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At first glance, a new set of spy photos shows what appears to be a Hyundai Genesis sedan that has been stretched. But according to Automobile Magazine, what we are looking at is the next-generation Equus flagship. The mule appears to be riding on a longer wheelbase. This is hinted by a large piece of sheetmetal riveted behind the rear doors. Also giving some credence that we're looking at the next Equus. Driving along with the mule was a BMW 7-Series. Not much is known about the next-generation Equus, but Automobile Magazine speculates that the model will share the Genesis' platform and come with the option of all-wheel drive. As for when we'll see the model, 2016 or 2017 seems very likely. Source: Automobile Magazine View full article

Equus Bass 770, is it worth $250,000? The question is asked, since Equus Automotive is showing off 3 of their new 21st Century Muscle cars at the Detroit Autoshow this week. http://www.equus-automotive.com/en_US/ The muscle car features GM's LS9 6.2L Supercharged 640HP V8 as the motor of motivation. The Bass770 comes in 480lbs lighter than the Camero ZL1 at 3640lbs curb weight. Tranmission of choice is a dual clutch 6 speed manual sending power to the rear wheels while using GM's Magnetic Ride Suspension system and Brembo Carbon Ceramic Rotors and pads. Boasting a top speed of 200mph and a 0 - 60 time of 3.4 seconds. This pushes this as the ultamite American Muscle car to take on all super cars. The interior is a retro style wrapped in soft leather yet using 21st century electronics. Their web site has what all Car nuts love, a configurator so you can build your own Bass770. http://www.equus-automotive.com/en_US/configurator/ So check out the site, build your BASS770 and post your new 21st Century Bad Ass Ride and tell us what you think! Is this Muscle Car worth the Coin? Sound Off!

William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com December 11, 2013 Whenever you have a conversation that revolves around the Hyundai Equus, two questions pop up: Hyundai is building a luxury sedan? Won't the Hyundai Equus end up having a similar fate as the Volkswagen Phaeton? The second question comes up a lot since the Equus and Phaeton share a lot of commonalities: Both come from automakers with modest lineup Both are/were the most expensive models in the lineup Both came with a number of luxuries and technologies The difference is how long they were sold in the U.S. The Phaeton went on sale in 2002 model year and only lasted four years. Meanwhile, the Equus was introduced in the 2011 model year and is celebrating it's third year on sale. To commemorate this, Hyundai has given the Equus a bit of a nip and tuck for the 2014 model year. But the question remains whether or not the Equus will have a bright or dark future ahead of it. Well, I spent a week with an 2014 Equus Signature and I have a possible answer to that question The Equus exterior design is a very conservative shape. You will not find any shocking or daring design touches on the body. This isn't such a good plan because the majority of players in the flagship marketplace have really stepped in making their sedans stand out. My assumption is that Hyundai wanted to play it safe with the first-generation and will do something a bit different with the next-generation model.What has changed on the 2014 Equus is a number of tweaks to the front end. There is a new grille, bumper, and headlights that make the Equus look fresh. You also have a set of nineteen-inch turbine wheels which add a touch of class. Hyundai made some major improvements to the Equus' interior. The previous interior looked more at home in a midsize sedan than a flagship sedan with a lot of plastic, a small screen for the infotainment system, and switchgear from other Hyundai models. The 2014 Equus really steps up with a redesigned dashboard that features wood and metal trim and an improved center stack.As for infotainment, the Equus Signature comes with a large 9.2-inch screen that is controlled by knob and set of buttons on the center console. The system is very intuitive and only takes a few minutes to learn how to work it, something that cannot be said for the competition's infotainment systems. Hyundai's infotainment software has also seen improvements both in graphics and performance. Up front, driver and passenger are coddled in leather seats that provide a number of power adjustments, plus heat and cooling. For the back seat passengers, there is loads of head and legroom. The rear seats also recline, increasing the comfort quotient by a wide margin. Rear seat passengers also get a set of controls for the climate, audio, and seat adjustments in the rear armrest. For impressions on the powertrain and ride, see page 2. Click pictures to enlarge Powering the Equus is Hyundai's 5.0L Tau V8 engine. This V8 produces 429 horsepower and 376 pound-feet of torque. An eight-speed automatic gets the power from the engine to the rear wheels. The V8 really has the grunt to get this large sedan moving. Stepping on the accelerator releases an almost instantaneous rush of power. More impressive is how quiet and refined the V8 engine is. Even when you mash the pedal, the V8 emits a low rumble. The eight-speed automatic provides velvety-smooth and quick shifts. One minute, the transmission is upshifting to keep the V8 quietly humming. The next minute when I hit the pedal, the transmission is downshifting to get the power to the road. EPA fuel economy is rated at 15 City/23 Highway/18 Combined. During my week, I saw an average of 18.2 MPG. The Equus provided one of the smoothest rides I have ever experienced thanks to a revised air suspension system with three different modes (Normal, Sport, and Snow). The system does an excellent job making sure potholes, bumps, and other road imperfections don't make their way inside. Also not making an appearance is noise from the road and wind. Hyundai made sure to insulate the Equus with double-pane glass and sound deadening material throughout. This is a perfect car to eat up miles on the highway or a long country road.What the Equus isn't so good at is being a fun to drive vehicle. Even though there is sport mode which firms up the air suspension, it really doesn't lessen the body roll. The steering isn't setup for the task either. Turning the wheel felt very rubber-bandy, not smooth as I was expecting. The steering has barely any feel or weight in the steering, but then again this is a big luxury sedan, not a sports car. I could imagine the Equus yelling out to me "WHAT DO YOU THINK YOU ARE DOING?!"when driving on a curvy road. If you want a big luxury sedan that's fun to drive, look to the Germans. Much like I said in my first drive, the 2014 Hyundai Equus Signature nails the basics of a flagship luxury sedan, and adds a lot value to boot. There is three years of no-cost maintenance with someone picking up the Equus to have it serviced at the dealer and three years of Hyundai's BlueLink Assurance Connected Care. All for an as-tested price of $61,920 with destination. There are a couple of areas Hyundai does need to improve on the Equus; the steering and exterior design. But the question remains on the future of the Equus, is in it for the long haul or not? Well, Hyundai has made the right decisions on the pricing, features, and a few other details. Hyundai is also being realistic how many Equus they sell every year. They know it will be a small number of people who want a luxury car at a bargain price. Looking into my crystal ball, I see the Equus having a nice future ahead of it. Disclaimer: Hyundai Provided the Equus, Insurance, and One Tank of Gas Year: 2014 Make: Hyundai Model: Equus Trim: Signature Engine: 5.0L GDI DOHC 32-valve Tau V8 Driveline: Rear-Wheel Drive, Eight-Speed Automatic Horsepower @ RPM: 429 @ 6,400 Torque @ RPM: 376 @ 5,000 Fuel Economy: City/Highway/Combined - 15/23/18 Curb Weight: N/A Location of Manufacture: Ulsan, South Korea Base Price: $61,000 As Tested Price: $61,920 (Includes $920 Destination Charge) Options: N/A William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at [email protected] you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster. View full article

William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com July 18, 2013 Hyundai is building a competitor to the Lexus LS and Mercedes-Benz S-Class? That was my first thought when the Korean automaker announced their luxury flagship, the Equus was coming to the U.S. a few years ago. I was wondering if Hyundai was bitting off a bit more than they could chew. Going after the stalwarts of the luxury flagship was not an easy task, just ask the Volkswagen Phaeton. However the Equus has turned out to be more of a Lexus LS than Volkswagen Phaeton. Sales of the model last year are seven percent of the total luxury flagship market and is stealing customers away from the likes of Lexus and Mercedes-Benz. Why? Hyundai focused on its major strength on offering a whole lot car of for the money with the Equus, a formula employed by both Lexus and Volkswagen with different results. With a base price of $61,900, the Equus undercuts many of its competitors by an average of around $15,000. Now entering its third year in the U.S. marketplace, Hyundai is doing a mid-cycle refresh to keep the Equus fresh in light of new and refreshed models on the marketplace. How does it fare? I recently found out this past week at Hyundai's Technical Center in Ann Arbor, Michigan as Hyundai invited us to take a first drive in the 2014 Equus. The 2014 Equus mostly looks the same as the model that was introduced back in 2011; a conservative, yet handsome luxury sedan. The most obvious change in the design is up front where Hyundai designers changed the grille and bumper, added a set of fog lamps, and dropped the chrome accents on the bumper. The other change of note is a set of nineteen-inch turbine wheels that add a touch of class. The Equus' interior also saw a number of changes for 2014. Starting up front, the 2014 Equus gets a redesigned dashboard and center stack that gives off a more premium feel. There is a larger 9.2 inch screen for the infotainment system and new seven-inch screen in the instrument cluster. Equus Ultimate models get a 12.3 TFT screen in the instrument cluster, a heads-up display system, and a haptic feedback dial on the steering wheel. Moving to the back seat, Hyundai dropped the reclining back seat with the footrest and is just offering reclining for both back seats. There is also a new rear console that folds down and provides controls for the rear climate control and audio system. Seated in the back, I found myself being very comfortable and having more than enough head and legroom, even with the seat reclined. Those looking for more backseat luxuries should look at the Equus Ultimate, since it adds dual 9.2 inch screens and power door closure. Taking off from the technical center to begin the drive, I found the Equus to be very spritely. Leaving a stoplight, the Equus moves with authority like any luxury car should. Making a pass or merging onto a freeway was no sweat. This is thanks to the Equus' 5.0L Tau V8 with 429 horsepower and 376 pound-feet of torque. An eight-speed transmission is paired with V8 and sends the power to the rear wheels. The eight-speed is very smooth and seamless, what you expect in a big sedan. The shift logic worked brilliantly. Whether I buried my foot into the throttle or lightly touched it, the transmission went about its way with no sweat. The ride is up to par in the luxury flagship class. A revised air suspension system and bushings help make you and your passengers feel like you're driving on glass. Also, the Equus is eerily quiet at speed. Those who are hoping for a sporty drive with those revisions will be disappointed. The Equus leans when cornered and the steering really isn't set up for it. If handling is at the top of your priorities, you should be looking at the Germans. As for safety, the Equus has the usual assortment of features; nine airbags, stability control, traction control, brake assist, lane departure warning, and pre-collision warning. The Equus also comes with blind-spot warning with rear-cross traffic alert as standard equipment. Hyundai says the Equus is the only car in its class with this feature standard. Also standard in the Equus only is Smart Cruise Control with Stop/Start. The system uses radar to monitor what is in front and bring it to a full stop if it detects the vehicle in front is coming to a stop. Once the vehicle is moving, the system will accelerate the Equus back to its set speed. I can attest this system works very well as the Equus was able to stop to start back up with no problems at all. The price? Much lower than you think. $61,920 will get you into the base Equus Signature and $68,920 for the upper level Equus Ultimate. Those prices include three years of no-cost maintenance with someone picking up the Equus and leaving you with a loaner till your vehicle is done, and three years of Hyundai's BlueLink Assurance Connected Care. At first, you might have laughed at the notion of a Hyundai luxury vehicle. But after driving the 2014 Equus, I can say it's the real deal. While it might not be most distinctive nor the sportiest luxury sedan, Hyundai nailed the basics; smooth ride, powerful engine, number of luxury appointments and features, and value for money. The big question remains: Will the Equus take a place in history along side the Lexus LS by moving the barometer of what a flagship luxury sedan can be or will it suffer the same fate as the Volkswagen Phaeton; a capable entry into the marketplace but ignored due to it not having the brand equity needed to command the premium price? Disclaimer: Cheers & Gears was invited to a first drive event by Hyundai Motor America and provided the vehicles, breakfast, and lunch for the event. Year - 2014 Make – Hyundai Model – Equus Engine – 5.0L GDI DOHC D-CVVT Tau V8 Driveline – Rear-Wheel Drive, Eight-Speed Automatic Horsepower @ RPM – 429 HP (Premium Fuel)/421 HP (Regular Fuel) (@ 6,400 RPM) Torque @ RPM – 376 lb-ft (Premium Fuel)/365 lb-ft (Regular Fuel) (@ 5,000 RPM) Fuel Economy: City/Highway/Combined - 15/23/18 Curb Weight – N/A 2014 Equus Pricing: Equus Signature - $61,920 Equus Ultimate - $68,920 Includes $920 Destination Charge William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at [email protected] or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster. View full article

By William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com March 27, 2013 Hyundai's flagship sedan has undergone a big refresh for the North American market this year, with the new 2014 Equus being shown at the New York Auto Show this week. Outside, the 2014 Equus doesn't look that much different than the current model. The front bumper, grille, lights, and mirrors have been changed for the 2014 model. Moving inside, Hyundai has made some key changes including a new instrument cluster, steering wheel, center console, and a large 9.2-inch touchscreen in the dash. The Equus Ultimate model gets a 12.3-inch in the dash and two 9.2-inch screens for back seat passengers. Under the hood, the 5.0L Tau V8 engine is left untouched. It produces 429 horsepower and 376 pound-feet of torque. The power goes through an eight-speed automatic to the rear wheels. Hyundai has reworked the Equus' suspension to improve ride and handling characteristics. Sport feels more sporty while normal feels more comfortable. Hyundai hasn't announced when the new Equus will go on sale, but it might sometime later this year. Source: Hyundai William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at [email protected] you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster. Press Release is on Page 2 REDESIGNED 2014 EQUUS OFFERS DRIVER-FOCUSED TECHNOLOGIES, PREMIUM DESIGN, SUSPENSION REFINEMENT AND ADVANCED SAFETY FEATURES Hyundai’s Flagship Premium Sedan Receives Comprehensive Mid-cycle Enhancements NEW YORK, Mar. 27, 2013 – Hyundai Motor America today introduced the redesigned 2014 Equus premium luxury sedan in a North American debut at the New York International Auto Show with enhancements to exterior and interior design, vehicle dynamics, material selection, driver technology displays and advanced safety features. Equus has been an impressive success story for Hyundai; so far this year, Equus is the number-one shopped premium luxury sedan, well ahead of Mercedes-Benz S-Class, BMW 7-Series, Audi A8, Lexus LS, and Jaguar XJ according to industry shopping analysis by Compete. 2014 EQUUS HIGHLIGHTS Exterior New 19-inch, turbine-blade polished silver wheel design New front bumper fascia and grille design New side mirrors and tail lamp graphics Standard LED fog lamps New Night Shadow Brown exterior color Interior Completely redesigned instrumental panel and center stack Redesigned center console and shift lever design Revised steering wheel control layout with vehicle settings New ivory leather interior environment New, ultra-premium genuine wood trim selections Redesigned rear seat center console controls Suspension Revised tuning for both enhanced ride comfort and handling Sport mode receives crisper damper tuning for improved body control Normal mode receives enhanced ride comfort Snow mode added to drive mode system [*]Revised front suspension bushings Features Standard Assurance Connected Care & Blue Link® – safety, service and infotainment telematics system Larger, 7-inch TFT LCD cluster display (Signature) 12.3-inch, fully-digital TFT LCD cluster display (Ultimate) Larger 9.2-inch upper center stack LCD display Climate control system offers three distinct cabin temperature zones Standard smart cruise control with stop/start (from 0 mph) Proximity smart key with both key fob and card-key types Dual 9.2-inch rear seat entertainment monitors Power door closure Power lumbar for rear outboard seats Advanced Safety Standard Assurance Connected Care (3-year complimentary services) Standard Rear Cross-traffic Alert Standard Blind Spot Detection (BSD) Heads-up display (HUD) designed for reduced driving distraction Vehicle multi-view camera system EXTERIOR DESIGN 2014 Equus exterior enhancements convey a premium-sport design message, starting with a new 19-inch turbine-blade alloy wheel design in a polished silver finish that relays motion whether parked or on the open highway. The front grille chrome bars are thinner, with sharper contrast to the blacked-out portions of the grille for a sportier look. The front fascia also has been redesigned, with the former chrome accents removed in favor of a modern premium appearance that includes lower fascia opening strakes. The headlamps offer jeweled design elements and include chrome contrasted with black-out finishes for a distinctive appearance. New LED fog lamps are now standard. Side mirrors have been redesigned for enhanced aerodynamics and tail lamp graphics move to a more horizontal theme. INTERIOR DESIGN Hyundai engineers wanted the 2014 Equus interior to perfectly complement the enhancements to its exterior. Thus, the themes of premium and performance again greet the driver behind the wheel. The entire instrument panel and center stack have been redesigned with more premium materials and an ergonomically-correct layout, with new button iconography for quicker and easier feature recognition. The center console and shift lever reveal more premium material selection and contemporary premium-luxury design cues. Steering wheel control layout has been improved, with new low-sheen button designs and icons. Similarly, rear passengers will enjoy a new rear console and button layout, with available dual 9.2-inch, high-resolution, adjustable seatback video screens to enjoy movies, audio media, HVAC or seating functions. Rear passengers can even search restaurant locations and provide navigation system directions directly to the driver’s navigation screen. VEHICLE DYNAMICS 2014 Equus driving dynamics also have been revised to minimize traditional ride and handling compromises, with Normal and Sport modes each taking on a more differentiated ride and handling character. The air suspension was recalibrated: Sport mode receives more controlled damping, while Normal mode receives slightly enhanced ride comfort while retaining a well-controlled handling demeanor. The front suspension bushings were also revised to enhance suspension function. For those customers that experience adverse weather conditions such as ice and snow, a new Snow mode function was added to the drive mode system, for both safety and ease of control in challenging road conditions. In urban areas, Equus is easy to maneuver and park, thanks to electro-hydraulic steering and its electronic parking guide assist. While the Equus is large, it doesn't feel over-sized or clumsy due to its 39.6 foot turning circle and variable-effort steering system. On winding country and mountain roads, the Equus benefits from the precise wheel articulation delivered by its five-link front and rear suspension geometry. This geometry is maximized through Continuous Damping Control (CDC), which continually monitors road and driving dynamics and optimizes damping force accordingly. The standard 19-inch alloy wheel and tire package with staggered width tires (P245/45R19 front P275/40R19 rear) offers excellent grip and precise control. NEW AND ENHANCED TECHNOLOGIES All Equus driver-interface displays have been improved for 2014, with a larger, 7-inch Thin-film Transistor (TFT) LCD center cluster display for Signature models, a large 12.3-inch, fully-digital TFT LCD center cluster display for Ultimate models, and a larger, standard 9.2-inch center instrument panel LCD display. New, dual high-resolution 9.2-inch rear seat entertainment monitors have been fitted in place of the former single monitor for rear passengers in the Ultimate model. All of Equus’ new displays are larger and more legible, featuring premium-quality, high-resolution graphics. The Ultimate model’s larger, fully-digital LCD display now offers various driver menus that can be accessed directly via steering wheel haptic dial control, helping to keep the driver’s hands on the wheel for minimal driving distraction. The climate control system now offers three distinct cabin temperature zones for driver, passenger, and rear passengers. The standard smart cruise control system has been enhanced to include a full 0-mph stop-and-start function for use in stop-and-go traffic. The smart proximity key now includes both key-fob and card-key types of vehicle entry for greater driver convenience. Ultimate models now feature an automatic power door closure assist function; once a door manually approaches full closure, a power function slowly and quietly ensures the door is fully secured for peace of mind. Also on the Ultimate model, both rear outboard passengers now have power lumbar support. POWERFUL 5.0-LITER TAU V8 ENGINE The 2014 Equus is powered by Hyundai’s 5.0-liter Tau DOHC V8 engine, producing 429 horsepower at 6,400 rpm and 376 lb.-ft. of torque at 5,000 rpm, with a higher specific output (85.8 hp/liter) than its normally-aspirated premium luxury competitors. The Tau V8 engine creates this high output level while retaining exceptionally smooth power delivery throughout its rpm range, without the turbo lag and surge exhibited by some forced-induction engines. The 5.0-liter Tau also features direct injection technology. This high-pressure direct injection system (over 2,200 psi) dramatically increases power and torque, while reducing fuel consumption and emissions. The 5.0-liter Tau has a high 11.5:1 compression ratio for greater thermal efficiency and output. It also has a bed plate for improved block rigidity and lower NVH, as well as camshaft carriers and a roller timing chain to improve valvetrain stability. This V8 engine offers premium engine technologies, including Dual Continuously Variable Valve Timing (D-CVVT), a tuned variable induction system, and low-friction diamond-like coatings (DLC) on piston skirts, rings and tappets. Even with these impressive power increases, fuel economy is estimated at 15 mpg city, 23 mpg highway and 18 mpg combined. The Tau V8 engine is coupled with a Hyundai-developed eight-speed transmission with SHIFTRONIC® manual shift capability for enhanced acceleration and overall efficiency. INNOVATIVE OWNERSHIP EXPERIENCE Hyundai will continue to offer its unique ownership experience for Equus customers, including tailored dealership showrooms, “Your Time, Your Place” at-home vehicle demonstrations, “At Your Service” valet service appointments and an interactive owner’s manual app for Apple iPad®. The sales and service experience for Equus is unlike any other in the industry, with a special focus on the customer’s time and convenience. Prospective buyers can participate in the “Your Time, Your Place” valet test drive program, where a specially-trained Product Champion will deliver an Equus to their home or office for a personalized, convenient shopping experience. Equus also features the industry’s first interactive owner’s manual app, providing a convenient and simpler way for owners to become familiar with the full capabilities of the vehicle. Another benefit of Equus “At Your Service” is completely free maintenance services throughout the five-year, 60,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty period. During this five-year period, any maintenance or warranty issue is fully covered by Hyundai, providing exceptional peace of mind to Equus owners. When service is required, Equus owners can schedule their maintenance and service through a simple online scheduling system or from the interactive owner’s manual. An Equus owner can also choose to have their vehicle picked up at their home or business, with a complimentary loaner dropped off. Once service is completed, the owner again chooses the time and location for the vehicle to be delivered. PREMIUM REAR-WHEEL-DRIVE ARCHITECTURE Equus is the third rear-wheel-drive product in Hyundai’s lineup and boasts near perfect front-to-rear weight distribution for exceptional handling balance and more refined steering characteristics. Equus reduces interior noise levels and improves ride and handling with a rigid, lightweight body structure. The use of high-tensile steel in critical areas throughout the unibody provides Equus with significantly higher dynamic torsional rigidity and a lower body structure weight, despite having a spacious interior cabin. LUXURIOUS FEATURES AND DESIGN The busy executive as well as the couple heading out on the town will feel right at home in the 2014 Equus due to abundant luxury touches and passenger comfort features. This ambience begins with superior quality materials and design layout. The leather upholstery, Microfiber suede headliner, genuine wood trim and leather-wrapped French-stitched instrument panel showcase the richness of the Equus interior. The seats are fully adjustable with plenty of width and support. Thermoelectric devices located in the seat backs and bottom cushions provide control for heating, cooling and humidity. There is ample leg and head room for drivers over six-feet tall. In fact, Equus has more leg, head and shoulder room in the front and rear seats than the Lexus LS460. The driver’s cockpit boasts an abundance of features and premium services. The Driver Information System (DIS) provides navigation, SiriusXM Satellite Radio, HD Radio technology, hands-free Bluetooth® phone system, Blue Link® telematics, and much more. UNCOMPROMISED SAFETY TECHNOLOGIES For 2014, Equus has added a number of new technologies that reduce the potential for distracted driving by helping drivers to keep their eyes on the road and hands on the wheel. A new Blind Spot Detection system is standard, with blind spot vehicle alerts in either mirror. On the Ultimate model, a high-visibility Heads-up Display provides vehicle speed, navigation turn-by-turn instructions, smart cruise control indicators and select driving data viewable well above the cowl plane for reduced driving distraction. When parking or navigating tight urban situations, Equus Ultimate now offers a multi-view camera system that provides an aerial view of the vehicle with split-screen vehicle perspectives for optimized visibility and safety. In addition, all models now include Rear Cross-traffic Alert to help alert drivers of vehicles crossing their path when backing up. Equus also offers a lane departure warning system, with audible and visual warnings activated after a one-second lane departure. The system adds a haptic warning, via the seatbelt, for an extra margin of alert. Further, to help maintain safer following distances in traffic, Equus’ smart cruise control automatically manages the Equus’ speed through the braking and throttle systems to maintain a specified following distance selected by the driver. Equus maintains Hyundai’s emphasis on delivering leading safety technology, boasting world-class active and passive safety features to help prevent accidents, and maximize the well-being of its occupants in the event of a collision. Named a 2013 “TOP SAFETY PICK” by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), the Equus continues the Hyundai tradition of offering key safety technologies, with features such as Electronic Stability Control (ESC), nine airbags, electronic active front head restraints, lane departure warning system and smart cruise control that monitors and adjusts following distances in traffic. Equus even has a Vehicle Stability Management (VSM) system that optimally manages ESC, the electronic parking brake, smart cruise control and the seatbelt tensioning system for optimal safety. Equus’ total of nine airbags include advanced dual front airbags, front and rear seat-mounted side-impact airbags, roof-mounted side curtain airbags for both front and rear outboard seat occupants and a driver’s knee airbag. Equus utilizes strong unibody construction, along with front and rear crumple zones, bodyside reinforcements and five-mph energy-absorbing bumpers. The hood also includes buckling creases and safety stops to maximize occupant protection inside the cabin. Equus is confidently brought to a stop by large four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes with Brake Assist and Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD). The 14.2-inch front rotors have four-piston fixed calipers and the rear brakes feature 12.4-inch rotors with single floating piston calipers. LEXICON® AUDIO SYSTEM OFFERS UNRIVALED AUDIO PERFORMANCE Equus offers an ultra-premium Lexicon-branded state-of-the-art audio system featuring LOGIC 7® technology. The Lexicon surround sound audio system includes a 13-channel digital amplifier and 17 speakers producing 598 watts of power in 7.1 discrete surround sound audio. Equus also offers the clarity of digital HD Radio technology, SiriusXM Satellite Radio and iPod®/USB integration. ASSURANCE CONNECTED CARE AND HYUNDAI BLUE LINK® 2014 Equus adds the Hyundai Blue Link® telematics system, with over 30 safety, service, and infotainment features available. In addition, Equus with Blue Link® includes Assurance Connected Care, a three-year complimentary services suite with critical safety and ownership assistance features. This three-year complimentary services suite even extends to potential subsequent owners during the three-year period. Blue Link® combines safety, service and infotainment features to simplify owners’ lives, reduce stress and distracted driving. Blue Link brings seamless connectivity directly into the car with technologies like Remote Vehicle Start, Stolen Vehicle Recovery, and Remote Access from the Blue Link mobile application, including POI Search and Send-to-car. Blue Link can be easily accessed from the buttons on the rearview mirror, the web and via the smartphone app. Blue Link is offered in three service packages: Assurance Connected Care, Essentials and Guidance: Assurance Connected Care package (complimentary for 3-years): Automatic Collision Notification (ACN) and Assistance SOS Emergency Assistance Enhanced Roadside Assistance Monthly Vehicle Report Maintenance Alert Automated Diagnostic Trouble Code Notification (DTC) Recall Advisor Service Link Essentials package: Remote Vehicle Start Remote Door Lock/Unlock Remote Horn and Lights Car Finder via Mobile App Stolen Vehicle Recovery/Slowdown/Immobilization Geofence Valet Alert Speed/Curfew Alert Panic Notification Alarm Notification Guidance package: Turn-by-Turn Navigation Service POI Search by advanced voice recognition system POI Web Search and Download Daily Route Guidance with Traffic Condition Traffic Gas Station Locations and Gas Prices Restaurant Ratings Eco-Coach Weather More details on Hyundai Blue Link are available at http://www.hyundaibluelink.com/. GENEROUS FEATURE PACKAGING For 2014, Equus Signature and Ultimate packages are both so generously equipped that no factory options are available. Both the Signature and Ultimate packages now feature 5-passenger seating, increasing the Ultimate model’s appeal to customers desiring extra seating capacity. Both Equus Signature and Ultimate buyers benefit from the following new standard features added to all Equus models: Blind Spot Detection (BSD) Smart Cruise Control (with added 0-mph stop/start capability) New LED fog lamps Rear Cross-traffic Alert Additional “card-type” proximity key entry Blue Link® telematics capability Navigation system with 9.2-inch LCD screen (formerly 8.0-inch) Three-zone climate control system (formerly two-zone type) EQUUS SIGNATURE KEY STANDARD FEATURES 5.0L GDI DOHC D-CVVT Tau® V8 engine w/429 HP 8-Speed automatic transmission with SHIFTRONIC® Electro-Hydraulic Power Steering (EHPS) Electronically Controlled Air Suspension with Continuous Damping Control (CDC) 19” polished-silver finish alloy wheels with P245/45R19(Ft)/P275/40R19(Rr) 4-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 w/ pre-collision warning 9 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 w/ power controls / Electronic seatbelt pre-tensioners Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) Lane-departure warning system (LDWS) Blind Spot Detection with Rear Cross-traffic Alert Smart Cruise Control (SCC) with stop/start High Intensity Discharge (HID) headlights with LED turn signal indicators Adaptive Front Lighting System (AFLS) with auto-leveling LED Fog lights & Automatic headlights Front and rear parking assistance system with rearview camera & Rear Cross-traffic Alert Dual power-folding heated auto-dim side mirrors w/ turn signal indicators/approach lamps Dual asymmetrical exhaust tips integrated with rear bumper Proximity key (card type) entry with push-button start Illuminated scuff plates, inside door handles & door armrest Premium leather seating surfaces and microfiber suede headliner 12-way power driver seat plus lumbar adjustment and 10-way power front passenger seat Heated & Cooled front seats Heated, wood-trimmed & leather-wrapped steering wheel /power tilt-and-telescopic function Integrated Memory System (IMS) for driver-side seat, mirror and steering wheel Leather-wrapped dash and genuine wood interior trim Electroluminescent cluster with 7-inch TFT LCD screen Electronic parking brake with automatic vehicle hold Power windows with auto-down/up Blue Link® Telematics System Assurance Connected Care (with 3-years complimentary service) Navigation system w/ 9.2 inch LCD screen w/ DIS multimedia controller Lexicon® 7.1 Discrete surround-sound audio system with 17 speakers AM/FM/HD Radio®/SiriusXM/CD/DVD/MP3 audio system iPod, USB and MP3 auxiliary input jacks Bluetooth® hands-free phone system Three zone Automatic Temperature Control with Air Quality System Windshield-wiper deicer, rain-sensing wipers / auto-defogging windshield 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 Premium-grade floor mats, premium-grade trunk cargo mat and first-aid kit EQUUS ULTIMATE ADDS ULTRA LUXURY FEATURES Equus Ultimate adds or replaces: Heads-up display Cooled rear seats Power rear side window sunshades Rear seat power up/down head restraints w/ manual tilt Rear seat illuminated vanity mirrors Forward-view Cornering Camera Power trunk lid Steering-wheel haptic dial control for center cluster Full 12.3 inch TFT LCD instrument cluster display screen Rear seat entertainment system w/ dual 9.2” monitors Power lumbar (rear outboard seats) Multi-view camera system Power door closure COLOR PALETTE For 2014, Equus buyers can opt for a distinctive new color, Night Shadow Brown, as well as the option of a new Ivory leather interior environment with contrasting piping on the seat bolsters, a sporty yet unmistakably premium interior design element. There are also three new genuine wood accents for the interior: Jet Black with Walnut, Ivory with Ash or Saddle brown with Madrona. View full article

By William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com March 7, 2013 While many of us are still somewhat recovering from the madness that is the Geneva Motor Show, automakers are turning their attention to the next big show in New York. Hyundai has announced today that New York would be the place where they introduce the revised 2014 Equus. Hyundai released a teaser shot and says the 2014 Equus will come with more than 30 updates, including exterior and interior design tweaks, a revised suspension, improved materials, and new "driver technology displays." However the sleuths at CarScoops figured out that Hyundai has already revealed the 2014 Equus. Back in December, Hyundai introduced the refreshed Equus in South Korea. Judging from the shots Hyundai released in December and the teaser shot, it was figured out to be one in the same. Source: Hyundai, CarScoops William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at [email protected] you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster. Press Release is on Page 2 NEW YORK, Mar. 27, 2013 – Hyundai Motor America today will introduce the significantly enhanced 2014 Equus premium luxury sedan in a North American debut at the New York International Auto Show. The Equus freshening includes more than 30 new and enhanced features, including: - - Exterior and interior design elements - - Ride, handling and vehicle control dynamics - - Interior material quality - - Driver technology displays - - Advanced safety features View full article