Hyundai cars are becoming the new favorite in the US, with America topping its global sales this year. And what’s not to like? They are affordable, functional and they look good.
The Hyundai Azera is one of these cars. It comes with a very affordable price tag of twenty-five thousand but the quality and features of it can compete with higher-pricing wheels. It has two variants, the 3.3 and 3.8 liter engine variants have been tuned to become more powerful and more eco-friendly.
Specifications
| Vehicle Type: Family Sedan | Base Price: $25,495.00 |
| Fuel Tank Capacity: 19.8 gallons (75 liters) | MPG: 20 city / 28 hwy |
| Length: 193.3 in. (490 cm) | Width: 72.8 in. (184.9 cm) |
| Height: 58.7 in. (149 cm) | Wheel Base: 109.4 in. (277 cm) |
| Curb Weight: 3576 lbs (1622 kg) | Ground Clearance: 6.4 in. (16.2 cm) |
| Luggage Capacity: 16.6 cu ft | Maximum Seating: 5 people |
| Engine: 24-valve DOHC w/ DCVVT V6 | Displacement: 3342 cc |
| Horsepower: 260 HP | Max RPM: 6200 RPM |
| Torque: 233 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm | Transmission: 6-Speed Automatic |
| 0-60 mph: 6.2 seconds* | 1/4 Mile: 14.7 seconds* |
| Option:Azera Limited* | MSRP: $30,095; MPG: 19 city / 27 hwy |
Performance
The horsepower increases to 26 and 20 (for the 3.3L and 3.8L variants, respectively) from the previous model. The 3.3 L engine has 260 horsepower and the 3.8 boasts of 283 horsepower. It is also the fastest car to go from 0-60 in the large car category at only 6.1 seconds.
Fuel efficiency is increased by as much as 11% for the 3.3 L variant and 7% for the 3.8L variant. This is due to the Azera’s new six-speed transmission setting, which is better compared to the outgoing model’s five-speed transmission. There is also a new feature called “Eco Indicator” which tells the driver if he is driving in an eco-friendly, fuel efficient way. Azera remains a good choice for those who want value and competence. It has a 233 pounds of torque with a fuel economy of 20/23 mpg city/highway.
The Azera is not for sporty, driving enthusiasts. It is a car suited for those who want a comfortable ride. Most critics say it offers a soft, smooth and secure ride. The brakes are so strong though, which can cause it to be grabby sometimes. The steering is precise as well as the braking system which can go from 60-0 in 118 feet.
Interior & Exterior
The Azera exterior includes 17” alloy wheels, fog lights, heated side mirrors and climate control. It has adopted the Hyundai Genesis’ lower bumper air dam.
It also features tilt-and-telescoping steering column, 60/40 split rear seat and eight-way driver and four-way passenger power front seats. It also has wood grain interiors, auto-dimming rearview mirror, leather wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, and full power accessories. The stereo system should be a delight to music lovers as it features a six-speaker stereo system with a six-CD changing system, satellite radio, and auxiliary jack and USB connectivity. There are optional fittings like the sunroof, leather upholstery and the heated front seats. The Azera Limited features all of the above options plus more, like driver-seat memory functions and a navigation system. Bluetooth connectivity is a standalone option.
The car’s tall seating position may hinder some tall drivers from sitting comfortably, but other than that, the interiors are okay. The cabin is quite large. The trunk can hold up to 16.6 cubic feet of cargo but the seats can be folded to increase cargo space. Visibility is also good all around because of the narrow roof pillars and a low cowl design.
Safety
The safety features of the Azera are standard, which includes traction control, stability control and active front head restraints along with front-side, rear outboard-side and side curtain airbags. It also earned very good points in the government-mandated crash tests.
The Hyundai Azera is protected by Hyundai’s five year/60,000 mile warranty, whichever comes first, as well as the 10 year/100 000 power train warranty. Five years of 24 hour roadside service is also included for this car.
The Competition
There are also lots of cars that are undergoing very good redesigns such as the Toyota Avalon (MSRP $33,195; 20 city / 29 hwy) and the Buick LaCrosse (MSRP $27,130; 19 city / 30 hwy). However, both cost a little more than the Azera. The Ford Taurus (MSRP $25,555; 18 city / 28 hwy) could also be worth a look.
Overall Rating
76 out of 100
What others say:
“Spacious, handsome, and unremittingly conservative, the 2011 Hyundai Azera is a great alternative for folks who think the company’s Sonata is a bit risque.”Car Connection
“The ride is comfortable and steady, and handling is fairly responsive.”MSN-Auto/ConsumerReports
“Bargain price; ample feature content; pleasant interior design with high-quality materials; strong performance from 3.8-liter V6; excellent warranty.”Edmunds
“If you believe status symbols are worth the extra cash, the Azera’s Hyundai logo won’t impress like one from BMW, Mercedes or Cadillac.”KBB
