Hyundai is on a mission to redefine its image and become a respected, mainstream brand in the U.S. market. To confuse matters, Hyundai is also looking to get into the luxury market with the all-new Equus model -- a flagship sedan aimed at some of the best full-size sedans coming from the German and Japanese competition. For the latest model year, Hyundai has updated the Equus with a new 5.0-liter V8 and an eight-speed automatic transmission.
Likely the first thing to grab attention for buyers concerning the Equus is that of pricing. For those seeking a luxury sedan on a budget (relatively speaking), Equus stands essentially alone in the large sedan segment by starting at $59,000 including destination for the base model, and $66,00 for the range-topping Equus Ultimate trim level.
Both prices represent the best values in the segment, a fact that Hyundai is hoping will attract customers despite the brand's lack of luxury cache.
In addition to changing the market space with the Equus' low pricing, the automaker has also created a program to be known as "Your time, your place," in which a special sales associate will come to you to demo the vehicle, rather than forcing you to hassle with visiting a dealer.
There is also be a program, known as "At your service," which includes a valet service to provide in-home pickup for all vehicle maintenance. The Equus comes with free service, including oil changes, wiper blades, brake pads and more for five years and 60,000 miles, all with complimentary valet service included.
For the latest model year, Hyundai has switched to a paper owner's manual for the Equus - the company previously gave owners an iPad loaded up with the manual in digital form.
Equus brings (upgraded) power to the table
New for the latest model year is a 5.0-liter “Tau” V8 that produces a healthy 429 horsepower at 6,400 rpm and 376 lb-ft. of torque at 5,000 rpm. Efficiency-aiding measures like direct injection, a relatively high 11.5:1 compression ratio and an in-house developed eight-speed automatic transmission help the engine to return 15 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway. Both figure are just one mpg off those of the outgoing 4.6-liter V8, which featured 44 fewere horsepower.
Luxurious Ride
In order that it be considered a truly competitive luxury sedan, Hyundai has equipped the Equus with an electronically controlled air suspension. Hyundai says this system allows drivers to choose between a firm ride for a sporty feel on smooth roads, or switch to a softer ride to minimize the bumps and dips of imperfect surfaces. The Equus also features Continuous Damping Control (CDC), which automatically monitors road conditions and adjust damping force accordingly, for the optimal ride quality.
Despite its large size, the Equus features a 37.7-foot turning radius and a variable-effort steering system to reduce the feel of its substantial size.
Technology For All
As with any true luxury car, the Equus comes loaded with technology typically only found on high-end automobiles. Occupants will enjoy a Lexicon audio system with LOGIC 7 technology – including a 608 watt, 13-channel amplifier powering 17 speakers in a 7.1-channel configuration. Making sure all bases are covered, the Equus also includes HD Radio, XM Radio and iPod integration.
As Hyundai is using Cadillac, BMW and Lexus as benchmarks, the Equus features an iDrive-type system as well as many other luxury amenities. The new flagship also utilizes Hyundai’s first application of LED headlamps.
Full-Size
The new model is a whopping eight inches longer than the Genesis, and comes in at 203.1 inches of total length – right between the slightly shorter LS 460, and slightly longer S550. The Equus is roughly half of an inch wider than its competition, and the rest of interior dimensions fall within reasonable ranges of one another, with no clear single winner for interior space.
Trim Level Breakdown
The Equus is available in Signature and Ultimate trim levels.
The Equus Signature comes standard with a bevy of luxury items, including the aforementioned Lexicon audio system, Smart Cruise Control, HID headlamps, front and rear parking assistance systems with a rearview camera, premium leather seating, Microfiber suede headliner, driver seat massage, heated and cooled front seats and a heated wood and leather steering wheel.
Stepping up to Equus Ultimate brings a forward-view parking and cornering camera, a power trunk lid, reclining rear seats with powered headrests, cooled rear seats, rear seat massage and leg support, a rear seat refrigerator and a rear seat entertainment system.
Occupant Safety
The Equus is fitted with dual front airbags, a driver’s knee airbag, four front and rear seat-mounted side-impact airbags and two roof-mounted side-curtain airbags for front and rear seat passengers. Traction and stability control systems as well as electronic brake-force distribution and brake assist are also included.
Key Competitors
The rivals to the Hyundai Equus include more traditionally prestigious models (with commensurately higher price tags) like the BMW 7-Series, Lexus LS 460, Mercedes-Benz S-Class and the Jaguar XJ.