TagAz Sonata 2.7 (172 Hp)

The TagAz Sonata 2.7 (172 Hp) represents a significant, albeit regionally specific, chapter in the global automotive landscape. Produced by the Taganrog Automobile Plant (TagAZ) in Russia from 2005 to 2009, this mid-size sedan was not an original design but a licensed rebadging and assembly of the fourth-generation Hyundai Sonata (EF series). This strategic move allowed TagAZ to offer a well-established and robust vehicle in the Russian and Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) markets, catering to consumers seeking a reliable and comfortable family car with a proven track record. The {original_title} distinguished itself with its potent V6 engine option, offering a blend of performance and practicality that was competitive within its segment during its production run, especially in markets where locally assembled vehicles held a significant price advantage.

Engineering and Performance of the TagAz Sonata 2.7 (172 Hp)

At the heart of the TagAz Sonata 2.7 (172 Hp) lay a robust 2.7-liter V6 gasoline engine, a powerplant renowned for its smooth operation and dependable output. This naturally aspirated, multi-port manifold injected engine delivered a respectable 172 horsepower at 6000 revolutions per minute (rpm), making the Sonata a lively performer for its class and era. The power-per-liter ratio stood at 64.8 horsepower per liter, indicative of a well-engineered, non-turbocharged engine. The engine’s configuration was a V-engine with six cylinders, each featuring four valves, contributing to efficient breathing and combustion. The double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain further enhanced the engine’s ability to produce power smoothly across the rev range, providing a refined driving experience typical of V6 engines.

Performance figures for the TagAz Sonata 2.7 (172 Hp) were quite competitive for a mid-2000s family sedan. It was capable of accelerating from 0 to 60 miles per hour in a brisk 8.6 seconds, a commendable sprint for a vehicle of its size and weight. The top speed was rated at 134.22 miles per hour (216 km/h), demonstrating its capability for sustained highway cruising. Power was delivered to the front wheels via a standard 5-speed manual transmission, offering drivers direct control over the engine’s output and contributing to the car’s engaging driving dynamics. The engine was longitudinally mounted at the front, driving the front wheels, a common and efficient powertrain architecture for sedans of this type.

Fuel efficiency, while not the primary focus of a V6 engine from this period, was nonetheless reasonable. The combined fuel economy was estimated at 24.2 US miles per gallon (9.7 liters per 100 km). In urban driving conditions, the consumption naturally increased to 17.3 US mpg (13.6 l/100 km), while extra-urban driving saw a more economical 31.8 US mpg (7.4 l/100 km). These figures were in line with expectations for a V6 engine of its displacement in the mid-2000s. The vehicle complied with the Euro 3 emission standard, reflecting its environmental considerations for the time. With a curb weight of 3505.35 pounds (1590 kg), the weight-to-power ratio was 9.2 kg per horsepower, or 108.2 horsepower per tonne, indicating a well-balanced power delivery for its mass.

Design and Features of the TagAz Sonata

The TagAz Sonata maintained the classic and dignified aesthetics of its Hyundai predecessor, presenting a timeless sedan profile that appealed to a broad demographic. As a 5-door, 5-seat sedan, it offered practical and comfortable transportation for families and individuals alike. Its exterior design featured clean lines, a relatively understated grille, and headlights that conveyed a sense of maturity and stability, rather than aggressive sportiness. The overall dimensions contributed to its commanding presence on the road while ensuring ample interior space. With a length of 186.89 inches (4747 mm), a width of 71.65 inches (1820 mm), and a height of 55.98 inches (1422 mm), the Sonata was firmly positioned within the mid-size sedan segment, offering a substantial footprint for stability and passenger comfort.

The vehicle’s 106.3-inch (2700 mm) wheelbase was a key factor in its spacious cabin and comfortable ride quality, providing generous legroom for both front and rear passengers. The front track measured 60.63 inches (1540 mm) and the rear track 60.24 inches (1530 mm), contributing to the car’s stable handling characteristics. The suspension system was designed to prioritize ride comfort without entirely sacrificing handling precision. It featured an independent McPherson strut setup with coil springs and an anti-roll bar at the front, a configuration known for its balance of comfort and predictable road manners. The rear utilized an independent multi-link suspension, which further enhanced ride quality and stability, particularly over uneven surfaces. This sophisticated rear suspension was a highlight for a car in its category during that period, offering a more refined experience than simpler torsion beam setups.

Braking performance was assured by ventilated disc brakes at the front and solid disc brakes at the rear, a standard and effective setup for a vehicle of this size and performance. The steering system was a hydraulic rack and pinion type, providing direct feedback to the driver and easing maneuverability, especially at lower speeds. While specific interior features are not detailed, as a rebadged Hyundai Sonata, the TagAz model would have offered a cabin focused on ergonomics, durability, and practical amenities. Typical features for a mid-2000s sedan in this segment would have included air conditioning, power windows and mirrors, a capable audio system, and a suite of passive safety features such as multiple airbags and crumple zones, though these specific items are not listed in the provided data. The focus was on delivering a reliable, comfortable, and well-appointed vehicle that could serve the diverse needs of its target market effectively.

Technical Specifications