2013 Hyundai Azera Video Review

When you think of big, full-size sedans, what comes to your mind? There are the usual suspects: the Chevrolet Impala, Ford Taurus, Nissan Maxima, and Toyota Avalon - but what about Hyundai? No? Well it should, especially considering Hyundai has given the Azera a make-over for 2013.

Now if you’re scratching your head and wondering what is the Hyundai Azera, allow me to give you a brief history lesson. The Azera was introduced back in 2006 to take the place of the XG300 full-size sedan and become Hyundai’s flagship. However, the Azera fell into the shadows thanks in part to the Genesis (which took the flagship position) and the swoopy Sonata midsize sedan. However, at the 2011 L.A. Auto Show, Hyundai decided it was time to bring the Azera out of the shadows and introduce the model you see here.

The 2013 Azera starts with a design that will get anyone's attention. The front end has a large grille and a set of large, swept-back headlights with LEDs. The side profile features a set of either eighteen or nineteen-inch alloy wheels and a chrome strip running along the perimeter of the windows.

As good as the 2013 Azera looks on the outside, the interior is even better. Hyundai has really stepped up the quality of materials used inside. There are leather seats and soft touch materials used throughout. Also, being a Hyundai, it comes loaded with a surprising amount of standard equipment such as navigation, HD Radio, Bluetooth, power and heated seats, rearview camera, and Hyundai’s BlueLink telematic system.

Under the 2013 Azera’s hood is a 3.3L GDI DOHC 24-Valve V6 engine producing 293 horsepower and 255 pound-feet of torque. This is mated to a six-speed automatic that sends power to the front wheels. The EPA rates the 2013 Azera at 20 City/29 Highway/23 Combined.

The 2013 Hyundai Azera carries a base price of $32,350.