Is it worth?

[srinath]

Hello,

After waiting so many weeks for 2013 Sonata Hybrid, finally I decided to go with either Azera or Sonata Limited Turbo.

I've received these quotes for the following vehicles. I didn't see any major changes in Azera when compared to Sonata Limited Turbo except Memory seats, Power-tilt steering, 19" wheels, parking sensors etc.

2013 Sonata Limited Turbo (with premium package) + wheel locks +floor mats + rear spoiler - OTD: 30,000

2013 Azera (with Technology package) + wheel locks + floor mats - OTD: 36,000

Any suggestions/comments would be appreciated. Thank you!

[MrVivona]

The Azera has more horsepower, is quieter, and the seats are more comfortable. It is a higher level model and would separate you from the more common Sonata. If the panoramic sunroof is not that big of a deal for you, the Azera without the technology package would be a better comparison. It is well equipped and would compare well with the upgraded Sonata.

[srinath]

Thanks for your prompt reply. I test driven Azera and it is nice. Steering comfortness is very good. I need sunroof, navigation etc. So I need Technology package.

But the difference between two vehicle is almost $6000. What I'm thinking is, If it is over 32K, to go with 2013 Ford Fusion with all new tech features! But the interior on Fusion is very very cheap!

[Vicious-Poodle]

Originally Posted by srinath

Thanks for your prompt reply. I test driven Azera and it is nice. Steering comfortness is very good. I need sunroof, navigation etc. So I need Technology package.

But the difference between two vehicle is almost $6000. What I'm thinking is, If it is over 32K, to go with 2013 Ford Fusion with all new tech features! But the interior on Fusion is very very cheap!

I think you also need to take into consideration the Azera is a safer car and for me it's been problem free for almost 4 months. I gave up an Acura to get the Azera and was more impressed. Ford's been having some issues with their cars technology. You'll be better off with the Azera.

[3M-TA3]

The Fusion, while nice, isn't in the same class as the Azera. It's more in line with the Sonata, but in my opinion, having spent 2 weeks with each as rentals in the last year, the Sonata walks all over the top of it. I did like the Fusion quite a bit, though.

I just got a Sonata Limited turbo, and really, really like it. You can't go wrong with either the Sonata or Azera. I chose the Sonata mostly because it fit my budget a bit better and because it's a bit more economical for my long daily commute.

If you want a larger car, but still not too big, the Azera is outstanding. It also has some features that you can't get on a Sonata, being as others have mentioned a higher scale vehicle. Read what Edmunds has to say on it - it really leads the segment it's in.

[MrVivona]

Originally Posted by srinath

I need sunroof, navigation etc. So I need Technology package.!

The Azera without the technology package still has navigation and back-up camera. The only things you really lose by dropping the technology package, other than the sunroof, is the stereo upgrade, memory seats, window shades, larger tires and a few other minor upgrades. Most of these things are not available on the Sonata which you would be happy with, so it really comes down to paying $6,000 for a sunroof. You really have to ask yourself if a sunroof is that important. Another way to look at it is if the Sonata Limited had the option to drop the sunroof and save $6,000 on the price, would you still keep the sunroof on the Sonata?

[PokerMunkee]

Don't rule out the Kia Optima SX. It has all of the goodies the Azera has but for around $30k.

The SX has the following over the Sonata Limited:
- HID headlights
- LED tails
- Memory seat
- Power passenger seat
- Auto up/down passenger front window
- Cooled front seats
- Power folding mirrors

And other misc stuff.

Same 2.0 Turbo with 34MPG highway and same 6 speed auto with paddle shifters.

[srinath]

I saw that before. The only issue with Optima is Front seats are very short!. Is Kia provides 5 year warranty stuff like Hyundai?

[PokerMunkee]

Yes, same 5yr/60k B2B and 10yr/100k powertrain.

I had a 2011 Optima 2.4 EX before my Sonata 2.0T Limited and it was a great car. Just got a good deal on a demo Sonata 2.0T, so I jumped. I liked the red interior better. It did feel a little smaller inside than the Sonata, but they are pretty much identical.

I personally really like the Azera. I'm hoping they discount them in the future so I can get one on lease for under $360/month in the Tech package. The Sonata really needs to get the same options the Optima gets, then it will be a clear winner for $32k. But it will compete against the Azera, so it probably won't happen

[Vicious-Poodle]

2013 Kia Cadenza is coming out next year which is based on the Azera. I expect it will be a little more expensive but have more features.