2012 Hyundai Azera pricing announced

The 2012 Hyundai Azera will come in at $32,875, including destination, the company said on Tuesday. The range-topping Azera with Technology package will sticker at $36,875.

The second-generation (for the United States) Azera gets a major redesign, taking all of the styling cues from Hyundai's current crop of vehicles, especially the Sonata.

Standard equipment includes Hyundai's Blue Link telematic system, keyless entry and start, heated rear seats, 18-inch alloy wheels and self-adjusting dampers that are supposed to improve the ride without compromising handling.

The 2012 Azera is powered by a 3.3-liter direct-injection V6 that delivers 293 hp. A six-speed automatic is the only choice, with Hyundai's Shiftronic transmission with manual function. Hyundai says the Azera returns fuel-economy ratings of 20 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway.

Safety features are numerous on the Azera. It comes with nine airbags and impact-absorbing front seats. The vehicle-stability-management system links all of the safety features, including electronic stability control, traction control, electronic brake distribution and brake assist.

The Azera slots in between the Sonata and the Genesis sedans in price, performance and features. The Azera will hit showrooms in April.

By Jake Lingeman