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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  Ultimate - 2016 Hyundai Equus
  By P Hanly - February 23 - 7:53 am

  Drove the car through the Rockies in January. Very impressed with the snow mode as I only had all seasons on it. Dollar for Dollar in a late model used Full size luxury car, and there is nothing to even compare this vehicle to.After a long time following this vehicle before finally found the right deal under $40. Couldnt be happier with the vehicle. The car is nothing short of outstanding. The Rolls Royce Phantom also selecting the discrete sound Lexicon system is totally understandable. It does not handle like a sports car, but if your looking for an ultra quiet and ultra comfortable cruiser this car has very few competitors if any, and at 430 hp it is not sluggish by any measure.

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  Finest Car we ever owned!!!!!! But un-reliable!! - 2011 Hyundai Equus
  By John Chavanne - October 10 - 5:49 pm

  This review is for our 2011 Equus. Prior to this we owned 4 Lexus LS sedans (1990,1996,2001,2005). The car is by far smoother and more comfortable and outperforms anything we have ever had. But------------At least 6 ot 8 times we have been faced with a dead battery. Why??? I think two possible reasons. When entering or exiting the car it is very easy to accidently touch the "Trunk Release" button. The trunk lid does not open, just moves up perhaps a 1/4" or so. So unless you grasp the trunk and try to open it and/or slam it you never realize this has happened. Trunk light comes on and a few days later---dead car!!!! Not sure about the latest model but some Hyundais (new Sonata and Genesis) when the button is pushed, open the lid all the way---obvious!! So two fixes--1- Retrofit to raise the lid completely or at least several inches and 2- Install what many competitors have which is a timer that automatically shuts down any accessories/lights that are accidentally left on!! Our dealer and we presume Hyundai refuse to consider this fix and instead are prepared to remove the trunk light!!!! Another contributing factor seems to be that if car is not driven for a couple of weeks the existing systems seem to run the battery down. I installed a trickle charger but the dealer removed it. Sadly, the dealer and Hyundai have spent more in service calls and battery replacements than they would have to do a fix to the problems! At this point we may be looking for a lesser car but one that is reliable!! It would be wonderful if someone at Hyundai or our dealer who is able to make decisions would contact us. Meanwhile the car is gone for at least 3-4 days----again!!!!!!!!!!!

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  Everyone looking in this segment, test drive Equus - 2015 Hyundai Equus
  By J. Solecki - September 22 - 7:07 am

  I just leased the 2015 Hyundai Equus Signature. When I came to the dealership I was not really expecting to end up with this vehicle and test drove Genesis V6 and V8. Liked V8 better and then started thinking of maybe leasing this vehicle for my business. The sales person (Brett of Humble Hyundai in Texas) mentioned that they have a very good deal on Equus lease so I test drove it and actually liked it a lot. It maybe is not as sporty as Genesis but instill a lot of confidence on the read and the ride is much, much more refined. In the end I decided to go with the Equus as the lease offer was really good and Brett was really accommodating, followed up timely and was not pushy at all, unlike some of other car dealers I visited prior. Considering this is my first ever lease they made the process easy and I was in and out of the dealership pretty quick. We will see how the vehicle holds up quality wise but so far I am very satisfied. Everyone looking in this segment really ought to look at this car.

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  2011 Equus - sudden acceleration - 2011 Hyundai Equus
  By equus2011 - April 15 - 7:39 pm

  I bought my Equus in May 2011 as brand new car in Toronto, Canada. I had been very happy with it until its sudden acceleration happened in August 2014. I took it back to the dealership to check for the problem but they couldnt find anything. It happened again twice in the evening of April 2, 2015 but the engineer and technician from Hyundai Canada couldnt find anything wrong again. I dont feel safe to drive it so I traded it for a Genesis Ultimate. I only put in about 52,000KM to the Equus but the trade in value is not good at all. I have no choice as the trade in amount would be even lower if I traded it at the dealership of another brand.

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  I traded a BMW 745i for the 2011 Equus - 2011 Hyundai Equus
  By peteranger - November 12 - 1:28 pm

  After looking at luxury sedans for about a year, I traded my Bimmer for the Equus without a second thought. The Equus was the first car I got into for a test ride that I felt was more comfortable than the 745. It uses regular gas, gets comparable mileage, is as quiet, comfortable and well equipped as the 745i - for 10s of thousands less. Add the superior warranty and valet service (I havent been to the dealer for service in nearly 4 years!) Only two demerits: less than stellar iPod implementation (on an otherwise outstanding audio system) and handling thats more boat like than Bimmerish. Ill keep the 2011 until Hyundai delivers an AWD Equus.

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  its just a car - 2014 Hyundai Equus
  By marc49 - November 5 - 9:00 pm

  After looking and wondering why any one would spend 80,000 to 120,000 on a German or Japanese luxury car I have come to the conclusion the world is full of idiots. My 2014 equus is so close in all categories that the thought of spending big bucks on the German or Japanese luxury cars makes me laugh. They are all just cars and nothing more . I drove them all then looked at the window sticker and just laughed. The only one that made sense was the equus.

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  Class - 2011 Hyundai Equus
  By livi - September 20 - 9:33 pm

  My Equus Ultimate is one of the nicest cars Ive owned. Quiet, handles well and very nice design. Had the S Class Mercedes but stepped out of the box for the Equus. People said "skeptical paying that for a Hyundai" but after riding in it and enjoying the amenities, nothing else said. Case closed. One guy stopped who had a Rolls Royce said he was considering buying an Equus. People often ask what is it (wing emblem on hood) and "heard about it, nice car." I have not been disappointed. It is truly a very nice car and the Equus Connect customer service is top notch, every question answered and any concern taken care of immediately. Love my Equus -- class extraordinaire.

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  2011 Equus Ultimate IS Just That... - 2011 Hyundai Equus
  By bsdtwd - September 18 - 9:38 pm

  Recently a purchased 2011 Equus Ultimate with 40k miles. Pearl White with cashmere leather. Amenities too numerous to list. Super quiet, the design is fantastic and turns heads due to its rarity on the road. No complaints. Adaptive cruise and lane departure system work flawlessly. The Lexicon Sound is unmatched. Save $20-30,000 by indulging yourself with a fine Equus with an engine that will go forever. No timing belts or broken engine mounts like MB or Audi.

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  Equus Ultimate trumps S600 or 750 - 2011 Hyundai Equus
  By bsdtwd - September 12 - 9:24 pm

  Yes its a Hyundai! The best part is the $20000 or more you get to keep in your pocket when you choose this fine car. Front/ Rear cameras, Adaptive cruise, Alcantara head liner, powered sun shades all around, a refrigerator, recliner and a LCD screen in back. Not to mention a remote for the reclining, vibrating, heated and cooled rear passenger seat. 1000 pounds lighter makes a big difference too. 28 MPG on highway!

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  I have been SCAMMED by Germans !!! - 2014 Hyundai Equus
  By htcrack - September 9 - 9:53 pm

  After owning 14 Equus about 10month, I feel like I havebeen scammed by Germans more than 15years.