Overview & Reviews

Larger and more luxurious than the average midsize family sedan, the Hyundai Azera slots between the Sonata and Genesis sedans in Hyundai's lineup. It provides impressive interior room, features and power for a price that's thousands less than many competing vehicles. Buyers who have owned a domestic full-size sedan in the past and are looking for a new vehicle will want to check out the Hyundai Azera. It prioritizes comfort, luxury, safety and value, and is well-suited both for commuting and long-distance trips.

Current Hyundai Azera
The Azera comes in base and Limited trim levels. Both are powered by a 3.3-liter V6 engine that produces 293 horsepower. The only transmission offered is a six-speed automatic with manual shift control, which routes power to the front wheels.

Even the base Azera comes with keyless ignition/entry, blind-spot monitoring, dual-zone automatic climate control, leather upholstery, powered and heated front seats, Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity, a rearview camera, Hyundai's BlueLink emergency communications and a six-speaker audio system. The Limited adds xenon headlamps, power-folding mirrors, a power-adjustable steering wheel, driver memory settings, ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, an upgraded surround-sound audio system and a navigation system. Limited buyers may add bigger wheels, a panoramic sunroof, rear parking sensors and window sunshades.

In reviews we've been impressed with the Hyundai Azera's overall competence. The potent V6 provides swift acceleration and good fuel economy, while the six-speed automatic provides smooth, if somewhat leisurely, shifts. The suspension is clearly tuned for optimal ride comfort, though handling doesn't suffer noticeably, as there's none of the floaty feeling one might associate with large sedans. Overall, the roomy Azera is quite impressive and is an excellent choice for a comfortable, upscale large sedan.

Used Hyundai Azera Models
The Hyundai Azera was redesigned for 2012. Compared to the first-generation Azera, it's considerably more stylish and boasts more power, as well as a higher-quality interior. Not much has changed since, though for its first two years this Azera came in only one, loaded trim level.

The first-generation Azera was produced from 2006-'11. It was generally regarded as a decent, well-rounded large sedan. There were a number of changes throughout the car's run, however, so we'd advise paying attention to specific years if you're considering one from this era. This Azera was offered in three trim levels: GLS, SE and Limited. The GLS and SE came pretty well equipped; the main options were leather seating and a premium sound system. The Limited had those features as standard, along with additional equipment. A navigation system was optional for the Limited in the car's latter years.

At its debut, the Azera GLS was powered by a 3.3-liter V6 that produced 234 hp and 226 pound-feet of torque. The Azera SE and Limited sported a 3.8-liter V6 that made 263 hp and 257 lb-ft of torque. A five-speed automatic transmission was standard on all Azeras.

As for changes, the GLS received more standard features in 2008 and essentially replaced the SE. Satellite radio, a navigation system and the surround-sound system also joined the 2008 features list. For 2009, the Azera's steering and suspension were revised, while different interior lighting, a new grille and an iPod/USB audio jack were welcome additions. For the final model year, Hyundai upped the power output to 260 hp and 233 lb-ft of torque for the GLS, and 283 hp and 262 lb-ft of torque for the Limited. The transmission was also upgraded to six speeds. Fuel economy was also up, so if you can swing a 2011 Azera, it's likely the pick of the litter.

In editorial reviews, we typically found the Azera's awkwardly tall seating position as one of its main liabilities. But overall we found much more praise-worthy attributes in the form of its excellent interior design and materials, refined and quiet ride, powerful V6, strong brakes, roomy backseat and value for the money.

User Reviews:

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  Good value, nice vehcile - 2009 Hyundai Azera
  By L&R - March 6 - 8:58 pm

  Have owned a 2009 GLS with the Premium Package for 2 months/1,600mi. Didn’t need the extra bells and the larger engine, so saved a few $$$. Comfortable ride and generously sized for 2 teens in the back seat. Does not feel big and is easy to park and maneuver in traffic. Plenty of power on hills (we live at 6,800 ft in Colorado and go up and down in elevation constantly), plus an average 21-22mpg on about 50/50 city/hwy driving. (yes, I do drive it nicely) There is plenty of power available if you choose to use it. I was quite surprised when I “jumped on it” the first time-got up to speed in no time! We did look at Honda, Toyota and Nissan and are happy with our decision.

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  Better than BMWs or Lexus for the price - 2009 Hyundai Azera
  By Gary - March 6 - 12:23 am

  I wanted the Azera ever since they came out and finally purchased the loaded Limited with navigation. The car is fantastic fun to drive. great firm suspension with a sports car feel interior is top notch. The many features you get with the Limited would cost a fortune if purchased with a BMW or Lexus. Im looking forward to t nice road trip to the Florida Keys in April and expect to get 27 or so MPG. The 3.8 ltr engine is real quick and powerful. Passing on the interstate is easy. You have to remember to check the speedometer because 80 and 90 mph comes up before you realize it. You cant go wrong with the Azera.

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  Great in the sun not in the snow - 2007 Hyundai Azera
  By junelle fisher - February 26 - 7:38 pm

  Car is very Nice love the comfort and design and very sporty not very good in snow and paint starting to chip near wheel Wells tires not good in rain or slush or very little snow steering wheel wood grain finish coming off like is chipping

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  What a surprise!! - 2006 Hyundai Azera
  By wamba - February 11 - 3:23 pm

  We decided to purchase a new car for my wife. We looked at several vehicles, and ingress/egress is imporant because she has neck problems/pain. We stopped at a Mazda dealer to look at the 6 and the dealer sold Hyundais as well. WE looked at the Sonata (pretty nice for the $) and then the Azera....Wow! Im 66" and we have two teens that are over 6 as well. The comfort was great, lots of leg room and head room in back, the interior appointments are good quality. Took the car for a ride, performance is more than adequate and the ride is smooth and quiet. Long-term experience will tell, but at first impression, Hyundai has made phenomenal strides.

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  Doubting Hyundai buyer - 2006 Hyundai Azera
  By JW - February 10 - 3:17 pm

  When you turn your car on, does your car turn you on? Mine does! The only problem I had was the position the highlights were reflecting on the road, but the dealership adjusted. This car is wonderful. From the sleek exterior design, the plush interior to the horse power under the hood. My husband forced me to test drive a Sonata, but when we went into the dealership and I saw this Azera I knew it was something special. Like other comments Ive read, its hard to believe there arent more on the road.

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  Watch out for this car suspension! - 2009 Hyundai Azera
  By Carlos - February 6 - 9:16 pm

  The driving is fun. Powerfull car nice well finish lots of details making this car amazing. The suspension is not so great, is very stiff so if you dont like the feel of the road "Do not purchase this car" I cant wait to trade in for some other and remember I purchase this car not even 3 months ago.

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  You Bought a What? - 2016 Hyundai Azera
  By Jim Halerz - January 27 - 7:25 am

  I have owned many of the upscale brands including Mercedes to Lexus. I am very pleasantly surprised at how the Azera stands up to the higher-priced spread in comparison. The exterior style isnt necessarily a show-stopper but my black and tan Limited with 19 inch wheels stills looks pretty cool coming down the street. The interior is top quality with heated, perforated leather seating, a great sound system and plenty of room -- front and back. The 293 hp engine has plenty of acceleration and gets up to cruising speed on the highway very quickly and smoothly. And a big, big plus is high 20s mileage with regular gas. I considered a pre-owned 5-series Beemer but am very happy that I chose the Azera. This car has all the bells and whistles for under $40K... hard not to give it a chance.

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  Great quality car for a reasonable price - 2006 Hyundai Azera
  By Jack Kapp - January 27 - 3:06 am

  It was my intention to choose between the Hyundai Azera (limited) and the Toyota Avalon. Aside from a significant price saving, I have found the bigger trunk and inside dimensions as real pluses over the Avalon. The overall quality after 5 months is quite impressive to me, and it is a very fun car to drive. It is very good in the snow and on slippery roads. I wish I could get higher gas mileage.

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  Great Package of Value - 2007 Hyundai Azera
  By Dave V - January 26 - 7:03 pm

  This car can compare to vehicles costing twice as much. There are a very few minor quirks that will likely be worked out in future revisions, but overall this car is a top value for a discriminating car owner. Hyundai is going through the same evolution Honda & Toyota went through in their quest of the USA market share.

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  Very satisfied owner - 2006 Hyundai Azera
  By C.A.Heer - January 26 - 7:16 am

  As an 87 year old I have purchased 21 new cars in my lifetime, all made in the USA. I can honestly say my new Azera is far and away the finest car I have ever owned and it was $15,000 less than the sticker price of my last Cadillac DeVille.