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Hyundai Azera Review - What the Auto Press Says

The 2012 Hyundai Azera ranks 6 out of 7 Affordable Large Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 14 published reviews and test drives of the Hyundai Azera, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.

With its sleek exterior styling and new, feature-laden interior, reviewers agree that the redesigned 2012 Hyundai Azera is a fit competitor to other affordable large cars. 

If you’re looking for a car that offers comfort, power and a wealth of standard interior features, reviewers agree that the 2012 Hyundai Azera should be on your short list. While the 2011 Azera was stodgy and dated compared with newer large cars like the Chrysler 300 and Ford Taurus, the all-new 2012 Azera draws its exterior style from the Hyundai Sonata, which is definitely a good thing.

In addition to its exterior updates, the new Azera also carries a refined powertrain and an upscale interior that reviewers love. Initial reviews are just starting to pour in, but overall, the 2012 Azera has left a good first impression on the automotive press. Automobile Magazine writes, “We'll wait until we drive an Azera at our editorial offices in Ann Arbor, Michigan, before we render a more complete verdict, but initial impressions of the Azera lead me to think that the Ford Taurus, Nissan Maxima, Buick LaCrosse, and even the Acura TL and Lexus ES350 have a new, tough competitor.”

While the Azera’s high-quality interior and new powertrain are among its attributes, there are a couple downsides. The automotive press hasn’t reached a verdict on what they think of the Azera’s handling. Some say that it’s comfortable and composed, while others counter that its ride quality leaves something to be desired.

The Azera’s wealth of standard features also means that it carries a high base price. As a result, the 2012 Hyundai Azera makes sense if you’re on the hunt for an affordable large car that packs features normally found on luxury large cars. However, if you can sacrifice standard features like navigation and heated seats for a lower base price, competitors like the Taurus and 300 would also serve you well.

Other Cars to Consider

No other affordable large car matches the 2012 Azera’s long list of standard features. However, the Buick LaCrosse comes close, with a standard infotainment system that will let you stream Pandora from your smartphone. Additionally, the LaCrosse offers a choice between a powerful V6 and a fuel-efficient eAssist engine.

If you like the Azera’s spacious interior, but also prioritize good reliability ratings and strong resale values, consider the Toyota Avalon. The Avalon doesn’t come with as many standard features, but it’s an excellent choice if you want a car with top safety ratings and an ultra-comfortable ride.

Hyundai Azera: The Details

The Hyundai Azera has been thoroughly redesigned for 2012 and comes in just one well-equipped trim, which is powered by a V6 engine and six-speed automatic transmission. See the full 2012 Hyundai Azera specs.

• "It will be in American showrooms in March, and we're confident that dealers will have no trouble finding plenty of buyers thick in the middle life, looking for their automotive soul mate." -- Car and Driver 
• "The weak link in the Hyundai lineup gets a boost - but customers may be in for a bit of sticker shock." -- Edmunds 
• "Inside and out, the all-new 2012 Hyundai Azera is arguably the best-looking car in the large sedan class. It's also among the most powerful and most fuel-efficient, offers the best features (many of them standard), and still qualifies as a terrific value. If only it drove better." -- Kelley Blue Book 
• "If you're getting the impression that we like the Azera, you haven't been led astray. The car feels good to drive, looks stylish enough to hold its head high among some of the segment's more anonymous contenders and delivers an attractive interior loaded with content." -- Autoblog 
• "The new car isn't just better than the old one, a false comparison carmakers commonly frame, but it is thoroughly competitive with the segment's heavy hitters." -- MSNBC 

Azera Performance - 7.4 (Good)

The 2012 Hyundai Azera requires a bit of a trade-off when it comes to performance. Kelley Blue Book says, “The engine and transmission combination is smooth, responsive and powerful, but the Azera's ride, handling and steering all leave something to be desired.”  Read More

Azera Exterior - 8.0 (Very Good)

While the outgoing Azera lacked the visual presence of stylish siblings like the Hyundai Sonata, critics applaud the 2012 Azera’s new look. Car and Driver  says, “The exterior follows Hyundai's ‘Fluidic Sculpture’ design ethos and, lingo aside, is undeniably handsome.”  View Photos

Azera Interior - 8.6 (Very Good)

Reviewers agree that the Hyundai Azera packs in standard features that are normally expensive options on other large cars. Motor Trend writes, “Per Hyundai's usual value strategy, the Azera packs a dazzling array of niceties for the money.” Read More

Azera Safety - NA

While complete crash test scores have not been published, the 2012 Hyundai Azera performed well in front- and side-impact tests conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. Read More

Azera Reliability - NA

A five-year/60,000-mile limited warranty comes with the 2012 Hyundai Azera. Additionally, Hyundai backs the Azera with one of the longest powertrain warranties available. Read More