Overview & Reviews
The Hyundai Equus fittingly stands as a dark horse in the large luxury class with its competitive performance, extensive equipment roster, world-class quality and extraordinary value pricing. Lexus and Infiniti took a similar approach back in the day, and now it's Hyundai's turn. For about $60,000 when new, the Hyundai Equus offers the space, comfort and amenities of fully optioned high-end sedans costing $90,000 or even more.
Even if the Equus isn't quite as performance-oriented or impeccably built as European thoroughbreds, Hyundai is betting potential drivers will care more about the enormous cost savings. Not only that, but the Hyundai Equus appeals with its remarkably quiet and limousine-like cabin, top-drawer amenities, long warranty and unique dealer service program.
Current Hyundai Equus
The Hyundai Equus is a large luxury sedan that is based on Hyundai's previous-generation Genesis platform, but it's been enlarged to provide limousine-like interior room. Under the hood is a 5.0-liter V8 generating 429 horsepower and 376 pound-feet of torque. Power is sent to the rear wheels through an eight-speed automatic transmission.
There are two trim levels, Signature and Ultimate. The base Signature trim includes premium features like various driver warning systems (lane departure, blind-spot and rear cross-traffic), adaptive cruise control, adaptive headlights, front and rear parking sensors, a rearview camera, a sunroof and keyless ignition and entry. Inside you'll also find a power tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, heated and ventilated power front seats, heated power-reclining rear seats, premium leather upholstery, dual-zone automatic climate control, power window shades, navigation, a multimedia controller, Bluetooth, Blue Link telematics and a 17-speaker Lexicon audio system with iPod interface, satellite radio and six-CD changer.
The Hyundai Equus Ultimate's added highlights include power soft-close doors, a power trunk lid, a head-up display, forward- and surround-view cameras, power rear sunshades, ventilated rear seats with power lumbar and headrest adjustments, rear vanity mirrors and a dual-screen DVD entertainment system.
The Equus' interior is substantially nicer than what you'd expect in other Hyundais and is acceptable at its price range; however, the newer Genesis sedan is a bit nicer and any of the similarly priced or sized entries from Japanese and European makers are far superior.
Nevertheless, the Equus Ultimate trim is still intriguing with its first-class rear compartment offering a limolike ambience unmatched by other sedans at its price point. Up front, a large LCD screen and straightforward multimedia and climate controls make it relatively easy to manage the extensive high-tech features.
While the Equus V8's output looks good on paper and is perfectly capable in most situations, acceleration from a stop is not quite as energetic as you'll find in other V8-powered flagships due to its modest torque rating. Once underway, this Hyundai responds like a slightly more willing Lexus LS 460. An aggressive BMW killer it isn't, but we think there are plenty of luxury sedan shoppers who'll be more than happy with the Equus' relaxing ride, spacious cabin, myriad creature comforts and undeniable value proposition.
Used Hyundai Equus Models
The Hyundai Equus debuted in the 2011 model year. These first-year examples were powered by a 4.6-liter V8 that produced 385 hp and 333 lb-ft of torque. The more powerful 5.0-liter engine was new for 2012. Apart from lacking slightly refreshed interior and exterior styling, a few high-tech features (telematics and blind-spot/rear cross-traffic warning systems) and a three- (rather than two-) passenger rear seat for the Ultimate version, these pre-'14 Equus models are otherwise similar to the current offerings.
User Reviews:
Showing 21 through 30 of 53.00-
2011 Ultimate review - Great Job Hyundai! - 2011 Hyundai Equus
By jfortino - December 27 - 10:49 amI have owned 2 Lexus, 2 Acura, Lincoln Navigator and am turning in my Jaguar XF Premium Lease. I have test drove many cars looking for a premium luxury sedan. I took a chance on the Equus after researching for over 2 months and a number of test drives. After taking delivery and putting on 1000 miles - I am stunned at the quality of the vehicle. I was very unsure of my decision to move on a Hyundai, but relied on many of the reviews here and other places. The fit and finish is superb, and contrary to most professional reviews, the exterior of the vehicle is very sharp - I have already had a number of people asking me about the vehicle at a gas station and restaurant! Great job Hyundai!
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A lot of car for the money - 2011 Hyundai Equus
By gwpetersburg - December 24 - 2:17 amWe were looking for a little higher level of luxury and comfort than our 2006 Infiniti M35. We werent personally drawn to Mercedes, BMW, Audi, or Jaguar. As Infiniti and Lexus owners we test-drove the M37, the LS460. But after driving the Equus, it was our favorite.
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Equus - 2012 with a bigger engine - 2012 Hyundai Equus
By kabirent1 - December 12 - 12:01 amJust got my 2012 Equus yesterday. I was on a waiting list. I am a little skeptical of reviewers who got it weeks ago - how did they get the car when mine was one of the first off the boat from Korea? Anyways, the car, after 2 days is a lot of fun and seems to be a great value. It rides a little on the soft side, but with the new, more powerful engine, its acceleration is strong. Its exceedingly quiet, roomy, comfortable, and has a long list of features. The promised support seems to be very nice - time will tell if that turns out to be truth or hype. In short, if you are looking for a luxurious ride, dont need to impress anyone , and want to save big $$, this is worth a look.
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My new Equus- 2012 model - 2012 Hyundai Equus
By jfred - November 8 - 2:45 pmI have just had the car a short time and I held out for the 2012 model due to vastly improved engine and transmission. (429 HP and 8 speed). I havent opened it up yet, but it obviously has worlds of power. 0 to 60 probably near 5 secs. It is ultra quiet and very comfortable. The seat has many adjustments and the control for same is very handy. It is priced many thousands (20 to 35K) less than M-B S series, BMW 7 series, or the big Lexus, or Audi A8. Go drive it and see for yourself!r Audi A8 to 30K) less than any equivalent car from BMW, M-B,
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NOT COMFORTABLE - 2012 Hyundai Equus
By kfd1 - October 25 - 12:13 pmThe long distance comfort of this car is of serious concern. I bought this car and took a 900 mile trip a day later. Three hours into trip, my back was screaming in pain. By the end of trip, I was incapacited, with shooting pains in legs, back and arms. I am a long distance driver and convinced the Hyundia Dealer to buy the car back after showing them the articles on Autoblog about the seats (google Equus Long Distance). The dealer purchase a Lexus LS460 (14,000 miles) and I traded up. I just completed a 600 mile trip in the Lexus. No back pain or any other pain. The front seats in the Equus are poorly designed. No way to modify them, I tried and even had a pad made with memory foam.
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An outstanding car at an ordinary price - 2011 Hyundai Equus
By fastmarty - October 12 - 7:20 pmWe have had our Hyundai Equus Signature Sedan now for several weeks. It is an outstanding large luxury car at the price of an intermediate size premium car. The car is silky smooth and quiet in all driving modes and is a joy to drive. The interior is exceedingly comfortable, and the fit and finish is superb. Our only complaint is the rather pedestrian looking exterior styling.
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Great value, but you get what you pay for... - 2011 Hyundai Equus
By kpsocal - October 8 - 8:02 pmI have been driving my Ultimate Edition for 6 months now. It drives very nice, has lots of power and is very smooth. This car is an excellent value for the money. However, lets not get carried away. There is a clear difference between the quality of this vehicle and the German luxury sedans. I am starting to experience some shakes and rattles after only 6 months. Also, the iPod interface and Navigation system have some issues. Also, dont expect a world class service experience at the dealership. When I complained about my problems, they returned the car without saying anything and writing on the service ticket "functioning as intended". I wish I had more room to tell you the whole story.
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Unbelievable Car - 2011 Hyundai Equus
By tgxx - August 12 - 6:02 pmI smell a rat on these posts,...someone had the gall to rate this car in the 3 star range. This car is truly unbelievable! Let me set the scene,...I walk into the Hyundai show room looking to test drive a few Hyundai products, and out of the corner of my eye I see a gentleman relaxing quite comfortably in the back seat of this beautiful large sedan. Having test driven the Genesis a year ago (not enough headroom for me) I recall thinking, Hmm this is not a Genesis (too big) and begin to investigate this beautiful beast. Within the next 30 min. I completely forget about owning my former dream car (BMW 7 series). No other car on the mkt today surpasses the quality/luxury/value...Period!
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GREAT CAR. BETTER THAN S CLASS! - 2011 Hyundai Equus
By stimpack - June 4 - 3:49 pmOur family owned various German luxury vehicles past years. The common thing about those is poor reliability, and constant break down. Lexus? quite reliable, but not worth the $$$ you spend. (still way better than broken German) The quality of the vehicle is just Great. Better than Lexus, BMW, and Benz. Better ride, better standard equipment, Luxurious Trimming, and features. and save $40,000. Valet service is amazing. I dont have to at the service center all day and lose time and $$$ as I did with the German cars. The ego of Luxury Car dealers is just too high for me. You know, you have to please them to get the service. My advice is, if you want a luxury, and feel good, buy it!
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Amazing car & incredible price - 2011 Hyundai Equus
By phil109 - April 2 - 4:12 pmI was on my way to buy another S class Mercedes when I hear about the Equus. Try one signature then bought an Ultimate two days after. The car had all details and options you can find on a Mercedes or Bmw, but more convenient, more smooth and more useful, all for a better price. Driving this car is as easy as possible, my only concern will be braking distances who tend to be a little bit longer than on my previous car. I was stunned by the 5y/60.000 miles valet service/maintenance program, a big change from the $400 Mercedes oil change. My local Mercedes dealer have mostly arrogants sales people, I was treated in a better way when I bought the Equus.
