Hyundai Arms 2017 Equus Sedan With More Style As It Edges Closer To The S-Class

After launching the second-gen Equus luxury sedan globally in 2009 and in North America the following year, Hyundai plans to raise the stakes with an all-new model designed from the get-go to have an international appeal.

The first iteration of the Equus (1999-2009), jointly manufactured by Hyundai and Mitsubishi that had its own model named the Proudia, was designed primarily for the South Korean market, though it was also sold in China and the Middle East as well.

While the second generation of Hyundai’s flagship was also made primarily with the domestic market in mind, the Korean firm tested the international waters by offering the Equus in North America for the very first time, albeit in limited numbers.

Now, Hyundai is ready for the next step by developing a truly global Equus that will be revealed next year, possibly at the 2016 New York Auto Show, and we have a second round of spy shots showing a prototype model undergoing testing near the brand’s Nürburgring facility in Germany.

This test car is still wrapped in Hyundai’s trademark camo, but we can now see a few more details, including the Genesis-style front grille. Hyundai’s new Vision G Concept revealed earlier this month also provides some hints at the next Equus’ styling DNA. Compared to the current model, the new Korean luxury sedan appears to have a sharper and more handsome silhouette.

The next Equus sedan will use a stretched version of the Genesis Mk2’s platform with a new multi-link rear suspension fine-tuned by Lotus, so it should offer a sportier ride. A 5.0-liter V8 delivering around 420-horses, possibly with the option of all-wheel drive, will be offered in North America, while other markets will also get a choice of V6 units. At some point in its life cycle, the Equus could get Hyundai’s upcoming V6 turbo and even a hybrid option.

Expect a rich array of standard comfort and all the latest technology features. As far as prices are concerned, it’s way too early to know Hyundai’s plans, but we suspect that the Koreans will follow a similar path to the current model offering the Equus as a Mercedes-Benz S-Class alternative at near E-Class prices.

Photo Credits: CarPix for CarScoops