2012 Hyundai Azera is a Sexy Plus-Sized Model: 2011 LA Auto Show [Video]

If you’re into plus-size models, then you’re sure to appreciate the the all-new Hyundai Azera. Looking like a curvy Sonata but with some more meat on its bones, the Azera is all-new for 2012 and sports a more powerful 3.3-liter V6 engine making 293-hp and 255 lb-ft of torque. Using a six-speed automatic transmission Hyundai boasts it can achieve 20-mpg in the city and 29-mpg highway for a combined 23-mpg rating, which matches the Acura TL and Toyota Avalon and tops all other rivals (if you don’t include the rear-drive Chrysler 300). Hyundai also touts the car’s power-to-weight ratio, at just 3,600 lbs it’s quite light for a full size car and weighs 200 lbs less than a Buick LaCross and 400 less than a Taurus.

Back to the car’s design, along with a large chrome grille it gets plenty of chrome detailing (perhaps too much), as well as LED taillights and accent lighting, integrated exhaust tips and 18-inch wheels standard (19s are optional).

Fitting between the Sonata and rear-drive Genesis Sedan in the Hyundai lineup, few might remember the old Azera but that’s likely to change now. It stretches 193.3-inches and is 73.2 inches wide. (For perspective, that’s 5-inches shorter and one inch less wide than a Chrysler 300). With all that size, the Azera boasts more front headroom and legroom than any of its front-drive rivals.

Perhaps the Azera’s best selling feature is its extensive list of standard equipment. Included on even base models is leather, dual automatic climate control, a 7-inch display screen with navigation and a back-up camera, 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 all the goodies can upgrade to the Tech Package with 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.