2012 Hyundai Equus: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
For 2012, the Equus's main change is a 429-hp 5.0-liter direct-injected V8 and an eight-speed automatic across both trims. The body, cabin layout, safety equipment, and two-trim lineup otherwise carry over.
About the 2012 Hyundai Equus
2nd generation (VI), second U.S. model year; major powertrain-update year before the 2014 exterior and interior refresh
The Equus is Hyundai’s full-size, rear-wheel-drive luxury sedan, built around a quiet ride, generous cabin space, V8 power, and an unusually broad set of standard comfort and safety features. Its core appeal is long-distance comfort for both the driver and rear passengers. The five-passenger version balances comfort across both rows, while the four-passenger version adds an executive-style rear seating area.
The Signature is a fully equipped five-passenger luxury sedan with an adjustable air suspension, massaging and ventilated front seats, reclining heated rear seats, navigation, and radar-based driver assistance. The four-passenger model focuses on the rear cabin, with reclining heated and cooled seats, a right-rear leg rest and massage system, a refrigerated console, and a rear display. Both use the new 429-hp V8 and eight-speed automatic.
What changed, by category
2012 Hyundai Equus specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Engine | V8, 5.0 Liter | V8, 5.0 Liter |
| Transmission | Auto, 8-Spd w/Shiftronic | Auto, 8-Spd w/Shiftronic |
| Drivetrain | RWD | RWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 15 mpg | 15 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 23 mpg | 23 mpg |
| Horsepower | 429 hp | 429 hp |
| Torque | 376 lb-ft | 376 lb-ft |
| Trunk/Cargo | 16.7 cu-ft | 16.7 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 38.9 in | 38.9 in |
| Seats | 4 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | ||
| Alarm System | ||
| Automatic Emergency Braking | ||
| Lane Departure Warning | ||
| Rear View Camera | ||
| 360 Camera | ||
| Fog Lights | ||
| Power Moonroof | ||
| Power Close Liftgate/Trunk | ||
| Remote Control Liftgate/Trunk Release | ||
| Navigation System | ||
| Premium Audio | ||
| Rear DVD Entertainment System | ||
| USB Ports | ||
| Cooled Seats | ||
| Cooled Rear Seats | ||
| Dual Power Rear Seats | ||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | ||
| Heated Front Seats | ||
| Heated Steering Wheel | ||
| Leather Seats | ||
| Massage Rear Seat | ||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | ||
| Push-Button Engine Start | ||
| Refrigerator/Cooler | ||
Frequently asked questions
What changed on the 2012 Hyundai Equus compared with the 2011 model?
The major change is the powertrain. Both 2012 trims received a 429-hp 5.0-liter direct-injected V8 and an eight-speed automatic, while the four-passenger trim also gained standard power-operated rear side-window sunshades.
Did the 2012 Hyundai Equus get a new engine?
Yes. The 2012 Equus replaced the previous 4.6-liter V8 with a 5.0-liter direct-injected V8 producing 429 horsepower and 376 lb-ft of torque in both trims.
Did the 2012 Hyundai Equus get a new transmission?
Yes. An eight-speed automatic replaced the earlier six-speed automatic across the 2012 Equus lineup.
Was the 2012 Hyundai Equus fully redesigned?
No. The 2012 Equus kept the same basic body, cabin layout, safety equipment, and two-trim structure. Its main update was the new V8 and transmission.
What changed on the four-passenger 2012 Equus trim?
The four-passenger trim received the same 429-hp 5.0-liter V8 and eight-speed automatic as the Signature, plus standard power-operated rear side-window sunshades. It retained reclining heated and cooled rear seats, a leg rest, massage, a refrigerated console, and a rear display.