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Hyundai Equus: I and II generations, engines and trims
Hyundai Equus — the top-of-the-range sedan from South Korea, produced from 1999 to 2016. It was never officially sold in Europe, so in Lithuania, you'll mostly find cars imported from the USA or Korea. We'll cover the generations, engines, trims, and what to check.
Equus in brief
The Equus was Hyundai's response to luxurious German and Japanese sedans. The first generation (1999–2009) was developed in collaboration with Mitsubishi, while the second (2009–2016) was a standalone Hyundai project with larger engines and more technology.
This car offered a lot of kit for less than its rivals, and later Hyundai spun off the luxury class into the separate Genesis brand. That's why the Equus is becoming a rarer and more exotic choice today.
Which generation to choose
The first generation is usually found as a cheap and uncommon car; it's older, with simpler tech and fewer safety systems. If you're after luxurious comfort, take a look at the second generation.
The second generation (from 2009) stands out with V6 and V8 engines, air suspension, a plethora of comfort features, and ample rear seat space. In 2013, the car was refreshed with a newer gearbox and cosmetic updates.
Engines and gearboxes
The second generation featured a V6 3.8 petrol engine (around 290–330 hp) and V8 variants: 4.6 (around 370–390 hp) and 5.0 (around 430 hp). The most powerful V8 engines were later paired with an 8-speed automatic gearbox.
Rear-wheel drive. These cars are heavy and packed with electronics, so fuel consumption is high.
What to check when buying a used Equus
The air suspension is one of the key components to inspect: check if the car maintains its height and doesn't sag on one or more wheels. Also, test all comfort features: seat adjustments, heating, ventilation, sound system, and navigation.
For cars imported from the USA, check the history, front headlights, mileage, and whether it has undergone the necessary modifications to meet European standards. Some parts may take time to arrive, as the car is rare in Europe.
Trim levels
Trim names vary by market: Signature and Ultimate in the USA, Prestige and the limousine version in Korea.
Signature
Second generationThe main trim level for the US market with a rich set of features.
- Often — leather-trimmed interior
- Often — air suspension and navigation
- Heated and ventilated seats
Ultimate
Second generationThe top trim level with the most comprehensive set of features.
- Often — rear passenger comfort package
- Often — high-end sound system
- More driver assistance systems
Prestige
Second generationThe top-of-the-range trim in the Korean market.
- Often — a longer wheelbase for rear-seat comfort
- Often — luxurious seats and trim
- Additional comfort features
Limousine
Second generationStretched limousine version for chauffeur hire.
- Plenty of space for rear passengers
- Often — dedicated rear passenger comfort
- A rare option
Trim comparison
| Signature | Ultimate | Prestige | Limousine | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Who it's for | Comfort on a budget | Maxed-out spec | Korean-style luxury | For hire with a driver |
| Tyre sizes (most often) | 18-inch | 19-inch | 18–19-inch | 18–19-inch |
| Salon | Base | Base with extra features | Base, more luxurious | Base, extended |
| Engine | V6 or V8 | V8 | V6 or V8 | V8 |
| Price in the used market (relatively) | Mid-range | High-end | Mid-range | High-end |
For most buyers, the best bet is a well-maintained second-generation car with a V8 engine and full kit. The limousine version is only suitable for specific needs.
Pros
- A spacious and well-equipped interior
- Powerful V8 engines
- Comfortable and quiet driving
- A rare and unique automobile
Cons
- Not officially sold in Europe, parts may need to be sourced
- High fuel consumption
- Expensive maintenance if the air suspension or electronics fail
Frequently asked questions
Was the Hyundai Equus sold in Europe?
Officially, no. Cars in Lithuania are usually imported from the US, Korea, or other markets, so before buying, check the history and equipment compatibility with Europe.
What engines does the Equus have?
Second generation — V6 3.8 and V8 4.6 and 5.0. You can find the exact power in the car's documents, as it varies by market and year.
How does the Equus differ from the Genesis?
The Equus was Hyundai's top-of-the-line sedan, later replaced by the standalone Genesis brand model G90. Technically, it's a different, newer car.
Updated 2026-10-14 · Trim levels and equipment vary by market and model year — check the equipment of the specific car. · Translated automatically
