While there may be nothing strikingly new nor original about the looks of the Hyundai Azera, there's nevertheless a completeness, a proportional flow that both catches and pleases the eye. And while other automakers are drifting toward increased visual mass, Hyundai is developing a crisper, more adventurous look all its own.

The front styling of the Azera resembles that of the smaller Sonata but with the comfortable filling out that can come with healthy aging; not quite stately, but definitely wiser. The headlights are familiar, as is the shape of the grille, although the latter is textured on the Azera with fine horizontal lines, rather than the 's single bold slash. Similarly, Azera's lower air intake is gently split horizontally, and its bumper subtly detailed with thin, bright-finish bump strips at each corner.

The side view reaches for elegance, with gracefully arced, micro-bulged fenders and a glasshouse that rises softly from the bonnet, flows smoothly over an elongated cabin and falls gently into the boot. The rear overhang extends a bit farther than the shorter front overhang, but wide doors and spacious windows temper this relatively minor discord. The trunk lid seems to sit atop the rear fenders, inviting unfortunate comparison with the awkward back end of the current , but some designers are saying that's a necessary aerodynamic solution, and we're seeing the same sort of thing on the newest models from Lexus and Acura.

The Azera's back end is equally reminiscent of the Sonata, again albeit fuller, more mature. Sonata-like tapers outline the lighting arrangements and license plate. LED tail and brake lights are standard at all levels. A unique reflector strip reaching across the trunk lid doubles as a background for the only external display of the name, Azera. A bright strip along the top of the bumper finishes the loop started at the front and carried along the side. Widely spaced dual exhaust tips add a sporty touch.