Used 2012 Hyundai Azera

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. It offers the best features (many of them standard) and still qualifies as a terrific value. If only it drove better. Moving Azera toward the sportier side of the category highlights suspension and steering shortcomings not uncommon in the Hyundai lineup – it’s neither the most fun nor the softest-riding car in the class – but from a bang-for-the-buck perspective, the 2012 Azera is untouchable.

The least impressive thing about the 2012 Hyundai Azera – at least when fitted with the larger 19-inch wheels – is how it drives. The engine and transmission combination is smooth, responsive and powerful, but the Azera’s ride, handling and steering all leave something to be desired. The large sedan manages road imperfections with less poise than its competitors, and the fuel-saving electric power steering system makes for a car/driver relationship with little chemistry. The Azera can leave you feeling exposed where you want cover, and out of touch when you want a direct connection. Do these shortcomings amount to deal breakers? Not for most buyers. Just be sure to take a good test drive, and consider the 18-inch wheels (you’ll save some money when the time comes for new tires, too).

Especially when upgraded with the Technology Package, the 2012 Hyundai Azera’s passenger cabin isn’t just the most appealing in the category, it puts some luxury cars to shame. It offers more convenience and infotainment technologies than any of its competitors, good front seats (not a Hyundai trademark) and nine airbags including a driver’s knee airbag that helps keep the driver seated upright and properly positioned in case of impact.

Stylish sheet metal, integrated exhaust outlets and crisp LED lighting all around – daytime running lights, taillights and side-mirror-integrated turn indicators – all contribute to the Azera’s sporty, class-above charisma.

STANDARD EQUIPMENT
One of our favorite features is actually a collection of many: the new Azera’s impressive roster of standard features.

CLIMATE-CONTROLLED SEATING
Heated front seats are increasingly common across all segments, but the 2012 Hyundai Azera’s ventilated, cooling front seats and its even rarer heated rear seats are nice touches.

The 2012 Hyundai Azera has one of the category’s higher starting sticker prices – $32,875 with destination – but also boasts the most impressive list of standard equipment. Highlights include a navigation system with 7-inch screen and backup camera, keyless entry and push-button start, front and rear heated leather seats, BlueLink telematics with OnStar-like safety and convenience services, Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity, plus iPod/USB and auxiliary audio ports. If you’re not interested in all the high-tech goodness and don’t want to pay for it, the 2012 Ford Taurus is available with fewer features starting at $26,350.

We’re fans of simplified pricing setups, and the 2012 Hyundai Azera’s is particularly uncomplicated. Either you go with the base model outlined above, or you spend another $4,000 – a grand total of $36,875 – for an appealing group of upgrades that includes a panoramic moonroof, ventilated (cooling) front seats, Infinity premium sound system, Xenon headlights, sunshades for all three rear windows, power driver’s seat cushion extension (added thigh support for longer legs), seat position memory with power-adjustable steering wheel, rear parking sensors, and 19-inch wheels.

The 2012 Hyundai Azera features a powerful and efficient 3.3-liter V6 engine that sends power to the front wheels via a 6-speed automatic transmission with a manual shift mode. It’s among the category’s more impressive powertrains.

3.3-liter V6
293 horsepower @ 6,400 rpm
255 lb-ft of torque @ 5,200 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 20/28 mpg