2012 Hyundai Equus
Starting MSRP $59,000–$66,000
By Cars.com Staff
Cars.com National July 19, 2011Vehicle Overview
Not long ago, Hyundai shot for the moon by expanding its lineup with the rear-wheel-drive Genesis — a car intended to emulate midsize luxury cars like the BMW 5 Series and Mercedes-Benz E-Class for less money than either sedan. Introduced last year, Hyundai now has a sort of super-Genesis in the Equus, an even larger sedan that aims to take on the BMW 7 Series and Lexus LS at a price point one rung lower. Toward that end, the Equus, which can seat up to four or five people depending on the trim level, might be cross-shopped against sedans ranging from a 5 Series and E-Class to an Acura RL or Volvo S80.
New for 2012
For 2012, the Equus gains a new 5.0-liter V-8 engine with direct injection. The V-8 makes 429 horsepower and teams with a new eight-speed automatic transmission. Power sunshades for the rear side windows are now part of the Ultimate trim level's features.
Exterior
The Equus resembles a larger, bejeweled Genesis; it's probable that passers-by will mistake the two. Although the Equus shares its cohort's platform, it measures 7.2 inches longer. Exterior features include:
- Standard 19-inch alloy wheels
- Standard adaptive xenon high-intensity-discharge headlights
- Optional forward corner-view camera
Interior
By the measurements, the Equus' cabin isn't appreciably larger than the Genesis' — front and rear legroom are up less than half an inch — but both cars meet the EPA's large-car classifications, so few shoppers should be wanting for space.
Nor should they be wanting for features. The dash comes wrapped in French-stitched leather, and it adorns more places — most notably the center console surroundings and steering wheel — than in the Genesis. Interior features include:
- Standard iPod connectivity
- Standard Bluetooth connectivity
- Standard power moonroof
- Standard power rear sunshade
- Standard heated and cooled front seats
- Optional power-reclining rear seats
- Optional massaging rear seat with power-extending ottoman
Under the Hood
Mechanical features include:
- New 429-hp, 5.0-liter V-8 with 376 pounds-feet of torque
- Eight-speed automatic transmission
- Rear-wheel drive
- Air suspension with adaptive damping
Safety
Standard safety features include:
- Four-wheel-disc antilock brakes
- Electronic stability system
- Side-impact airbags for the front and rear outboard seats
- Driver's knee airbag
- Side curtain airbags
- Active front head restraints
- Lane departure warning system
- Parking sensors and a backup camera
Additional Reviews
Cars.com Expert Reviews
| David Thomas | Cars.com National | August 17, 2012 |
| Cars.com Staff | Cars.com National | July 19, 2011 |
Affiliate Reviews
| Warren Brown | washingtonpost.com | October 14, 2011 |
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