2007 Hyundai Azera [ 2008 ]
Hyundai Azera
Overall Score - 8.3 (Very Good)
The Azera delivers solid performance, a very roomy interior, a long list of safety features and an unmatched warranty. However, many consider the handling vague, and the exterior styling bland. If you're looking to cross-shop similar vehicles, you may want to consider the class-leading Toyota Avalon and the Dodge Charger, or even take a look at the somewhat smaller but well-regarded Honda Accord and Toyota Camry.
The Azera is liked by the majority of auto reviewers for its generous interior space, solid acceleration, confident braking, long list of standard safety features and solid reliability. Edmunds calls the Azera "stylish yet unassuming, comfortable yet agile, and luxurious yet modestly priced," and awarded it a "Most Wanted Sedan Under $30,000" award.
The Azera is well-liked for its balance of features and capabilities. Forbes writers sum up the consensus best, calling it "handsomely styled inside and out," noting that it "delivers a smooth ride," and is "wider and roomier than its predecessor and offers added overall sophistication." The Atlanta Journal-Constitution agrees, stating that the Azera "is poised for stardom, with its contemporary design, roomy interior and more than adequate power." MSN arrives at a similar conclusion, calling the Azera "a blend of style, safety, luxury and performance of a premium sedan but at a more attainable price."
Many reviewers note the Azera's affordability within its class, finding its price point compelling, attractive and competitive. U.S. News reviewer Rick Newman calls the Azera a "darn good product that undercuts the competition by a couple thousand dollars or more." "The Azera may be inexpensive," chimes in Edmunds "but don't think that means it looks or feels cheap," noting that it is "a value leader in its segment, offering a price tag that undercuts top competitors." In agreement, Kelley Blue Book calls the Azera "a value leader in its segment," and "one of the most powerful Hyundais ever built." IntelliChoice gives the base model Azera a value rating of "average" for its predicted five-year cost of ownership compared to other vehicles in its class.
However, a vocal minority disagrees with the consensus. AutoWeek, for example, says "the price tag kills the deal", noting that a similarly priced Ford Fusion or new Toyota Camry might be a better buy.
The 2007 Hyundai Azera comes in three different trim levels: the base Azera GLS, the Azera SE and the Azera Limited.
Azera Performance - 7.8 (Good)
Most reviewers find the Azera driving experience enjoyable, with adequate acceleration, sure braking and comfortable handling. New Car Test Drive auto reviewers agree, calling the Azera "more fun and rewarding" to drive than most of the competition in its class. continue
Azera Exterior - 7.5 (Good)
A popular conclusion among reviewers was that the Azera exterior is tasteful, classic and has an expensive and perhaps even sophisticated look. Edmunds pays a (somewhat backhanded) compliment to the styling by noting that "with a tasteful chrome grille and crisp body lines, this sedan looks more like an Acura than a Hyundai." At the same time, however, many reviewers found the look bland and unexciting. continue
Azera Interior - 7.9 (Good)
On balance, the Azera cabin is seen by most as upscale with good quality fit and finish. All trim levels can easily seat up to five occupants, "with true adult-size accommodations in back as well as up front," says USA Today. continue
Azera Safety - 8.0 (Very Good)
The Azera has a comprehensive list of standard safety features which the Washington Post calls "impressive." The 2007 Hyundai Azera scored four out of five stars in government frontal-impact crash tests and received five out of five stars in side-impact crash testing. continue
Azera Reliability - 8.0 (Very Good)
The 2007 Hyundai Azera reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). Hyundai offers a five-year/60,000-mile new vehicle limited warranty. continue
