Absolutely.
That is the reason that hyundai should create new lux brand.
Hyundai Veracruz is a technically better car than Lexus RX. But, it is not selling well.
Genesis sedan is a technically better car than Lexus GS/ES. But, it is not selling well than Lexus.
Actually, The Equus is 'last chance' of create lux brand.
If no lux brand until Equus launch, there is no chance for Hyundai.
If hyundai create lux brand later, They will probably move Genesis/Equus to new lux brand.
They will raise price, relocate these models at new dealershop.
Nothing change. just 'rename it' and 'raise its price'.
People will laugh at hyundai....
If once Equus lauching under Hyundai brand, It is too late.
I tend to agree. Hyundai would do well to have a luxury brand for their higher end products.
However, I don't think you can judge Hyundai's initial sales of Genesis and Veracruz against market leaders and label them a failure. These are expensive vehicles being sold in a recession. People that buy these type of vehicles, don't typically shop at Hyundai, yet they are selling at close to their build rate and Hyundai's expectations.
Companies talk about losing customers as their loyal customers grow into bigger/more expensive products and they don't have the products to sell them. Toyota used to lose full sized car buyers before they came out with their Avalon.
Now look at Hyundai. Their quality has been steadily improving and they are starting to build up a loyal fan base. I have a friend who's family is on their third Sonata and he just bought a Veracruz. If Hyundai hadn't offered the Veracruz he might have been shopping outside the company but instead, they kept him as a customer.
Having said that, it would probably be a benefit to Hyundai, if they could offer a more luxurious selling and servicing experience, to go with their more luxurious cars, and an exclusive name to go with it. I think a totally new dealership structure would be a mistake though. It would cost a fortune, in the middle of a recession, and might actually lose those customers that would make the upgrade leap. They might just as soon drive to the Lexus or Acura dealer than to a separate Hyundai luxury brand dealership.
One other point. Despite competing fairly well with luxury brands, Hyundai is actually selling these vehicles closer to the price of Ford, Chevy, Honda and Toyotas regular vehicles....just with the luxury of Lexus and Mercedes. Take the Veracruz for example. It prices closer to a Ford Edge or Chevy Traverse....but is appointed much better. The Genesis V6 sedan is priced similar to a well appointed Accord or Taurus, but again, is a more luxurious vehicle. We crossshopped for $30-$35K vehicles and nothing could touch the Genesis for value in that price range. One reason for Hyundai's and Kia's growth is they market the best value vehicle in a category. They are continuing this, as they expand their lineup into larger and more luxurious vehicles.