Azera's profile view: bolder character lines amd a long sleek roofline accented by the third window help give the Azera something it has been missing; an identity. Under the hood lies a new a new 3.3L Lambda II V6 with direct injection providing 293 HP and 255 lb-ft of torque. Power goes through a six-speed automatic down to the front wheels. Hyundai claims the Azera will get an estimated 20 miles per gallon in the city and 29 on the highway. The Azera is fitted with Hyundai's Active Eco mode, which should boost fuel economy by five percent. The base price of the 2012 Hyundai Azera will be $32,000 when it goes on sale in February. For that price you do get a lot of standard features including leather, dual automatic climate control, a 7-inch display screen with navigation and a back-up camera, Hyundai's Blue Link telematics system, a power driver’s seat, proximity key, nine airbags, second row air vents, a cooled glove box, plus heated front and rear seats. Those looking for a bit more can order their Azera with the Tech Package which includes 19-inch wheels, a panoramic sunroof, HID lights, a power rear sunshade and manual side rear shades, a 12-speaker 550-watt Infiniti audio system, a power tilt and telescopic steering column, an extendable driver’s seat cushion, vented front seats and rear parking sensors. Press Release is on Page 2 Hyundai Modernizes The Large Sedan With The All-New Azera Fluidic Sculpture Design, Smart Technology, Performance and Safety LOS ANGELES, Nov. 16, 2011– Hyundai Motor America today introduced the all-new Azera in a North American debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show. Azera is the fifth vehicle to adopt the company’s signature Fluidic Sculpture design language.Tucson, Accent, Elantra, Sonata and Azera now all have a modern, sleek, sophisticated style, creating the illusion of constant motion. This flagship Fluidic Sculpture sedan also features a more powerful Lambda II 3.3-liter GDI engine, six-speed transmission, best-in-class combined fuel economy of 23 miles per gallon and a wide range of advanced safety equipment. HIGHLIGHTS FOR 2012 AZERA All-new second generation Azera with Fluidic Sculpture design Powered by a new Lambda II 3.3-liter Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) engine and in-house six-speed automatic transmission Horsepower: 293 at 6400 RPM Best-in-class combined 23 mpg Better combined fuel efficiency than Nissan Maxima, Ford Taurus, Lexus ES350 and Buick LaCrosse V6 [*]Best-in-class specific output [*]Nine standard airbags – includes knee airbag [*]Impact-reducing front seat system [*]Standard VSM, ESC, TCS, ABS with Brake Assist and EBD [*]Best-in-class head and leg room for front-seat passengers [*]Standard 18-inch alloy wheels and optional 19-inch alloy wheels [*]HID Xenon headlights with LED accents [*]Segment-exclusive standard navigation system with rearview camera [*]Standard leather interior with heated front and rear seats [*]Bluetooth® hands-free phone system with voice recognition [*]Standard Blue Link telematics platform [*]Segment-first manual side window sunshades [*]Ventilated front seats Azera is the seventh vehicle in Hyundai’s 24/7 version 2.0 product initiative (seven new models in 24 months), on the heels of the all-newTucson, Sonata, Equus, Elantra, Accent and Veloster. The 2012 Azera represents a modern approach to the traditional large sedan segment by using an advanced powertrain, emotional design and luxury features offered with Hyundai’s strong value proposition. This approach has been successful for the other Fluidic Sculpture vehicles. 2012 AZERA MEETS THE MECHANICS OF FLIGHT 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 elegant look continues inside where Hyundai has created an upscale ambiance, thanks to a flow-through center fascia and instrument panel. These flowing surfaces complement the exterior design and wrap around the driver and passengers. ACCOMMODATING INTERIOR WITH STANDARD LEATHER The 2012 Azera offers luxurious appointments that rival the finest premium competitor brands. It offers a roomy cabin with more than 45 inches of legroom and 40 inches of headroom for front-seat passengers. Special attention has been paid to other interior details, such as an optional panoramic sunroof, which allows more natural light into the cabin and 3D Carbon interior accents. Ambient lighting compliments the vehicle’s modern appearance. Other unexpected luxury appointments include an electrochromic auto-dimming mirror with HomeLink® and power rear sunshade and manual rear side window shades. The side shades can be inconspicuously tucked away when not in use and no other car in the segment offers them. Seats are extremely important in this segment. The 2012 Azera offers first class seating assignments for all passengers. Leather seating surfaces are standard. A ten-way power driver and eight-way front passenger’s seats are standard equipment. The driver’s seat has an optional cushion extension and an integrated memory system for the seat, steering wheel and side mirrors. Azera’s climate and seat temperature controls keep occupants in total comfort. Ventilated front seats (optional) – fans in the front seat back and bottom cushions circulate air through the perforated leather seats Heated front and rear seats standard Dual automatic climate control standard Second row air vents standard Cooled glove box standard BEST-IN-CLASS SPECIFIC OUTPUT There’s an old saying “there is no replacement for displacement.” Well, gasoline direct injection technology has changed the game. The Lambda II 3.3-liter GDI engine is the heart of the 2012 Azera. It produces a best-in-class specific output of 88.8 horsepower per liter, while having the smallest displacement V6 in the segment. This engine has a high-pressure direct injection system (over 2,200 psi), which dramatically increases power and torque, while reducing fuel consumption and emissions. This system eliminates the need for a large displacement V6 engine and increases the compression ratio from 10.4 to 11.5 for greater thermal efficiency and output. It also features all-aluminum construction, four valves per cylinder, piston cooling jets, roller timing chain, CrN Physical Vapor Deposition (PVD) coating on the top ring chamfer and Dual Continuously Variable Valve Timing (D-CVVT) for a broad power spread. A three-stage Variable Intake System (VIS) further broadens its power curve to improve the vehicle’s off-the-line acceleration and passing performance. EPA fuel economy estimates for the Azera are 20 mpg city / 29 mpg highway / 23 mpg combined. The engine is mated to Hyundai’s six-speed automatic transmission with SHIFTRONIC® manual control. This transmission offers smooth shifts and a wide ratio spread that ideally suits the engine’s characteristics. Azera’s powertrain also has an Active Eco mode, which modifies engine and transmission control for improved fuel economy that translates into more than a five percent improvement in real-world fuel economy. OVERALL DIMENSIONS The Azera rides on a 112-inch wheelbase, with an overall length of 193.3 inches and width of 73.2 inches. These exterior dimensions optimally size Azera between the Sonata and Genesis models. BEST-IN-CLASS FRONT HEAD AND LEG ROOM Azera has best-in-class front head and leg room. WORLD-CLASS WEIGHT EFFICIENCY World-class weight efficiency is a program target for all Hyundai models. This strategy delivers outstanding fuel economy and performance simultaneously. At just 3,605 pounds, Azera is more than 200 pounds lighter than the Buick LaCrosse (3,835 pounds) and more than 400 pounds lighter than the Ford Taurus (4,015 pounds). This priority on weight efficiency allows the Azera to deliver a great combination of agility, performance and fuel efficiency. BALANCED STEERING AND SUSPENSION SOLUTIONS The Azera is fitted with a MacPherson strut front suspension, coil springs and a 24 mm diameter front stabilizer bar. The sophisticated multi-link independent rear suspension enables precise geometry for a premium ride and engaging handling prowess. The capabilities of the advanced front and rear-suspension are maximized through Sachs Amplitude Selective Dampers (ASD), allowing tuning flexibility at smaller damper displacements. The ASD suspension provides: Improved ride comfort with more body/wheel control Increased driving comfort without compromised handling Optimized road surface contact Standard are 245/45R18 tires on 18-inch Hyper silver alloy wheels. There is an optional 19-inch Hyper silver alloy wheel fitted with 245/40R19 tire. ADVANCED STANDARD SAFETY TECHNOLOGIES: PART OF HYUNDAi’S ASSURANCE COMMITMENT AND IT STARTS WITH THE SEATS Azera has an exceptional level of standard safety features for the large car segment right down to the part people spend the most time in – the seats. Hyundai engineers have developed an impact-reducing seat system for the Azera. This seat system eliminates the need for active front head restraints and is expected to reduce head and neck injuries by 17 percent over the front seats in the previous generation Azera, which had active front head restraints. This result is achieved through optimization of seat back structure to further absorb impacts. http://www.hyundaine.../34702_1_1.aspx Azera has a Vehicle Stability Management (VSM) system, which optimally manages ESC (Electronic Stability Control) and the Motor-Driven electric Power Steering (MDPS). VSM works to control two effects. The first is when a driver accelerates or brakes on a split-mu surface (slippery on one side, dry pavement on the other) and the vehicle wants to pull in one direction. VSM detects this condition and sends a signal to the MDPS to apply steering assist. VSM counters the pull and automatically provides eightNewtonmeters of counter- steering. VSM reacts the same way during sudden lane changes or fast cornering. Azera features nine airbags including dual front, front and rear seat-mounted side-impact, front and rear side curtain airbags and a driver’s knee airbag. The Azera also features a state-of-the-art braking package. The package includes four-wheel disc brakes (12.6 inch front and 11.2 inch rear) and an Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) including Brake Assist, which provides maximum braking force when a panic stop is detected, and Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), to automatically adjust the braking force to front and rear axles based on vehicle loading conditions. Additionally, Azera offers impressive passive safety features including a Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) system for children’s seats and three-point seatbelts for all positions. ADVANCED CONNECTIVITY AND STANDARD NAVIGATION Standard navigation system with seven-inch screen Azera comes standard with three months of XM Satellite Radio Real-time XM NavTraffic, XM NAV Weather®, XM Sports Ticker and XM Stock Ticker Azera offers the clarity of digital HD Radio Technology from the factory Bluetooth hands-free phone system standard Standard auxiliary iPod/USB inputs Touch-screen navigation with backup camera is standard on all Azeras. No other car in the segment offers navigation with a backup camera as standard equipment. This easy-to-use unit can be controlled via seven-inch WVGA touchscreen or voice-activation by a headliner-mounted microphone. The system features 8GB of flash memory and comes matched with a sound system that plays compact discs, accesses digital music files via Bluetooth streaming audio or allows driver and passengers to access their personal listening devices through the iPod/USB/auxiliary inputs. Bluetooth audio wirelessly streams music from select mobile phones to the head unit. Also, with a Bluetooth-enabled phone one can look up a local restaurant and call for reservations before plotting the route. Azera is available with two audio systems. Standard is a Dimension AM/FM/Satellite Radio/CD/MP3 audio system with seven-speakers and iPod®/USB/auxiliary input jacks. An Infinity 550-watt, Logic 7 audio system with 12 speakers, including an eight-inch subwoofer and external amplifier is available. An XM Satellite Radio interface is also integrated into the head unit and features channel logos and XM Data services, such as XM NavWeather®, XM Stock Ticker and XM Sports Ticker. Azera also offers standard HD Radio™ technology. A Bluetooth hands-free phone system with voice recognition, address book download and audio streaming is standard. HYUNDAI BLUE LINK Hyundai Blue Link telematics is standard on the Azera with a 90-day complimentary trial period. Blue Link can be accessed from the buttons on the rearview mirror inside the Azera, the web and via a smart phone. Blue Link is offered in three packages: Assurance, Essentials and Guidance. “Blue Link combines safety, service and infotainment into a complete package that works to both help simplify Hyundai owners’ lives and reduce distracted driving,” said Barry Ratzlaff, director of customer satisfaction and service business development, Hyundai Motor America. “We’ve carefully studied how drivers rely on smart phones and navigation systems as an innovative link to the outside world. Blue Link brings that seamless connectivity directly into the car with technology like voice text messaging, POI web search download, turn-by-turn navigation, and monthly vehicle reporting. Our agent-assisted advanced voice recognition system offers a 21st century solution to performing POI searches in the vehicle. This unique and innovative approach enables Hyundai to deliver fast, accurate searches and downloads of POIs to vehicles without the unnecessary costs of traditional operator-only type systems of our competitors.” More details on Hyundai Blue Link are available at www.hyundaibluelink.com. COLOR PALETTE Azera’s elegance is further brought to life through a bold color palette including Black Onyx Pearl, Porcelain White Pearl, Silver Frost Metallic, Smoke Gray Metallic, Hyper Silver Metallic, Venetian Red Pearl, Bronze Mist Metallic and Midnight Blue Pearl. Interior color choices are Camel, Graphite Black and Chestnut Brown. View full article