2012 Hyundai Equus Gains Standard 5.0L V8 and Eight-Speed Automatic

Hyundai launched its Equus full-size sedan in the U.S. as a 2011 model with a 385-horsepower, 4.6-liter V-8 as the sole engine. For 2012, the Equus gets a significant horsepower bump, thanks to a new 429-hp, 5.0-liter V-8 that becomes the standard engine. The 2012 Equus hits dealerships this summer.

With the new engine comes a new transmission. The 4.6-liter V-8 paired with a six-speed automatic, but the 5.0-liter V-8 works with an eight-speed automatic transmission developed by Hyundai. The 2011 Equus achieves an EPA-estimated 16/24 mpg city/highway, but gas mileage figures — as well as any change in pricing — haven't been announced for the new drivetrain.

It's not every day that an automaker launches a car one year and gives it a new engine the next, but with the Equus' little brother, the Genesis sedan, adding the 5.0-liter V-8 as an optional engine for 2012, Hyundai had to take care of its flagship car, too.

Hyundai Equus Tuned By Mummbles Marketing for SEMA 2010

The last of the Equus trifecta from Hyundai to be shown at the upcoming SEMA Show has been unveiled in rendering glory recently. In collaboration with Mummbles Marketing, the appropriately named "Elegant Equus" (though the company name struck us with an image of a dancing penguin) features a 450 horsepower, high performance engine and advanced technologies, "as it aims to be the envy of every high-power executive", according to Hyundai.

To capture the VIP luxury look as best as possible, Mummbles Marketing is determined to squeeze the most modifications and gadgets ever in a single Equus. The “Elegant Equus” will feature a plethora of engine, interior, exterior, brake, wheel and suspension modifications, as well as one-of-a-kind audio and video enhancements. Along with a turbo kit and carbon fiber accessories to enhance performance, Mummbles will install an Apple iPad to control certain aspects of the vehicle such as ride height, luxury curtains, stereo and windows.

Mummbles Marketing is teaming up with Legacy Innovations and S-Max to build and manufacture the turbo kit for the Equus and will also be working with Infinity, Mobile Spec and Pyle for the custom audio and video parts on the vehicle.

Mechanically, Mummbles plans to customize the following:

• Legacy Innovations turbo kit
o SPA turbo
o S-Max wastegate
o S-Max blow-off valve
o S-Max front mount intercooler
o S-Max catch can
o Legacy Innovations OBD2 downpipe
o Legacy Innovations aluminum intercooler tubing
• Nitrous Express kit
• Magnaflow dual-exhaust system

Modifications to the brakes, wheels, tires and suspension include:

• Air Lift digital air suspension
o Air Lift extended air springs and struts (four)
o Five gallon tank
• Wilwood big brakes kit (front)
o Six piston brake calipers
o 14” slotted / drilled rotors
• Wilwood big brakes kit (rear)
o Six piston brake calipers
o 13” slotted / drilled rotors
• 22” x 9.5” Work Equip E10 wheels (front)
• 22” x 10.5” Work Equip E10 wheels (rear)
• Falken FK452 tires
o 245/30/22 front
o 265/30/22 rear

Interior upgrades will include:

• Four glow shift gauges
• Southeast Carbonworks hydro-coating interior kit
• Idealistic Designs custom leather interior (gunmental / burgundy)
o Seats, door panels, dash steering wheel and center consoles
• Black suede A, B, and C pillars
• Black suede headliner
• Junction Produce fusa / gintuna
• Junction Produce front door curtains
• Junction Produce rear door curtains
• Junction Produce rear curtains

Exterior modifications will include:

• BASF custom deep burgundy paint
• 717 Motoring five piece body kit
o Front bumper
o Side skirts
o Rear bumper (with carbon fiber insert)
o Rear wing
• Carbon fiber hood
• Carbon fiber roof overlay
• Carbon fiber trunk
• Carbon fiber B and C pillars overlay
• LightWurkz headlights (tinted)
• LightWurkz taillights (tinted)
• Tinted mirror signal

Mummbles Marketing will also upgrade the in-car entertainment features on the Equus, including:

• Two Apple iPads
• Apple wireless keyboard
• One 20” Pyle monitor
• Pyle DVD player
• Four 12” Infinity subwoofers
• Four Infinity Kappa Series amplifiers
• Infinity Kappa Series 5.25” components
• Three Infinity Kappa Series 6.5”
• JBL MS-8
• Mobile Spec wiring and accessories
• Optima battery
• Kinetik 80 amp power supply

[Source: Hyundai]

Hyundai Announces Equus Pricing for Canada

Hyundai Canada has announced pricing for its all-new flagship luxury sedan, the Equus. Pricing starts at $62,999 for the Signature and $69,999 for the Ultimate.

The Equus is powered by a 385 horsepower 4.6-litre V8 with six-speed transmission and includes rear-wheel drive architecture, air suspension, and continuous damping control. Both trims feature adaptive cruise control, premium leather seats, natural wood trim, Alcantara suede headliner, 19-inch chrome alloy wheels and navigation system with rearview camera. In the Ultimate, rear-seat passengers can enjoy a cooled storage box, eight-inch movie display, and VIP seat with shiatsu massage function and extending leg rest.

All models include full concierge service within a predefined area, both during and after sale. Interested consumers can have an Equus driven to their homes or work by a specially-trained salesperson for a test drive. When the vehicle requires service, the local dealership will pick it up and leave a Genesis or other Equus in its place.

[Source: Hyundai Canada]

DUB Magazine Customizes 2011 Hyundai Equus for SEMA Show

Hyundai is evidently determined to prove the industry that its all-new flagship Equus sedan is more than just your average luxury car. Case in point: the DUB Edition Hyundai Equus, which the automaker has partnered up with the fabricators at DUB Magazine to present at the upcoming SEMA Show in Las Vegas. This is the second tuned version of the Equus after the folks at Rhys Millen Racing released details on their customized car for the tuner show...[READ MORE FOR FULL ARTICLE]

"We know that SEMA show-goers look forward to seeing the cool new cars like Equus and the unique ways we customize them," said Myles Kovacs, president and co-founder, DUB Magazine. "With this car we tried to give tuners an idea of what modifications can be done within the luxury segment."

The list of upgrades planned for the DUB Edition Equus includes a Trex DUB Design mesh grille, DUB Design custom body kit, tinted windows and tail lights, and a custom two-tone, gloss black-and-matte charcoal paint job. The Equus will also feature a lowered suspension riding on 24-inch TIS modular style 10 wheels with Pirelli Pzero Nero Tires.

Interior upgrades will include a new audio system with nine Infiniti Kappa Series speakers, KAPPA ONE mono and KAPPA FOUR four-channel amplifiers, custom leather and suede upholstery, an illuminated headliner and rear bucket seats.

This year's SEMA Show takes place from November 2nd to November 5th at the Las Vegas Convention Center in, not surprisingly, Las Vegas.

[Source: Hyundai]

2011 Hyundai Equus Priced from $58,000: USA

Hyundai Motor America today announced pricing for the all new 2011 Hyundai Equus luxury sedan, which will go on sale nationwide in December in select Hyundai dealerships. The Equus Signature trim will start at $58,000, while the more lavishly contented Equus Ultimate trim will be priced at $64,500. Both prices exclude a $900 destination charge.

Every Equus comes standard with “At Your Service,” Hyundai’s approach to the luxury ownership experience that provides complimentary valet service and covers all maintenance needs for 5 years or 60,000 miles. With "At Your Service," owners enjoy no-charge maintenance, including complimentary oil and filter changes, brake pads and rotors, wiper blades, and battery. Valet pickup and drop-off is provided for all warranty, maintenance and service repairs, and a Genesis or Equus replacement vehicle is provided while the owner’s car is at the dealership.

[Source: Hyundai]

READ more for the full press release!

PRESS RELEASE: HYUNDAI ANNOUNCES PRICING FOR THE ALL-NEW EQUUS

Includes Complimentary Valet Service and Maintenance for 5 Years, 60,000 Miles

Fountain Valley, Calif., 10/19/2010 - Hyundai Motor America has announced pricing for the all-new Equus luxury sedan. The lavishly contented Equus Signature will be priced at $58,000 and the top-of-the-line Equus Ultimate at $64,500. Hyundai Equus brings a fresh approach to product innovation and the ownership experience in this price segment.

Every Equus comes standard with “At Your Service,” Hyundai's revolutionary approach to the luxury ownership experience that provides complimentary valet service and covers all maintenance needs for 5 years or 60,000 miles. With “At Your Service,” Hyundai Equus owners enjoy no-charge maintenance, including complimentary oil and filter changes, brake pads and rotors, wiper blades, and battery. Valet pickup and drop-off is provided for all warranty, maintenance and service repairs, and a Genesis or Equus replacement vehicle is provided while the owner’s car is at the dealership.

The Equus retail and ownership experience includes other innovative and time-saving premium services such as:

“Your Time, Your Place,” the industry’s first at-home vehicle demonstration program
Equus Champion (product expert) at each authorized Equus dealer
Apple iPad with interactive owner’s manual capability
Equus Customer Connect Center hotline (phone and e-mail) for VIP customer service
“We’re confident that smart luxury buyers will discover that Equus competes well with similar flagship products from Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Audi and Lexus,” said John Krafcik, Hyundai Motor America president and CEO. “But the traditional luxury brands simply can’t compete with the unique retail and ownership experience we’ll be providing for the Equus owner, including “Your Time, Your Place,” the industry’s first at-home vehicle demonstration program; the “At Your Service” program, which provides complimentary valet at-home pickup and no-charge maintenance for five years or 60,000 miles; and the industry’s first iPad-based interactive owner’s manual.”

Equus arrives at select Hyundai dealerships in December. Hyundai expects the premium luxury market to total close to 45,000 units this year.

2011 EQUUS MANUFACTURER’S SUGGESTED RETAIL PRICING

Model
MSRP

Equus Signature
$58,000

Equus Ultimate
$64,500

$900 freight charge not included

“At Your Service” Summary

Valet service – The dealership will pickup and deliver the owner’s Equus for maintenance, replacement of wear items or warranty work
Replacement vehicle – If alternative transportation is needed while service is being performed, the dealer will provide a Genesis or Equus at no cost
Maintenance – Covers all factory maintenance for the first five years or 60,000 miles, whichever comes first
Wear items – Covers brake pads, brakes discs, wiper blades and battery

EQUUS SIGNATURE KEY STANDARD FEATURES

• 4.6L DOHC Tau V8 engine
• Six-speed automatic transmission with SHIFTRONIC®
• Electro-Hydraulic Power Steering (EHPS)
• Electronically controlled air suspension with Continuous Damping Control (CDC)
• 19-inch chrome alloy wheels with P245/45R19 (front) / P275/40R19 (rear) tires
• Four-wheel disc brakes with Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and EBD
• Electronic Stability Control (ESC) with TCS and Brake Assist
• Vehicle Stability Management (VSM) system with pre-collision warning
• Nine airbags: advanced dual front airbags, front and rear seat-mounted side-impact airbags, driver knee airbag, and roof-mounted side-curtain airbags
• Electronic active front head restraints with power controls
• Electronic seatbelt pretensioners
• Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
• Lane Departure Warning System (LDWS)
• Smart Cruise Control
• High Intensity Discharge (HID) headlights with LED turn signal indicators
• Adaptive Front Lighting System (AFLS) with auto-leveling
• Fog lights and automatic headlights
• Front and rear parking assistance system with rearview camera
• Dual power-folding heated auto-dimming side mirrors with turn signal indicators and approach lamps
• Dual asymmetrical exhaust tips integrated with rear bumper
• Proximity key entry with push-button start
• Illuminated scuff plates, inside door handles and door armrest
• Premium leather seating surfaces and Alcantara® suede headliner
• 12-way power driver seat plus lumbar adjustment and 10-way power front passenger seat
• Driver seat massage system
• Heated and cooled front seats
• Heated, wood-trimmed and leather-wrapped steering wheel
• Power tilt-and-telescopic steering wheel
• Integrated Memory System (IMS) for driver-side seat, mirror and steering wheel
• Leather-wrapped dash and real wood interior trim
• Electroluminescent cluster (Supervision) with 3.5-inch TFT LCD screen
• Electronic parking brake with automatic vehicle hold
• Power windows with auto-down/up
• Navigation system with DIS and multimedia controller
• Apple iPad interactive owner’s manual
• 608-watt Lexicon 7.1 Discrete surround-sound audio system with 17 speakers
• iPod/USB and MP3 auxiliary input jacks and iPod connection cable
• XM® Satellite Radio & NavTraffic® with trial subscription
• Bluetooth® hands-free phone system
• Dual automatic temperature control with air quality system
• Windshield-wiper deicer, rain-sensing wipers and auto-defogging windshield with humidity sensor
• Electrochromic auto-dimming inside rearview mirror with HomeLink® and compass
• Acoustic laminated windshield, front and rear side windows
• Power tilt-and-slide glass sunroof
• 60/40 power reclining and heated rear seats
• Power rear sunshade and rear side-window sunshades
• Luggage net
• Premium-grade floor mats
• Premium-grade trunk cargo mat
• First-aid kit (PIO)

EQUUS ULTIMATE ADDS ULTRA-LUXURY FEATURES

Equus Ultimate adds or replaces:
• 50/50 split rear seats (four-passenger seating) with reclining function
• First-class passenger-side rear seat: leg support and massage system
• Cooled rear seats
• Rear-seat entertainment system with eight-inch monitor
• Thermoelectric rear center console refrigerator
• Rear-seat power up/down head restraints with manual tilt
• Rear-seat illuminated vanity mirrors
• Forward-view cornering camera
• Power trunk lid

HYUNDAI MOTOR AMERICA

Hyundai Motor America, headquartered in Fountain Valley, Calif., is a subsidiary of Hyundai Motor Co. of Korea. Hyundai vehicles are distributed throughout the United States by Hyundai Motor America and are sold and serviced through almost 800 dealerships nationwide. All Hyundai vehicles sold in the U.S. are covered by the Hyundai Assurance program which now includes the 5-year/60,000 mile fully transferable bumper-to-bumper warranty, Hyundai’s 10-year/100,000 mile powertrain warranty and 5-year complimentary Roadside Assistance in addition to the highly acclaimed vehicle return policy introduced in early 2009. For more details on Hyundai Assurance, please visit www.HyundaiAssurance.com.

SEMA 2010 Preview: Hyundai Equus Gets the Rhys Millen Racing Treatment

Hyundai's partnership with racer and tuner Rhys Millen has fared well for the automaker, and the upcoming SEMA Show will bear testimony to more evidence regarding that statement.

The 2010 SEMA Show will be host to the 2011 Hyundai Equus bearing the RMR signature, which is short for Rhys Millen Racing. This special edition launch will be the third consecutive year when Hyundai flaunts off the RMR insignia in Las Vegas.

And here goes what you have been waiting for- the new edition delivers 415 horsepower, a 30 horsepower addition to the stock figure using Hyundai’s 4.6-liter Tau V8. This is accomplished with an RMR bolt-on cold air intake and stainless steel exhausts, with a 14-inch brake kit thrown in to make the sedan screech to halt faster.

The exterior looks bold with two-tone carbon fiber and Red Bull Racing blue satin paint scheme, while the set of HRE 21-inch P40 wheels take care of the rest. The passengers will be lavished upon with an elaborate swathing of ostrich leather and suede.

[Source: Hyundai]

Is That You, Hyundai's iPad For The Equus?

Unless you've been living under a rock these days, you probably know what an Apple iPad looks like and does. The gotta-have-it gadget has been selling like hotcakes and has been making headlines (typical of any Apple release) in the world of electronics lately. But the touch-screen tablet device from Cupertino caught the attention of car-lovers and alike when Hyundai introduced the industry-first electronic owner's manual for its flagship Equus sedan on, you guessed it, the iPad. And today, we have our first look at the iPad for the Equus.

Hyundai will be supplying a 16GB Wi-fi iPad (non-3G) with every Equus and according to the automaker, the tablet will be more than just an digital owner's manual. It will also serve as an electronic liaison between the owner and his/her dealership by helping to schedule maintenance through its Service Valet program, remind of routine maintenance, schedule vehicle (and loaner) pick-up and delivery, and so on.

Taking advantage of the iPad's capabilities, the owner's manual program will include the usual text and images, as well as videos to demonstrate the vehicle's different functions. The Equus-specific programs will arrive pre-installed alongside all other normal iPad software, and future updates will be available through iTunes, just like any other iPad program.

[Source: Hyundai]

Hyundai Releases More Details on 2011 Equus

PRESS RELEASE: HYUNDAI RELEASES ENGINEERING AND FEATURE INFORMATION FOR THE ALL-NEW 2011 HYUNDAI EQUUS

Hyundai Recasts Intelligent Luxury with Two Equus Configurations

FOUNTAIN VALLEY, Calif., July 26, 2010 – Hyundai revealed additional engineering and feature information for the all-new 2011 Equus today. The Equus will be offered in just two configurations, Equus Signature and Equus Ultimate, both lavishly contented.

Equus Signature features the award-winning 385-horsepower Tau® V8 engine, a 608-watt Lexicon® audio system with 17 speakers, electronically controlled air suspension with continuous damping control, Vehicle Stability Management with pre-collision warning, Smart Cruise Control, HID headlamps, front and rear parking assistance system with rearview camera, premium leather seating, Alcantara suede headliner, driver seat massage, heated and cooled front seats, heated wood and leather steering wheel, and numerous other premium technologies and features. The Equus Ultimate adds features typically found only in low-volume special-order luxury sedans with six-figure price tags, including a forward-view parking and cornering camera, power decklid, reclining rear seats with powered headrests, cooled rear seats, rear seat massage and leg support, rear seat refrigerator and a rear seat entertainment system.

"When you're spending this much for a new car, you don't want to feel like you've been shortchanged on engineering, technology or features," said John Krafcik, Hyundai Motor America president and CEO. "Equus Signature has the technology and content of fully-optioned flagship models from Lexus and BMW, while Equus Ultimate delivers a specification approached only by our competitors' low-volume, special-order models."

This straightforward lineup of just two extremely well-equipped configurations enables a simple and elegant purchase experience, a key aspect of Hyundai's innovative perspective on intelligent luxury, which also includes "Your Time, Your Place," the industry's first at-home vehicle demonstration program, the Valet Service program, which provides at-home pickup for Equus service and maintenance and the industry's first iPad-based interactive owner's manual.

[Source: Hyundai]

READ MORE for the complete press release.

EQUUS SIGNATURE KEY STANDARD FEATURES

4.6L DOHC Tau V8 engine
Six-speed automatic transmission with SHIFTRONIC®
Electro-Hydraulic Power Steering (EHPS)
Electronically Controlled Air Suspension with Continuous Damping Control (CDC)
19-inch chrome alloy wheels with P245/45R19 (front) / P275/40R19 (rear) tires
Four-wheel disc brakes with Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and EBD
Electronic Stability Control (ESC) with TCS and Brake Assist
Vehicle Stability Management (VSM) system with pre-collision warning
Nine airbags: Advanced dual front airbags, front and rear seat-mounted side-impact airbags, driver knee airbag, and roof-mounted side-curtain airbags
Electronic active front head restraints with power controls
Electronic seatbelt pretensioners
Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
Lane Departure Warning System (LDWS)
Smart Cruise Control
High Intensity Discharge (HID) headlights with LED turn signal indicators
Adaptive Front Lighting System (AFLS) with auto-leveling
Fog lights and automatic headlights
Front and rear parking assistance system with rearview camera
Dual power-folding heated auto-dimming side mirrors w/ turn signal indicators and approach lamps
Dual asymmetrical exhaust tips integrated with rear bumper
Proximity key entry with push-button start
Illuminated scuff plates, inside door handles and door armrest
Premium leather seating surfaces and Alcantara® suede headliner
12-way power driver seat plus lumbar adjustment and 10-way power front passenger seat
Driver seat massage system
Heated and cooled front seats
Heated, wood-trimmed and leather-wrapped steering wheel
Power tilt-and-telescopic steering wheel
Integrated Memory System (IMS) for driver-side seat, mirror and steering wheel
Leather-wrapped dash and real wood interior trim
Electroluminescent cluster (Supervision) with 3.5-inch TFT LCD screen
Electronic parking brake with automatic vehicle hold
Power windows with auto-down/up
Navigation system w/ DIS and multimedia controller
Apple iPad interactive owner's manual
608-watt Lexicon 7.1 Discrete surround-sound audio system with 17 speakers
iPod/USB and MP3 auxiliary input jacks and iPod connection cable
XM® Satellite Radio & NavTraffic® with trial subscription
Bluetooth® hands-free phone system
Dual automatic temperature control with air quality system
Windshield-wiper deicer, rain-sensing wipers and auto-defogging windshield with humidity sensor
Electrochromic auto-dimming inside rearview mirror with HomeLink® and compass
Acoustic laminated windshield , front and rear side windows
Power tilt-and-slide glass sunroof
60/40 power reclining and heated rear seats
Power rear sunshade and rear side-window sunshades
Luggage net
Premium-grade floor mats
Premium-grade trunk cargo mat
First-aid kit (PIO)

FIRSTS FOR HYUNDAI AND CONSUMERS

As Hyundai's flagship rear-wheel-drive sedan, Equus contains many Hyundai firsts. One innovative new technology is the Vehicle Stability Management (VSM) system, which governs ESC, the electronic parking brake, smart cruise control, the collision warning sensor and the seatbelt tensioning system for optimal safety. The seatbelt tensioning system works through sensors, which detect critical driving situations and retract the seatbelts accordingly to prevent passenger movement. The Equus' dynamic safety package is further enhanced by the Lane Departure Warning System and driver's knee airbags.

Beyond safety, the Equus will also debut power rear side-window sunshades, a heated steering wheel, power trunk lid, dual power, heated and cooled front seats, rain-repelling front side windows, a thermoelectric rear console refrigerator, 60/40 split power reclining rear seats and electronically-controlled Air Suspension with dual-mode Continuous Damping Control.

Several new driver information technologies make their debut on the Equus. Driver and passengers can keep an eye on the Equus' numerous electronic systems through the 3.5-inch TFT LCD vehicle information monitor. Equus also features a forward-view cornering camera and a parking guide system with both top view and rear view perspectives.

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGES

Hyundai's Tau V8, which has been rated one of Ward's "Ten Best Engines" for two consecutive years, is a strong technological building block for Equus. It is joined by an unsurpassed standard feature list including Smart Cruise Control, Lane Departure Warning System, a heated steering wheel, power reclining rear seats, heated rear seats and a 608-watt Lexicon 7.1 Discrete surround sound audio system with 17 speakers. Equus Ultimate adds first-class rear seating and other focused rear compartment features that can only found on low-volume special-order competitive models.

EQUUS COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGES

Tau V8 engine, rated one of Ward's "Ten Best Engines" for 2009 and 2010
First-class seating available on Equus Ultimate (competitors' best seating options come only on the long-wheelbase variants)
Standard Smart Cruise Control
Standard Lane Departure Warning System
Standard heated steering wheel
Standard power reclining rear seats
Standard heated rear seats
Standard premium Lexicon 7.1 Discrete surround sound audio system with 17 speakers
Available rear console refrigerator (only available on some competitors' LWB models)

EXTERIOR FEATURE AND PLATFORM TECHNOLOGY COMPARISON
Compared to its primary competitors, the Lexus LS460, Mercedes-Benz S-Class, BMW 7 Series and Audi A8, the Equus delivers a remarkable advantage in technology and feature content. Air suspension, 19-inch wheels, a collision warning system, nine airbags including rear seat-mounted side-impact airbags, a Lane Departure Warning System, Smart Cruise Control, HID headlights, AFLS, front and rear parking sensors, a rear backup camera and a proximity key with push-button start come standard on Equus Signature and Equus Ultimate.

INTERIOR FEATURE COMPARISON

Equus delivers an extraordinary package of interior technologies and features including an Alcantara suede headliner, heated and cooled front seats, heated steering wheel, memory system, electronic parking brake, auto vehicle hold, navigation system, iPod connection, dual fully automatic temperature control, sunroof, power rear side-window shades, driver-seat massage, power reclining rear seats (60/40), heated rear seats and a power rear sunshade.

Of special appeal to audiophiles is the Equus' standard, industry-leading 608-watt audio unit, the Lexicon® 7.1 Discrete surround sound audio system featuring 17 speakers.

EQUUS ULTIMATE ADDS ULTRA LUXURY FEATURES

Equus Ultimate adds or replaces:
50/50 split rear seats (four-passenger seating) with reclining function
First-class passenger-side rear seat: leg support and massage system
Cooled rear seats
Rear-seat entertainment system w/ eight-inch monitor
Thermoelectric rear center console refrigerator
Rear-seat power up/down head restraints w/ manual tilt
Rear-seat illuminated vanity mirrors
Forward-view cornering camera
Power trunk lid

The Equus Ultimate takes the luxury mandate of the Equus Signature and enhances it with a package of high-end amenities new to this price class. In the rear, the power-adjustable right-side seat provides passengers a generous 84 degrees of leg support, with the capability to move the front passenger seat forward and out of the way for full leg extension.

The Equus Ultimate replaces the 60:40 rear seat of the Equus Signature with a 50:50 power reclining seating configuration.

The seat-back of this 50:50 seat massages and vibrates with heat -- the perfect relaxation therapy for extended cruising. It is operated by its own remote control unit.

Ample, first-class-style headrests also contain wings that can be adjusted for perfect comfort and support, ideal for napping or mere relaxation.
The rear seat experience in the Equus Ultimate is further upgraded by an eight-inch LCD screen.

This individual entertainment system will play DVDs for rear-seat passengers, as well as demonstrate audio features and report on HVAC status. The rear multimedia monitor can be controlled from the rear console, which also houses the remote control seat massage function.

These controls also activate the heated and cooled rear seats and the rear console refrigerator.

Other Equus Ultimate features include rear-seat power up/down head restraints with manual tilt, rear-seat illuminated vanity mirrors, a forward-view cornering camera to help drivers navigate around tight corners and a power trunk lid.

THE HEART OF HYUNDAI'S FLAGSHIP – SOPHISTICATED POWERTRAIN AND CHASSIS TECHNOLOGIES

The Equus is powered by Hyundai's two-consecutive-year award-winning 4.6-Liter DOHC Tau V8 engine, mated to a ZF® six-speed automatic transmission with SHIFTRONIC®. The overall driving experience is enhanced by Electro-Hydraulic Power Steering (EHPS) and an electronically-controlled Air Suspension with Continuous Damping Control (CDC) and Smart Cruise Control. Stopping power is provided by four-wheel disc brakes with Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and EBD. The Equus rides on 19-inch chrome alloy wheels with P245/45R19 (front) / P275/40R19 (rear) tires.

STANDARD SAFETY EQUIPMENT

Equus features standard ESC with TCS and Brake Assist. A new Hyundai safety innovation comes in the form of the Vehicle Stability Management (VSM) with pre-collision warning. VSM ties all of the active and passive safety features together, making sure that they perform optimally and in conjunction with one another.

Other safety features include a total of nine standard airbags (advanced dual front airbags, front and rear seat-mounted side-impact airbags, driver knee airbag, and roof-mounted side-curtain airbags), electronic active front head restraints with power controls, electronic seatbelt pretensioners and a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS). In addition to these, a Lane Departure Warning System (LDWS) makes its Hyundai debut on the Equus.

COLORS

Equus offers four exterior color choices and three interior theme choices. Exterior colors are White Satin Pearl, Black Noir Pearl, Granite Gray and Platinum Metallic. Interior themes are Cashmere with genuine Birch Burl wood, Jet Black with genuine walnut wood and Saddle with genuine walnut wood.

HYUNDAI MOTOR AMERICA

Hyundai Motor America, headquartered in Fountain Valley, Calif., is a subsidiary of Hyundai Motor Co. of Korea. Hyundai vehicles are distributed throughout the United States by Hyundai Motor America and are sold and serviced through about 800 dealerships nationwide. All Hyundai vehicles sold in the U.S. are covered by the Hyundai Assurance program, which includes the 5-year/60,000-mile fully transferable new vehicle warranty, Hyundai's 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty and 5-years of complimentary Roadside Assistance.

Hyundai Equus Named a Top 10 Summer Sizzler by Kelley Blue Book

Kelley Blue Book’s kbb.com named the 2011 Equus to its Top 10 Summer Sizzlers list, a compilation of all-new early arrivals from the automotive class of 2011.

“With its cutting-edge technologies, bold style and unparalleled combination of luxury and value, Equus will attract a new type of buyer to the Hyundai brand,” said Scott Margason, director of Product Planning, Hyundai Motor America. “Equus will help translate Hyundai’s successful formula for intelligent luxury into the retail and service environment so that owners get a high-end experience at a more affordable price point.”

The Top 10 Summer Sizzlers list profiles the 10 new vehicles that are most likely to excite consumers as the new 2011 model year begins. This summer, automotive manufacturers from around the world have opened one of the most diverse and intensive product launch schedules in their collective history.

“From redesigned longtime success-stories to all-new entrants to the marketplace, many hot 2011 model-year cars are coming through the product pipeline this summer,” said Jack R. Nerad, executive editorial director and executive market analyst for Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com. "It's never been a better time to be in the market for a new car, because auto manufacturers have stepped up their game to offer more choices than ever.”

“A daring move by Hyundai to step up in class, the new Equus sedan seeks to directly confront luxury cruisers like the Lexus LS460 and Mercedes-Benz S-Class,” said kbb.com editors. “Based on a stretched Genesis platform, this high-minded Hyundai matches tasteful exterior styling with a megaload of premium interior appointments. Mechanically, the Equus offers a 385-horsepower/4.6-liter V8, six-speed Shiftronic automatic transmission, variable air suspension and comprehensive vehicle dynamics package.”

Joining the Equus on the kbb.com Summer Sizzler list are the BMW 5 Series Sedan, Cadillac CTS/CTS-V Coupe, Chevrolet Cruze, Ford Fiesta, Honda CR-Z, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Mazda2, Saab 9-5, and Subaru Impreza WRX/STI. For more information about the Top 10 Summer Sizzlers list from Kelley Blue Book’s kbb.com, visit http://kbb.us/2010sizzlers.

[Source: Hyundai]

Hyundai Equus, Genesis To Get 429-HP 5.0L Tau V8

Hyundai has just announced that after the market launch of its new flagship Equus luxury sedan, it will offer an engine option above the planned 4.6L Tau V8. The optional engine will be a new 5.0L Tau V8, making 429-hp. That same engine will then also find its way into the Genesis luxury sedan.

With a power increase of around 45-hp with the larger engine, torque will also jump from 333 ft-lbs to 376. And aiding in both power deliver and fuel consumption is a new 8-speed automatic – although it’s not yet clear if the Genesis will also get the 8-speed box.

The move is designed to keep Hyundai’s flagship competitive with the new twin-turbo motors from BMW and Mercedes, but as most buyers won’t see the Equus as a rival to the established marques, we have to think this is more of a shot across the bow of Lexus, with the larger Genesis motor offering far more power than what Lexus equips its LS models with.

[Source: TheCarConnection]

Hyundai Equus Becomes Costa Rica's Presidential Limo

For his last days in office as the President of Costa Rica, Oscar Arias will be sporting a brand new presidential limo - the Hyundai Equus. The all-new Equus is donated by the government of South Korea, in conjunction with Hyundai Motor Company. The car is currently en route to Costa Rica, and is expected to arrive in the country on April 20th.

The new presidential ride for Costa Rica replaces the outgoing Kia Opirus (Amanti) in the country's presidential fleet. The rear-wheel drive flagship model of Hyundai will be given to Arias who is completing his term very soon, and the keys will be handed over later to president-elect Laura Chinchilla.

There are no indications that the Equus for the Costa Rican President is bulletproof like the model designed for the South Korean President.

[Source: Inside Costa Rica]

Buy a Hyundai Equus, Get an iPad

When the 2011 Hyundai Equus goes on sale this fall, the Korean automaker intends to pamper well-heeled customers and prospects, with free in-home demonstrations and service calls. As a bonus, Equus buyers will get a free Apple iPad, the hot new wireless multimedia tablet, from which they can schedule service appointments and access an electronic owner's manual.

The manual-on-an-iPad appears to be an industry first—part of Hyundai's effort to create an aura of exclusivity around its new flagship sedan.

Hyundai Motor America CEO John Krafcik says the launch of the Equus "has driven us to create an innovative customer experience designed to save our customers time...We'll use what we learn from Equus to upgrade the customer experience for all Hyundai owners."

Krafcik said the electronic owner's manual will be "interactive," but the device also will be a fully functioning iPad. Equus owners can use the device to schedule free service pickup and delivery, as well as free loaners.

[Source: Inside Line - Edmunds]

REPORT: Hyundai to Separate Genesis and Equus in Showrooms

Rather than spin off the new premium Hyundai products into their own brand, necessitating the creation of new dealerships and huge marketing budgets, the Korean automaker is opting for the “showroom-within-a-showroom” approach. According to documents obtained by Ward’s, Hyundai Motor America (HMA) is looking to make the move soon, creating a luxury area within current dealerships where staff will display and sell new models like the Genesis Sedan and Genesis Coupe as well as the upcoming Equus flagship luxury sedan.

Instead of costing dealerships millions of dollars, the new displays are only likely to run in the hundreds of thousands. This setup is quite different from what Japanese automakers like Toyota did when it launched the Lexus brand, opting instead to set up entirely separate dealerships.

“Similar to the attributes of Toyota-Scion buildings, this strategy will create physical and psychological separation in the Hyundai showroom environment,” writes HMA VP of national sales Dave Zuchowski in his memo.

Cars like the Genesis Coupe, in its higher end trim, compete with models like the Infiniti G37 and BMW 335i Coupe, while the Genesis Sedan stacks up against vehicles like the BMW 5 Series, Mercedes E-Class and Lexus GS. The new Equus, however, is aimed at top-tier models like the BMW 7 Series and Lexus LS. It is expected to cost slightly less than an LS and will go on sale this Fall.

Hyundai sees the Equus as another, but important, step on the road to becoming a legitimate luxury retailer. “We intend to use the launch of the new Equus to develop and further establish Hyundai as a legitimate force in the premium-luxury segments,” says Zuchowski.

[Source: Ward's]