Overview

Hyundai's new flagship luxury sedan, the Equus was introduced in North America for the 2011 model year (though it has been available in Korea since 1999). The full-size Equus shares a platform with the Hyundai Genesis, but is 7.2 inches longer, allowing for more interior space. Hyundai has positioned the Equus to compete with other full-size luxury sedans, including the Infiniti M56, Mercedes-Benz E-Class and S-Class, and the BMW 5 Series and 7 Series.

The rear-wheel-drive Equus is available in two trim levels: Signature and Ultimate. The Equus Signature features 19-inch wheels, adjustable air suspension, sliding and tilting glass sunroof, dual-zone automatic climate control, adaptive cruise control, adaptive bi-Xenon headlights, remote keyless entry, leather upholstery, heated and cooled power front seats, Alcantara headliner, voice-activated navigation system, Bluetooth connectivity, 17-speaker surround sound system, and an Apple iPad. The rear features heated and reclining bench seating, and sound and climate controls. The Equus Ultimate trim adds a center console, refrigerator, power trunk lid, cornering camera, and more rear-seat controls. Designed as an executive sedan, the Ultimate model accommodates only four people-two in the front, and two in the rear bucket seats. The rear passenger-side chair features massage and recline functions. The trunk of the Equus provides 16.7 cubic feet of cargo space.

The standard power plant on the 2011 Hyundai Equus is a 385-horsepower, 4.6-liter V-8 engine, coupeed with a 6-speed automatic transmission. It delivers 16 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway, according to the EPA.

Standard safety features on the 2011 Hyundai Equus include anti-lock brakes, stability and traction control, active front head restraints, seat belt pre-tensioners, front and rear side air bags, side curtain air bags, driver's knee air bags, front and rear parking sensors, rearview camera, an ignition disabling device, and an intrusion-detection system.

Starting MSRP for the 2011 Hyundai Equus ranges from $58,000 to $64,500.