I am thinking of replacing my 2004 Lexus ES 330.
Hyundai’s Azera has stood atop the automaker’s sedan lineup as a premium offering since it was introduced, but has recently been eclipsed by the new rear-wheel-drive Genesis luxury sports sedan. That doesn’t mean the Azera has become obsolete, however; it still has a valid niche as a front-wheel-drive premium sedan.
The Azera should have a similar ride/feel to your current ES 330, as both are comfy, smooth-riding FWD sedans, although the Azera won't be exactly as smooth or quiet as your ES 330. Compared to the current ES 350, though, the Azera is a bit out of its league, as the ES is a full-on luxury car that costs $10,000 more than the $24,000 Azera, which is along the lines of a premium sedan. The Azera’s competition includes the Toyota Avalon, Buick Lucerne and Nissan Maxima.
Cars.com editor Kelsey Mays sums up the Azera’s place in the market in his review of the 2008 Azera below. For Kelsey’s complete review, go here.
Azera in the Market
“Full-size cars are in a tough spot these days. The segment has dropped some 30 percent in sales so far this year, according to J.D. Power data, as buyers flock toward cheaper midsize cars with better mileage and, increasingly, similar luxury features. Caught between the Sonata and Genesis, the Azera seems in a particular bind: The prospect of low-30s mileage may send some buyers toward the Sonata, while leather-trimmed dashboards and rear-wheel-drive performance could send others toward the Genesis. (A Genesis exodus, if you will.)
It's a shame, because in between is a fine sedan that's more refined than the Sonata and more comfortable — if less engaging — than the Genesis. The Azera has a distinct flavor that makes it worth keeping in Hyundai's lineup. I just hope buyers are willing to give it a try.”
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THIS CAR IS NOTHING LIKE WHAT THEIR DESCRIBING. I BOUGHT AN 08 AZERA USED THIS YEAR WITH 8400 MILES ON IT, AND HAVE HAD NOTHING BUT PROBLEMS WITH IT. THE CUP HOLDER LID BROKE, THE THROTTLE SENSOR WENT OUT, THE LIGHTS KEEP GOING DIM AND BRIGHT, THE HEATER FAN KEEPS GOING ON AND OFF, AND THE DEALER DONT KNOW WHAT TO DO ABOUT IT. I WOULD TRADE IT, BUT NOBODY WANTS TO GIVE YOU ANYTHING FOR IT. I WOULD SELL IT BUT NOBODY WANTS TO BUY IT, SO IF YOUR NOT A GUTTON FOR PUNISHMENT, THEN PASS ON THE AZERA. BUYER BEWARE