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Hyundai's smallest and least-expensive vehicle is relaunched for 2006 and provides added power and becomes larger and more stylish-looking in the process. Sharing platforms and components with the Kia Rio, the new Accent is longer, wider, and taller than before, with added backseat legroom, increased shoulder clearance, and more available headroom. Coming only in a single trim level, the GLS sedan, the Accent comes wrapped in contemporary-looking bodywork, with halogen headlights, and larger wheels and tires. A new 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine with CVVT (Continuously Variable Valve Timing) delivers 110 horsepower; it can be teamed with either a five-speed manual gearbox, or a four-speed automatic. Power rack-and-pinion steering is standard, as are no less than six airbags, including front seat-mounted side-impact airbags, and roof-mounted front/rear side curtain airbags. A 60/40-split fold-down rear seat expands the trunk's cargo-carrying abilities and comes with a folding center armrest that sports dual cupholders. All Hyundais are backed by a five-year/60,000 comprehensive warranty, with ten-year/100,000-mile limited powertrain coverage.

Replacing the former XG350 atop Hyundai's line for 2006, the Azera is a new near-luxury sedan that's longer, wider, and roomier than its predecessor. It comes packed with the automaker's largest powerplant to date, a 3.8-liter V-6 that's estimated to produce 265 horsepower. A five-speed Shiftronic transmission that includes a manual-shift mode is the only available gearbox. The Azera rides on a four-wheel independent suspension that includes a double-wishbone front design and multi-link rear array, for precise handling characteristics and a smooth ride. Styling is quietly refined with a spacious interior that's adorned with woodgrain trim and metal accents. Anti-lock brakes with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution, Electronic Stability Control, traction control, front active headrests, and a total of eight airbags (with front and rear side and side-curtain restraints) are all included for safety's sake. Like all Hyundais, it's backed by a five-year/60,000 comprehensive warranty, with ten-year/100,000 limited powertrain coverage.

The front-drive compact Elantra continues to offer solid performance, a roomy interior, and a low sticker price. Available as either a sedan or four-door hatchback, it comes powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder powerplant with variable-valve timing that offers 132 horsepower in the base GS version and 138 in its sporty GT versions. It rides on MacPherson struts up front and a multi-link fully independent suspension in the rear, for better than average small-car handling. Six airbags lead a long list of standard features. A new Premium Package is available on all trim levels and includes a power sunroof, anti-lock brakes and traction control. A generous warranty includes five-year/60,000-mile comprehensive coverage, with a ten-year/100,000-mile powertrain protection.