Equus Signature Front And Rear Cooled And Heated Power Front/rear Seats on 2040-cars

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Hyundai considering upscale Genesis-based crossover

Hyundai already offers upscale entries in its lineup such as the Equus and Genesis (pictured above), but unlike many brands in North America, the company lacks a luxury crossover to further compliment the sedans. The latest signs suggest that hole in the lineup might be filled in the near future, though. According to four, unnamed company insiders speaking to Reuters, the Korean automaker might build a posh CUV on the Genesis' platform. "We are considering developing premium, large SUVs based on customers' needs. We plan to respond to the fast-changing market centered around SUVs by beefing up our SUV line-up," said a statement from Hyundai to Reuters. The idea stems from a proposal last year to pounce on the booming luxury CUV market. However, this strategy doesn't have a green light yet, and it could be years before the crossover sees showrooms. Potentially holding things back is the brand's concern about its power in the luxury market. "We are timid when it comes to bigger SUVs," a source said to Reuters. Hyundai also remembers the struggles of the Veracruz in North America, and the vehicle was eventually replaced by the three-row Santa Fe. Finally, there's a worry that higher gas prices around the time of the proposed debut could be a problem, too. Even if the plans for the luxury model don't pan out, this is hardly the end of Hyundai's upcoming crossover plans. A compact CUV is reportedly under consideration for North America, and there's the much-rumored Santa Cruz unibody pickup potentially on the way, too.

Hyundai and Kia recalling 1.6M more models for faulty brake switch

In what is likely the largest recall campaign for Hyundai and Kia, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has announced a recall of more than 1.6 million models due to a faulty brake switch. This is in addition to almost 700,000 Hyundai and Kia models recalled for the same problem back in 2009.
In more than 620,000 Kia models and 1 million Hyundai products for the 2007 through 2011 model years, the brake switch could malfunction causing the brake lights to not illuminate, which could lead to accident. Other possible issues with a faulty switch include the cruise control not cancelling with the brake pedal, the push-button starter not working properly and the shift interlock not disengaging causing the transmission to be stuck in Park. To fix the problem, the brake lights switch will be replaced.
Due to the large number of units being recalled, both automakers are issuing a notice by next month with parts not expected to be ready until June. The full list of affected vehicles and the NHTSA press releases are posted below.

2014 Hyundai Equus priced from $61,000*

During an event in Ann Arbor, Michigan today, Hyundai officials confirmed that the updated 2014 Equus sedan, which goes on sale this week, will be priced from $61,000, *not including $920 for destination. That price is for the base-level Signature version; the upgraded Ultimate trim will carry a base MSRP of $68,000. Both prices represent a $1,750 increase over the 2013 model.
Hyundai introduced the 2014 Equus at this year's New York Auto Show, and while it hasn't been vastly reworked, there are a few thoughtful updates both inside and out. For starters, there's a restyled grille flanked with standard LED fog lamps, as well as new 19-inch alloy wheels. Inside, Hyundai has fitted a new instrument cluster and center stack, as well as more premium wood trim.
There's more technology inside the Equus, as well. The instrument cluster now benefits from either a 7.0- or 12.3-inch LCD information screen, and there's a 9.2-inch display in the center of the dash. For rear seat passengers, there are dual 9.2-inch monitors, as well as redesigned console controls.