With a complete redesign of the Azera scheduled for 2011, Hyundai makes no changes to its full-size luxury sedan for 2010. The Azera debuted in 2006 as the automaker's answer to entry-level luxury vehicles from Lexus, Infiniti, BMW, and Acura, among others. The Azera scores well in side-by-side comparisons with most of its competitors, delivering solid performance, a smooth ride, good handling, and a number of luxury-oriented features, all at a relatively affordable price.

For 2010, Hyundai continues to offer the Azera in GLS and Limited trims, each powered by a different V6 engine. A 3.3-liter V6, which produces 234 hp and 226 lb-ft of torque, drives the GLS trim. The engine incorporates Continuously Variable Valve Timing (CVVT), which improves fuel efficiency, helps reduce emissions, and ensures responsive performance, according to the automaker. A 263-hp, 3.8-liter V6, generating 257 lb-ft of torque and also featuring CVVT, powers the Limited trim. Both engines link to a five-speed automatic transmission with Shiftronic, which enables drivers to shift gears manually by tapping the gear shift lever up or down.

The GLS with the smaller V6 achieves fuel economy ratings of 18/26 mpg, according to EPA estimates, while the Limited with the larger V6 manages 17/26 mpg. Both engines run on regular unleaded fuel, and provide smooth, spirited acceleration, according to owners and reviewers.

The 2010 Azera comes only in a front-wheel-drive configuration. It rides on a fully independent suspension with double wishbones in the front and a multilink arrangement in the rear, ensuring a balanced, comfortable ride with good maneuverability and agile handling. However, some owners find the ride a bit harsh for a luxury sedan, especially over bumpy road surfaces, and drivers will notice some body lean in tight corners. Four-wheel disc brakes provide confident braking.

The Azera seats five passengers in its roomy cabin. The plush seats provide plenty of support for long-distance traveling, as well as generous legroom in both the front and back. Standard features for both trims include dual-zone automatic climate control, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, metalgrain accents, and blue backlighting for the gauges, switches, and buttons. The Limited trim adds power-adjustable heated front seats, leather upholstery, a power glass sunroof, and a power rear sunshade, which helps keep the cabin cool.

A 172-watt, six-speaker AM/FM audio system with a CD player and an MP3 input jack comes standard in the GLS trim, while the Limited trim retains its 315-watt, 10-speaker Infinity system with a 6-CD changer and a USB port. Options for the Limited trim include an LG touchscreen navigation system and a 12-speaker, 605-watt Infinity Logic7 surround-sound audio system. In addition, drivers can add an optional wood-grain-trimmed steering wheel and door pulls.

The Azera's large, wide trunk offers 16.6 cubic feet of cargo space. The trunk lid opens high, which eases loading and unloading, and enables drivers to stow large items.

Standard safety features for the Azera include antilock brakes, electronic stability control, traction control, and a full range of airbags. The 2010 Azera rides on 17-inch alloy wheels.