2014 Hyundai Equus

From low-cost sedans to three-row EV SUVs, Hyundai has a model for almost every kind of customer. Most new Hyundai vehicles are stylish, functional, and competitively priced, but the brand overall ranks around the middle in Consumer Reports’ Reliability and Owner Satisfaction ratings. Individual models and years vary widely, with some standouts and a few laggards. The core Hyundai lineup includes low-cost subcompacts like the Elantra, and midsized sedans like the Sonata. SUVs include the subcompact Kona and compact Tucson, plus the midsize Santa Fe and larger Palisade, both of which offer three-row seating. Many models are available as hybrids or plug-in hybrids. In our testing, most Hyundai models benefit from a hybrid drivetrain, which adds power and smoothness in addition to improving fuel economy. Hyundai’s EVs are some of the best values among electric cars. The Ioniq models are high-tech, well designed, and can charge quite rapidly at public DC fast charging stations.

Hyundai's first full-size luxury sedan offers a spacious and well-finished interior replete with the requisite leather upholstery, wood trim, and a roomy rear seat. Equus also delivers a comfortable ride and a quiet passenger compartment, along with a powerful and smooth V8 engine. However, while the broad strokes are solidly nailed, the Hyundai doesn't quite measure up when it comes to the fine points. Ride motions can be a bit busy and handling is not agile. Similarly, the interior is very nice, but doesn't feel quite as luxurious as the best in this class. Updates to the suspension system, interior and exterior styling details and safety features for the 2014 model year freshened the appeal of the big Hyundai, but it still falls short of the best of the best. On the other hand, it does present a lot of what its competitors provide -- at a considerably lower price.