Hyundai EQUUS Stretch Edition revealed

Moving up in the automotive world is a difficult task, Hyundai is trying to be a globally competitive automaker. Here they are now competing with the Mercedes S-Class and the BMW 7-series. Hyundai has unveiled a “Stretch Edition” of its flagship Equus luxury sedan in Korea. Compared to standard version, the Equus Stretch Edition features a longer wheelbase and several upgrades, both in styling and performance.

Measuring at 5.460 meters in length, the stretched Equus is 30 centimeters longer than the standard model and outsizes the competition in most of its dimensions. It’s longer than the Mercedes S500L, the BMW 750Li and the Lexus LS460L - each a extended-wheelbase version of those respective brand's flagship models. It’s also just 15-inches smaller than the simply massive Rolls-Royce Phantom. At 1.495 meters in height, it is also the tallest.

To make it recognizable from the standard Equus, The stretched Equus comes with a new grill featuring horizontal bars and a special emblem in the middle.

Power comes from either the Lambda 3.8 liter 6-cylinder or the Tau 5.0 liter V8. The latter sports a healthy 400 hp that is the equal in strength of the competition too.

Inside, the Equus Stretch Edition received power-driven footrest, rear set leg support, Relax Posture Control and Massage System function.

In Korea the car is priced from 135 million won to 146 million won, which equates to $113,000 to $122,180. The Equus was launched in its first abroad market in August. The Chinese were the first to benefit from the luxury of the limousine, priced locally at $99,100. Hyundai has already announced that the standard Equus sedan will launch in the U.S. in 2010 as a 2011 model. However, there is no official comment on plans to bring this special edition.

Additionally, Hyundai has already built three bulletproof versions of the vehicles for the Korean president, which is the first locally produced car to serve the president.