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:

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  Mine is 3 years old! - 2013 Hyundai Equus
  By Rob S - March 14 - 8:40 pm

  I have a 13 which is basically the same car as the 16. It has cost me zero in maintenance. After 38 months and 45,000 miles I noticed the top of the headlights were starting to show "yellowing". This car stays in the garage. I mentioned it to the dealer when it was being serviced. Hyundai replaced the headlight assemblies. The car has been rock solid. The only issue was when it was less than a month old the seat massager went out, it was replaced under warranty. It is now 4 years old, it still runs and looks new...no problems.

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  The best luxury car for the money - 2016 Hyundai Equus
  By Eli - January 21 - 8:01 pm

  As the Hyundai Equus is getting to its end of life (Being replaced in 2017 model year by the new Genesis brand and a new body style and AWD option and will be called G90), the Equus ultimate can be had at a steep discount and excellent financing. We grabbed this opportunity with both hands, and are we glad we did. The comfort, road handling and performance as well as “all gadgets known to man” stand up to the luxury car brands out there. The road handling combined with the amenities are simply exceptional. At the price point of the car, it is unheard of. The engine has all the power one can ask for, the transmission is very smooth shifting, and the air suspension is simply the best. The sitting position in every seat (both front and rear) can be adjusted to the comfort of every person. The driving position and controls are out of this world. I would not even attempt to describe at the electronics and luxury amenities. I will not do them justice. Outside of every possible gadget known to mankind, one can use the remote app on their smartphone to start the car as well as may other functions. I am glad I got the Equus, because I can only imagine the cost of the 2017 Genesis G90 replacement. If you do not care about the emblem, I highly recommend this car. Even if you have already written a check from $85K to $110K and haven’t yet handed it to the dealer of one of those luxury brands, you owe it to yourself to take the Equus for a test drive. My bet is that you will not be sorry you did.

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  2800 miles and first issue surfaced - 2016 Hyundai Equus
  By Thomas kearns - February 14 - 3:39 am

  All has been good so far. Dealer had to replace back tires due to bubbling. Then this am driving to work on highway window goes down and stays down! Call dealer set up appointment ask for loaner to be ready. Get there no loaner wait for car rental agency ,no show, get driven to the car rental place, put me in an old sonata with no gas? Not the "Luxury" treatment sold to me up front. Valet service is a sham

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  Ex Mercedes/BMW & Current LS460 Owners - 2016 Hyundai Equus
  By A. Robinson - September 24 - 8:48 pm

  Have owned 1995 BMW750il,; 2000 S430 Mercedes; and 2007 Lexus LS460L. I enjoyed those vehicles and at my age, decided to shop for another car of equivalent styles, updated electronics and options. Have followed Equus since its introduction in 2011 and this year I was so impressed with their progress that I purchased one and am very satisfied with it. I am 66" tall and and am comfortable in the Equus. It closely resembles the LS460 and differs only slightly as I see it. I love the LS460, hence we still have it. I noticed that it will soon be replaced by the G90 Genesis which in essence is the same car with a different badge to be the flagship vehicle.

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  Effortless Elegance - 2011 Hyundai Equus
  By Christian Phoenix - May 25 - 11:17 am

  Definitely the nicest car I have ever owned. And certainly the largest vehicle I have ever owned. I mean it really is a giant luxurious monster. My 66" 250lbs friends love the space. The engine Hyundai put in this baby is perfectly paired to move the beast effortlessly down my crowed Atlanta streets. Dont let its size full you he nimbly moves and heads turn . It takes the bumps and pot holes as if they dont exist. And if you get a little tense in traffic, just activate the massaging driver seat. Electronics are fantastic so many I cant use them all. Wish I could stream Pandora via blue tooth but it would work if I had an iphone. So I have to tether my music. No big deal. My only con is the V8 drinks lots fuel so it might not be the best for daily Atlanta traffic. I wish Hyundai would step up and promote the car more. I named mine Dexter.

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  The real truth about Equus - 2016 Hyundai Equus
  By Gary Gettenberg MD - October 27 - 7:22 am

  Stay away from this vehicle.The major problem is with service.Buyers think they are buying a premier car,however the dealerships are not geared to a premier experience.The dealerships are not familiar with this car,and service is generally poor.My car was in the shop for long periods,parts were not readily available and were very pricey and frequently not covered under warranty. However, the critical fault of the Hyundai Equus is that it handles and drives very poorly.It also has a weak chasis that cannot handle New York City roads.My car swayed and vibrated at 50 to 60 mph and the dealers could not fix it. My wife just would not drive it on the highway because it drives so poorly. Stay with Lexus and/or Mercedes this car is not worth the money.

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  Out with the 11 and in with the 16 - 2016 Hyundai Equus
  By Paul - December 9 - 6:17 pm

  With no intention to upgrade my 2011 Equus, I was visiting Pugi Hyundai as my wife was getting service on her Pugi Mazda. I walked over to the Hyundai store and saw a 2016 Equus on the showroom floor. The pricing was awesome with Hyundai rebates and I learned the Equus was going away and was being replaced with the G-90. Without a blick, I drove it home 9-26-2016...on my 29th wedding anniversary. It was my last chance to buy the greatest value luxury car I have ever owned . Note I have had 80 cars since 16 and now 52. BMW, MBZ, Cadillac, Buick, Ford, Pontiac, etc. and I have never purchased the same model twice. The Equus is an amazing vehicle and I was so happy to get the last of the best. Free advice; dont look at the badge or brand. Drive it, look at the beauty, look at the value and put the $50-$70k savings into diamonds for your wife or partner. Last point...dont wait to buy one......period.

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  2016 Equus - 2016 Hyundai Equus
  By Equus - August 24 - 10:50 am

  Whoever is telling others to stay away from this car must be a severe mental services patient. This is the best riding, smoothest vehicle I have ever owned and driven. I have driven all, Mercedes, bmws range rovers, Bentleys etc, etc and none of them match the handling and sophistication of this car. The car feels as if it were formed using a solid piece of steel and the suspension system is controlled electronically at all times by air. When it rolls across rough bumps, the suspension system literally raises the car to get it prepared for proper damping by the electronically controlled continuous damping function thus eliminating rough roads from the cabin. You can literally feel the cars damping control system softening up all and every rough road surface like magic with no body roll. The suspension system on these cars are extremely sensitive and know exactly how to handle all road surface types. The car never bottoms out and even smooth out speed bumps once detected. Anyone who wants a shockingly comfortable magic type ride should consider the 2016 Equus as lexus, bmw and Mercedes doesnt come anywhere close to the overall sophistication of this car, and its loaded with tons of gadgets thats too many to list here.. If you dont believe me, go test drive one. I do know i will keep this car for 15 plus years and will enjoy every day of it. Equus is all about reality. Lexus, bmw, mercedes, etc, etc are all about the name and charging people for every high tech feature possible. Equus has so much to offer and should be considered the king of all luxury cars; and it is $100,000 car in Korea so with the base signature class, hyundai is loosing 40k or more for every equus sold in america. The feel of the Equus is priceless. This car is for the smart and detailed oriented individuals.

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  Hamdogan - 2013 Hyundai Equus
  By Harris Dogan - July 2 - 11:53 am

  Ive owed this car (2013 hyundai equus) for the past 3 years and are very pleased with the performance. I am ready to purchased another, a 2016 in which I have started the process.

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  Bought Used 2013 - 2013 Hyundai Equus
  By Paul I. - April 20 - 8:31 am

  Car was 3 years old with 25,000 miles. I went from a Lincoln Town Car and, at first, was a little disappointed in the Equus. The Lincoln had less tire noise and quieter at high speeds. Seating comfort and roominess are about equal.But after almost a year of driving the Equus, I find the ease of handling superior to the Town Car and when I punch the gas to the V8 to get on a crowded Calif. fwy., the Equus has it all over the Town Car. After 10,000 miles of driving, performance and ease of handling has convinced me to buy another Hyundai luxury car.