Road test: 2011 Hyundai Azera

Think of the Azera as the "old Hyundai" -- representing earlier generations of the automaker's cars, lackluster but practical -- as opposed to splashier models like the Sonata and Elantra, representing the "new" Hyundai. You might view the Azera instead as what it really is: Hyundai's answer to the equally stodgy Toyota Avalon.

However you choose to view it, the Azera is for the buyer with conservative visual tastes and conservative driving style looking for understated luxury, a quiet and comfortable ride and a spacious rear seat -- all at what passes these days for affordable prices. No more, no less.

The 2011 Azera starts at $26,270 with freight for a version with a 3.3-liter, 260-hp. V-6 engine and a new six-speed automatic transmission replacing the previous five-speed.

I sampled the more expensive Limited model, starting at $30,870 and powered by a 3.8-liter, 283-hp. V-6. With this engine there's nothing conservative about the Azera's standing-start acceleration and passing power, but the Azera clearly is sprung with an emphasis on comfort, not a race circuit.

The Azera's exterior, reminiscent of earlier-generation Hyundai Sonatas, is as forgettable as its plain, though well-equipped and well-laid-out interior. So, too, the seats, whose backs offer minimal side bolstering for holding one in place during hard cornering.

Controls, though, are first-rate -- well marked and well arranged in conventional locations -- with heater/air-conditioner and stereo controls on a center "stack" that places them within easy reach of the driver or shotgun passenger. The split rear- seat back folds down to increase trunk space.

The Azera's 38.2 inches of rear-seat legroom bests the Sonata's by 3.6 inches but falls 2.7 inches shorter than the Avalon's.

The Environmental Protection Agency estimates that Azera drivers with the bigger engine will average 19 miles per gallon in local driving and 27 on the highway -- estimates that represent a 6 percent to 8 percent increase from the 2010 predecessor.

The Azera gets four out of a possible five stars from the federal government for its protection of occupants in frontal crashes; the vehicle gets five out of five for side-impact protection.

The fussier Insurance Institute for Highway Safety calls the Azera "good" in frontal protection but only "acceptable" in side impacts. The eight standard air bags include thorax protectors for rear seaters.

Consumer Reports has the Azera on its "recommended" list and says reliability is better than average.

2011 Hyundai Azera

Vehicle tested:

Engine: 3.8-liter V-6, 283-hp.

Fuel: Regular

Transmission: Six-speed automatic, front-wheel drive.

Safety: Eight air bags; 4-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock, stability control and brake assist; tire pressure monitoring; fog lamps;

Place of assembly: Asan, South Korea

Trunk: 16.6 cubic feet

EPA fuel economy estimates: 19 mpg city, 27 highway

Price as driven: $32,720 with freight

Bottom line: New tranny and a mild face-lift for Grandpa's Hyundai.