In recent years, full-size sedans have slipped into the background of the American automotive scene: too useful to become extinct, yet too sedate to generate much attention. That hasn't stopped automakers from developing thoroughly modern large sedans like the Hyundai Azera, a stylish cruiser packed full of standard features. With its 112-inch wheelbase, Azera fits right between the midsize Sonata and the larger Genesis.
What's New for 2016
“Smart” (adaptive) cruise control with stop/start capability has been added to the standard equipment on the Limited model. So has an electronic parking brake.
Choosing Your Hyundai Azera
While you'll still find some V8s as well as four-cylinder engines in this class, the Azera follows the middle path with a 3.3-liter V6 that sends 293 horsepower to the front wheels. A six-speed automatic is the sole transmission. The V6 can propel the Azera from a standstill to 60 mph in a brisk 6.7 seconds, and achieves an estimated 23 mpg in combined driving (20/29 mpg city/highway). The Limited model is a hair less frugal, at 19/28 mpg.
Hyundai loads standard equipment into both trim levels, so even the base Azera lacks just about nothing that buyers generally expect in this class. The Limited steps even higher with its collection of high-end features.
No factory options are available for the Azera, although a few port-installed accessories can be added
Purchasing an Azera could hardly be easier. Since the Azera can only be configured in two ways, your only real decision is whether the $5,200 upgrade to the Limited is worth the price. If you intend to live with your Azera for a long time, it might well be -- especially in view of the additional active-safety features.