"It's trite to say each is a winner here, but...each is a winner here. All come to the table lugging fat briefcases full of supporting evidence, the Volkswagen's perhaps a bit heavier than the Hyundai's. The Azera's strongest arguments include its best-of-test ride award, its voluminous trunk, and those two large-print details of a killer price advantage and a no-worry/100,000-mile drivetrain warranty. As well as--with an eye to likely rising oil prices--its lower-compression engine's willingness to feed off the regular-grade pump at the gas station. The Passat--German price premium and all--is, well, German. Meaning that, in addition to the heavy lifting expected of a five-passenger sedan, it frequently leaves a priceless smile on your face."
"The Avalon splits the difference and wins by a compromise. In a mood to settle back, listen to "Morning Edition" on the way to work, and trust the Toyota's ride not to spill your $4 Starbucks? Like the Azera, the Avalon can do that. Traveling up the coast and deciding that the "Curves Next Twenty Miles" is a personal challenge? The Toyota can approach the Passat's skills at doing that, too. Which leaves you wondering if Toyota's aspirational flagship isn't a pretty good destination as well."
" 3rd Place: 2006 Hyundai Azera
Will nothing stop this company? Don't look now, Buick and others, but the Azera's eating your lunch."
"2nd Place: 2006 Volkswagen Passat
A large, V-6-engine German sedan at the price of a four-banger Audi A4."
"1st Place: 2006 Toyota Avalon
The Japanese giant's latest flagship steps up to the plate with personality and something for just about everybody."
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