6 Best & Worst Hyundai EQUUS Years (We Checked)

The Hyundai Equus, a full-size luxury sedan, made its debut in 2011 and continued production until 2016.

As Hyundai’s first entry into the luxury market, it offered a well-appointed interior, powerful engine, and various distinctive features. With a decent run of six years, there have been some hits and misses within the Equus lineup, providing car enthusiasts with both exceptional and underwhelming models.

This article lists the best and worst years for Hyundai Equus. That said, the Equus models are pretty good across the board. We have no serious issues on the list here.

The Best Year for Hyundai Equus

2016 was a great year for the Hyundai Equus, as it saw the model reaching its peak in terms of performance and features.

This full-size luxury sedan was powered by a 5.0-liter V8 engine that produced 429 horsepower and 376 pound-feet of torque, making it a powerful and smooth ride for drivers and passengers alike.

The car was solely available with an eight-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive, a testament to its emphasis on performance and comfort.

The 2016 Equus stood out not only for its powerful engine but also for its spaciousness and well-finished interior.

The cabin featured leather upholstery, wood trim, and a roomy rear seat, which made it an excellent choice for those who prioritized space and comfort. Additionally, Equus was well-equipped with standard features that catered to the needs of drivers and passengers alike.

In terms of safety and reliability, the 2016 Hyundai Equus also scored fairly well.

Some of the safety features available on this model year included a full suite of airbags, anti-lock brakes, and electronic stability control. These, paired with the strong build quality of the vehicle, made it a dependable choice for those seeking a reliable and safe luxury sedan.

When it came to the infotainment and convenience features, the 2016 Equus didn’t disappoint either. Drivers and passengers could enjoy amenities such as touch-screen navigation, a premium sound system, heated and ventilated seats, and an adaptive cruise control system.

In summary, the 2016 Hyundai Equus was an attractive package for those seeking a luxury sedan that offered a potent combination of performance, comfort, and features. Its well-appointed cabin, strong engine, and robust safety features made it the standout choice among its peers during that model year.

The 2nd Best Year

The 2013 Hyundai Equus stands out as a remarkable model in its lineup.

With a few key improvements over its previous version, this luxury sedan grabbed the attention of car enthusiasts and industry critics alike. The 2013 model saw the introduction of the more powerful 5.0-liter V8 engine, producing an impressive 429 horsepower and 376 pound-feet of torque. Paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, the driving experience was smooth, responsive, and enjoyable.

In terms of interior features, the 2013 Hyundai Equus provided passengers with a comfortable, spacious cabin and an array of advanced technology options. The seats offered generous legroom, and the premium leather upholstery added a touch of elegance.

The infotainment system boasted a large display screen, making it easy to navigate and control various functions.

Safety-wise, the 2013 Equus came with numerous advanced driver assistance features, such as blind spot monitoring, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. These features, coupled with its excellent crash test ratings, contributed to the model’s reputation as a safe and reliable vehicle.

Pricing for the 2013 Equus remained competitive, offering an attractive alternative to pricier luxury sedans from more established brands. Owners of the 2013 model appreciated its great value, as it provided many of the features and amenities found in more expensive competitors, but at a more affordable price point.

In short, the 2013 Hyundai Equus proved to be a solid choice for those looking for a luxury sedan that offered a mix of performance, comfort, and advanced safety features at a competitive price.

Its numerous improvements over the previous model year made it stand out as the 2nd best year in the Equus lineup.

Other Good Years for Hyundai Equus

Hyundai has had various excellent years for its Equus model. Here are some other noteworthy years:

• 2011: A redesign year for the Equus, it marked Hyundai’s entry into the full-size luxury sedan market. With a spacious and well-designed interior, this year’s model garnered some attention for its comfortable ride and lower price point compared to competitors.
• 2015: The 2015 Hyundai Equus offered impressive standard features that added to its overall value. The model received positive reviews for its comfortable seating, especially in the roomy back seats, and overall luxurious feel. However, it did face some criticism for its handling and performance.

These years stand out for their balance of luxury and value. While some aspects could have been improved, specifically handling and performance, the Hyundai Equus still managed to gain recognition for its spacious and luxurious interior, as well as its competitive price within the luxury sedan market.

The Worst Year for Hyundai Equus

The 2014 model received mixed reviews from owners and critics. Some people experienced electrical problems, such as malfunctioning power seats and sunroofs.

Additionally, there have been a few instances of an inconsistent air conditioning system. These issues, while bothersome to some, did not significantly impact overall satisfaction for many 2014 Equus owners.

It’s essential to keep in mind that the issues mentioned for each of these years are not pervasive across every vehicle produced. Many Hyundai Equus owners from these years continue to enjoy a comfortable and luxurious driving experience.

Problems to Look for in Used Models

When examining used Hyundai Equus models, it’s essential to be aware of common issues that have been reported over the years.

One common problem is the air suspension system, which can develop leaks or failures in the airbag or compressor, causing a bumpy ride or the vehicle sitting lower than it should.

Another issue to watch for is the fuel pump, which can fail prematurely. If this is the case, you may notice poor engine performance, difficulty starting the car, or even a complete lack of power.

Some owners have also reported problems with the infotainment system, such as freezing screens or slow response times. Additionally, there have been instances where the adaptive cruise control and other safety features may malfunction or not react promptly.

• Air suspension system problems
• Fuel pump failures
• Infotainment system glitches
• Malfunctioning adaptive cruise control

Apart from these common issues, the Hyundai Equus is generally considered a reliable vehicle.

However, it’s always wise to have any used car thoroughly inspected by a professional mechanic before purchase. Doing so can provide peace of mind and help identify any potential problems before they become bigger issues.

While no vehicle is perfect, by being aware of these common issues and addressing them promptly, you can enjoy many miles of comfortable driving in the Hyundai Equus.

Go Back: Overview over best and worst years for all Hyundai car models.

Was this article helpful?

ⓘ  The information in this article is based on data from National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recall reports, consumer complaints submitted to the NHTSA, reliability ratings from J.D. Power, auto review and rating sites such as Edmunds, specialist forums, etc. We analyzed this data to provide insights into the best and worst years for these vehicle models.