Hyundai Azera Review

Larger and more luxurious than the average midsize family sedan, the Hyundai Azera slots above the Sonata in Hyundai's lineup. It provides impressive interior room, features and power for a price that's thousands less than many competing vehicles. Buyers who have owned a domestic full-size sedan in the past and are looking for a new vehicle will want to check out the Hyundai Azera. It prioritizes comfort, luxury, safety and value, and is well-suited both for commuting and long-distance trips. The Azera is also an appealing alternative to entry-level models from Japanese luxury brands.

Current Hyundai Azera
The Hyundai Azera is a full-size, five-passenger sedan available in GLS and Limited trim levels. Even the base model comes with an abundance of standard equipment, including 17-inch wheels, dual-zone automatic climate control, power front seats and a six-speaker stereo with CD player, satellite radio and an iPod/USB audio jack. A sunroof, leather upholstery and heated seats are optional on the GLS and standard on the Limited, which also gets a bigger engine, driver memory functions, power-adjustable steering column and an upgraded stereo. Niceties like a Bluetooth hands-free phone, 12-speaker surround-sound audio and a navigation system are also available. Even when fully equipped, the Azera remains very reasonably priced.

The Azera GLS is powered by a 3.3-liter V6 that produces 260 horsepower and 233 pound-feet of torque. A 3.8-liter V6 engine powers the Azera Limited, producing 283 hp and 262 lb-ft of torque. All Azeras feature a six-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive. On the move, the car is roomy and quiet. Hyundai likes to boast that this car has more interior volume and a bigger trunk than many full-size luxury sedans. Like all Hyundais, the Azera comes with an impressive 10-year/100,000-mile warranty.

In editorial reviews, we've praised the Hyundai Azera for its excellent interior design and materials, refined and quiet ride, powerful V6, strong brakes, roomy backseat and value for the money. The main downside to the car is the awkward driving position.

Used Hyundai Azera Models
The Hyundai Azera debuted in 2006 and is still in its first generation. Used models are pretty similar to the current Azera, but there have been a few changes along the way.

Initially, two trim levels were offered: Azera SE and Azera Limited. These grew to three the following year with the entry-level GLS. For '08, the GLS received more standard features and essentially replaced the SE. Satellite radio, a navigation system and the surround-sound system also joined the 2008 features list.

For 2009, the Azera's steering and suspension were revised, while different interior lighting, a new grille and a welcome iPod/USB audio jack were added. Note that Azeras up through 2010 weren't quite as powerful as the current model; the 3.3-liter V6 at the time made 234 hp and the 3.8-liter V6 made 263 hp. They were also connected to a five-speed automatic rather than the newer six-speed.

Previous to this, Hyundai offered the XG350. Although roomy and well-equipped, this model never earned much critical praise due to its blandness and mediocre handling.