By Drew Johnson
Sunday, Aug 24th, 2008 @ 10:46 pm

Hyundai is preparing to launch its all-new Equus sedan in regions outside of the U.S., but it appears some of the big sedan’s parts will make it State-side in the Genesis sedan. Although the Genesis just launched with Hyundai’s new 4.6L Tau V8, the Korean automaker is reportedly working on a larger 5.0L version of the new powerplant for U.S. consumption.
According to Motor Trend, Hyundai engineers are currently working on a 5.0L version of the Tau used in the Equus for use in the North American market. However, fuel economy will determine if the new engine will ultimately get the green light for the North American market. The Korean automaker has set an internal goal of 17/25 mpg city/highway – which matches the 4.6L Genesis – and is trying to achieve that goal through the use of direct injection. Once development is complete, the new engine will likely have between 400 and 420 horsepower.

Of note, Hyundai also has a 5.5L version of the Tau in its arsenal, but has deemed that engine to thirsty for North America.

It has also been rumored that Hyundai is working on forced induction versions of its Tau V8, which could be applied to 4.6L and 5.0L versions.

No word on when the new engine could hit the market.

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