Drove a genesis loaner

[NOLa]

The other day I had my Equus in for an oil change and was given a Genesis V-8 for a loaner.

It was interesting to be back in a Genesis after having my Equus for 5 months and IMHO:

First noticed how much nicer the Equus interior finishes are...the nav/screen is situated better, more upright and shaded from glaring sunlight. The steering was much firmer in the Genesis and I'm not sure one was better than the other. Even in "sport" mode the Equus' steering was never as firm as the Genesis (the 2012 Genny may be like the Equus-same set-up). The ride is, so, SO different between the two-couldn't wait to have the Equus back. Even the door closing sounded different, more solid in the Equus. But again, the Genesis was more sporty, nimble and quicker off the line. If the price made no difference, I could see a twenty something buying a Genesis and passing on the Equus. I guess I'm saying the Equus will probably attract a more mature crowd whereas the Genesis seems to appeal to a broader spectrum.

One thing I noticed that was sort of funny...I realized I drive a Genesis differently than I drive an Equus (and not because the Genesis was a loaner). I don't know how to explain it...like when you get a new car and you drive differently because...well...it's new and you want to check out the features and enjoy how much nicer your new car is than your old one. Then after awhile you start driving like you always have. I still drive my car like I just got it yesterday.

NOLa

 

[Mark_888]

It would be interesting to see what you think of the 2012 Genesis compared to your Equus.

 

[imperial4ever]

I FINALLY had a chance to experience the Equus while my wife's Hyundai was in for servicing. I was at Piazza Hyundai in Limerick, Pa and I made the service appointment for first thing on Sat morning. I like to do this so that I am not interupted by sales people while looking at the cars on display.

The Equus was in it's own area on the showroom floor. There were just the picture dividers around it. No special hard wood flooring under the Equus. Any rate, my first impression of the Equus was excellent. Now I do drive a 2010 Lexus IS so I was comparing that to the Equus. Fit and finish were superb on the Equus Ultimate. The HVAC vent louvers felt just as expensive as the one's on my Lexus. Unfortunately the battery to the Equus was dead and the rear power ottoman was in a partly deployed position. The rear doors were luxuriously heavy and solid. I slammed the door several times and nothing rattled or vibrated. 99.9% of touch surfaces felt premium and the leather was soft. The high cut-pile floor mats were so soft enough for you to want to remove your shoes. It has been awhile since I have felt floor mats that soft (mid 1980's) Again, the battery was dead so I could not gain access to the trunk or adjust the seats. The trunk lid did have the Equus logo and not the flying "H." This made the car look more elegant from the rear. I do not feel that you need to deploy fully the rear ottoman to enjoy it's comfort. Partly reclined gives enough lift to the legs to be comfortable. The front and rear power seat switchs on the doors felt solid and expensive. The chrome wheels felt very solid and appear that the chrome will not be peeling off any time soon. My only suggestion would to bring a stretch model "L" to the U.S. with maybe a 6 inch stretch being dedicated to the B pillar and back. A 126" inch wheelbase would be wonderful. Aparently you can lease one for $729/month with $299/down. Too much for me. In summary yes I was purchase one. Maybe in a few years.

 

[hchon]

... I do drive a 2010 Lexus IS ... The HVAC vent louvers felt just as expensive as the one's on my Lexus.

I am not sure if I am the only one finding this funny, but I am glad HVAC louvers on a $64K car felt just as expensive as the one's on your Lexus (whose most expensive trim - 350 AWD - seems to start at around $42K). particularly since hyundai is well known for delivering value for the money.

-hchon

 

[timc1475]

The other day I had my Equus in for an oil change and was given a Genesis V-8 for a loaner.

It was interesting to be back in a Genesis after having my Equus for 5 months and IMHO:

First noticed how much nicer the Equus interior finishes are...the nav/screen is situated better, more upright and shaded from glaring sunlight. The steering was much firmer in the Genesis and I'm not sure one was better than the other. Even in "sport" mode the Equus' steering was never as firm as the Genesis (the 2012 Genny may be like the Equus-same set-up). The ride is, so, SO different between the two-couldn't wait to have the Equus back. Even the door closing sounded different, more solid in the Equus. But again, the Genesis was more sporty, nimble and quicker off the line. If the price made no difference, I could see a twenty something buying a Genesis and passing on the Equus. I guess I'm saying the Equus will probably attract a more mature crowd whereas the Genesis seems to appeal to a broader spectrum.

One thing I noticed that was sort of funny...I realized I drive a Genesis differently than I drive an Equus (and not because the Genesis was a loaner). I don't know how to explain it...like when you get a new car and you drive differently because...well...it's new and you want to check out the features and enjoy how much nicer your new car is than your old one. Then after awhile you start driving like you always have. I still drive my car like I just got it yesterday.

NOLa

NOLa, what year is your Equus and the year and model of the genny btw? I am on the fence for a 2012 genesis sedan 5.0 r-spec or the 2012 Equus signature due out sometime in Sept? My issue is there is a 10g price gap even with circle pricing between the two. Then the clowns in politics basically recently embarrassed our great nation and economy with last minute hoopla and times may quite possibly become harder than current forcasts.

Gas mileage is what only 1 or 2 mpg less in the 2012 Equus signature and it is 400lbs heavier... My closest Equus dealer unfortunately is 60 miles away and it just would be weird to have the car travel that far for every little service and routine maintence even if they do pick it up. Alot can happen on the road with chips and road debirs, and who knows maybe a young kid wanting to gear head it as well.

I do want the new 2012 genny r-spec 5.0 but do not want that bone jarring ride over less than great roads at speed, and the shaking vibrating steering wheel was seriously "no joke" reminicent of my grandma's shaking waist belt fat reducing vibrator machine. I can't imagine my poor back seat passengers over these types of roads, as they would look like popcorn in the rear view mirror.

I did test drive a 2012 genny sedan r-spec a month ago over both good and really bad road surfaces yet quite common roads. My recent "regular average guy" review is in these forums fyi. Do I really want to wait for a 2013 non r-spec 5.0 with hopefully a smoother ride than their "sporty" genny sedan r-spec suspension? No. What a mess of variables. LOL.

Is there any input you may have and have you had a chance to test drive a Genny 2012 sedan r-spec for comparison purposes? Does this Equus air suspension & steering wheel really isolate the driver from really bad roads at speed tons greater than the 2012 genny's of any powertrain? I have to make the right call here or forever hold my peace, cuz this might be my last car affordability wise.

Lost In East Peoria IL.

 

[ticat928]

QUOTE "My closest Equus dealer unfortunately is 60 miles away and it just would be weird to have the car travel that far for every little service and routine maintenance even if they do pick it up. A lot can happen on the road with chips and road debris, and who knows maybe a young kid wanting to gear head it as well.

I do want the new 2012 genny r-spec 5.0 but do not want that bone jarring ride over less than great roads at speed, and the shaking vibrating steering wheel was seriously "no joke" reminiscent of my grandma's shaking waist belt fat reducing vibrator machine. I can't imagine my poor back seat passengers over these types of roads, as they would look like popcorn in the rear view mirror."

Other than a S-class Merc, it is hard to find one car that can perform and have a serene ride as well.
In order to perform, you need less weight (higher frequency chassis vibration) and less deflection at suspension pick up points for better handling.

In order to have an isolated ride, you need more weight (lower frequency chassis vibration) as well as many layers of rubber isolation between passenger cell and suspension pick up points.
The best isolation I have found to be in an LR4, it has triple door seals (originally designed for water crossings but do keep out all wind noise), a solid unibody separated by rubber on top of a full hydro formed frame, which is separated by more rubber from sub frames that carry the suspension pick up points, finally there are heavy rubber mounted mass dampeners behind the back bumper (very effective when not carrying 7-passengers). By using air suspension less vibration is passed to the sub frame, air springs transmit far less road vibration than a steel spring

As far as value, the R-spec cannot be beat, on the other hand Equus is behind an LR4 when one considers LR service in the equation.
I get an LR4 loaner delivered 110-miles to pick up my LR3 for service, my LR3 has never as much been returned with a stone chip (the Driver is a retired Sears executive, has all the time in the world to take precautions).
At only $ 54,000 + $ 42,000; the ultimate his /her combo is an LR4/R-spec 5.0 all for a price ($ 96,000) that is less than a big Merc that can also perform.

Please note above opinion is based on test driving a 2009 Genesis and many other Luxury cars, but not yet the Equus.

This is the best market condition to buy, at no other time in the future will Hyundai allow the R-spec to go for $ 42,000

 

[imperial4ever]

I am not sure if I am the only one finding this funny, but I am glad HVAC louvers on a $64K car felt just as expensive as the one's on your Lexus (whose most expensive trim - 350 AWD - seems to start at around $42K). particularly since hyundai is well known for delivering value for the money.

-hchon

Ummmm. hchon. Hyundai is known for delivering value for the money correct but sometimes at the expense of quality. My observations on the louvers were not to be funny but a compliment to Hyundai. Trust me there are many areas on my $40K Lexus that exceed those of the $65K Equus such as the finish in the wood and the tactile feedback of the switches. And I know how my Lexus will look in 5 years after being exposed to 100 degree weather in the summer and salt laden roads in the winter. How will the Equus look? By the way what do you drive?

 

[Mark_888]

NOLa, what year is your Equus and the year and model of the genny btw? I am on the fence for a 2012 genesis sedan 5.0 r-spec or the 2012 Equus signature due out sometime in Sept? My issue is there is a 10g price gap even with circle pricing between the two. Then the clowns in politics basically recently embarrassed our great nation and economy with last minute hoopla and times may quite possibly become harder than current forcasts.

Gas mileage is what only 1 or 2 mpg less in the 2012 Equus signature and it is 400lbs heavier... My closest Equus dealer unfortunately is 60 miles away and it just would be weird to have the car travel that far for every little service and routine maintence even if they do pick it up. Alot can happen on the road with chips and road debirs, and who knows maybe a young kid wanting to gear head it as well.

I do want the new 2012 genny r-spec 5.0 but do not want that bone jarring ride over less than great roads at speed, and the shaking vibrating steering wheel was seriously "no joke" reminicent of my grandma's shaking waist belt fat reducing vibrator machine. I can't imagine my poor back seat passengers over these types of roads, as they would look like popcorn in the rear view mirror.

I did test drive a 2012 genny sedan r-spec a month ago over both good and really bad road surfaces yet quite common roads. My recent "regular average guy" review is in these forums fyi. Do I really want to wait for a 2013 non r-spec 5.0 with hopefully a smoother ride than their "sporty" genny sedan r-spec suspension? No. What a mess of variables. LOL.

Is there any input you may have and have you had a chance to test drive a Genny 2012 sedan r-spec for comparison purposes? Does this Equus air suspension & steering wheel really isolate the driver from really bad roads at speed tons greater than the 2012 genny's of any powertrain? I have to make the right call here or forever hold my peace, cuz this might be my last car affordability wise.

Lost In East Peoria IL.

From reading reviews of the various cars you mentioned, it appears that 2012 Genesis 5.0 R-Spec sedan has a similar suspension feel to the 2011 sedans (a bit harsh), and maybe even a bit stiffer than the 2011's. The 2012 4.6 (and 3.8) is apparently much improved in terms of suspension comfort without sacrificing too much in the way of handling. The air suspension on the Equus is definitely a much softer and cushier ride, and with its extra weight, is not gong to corner as well as a Genesis (if that matters).

It is hard for me to imagine anyone "on the fence" between a Genesis 5.0 R-Spec and an Equus, since they are going to drive like two completely different cars. Despite the same drive train of the 5.0 R-Spec and 2012 Equus, there is a lot more to consider when deciding.

 

[NOLa]

Timc1475,

Since I first wrote this thread, I drove a another Genny loaner (had a defective tire on my Equus) and it really confirms what I observed first time around with the loaner.

I had a 2009 3.8 and a 2011 4.6 Genesis and now have the 2011 Equus. I have not driven any 2012 Genny model. IMO, in regards to the ride, unless the new Genesis has the air suspension, the Equus will have the better ride.

If you're wanting an R-spec, I'm not sure the Equus is for you. The Equus is not a Genesis with a better ride.

I suggest you get in the cars and just sit in them and look around and notice the difference in the interiors and room, and just the "type" of car each one is. Drive each one around and you'll see what I'm talking about. They both have their pros and cons, but it depends on what YOU are looking for in regards to ride, performance...whatever is most important to you...what's going to make you happy in the long run.

My car goes in the shop again whenever my new bumper (embarassing story) comes in...maybe they'll bring me a 2012 Genny as a loaner.

NOLa

By the way Ticat928, for service, the dealerships come and get the Equus and deliver at least a Genesis for a loaner and bring it back. If you want to test drive an Equus, they'll come to your house with one.

 

[MHT]

Ummmm. hchon. Hyundai is known for delivering value for the money correct but sometimes at the expense of quality. My observations on the louvers were not to be funny but a compliment to Hyundai. Trust me there are many areas on my $40K Lexus that exceed those of the $65K Equus such as the finish in the wood and the tactile feedback of the switches. And I know how my Lexus will look in 5 years after being exposed to 100 degree weather in the summer and salt laden roads in the winter. How will the Equus look? By the way what do you drive?

You can not be serious. I had a 2007 Lexus LS460 and before that a 2005 Lexus LS430. The LS430 was a nice car worth every penny, the LS460 was a piece of junk not worth 1/2 of what it cost. I cut my losses and bailed out 8mos of ownership. IMO both the Genesis which I own and the Equus which I have driven are far better cars than today's Lexus . The Lexus materials may look expensive but that is as far as it goes. I know just how your Lexus will look in 5 years and I my bet is the the Equus will look better. Lexus has done a good job of creating an illusion of an expensive car but behind the mask of today's Lexus lies just another Toyota. If you want to buy into a name Lexus is the way to go but if you want your moneys worth I'll take the Genesis and Equus any day. Don't even get me started on Lexus quality as all one has to do is visit the Lexus forum to see where that is gone. I will give Lexus credit for one thing their customers are more loyal to them than they are to their customers, the bottom could fall out of the car but their customer will still say it's a great car.

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[ticat928]

Below is a quote taken from comments on the Edmunds 20,000 mile long term update of a 2011 Equus they own and run.

In summary the many comments on Edmunds show a lot of nit picking and fear by premium brand Owners as if they are trying to justify their purchases in light of this strong commitment and revelation of Hyundai having arrived in the premium luxury segment.

I am surprised the Equus includes free maintenance and valet service for 5-yrs 60,000 miles, that alone accounts for most of the Genesis/Equus price difference



cruiserhead1 says:

12:02 AM, 07/ 6/11

Do people even understand the concept?
You are never without a car. They pick up your Equus and leave you with a loaner.
When they deliver your Equus, you give them the loaner.

You are not waiting for anyone. You go about your business, without interruption. That is real luxury.
Other makes should follow suit, it's first class service. Hyundai has clever marketing to try and stand out because they don't have the brand recognition of the competition.
Kudos to them.

To those that say, "they didn't keep their appointment and were late."
I say, "So what?"
If I had somewhere to be, they would have to wait until I returned. That would be their penalty for missing the appointment. Every day is full of shifting appointments and schedules, that's just life.

As stated, the Equus was simply holding tarmac space and so, it was not an inconvenience in any way.
Perfect experience? Obviously not but not bad and what a great concept.

Do you honestly think any 5, 7 series/A8/E-class/S-class owner would pass up on a free valet service like this?
That would be a Grey Poupon-slathered "hell no."

 

[hchon]

By the way what do you drive?

i drive a genesis bh330 in korea and acura RL/bmw x5 in US. i split my time between the two countries for work. genesis and equus for that matter have been around for a while in korea.

-hchon

 

[Dr_jitsu]

I am not sure if I am the only one finding this funny, but I am glad HVAC louvers on a $64K car felt just as expensive as the one's on your Lexus (whose most expensive trim - 350 AWD - seems to start at around $42K). particularly since hyundai is well known for delivering value for the money.

-hchon

Yes, the IS is in a different class from the Equus. The IS compares to the Genesis and I would take the Genny hands down.

The Equus should be compared to the LS460.

 

[Dr_jitsu]

Ummmm. hchon. Hyundai is known for delivering value for the money correct but sometimes at the expense of quality. My observations on the louvers were not to be funny but a compliment to Hyundai. Trust me there are many areas on my $40K Lexus that exceed those of the $65K Equus such as the finish in the wood and the tactile feedback of the switches. And I know how my Lexus will look in 5 years after being exposed to 100 degree weather in the summer and salt laden roads in the winter. How will the Equus look? By the way what do you drive?

See my sig for what I drive. With all due modesty, I know a bit about quality cars.

Having said that, you must live in an alternate universe where Lexi are completely different from the ones in my world.

I test drove an IS and the fit and finish are 2 leagues down from the Equus and half a step down from the Genny. It also has a very disconnected steering feel and mediocre acceleration. The only thing I like about the IS is its exterior styling.

I would take a G37 over the IS, an M37 over the G37, a Genny 4.6 over the M37, and the Equus over the Genny.

 

[hwks1]

...I test drove an IS and the fit and finish are 2 leagues down from the Equus and half a step down from the Genny. It also has a very disconnected steering feel and mediocre acceleration. The only thing I like about the IS is its exterior styling.

I would take a G37 over the IS, an M37 over the G37, a Genny 4.6 over the M37, and the Equus over the Genny.

Pretty much have to agree here. The IS is not that nice of a car in the luxury segment. It is pretty much the bottom rung against the cars it competes with; G37, C300, A4, 328 Hyundai doesn't even have a luxury car in that segment - The Genesis plays with GS350, E350, 528, A6