The 2012 Hyundai Azera may go lower than the middle when it comes to listing this year’s best affordable large cars, but it definitely is not a bad choice for people who prefer bigger sedans.
The new Azera has updated styling that is akin to the Sonata, a handful of useful interior features. The Azera provides adequate power and comfort.
Specifications
| Vehicle Type: Sedan | Base Price: $32,000.00 |
| Fuel Tank Capacity: 18.5 gallons(70L) | MPG: 20 city / 29 hwy |
| Length: 193.3 in. (490.9 cm) | Wheel Base: 112 in. (284.4 cm) |
| Height: 57.9 in. (147 cm) | Width: 73.2 in. (185.9 cm) |
| Curb Weight: 3605 lbs (1635 kg) | Ground Clearance: NA |
| Luggage Capacity: 16.3 cu ft | Maximum Seating: 5 people |
| Engine: 3.3L V6 DOHC | Compression Ratio: 11.5: 1 |
| Horsepower: 293 HP | Max RPM: 6400 RPM |
| Torque: 255 lb-ft @ 5200 rpm | Transmission: 6-Speed Automatic Shiftronic |
| 0-60 mph: 6.2 seconds | 1/4 Mile: 14.7 seconds |
Engine
The Hyundai Azera has a V6 3.3 liter engine that delivers 293 horsepower and 255 lbs/ft of torque. Paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission, it is the only engine available for the Azera.
According to the EPA, the new Azera has a fuel economy rating of 29 mpg for highway and 20 mpg for city driving. Looking at the statistics, it is easy to see that the Azera can keep up with the competition as far as fuel economy is concerned.
Performance
What we love about the new Azera apart from the muscle is that it provides quality handling and steering; it is far better than its forerunner. Compared to its competitors the Azera does well, too. It is also important to note that the cabin stays quiet even at high speeds.
The transmission is smooth making it easy to pass and cruise. Another thing that we would like to emphasize is that the new Azera has no issues when it comes to torque steering, a thing that is always present in front-wheel drives.
Other car owners prefer more road feel that is why they shun away from the Azera’s accurate steering. While we commend Hyundai for putting a smart steering system, there are some drivers who won’t. If there is one area where Hyundai can further improve the Azera, would be the suspension.
As it hit the streets, it is noticeable that it does not handle road imperfections as good as its more expensive competitors. In its present form though, we can say that the suspension is a cross between sport and comfort.
Exterior
By the first look, the Azera exudes a rather sleek impression. It has the lines and the curves that make the car easily recognizable. Once you see it, you will know that it is a Hyundai.
Interior
No doubt, the interior of the new Azera shows how great it has improved from the previous model. Both the front and the rear seats have heating, there is enough legroom and headroom for taller drivers and passengers, and the quality of the materials is definitely better. Driving the new Azera, one can easily see that it gives great value for money for a large car.
Standard in the Azera are the navigation, dual zone climate control, USB and Bluetooth connectivity, and push button start.
Safety
Tests have yet to be done on the new Azera. On the other hand, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety gave it a “good” score in side and front crash tests. There is no information about roof strength tests and rear crash protection though.
Reliability
The Hyundai Azera comes with the standard 5-year warranty, a 10-year warranty for the powertrain, and a 5-year 24-hour roadside assistance.
Pros
The new Azera has an outstanding exterior design. It provides enough power and good handling, as well as a comfortable and smooth ride.
Cons
The current suspension system can be further improved for it to handle road imperfections with greater poise.
The good qualities of the 2012 Hyundai Azera definitely give great value for your money.
Competition
The Azera could be compared to the likes of the Toyota Avalon (MSRP $33,195; 19 city / 28 hwy), Nissan Maxima (MSRP $32,420; 19 city / 26 hwy), and the Ford Taurus SE (MSRP $25,555; 18 city / 28 hwy) when it comes to price and mpg.
Overall Rating
80 out of 100
What others say:
“The 2012 Hyundai Azera is confidence-inspiring, with plenty of performance for style- and comfort-minded shoppers.”Car Connection
“The Azera is Hyundai’s large luxury sedan that is redesigned for 2012 to incorporate Hyundai’s Fluidic Sculpture design language.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports
“Plenty of standard features; smooth ride quality; quiet and spacious cabin; large trunk; long warranty coverage. Abundance of hard interior plastic; indifferent driving dynamics.”Edmunds
