Hyundai Azera Review

2008 Hyundai Azera Limited Sedan Shown

After a shaky start in the mid '80s, Korean automaker Hyundai has redeemed itself fully since the start of the new millennium. Its vehicles have been earning well-deserved reputations for providing plenty of value through long lists of standard features, respectable performance, long warranties and prices that are lower than the norm.

The Hyundai Azera, one of the company's newer models, certainly continues this trend. Labeled as Hyundai's flagship sedan, the Azera is a bit larger and more luxurious than the average midsize family sedan. It's been designed to provide impressive amounts of interior room, features and power for a price that's thousands less than those of many competing vehicles.

Buyers who have owned a domestic full-size sedan in the past and are looking for a new vehicle will certainly want to take a look at the Hyundai Azera. It places comfort, luxury, safety and value as high priorities and is well suited for both commuting and long-distance trips. The car could also appeal as an alternative to entry-level models from Japanese luxury brands.

Current Hyundai Azera

The Hyundai Azera debuted in 2006 as a replacement for the now-defunct XG350. It's the company's largest sedan for sale in the U.S. market and is meant to be more luxurious than the smaller, less expensive Sonata. Highlights include roomy seating for five passengers, V6 power and many standard features. Initially, there were two trim levels offered: Azera SE and Azera Limited. These grew to three the next year when they were joined by the entry-level GLS. For 2008, it was back to two trims, when the GLS received more standard features and essentially replaced the SE.

The Azera SE comes well-equipped with features like dual-zone automatic climate control, full power accessories and a 60/40-split-folding rear seat. Stability control, antilock brakes, front and rear seat-mounted side airbags and full-length side curtain airbags are also standard. The GLS at first was basically a slightly de-contented SE with single-zone climate control, less chrome trim and without alloy wheels. When it replaced the SE, the GLS picked up most of the SE's luxury features, such as the dual-zone climate control and 17-inch alloy wheels. The Azera Limited trim offers a few more luxuries, including leather upholstery and heated front seats. The Limited also provides access to more upscale options.

All Azera trims come standard with a 3.8-liter V6 engine. It develops 263 horsepower and sends its power to the front wheels through a five-speed automatic transmission. Acceleration is brisk -- the Azera reached 60 mph in 7.2 seconds during testing by Inside Line. 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 Hyundai vehicles, the Azera comes with impressive warranty coverage.

In editorial reviews, the Hyundai Azera has received favorable commentary about its excellent interior design and materials, refined and quiet ride, powerful V6, strong brakes, roomy backseat and value for the money. Noted downsides include a too-high seating position for the driver, a few hard-to-use controls and mediocre fuel economy.

The Hyundai Azera is still in its first generation. The vehicle that it replaced, the XG350, served much of the same purpose for Hyundai. Although roomy and well-equipped, this model never earned much critical praise due to its blandness and mediocre handling, but it might be a worthwhile choice on the used market as a less expensive alternative to more mainstream competitors.

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* Edmunds.com maintains vehicle data as far back as 1990.