Exterior FeaturesThe redesigned 2012 Hyundai Azera adopts the automaker's "Fluidic Sculpture" design language this year. The full-size sedan is equipped with standard 18-inch aluminum wheels and LED taillights, with wheel and lighting upgrades available as options.
Interior Features
Hyundai claims the new Azera has more front head and leg room than other full-size sedans: 45 inches of leg room and 40 inches of head room. Standard equipment includes leather, power front seats, heated front and rear seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, and manual rear side window sunshades. Additionally, all 2012 Azeras are equipped with a navigation system, rearview camera, Bluetooth hands-free calling and audio streaming, HD radio, USB/iPod ports, and satellite radio. A free 90-day trial subscription to Blue Link telematics is also standard.
Optional Features
The 2012 Hyundai Azera can be upgraded with 19-inch aluminum wheels, Xenon HID headlights with LED running lights, panoramic sunroof, ventilated front seats, power rear window sunshade, and an Infinity premium sound system.
Under the Hood
A direct-injected, 3.3-liter V-6 engine under the hood of the 2012 Azera generates 293 horsepower. The 2012 Azera weighs 3,605 pounds, which is hundreds of pounds less than some competitors, Hyundai says. A 6-speed Shiftronic automatic transmission delivers the power to the Azera's front wheels. An Active Eco mode produces a 5-percent gain in fuel economy when activated, according to Hyundai.
Fuel Economy
The EPA says the 2012 Azera should return 20 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway.
Safety
All 2012 Hyundai Azeras are equipped with nine standard air bags, including a driver's knee air bag. Stability and traction control, anti-lock brakes with brake assist, and a rearview camera are also standard. The Azera features an impact-reducing front seat design that Hyundai says eliminates the need for active head restraints.
The Azera is equipped with a standard Blue Link telematics system. Service is free for the first 90 days. Thereafter, the owner must pay a monthly subscription rate. Blue Link features SOS Emergency Assistance service, Automatic Crash Notification, virtual geographic boundary setting, and the ability to establish curfew and speed alerts.
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has performed frontal- and side-impact tests on the 2012 Azera. The full-size family sedan received the highest rating of "Good" in both tests. The IIHS has not evaluated the Azera for rear-impact injury prevention or roof strength. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has not conducted crash tests on the new Azera as this report is published.
