2012 Hyundai Equus
In only its second year of sales, the new Hyundai Flagship – Equus – is undergoing a few changes that will propel it forward as a star in the Korean auto maker’s line up.
Hyundai is replacing the Equus’ 4.6-liter 385 horsepower V8 with a 5.0-liter V8, also used in Genesis R-Spec sedan. Rated at 429 horsepower, 376 pound-feet of torque, this powerplant comes with a direct injection set up. An eight-speed automatic transmission will also take over for last year’s six-speed.
“The 5.0-liter Equus certainly feels more willing, and in both the flagship four-door and in the Genesis R-Spec we drove recently,” says Motor Authority. “The larger-displacement Tau V-8 sounds a bit richer, with a rounder exhaust note, than the 4.6-liter version.”
Last year’s Equus was able to deliver 0-60 mph times around 6.4 seconds. Though full performance specifications have yet to be divulged from the auto maker, we suspect this car will drop that starting time to under 6 seconds, thanks to the added 44 horsepower.
Hyundai seems to have quite the luxury competitor here, ready to take on models from prestigious car makers who have made leather and horsepower vehicles for decades. One of the hurdles Equus might have to jump is a green one. The car is rated at 15 mpg city, 23 highway. Not bad for a V8 (we’re assuming the direct injection helps) but still no major gas saver.
Hyundai has yet to release pricing information on 2012′s Equus, which should hit dealer lots by October.
Source | Motor Authority
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