Used 2014 Hyundai Azera

The 2014 Hyundai Azera blends a seductive outer skin with a lush interior filled with premium amenities usually reserved for cars costing tens of thousands more. The Azera is powerful yet relatively fuel-efficient, and although we wish it exhibited a bit more athleticism in the corners, we can’t complain about the smooth and well-regulated ride. Positioned against the Toyota Avalon and Nissan Maxima, the Azera’s standard content list is impressive, as are its comfortable seats, intuitive electronics and well-appointed interior. As driving tastes can vary, we advise taking the Azera for a good long test drive to judge for yourself, but those looking for comfort over performance will likely enjoy the experience.

You’ll get no argument from us that the Azera’s 293-horsepower V6 is a formidable engine, or that its 6-speed automatic is one of the most competent transmissions we’ve tested. However, when it comes to the Azera’s overall ride and handling, things are not so rosy. Hyundai’s electric power steering lacks feel and the Azera’s suspension, while comfortable over smooth surfaces, is easily unsettled over rough or choppy pavement. Toss in the 19-inch wheels that come standard with the Premium Package and the Azera’s ride goes from acceptable to harsh, but with no return of improved grip or cornering.

Especially when upgraded with the Premium Package, the 2014 Hyundai Azera’s passenger cabin pretty much tops its class and even puts pressure on some well-established luxury cars. It offers more convenience and infotainment technologies than any of its competitors, comfortable front seats for both driver and passenger (not a Hyundai trademark) and nine airbags including a driver’s knee airbag. The Premium Package adds a panoramic moonroof, a power rear sunshade and manual side-window sunshades.

Hyundai calls its current styling theme “Fluidic Sculpture,” and the rakish 2014 Azera is a fine example. Aggressive sheetmetal with bold character lines in the flanks, integrated exhaust outlets and crisp LED lighting all around – daytime running lights, taillights and side-mirror-integrated turn indicators – contribute to the Azera’s sporty, class-above charisma.

STANDARD EQUIPMENT
Even with its reconfigured content this year, for the money, the 2014 Hyundai Azera offers a staggeringly rich standard content bundle.

CLIMATE-CONTROLLED SEATING
Heated front seats are still an option on some sedans, but they’re standard on the Azera, with the Limited trim adding ventilated cooling front seats and heated rear seats.

The 2014 Hyundai Azera has one of the category’s higher starting sticker prices – $31,895 with destination – but also boasts the most impressive list of standard equipment. Highlights include keyless entry and push-button start, automatic climate control, rearview camera, auto headlights, 18-inch alloy wheels, heated front seats, leather seating, BlueLink telematics with OnStar-like safety and convenience services, Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity, plus iPod/USB and auxiliary audio ports. The Limited adds navigation, 14-speaker Infinity audio, heated and cooling front seats, heated rear seats, 10-way power driver’s seat, power tilt/telescoping steering wheel and power folding side mirrors.

We’re big fans of simplified pricing structures, and the 2014 Hyundai Azera’s is about as simple as they come. Do you want the Limited trim’s Premium Package? That’s the only question, as all the available options are bundled into that one group. For another $2,150 you add a panoramic moonroof, 19-inch wheels, a power rear sunshade, manual side window sunshades, and rear park assistance.

The 2014 Hyundai Azera features a strong 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, and one of the most efficient; that EPA highway estimate of 29 mpg, in particular, is notable considering the power of the engine and the size of the car it has to move.

3.3-liter V6
293 horsepower @ 6,400 rpm
255 lb-ft of torque @ 5,200 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 19/29 mpg