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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  BETTER and BETTER EACH DAY - 2007 Hyundai Azera
  By lindalee - January 2 - 10:18 am

  I research this site among others before buying and I definitely am happy after 3 months. So glad I finally decided to get rid of my volvo s80, which was always a headache. I get 28mpg on highways on my Azera, which surprised me. I love the sound system, xm radio, seats wipers and auto dimming on mirrors. I bought a garmin gps which tucks neatly into the open storage under the radio.

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  No apologies: One nice car! - 2007 Hyundai Azera
  By Andy Whalen - January 1 - 6:50 pm

  This car is excellent. I hate to say "for the money" because that sounds like compromise Azera makes none. The design is tasteful, classy, elegant and understated, the interior is comfortable and fully appointed, and the driving dynamics are quick, smooth, nimble and competent. No torque oversteer. 5-speed transmission + VVT 263hp V6 turns the car into a ROCKET. Every safety feature in the books. We liked my wifes so much I bought myself one two months later. Feels as good behind the wheel as a GS, 5 or E, for 2/3 the price of an IS, 3 or C. Like I said: NO APOLOGIES! Hyundai has EARNED major respect from a car nut here, and Ill certainly be in line at the dealer when Genesis arrives!

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  Im Sold - 2006 Hyundai Azera
  By Bored with GM - December 31 - 7:06 am

  I have been an American sedan driver for 20 years. I decided a change was in order. I looked at BMW, Audi, Toyota, and Lexus. I saw an Azera on the road 2 months ago and slowed down to see what it was. I did my research, test drove it a couple of times and bought it last week. Id recommend it whole heartedly. I bought the Limited with the premium package (6 CD Infinity Speakers, Sunroof). I love the interior and its well put together. Handles great and fun to drive. The past 2 cars I have owned were both Cadillacs, and I am looking forward to driving this car for years to come.

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  Korean Rolls Royce - 2007 Hyundai Azera
  By Sion126 - December 29 - 12:39 am

  I am impressed with this car. Great handling, nice ride, awesome performance. Early days yet, but the best car I have owned so far and my fourth brand new one. My last new car was a Porsche Boxster, which was OK. This car for the $ is just awesome. I never enjoyed my Porsche. I am a tall guy - 6ft4, and this is just the perfect fit for me. My first new car was an Opel Monza, then a 95 Accent, Vauxhall Corsa Diesel, Porsche Boxster and now this Azera. I had plenty of used BMW, Mercedes and Renaults as well over the years.

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  Incredible Car - 2006 Hyundai Azera
  By cfoazera - December 28 - 7:40 pm

  I just picked up the Azera. Im selling my 06 Sonata LX. Another Great Car. The commercials and pricing on the Azera made me jump. The car drives like a BMW/Lexus/Mercedes. Great power, ESC, TC and all the other options are great. I drove the other day through 15 types of rain in an hour, the auto wipers adjusted PERFECTLY everytime. The car feels like it can take turns even better than my Sonata, and I thought that was great. This is a $40,000 car, without a doubt. Luckily we are on the cusp of Hyundai regaining Market share after previous years of producing crappy cars. Buy now, the prices WILL go up, the car is simply outstanding.

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  Why drive anything else? - 2006 Hyundai Azera
  By Bob - December 19 - 3:03 pm

  Ive owned many different cars in the last 32 years - all European, and Ive kept an eye on the market. The Azera is, in my opinion, the best luxury car you can get for the money. To get a comparably equipped car from anyone else, youd have to spend at least $5k more, and you probably still wouldnt have rain-sensing wipers. The Azera is very quick, handles well, and has clean, distinctive, styling. And dont forget the LED tail lights, as they afford those behind you an extra margin when youre stopping. Though city economy is not great, Ive consistently acheived 28+ MPG on the highway. I just dont see how you could go wrong. This is the frugal buyers luxury car!

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  2006 Hyundai Azera - 2006 Hyundai Azera
  By WILLIAM SHRIGLEY - December 19 - 1:12 am

  I work at an auction yard, and drive all makes and models of cars, and the only car that can match the Azera is the BMW, but it costs to much money.

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  No more Mercedez and Jaq - 2007 Hyundai Azera
  By iam0234 - December 14 - 3:40 pm

  3 years ago my wife traded in her Mecedez for a HG350. It was the best deal for the money weve ever had. It is roomier than the Merc, drives as well (and better in the snow), has more options and quality perfect. 8 months ago, I had to find a replacement for my Jaq. Never thought we could get over the mental hurdle of having two Korean cars in the driveway when for years we had driven nothing but the expensive European makes. After much research, we were on the way to buy a BMW 5. We gave Azera a test drive for the sake of it and ended up with a deal we couldnt refuse. Other than the nameplate, Azera is as good as a Merc E or a BMW 5, at less than half the price.

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  azera - 2006 Hyundai Azera
  By john - December 8 - 8:40 am

  have only had it 3 weeks but it is a very nice car, bought for wife and she really enjoys it, very quite on the road, no outside noise nor vehicle noise. would reccommend it to anyone and have to several co-workers. would buy again, lot of car for the money

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  Love It!!!! - 2007 Hyundai Azera
  By Mike - December 8 - 6:58 am

  I was looking for a car I could drive 25,000 per year and was fuel efficient. I was looking at the 2008 Sonata and to get the features I wanted I had to get the Limited with the leather. The salesman asked me to see if I would consider another car so he showed me the Azera. I am so glad he did. This car has tons of room and extremely quiet. Co-workers have quickly commented on how quiet it is. With about 1300 miles on the car I am averaging 27.3 mpg according to the trip computer. I love the cloth seats because living in Florida with leather can be a challenge for the bottom. The seats are very comfy The A/C cools the car quickly. I would highly recommend this car!!