Why did you choose Equus over Genesis?

[Magoomba]

Greetings, and thanks to all of you who post such useful info on this site.

For the past few months, I've been trying to decide between a 2012 Equuis Signature and 2012 Genesis 4.6. Both are excellent cars for their price points. Every time I think I've decided which way to lean, I find myself drifting back toward the other. Having just found this forum a few days ago and spending hours reading, I'm even more confused. Lots of favorable opinions on both cars.

I'm 39 years old and I've owned and driven only pickup trucks and SUVs since getting my license, so this will be my first car. I want a nice car, though I don't need one as nice as the Equus - a Genesis would suit me fine.

I was impressed with both test drives and I'm sure I'd be perfectly happy with either car. Personally, I think the Equus has greater visual appeal (particularly from the side - I love that raised line over the rear wheel) and I did notice the differences in materials and tasteful nuances in the interior, plus the ride quality was a little better.

There's no question, compared to other cars in its class, the Equus is a steal. However, I'm not interested in any of the other cars in its class. It's not like I was shopping for an $85k car and comparing it to this. I'm really shopping for a $45-50k car, yet find the Equus quite appealing.

Since this will be the first car I've ever owned, I'm likely going to lease. The car will be used almost exclusively for work, so my mileage will be limited. The lease will make me feel better about not having a long term commitment in case I decide I'm not a "car guy."

My dilemma is do I cater to my pragmatic side and get the Genesis (saving a couple hundred dollars per month on a lease payment), or do I splurge a little and spoil myself with the Equus? I'm struggling as to why I'd shell out the extra money, but I can't seem to peel myself away from the Equus, either. My current thought is lease the Genesis for 3 years, then upgrade to a 2015 Equus if I'm happy with my Hyundai ownership experience.

Please share your thoughts.

Thanks.

 

[Richard Ft. Lauderdale]

Your post indicates to me that you really want an Equus.

My thoughts: First make sure you can really afford it. Make sure you keep life's long term plannning in mind. Make sure you are not going to deprive you or your family of any thing they need now or in the future. If you decide all of the above are good, then go for it. If you can really afford an Equus and get a Genesis you will regret it every time you see an Equus.

P.S. I'm still driving a Genesis that I've had for more than 3 years. I'm pretty sure my next car will be an Equus.

 

[BacktoHyundaibychoice]

You can't go wrong either way, but you already know that. Fwiw, I went from the 4.6 Genesis to the Equus so I speak from experience:
The Genesis was the best car I ever had until the Equus.
But what Richard said is true:
Family/finances first! If no problems there, go for the gusto!

Btw, I'm with you:
Never "aspired" to a flagship German/Japanese car either. That the Equus is even mentioned in articles/reviews about them is icing on the cake.

Good luck with your decision.

 

[sandy]

The Equus is a nicer car for the reasons you outlined. If you can afford it, why not?

 

[NOLa]

I also had a Genesis and moved on to an Equus.

I have said this before so sorry for the repeat...these are two different cars.

My personal opinion is that the Genesis is sort of a sport/luxury car. I feel like the Equus is mostly luxury.

I may get slammed for this, but I suspect age can be a factor in which car you may want (there, I said it).

Personally, I love my Equus and made the right choice for me. You have to decide which TYPE of car you really prefer and what your budget dictates. I believe you're a winner either way.

NOLa

 

[Magoomba]

Fortunately, it's not a question of affordability. It's a question of pragmatism. There's no question - I want the Equus, but I would settle for a Genesis. When it comes to big ticket purchases, I tend to analyze every facet of it to justify spending the money. My issue here is justifying (to myself, not anyone else) the price spread of the Equus over the Genesis.

I can easily see how the routine service on the car is worth X, the pick-up/drop-off of the car and loaner car during service are worth Y, the premium features over the Genesis are worth Z. Let's face it - the fact I like it better is worth a little, too! It's the last part that I am not yet fully comfortable with. Is that factor really worth the extra $$$?

Please tell me why you think it is.

Thanks.

 

[BacktoHyundaibychoice]

Fortunately, it's not a question of affordability. It's a question of pragmatism. There's no question - I want the Equus, but I would settle for a Genesis. When it comes to big ticket purchases, I tend to analyze every facet of it to justify spending the money. My issue here is justifying (to myself, not anyone else) the price spread of the Equus over the Genesis.

I can easily see how the routine service on the car is worth X, the pick-up/drop-off of the car and loaner car during service are worth Y, the premium features over the Genesis are worth Z. Let's face it - the fact I like it better is worth a little, too! It's the last part that I am not yet fully comfortable with. Is that factor really worth the extra $$$?

Please tell me why you think it is.

Thanks.

No, not gonna tell you why I think it is. It's purely subjective, and I'm not sure you'll "get it" from test drives or our stories (or reviews). We've driven the Gen and now we're driving the Equus and loving it. Perhaps you should start the same way? Not being a dick (intentionally) but your question was asked and answered sincerely.

 

[BacktoHyundaibychoice]

I also had a Genesis and moved on to an Equus.

I have said this before so sorry for the repeat...these are two different cars.

My personal opinion is that the Genesis is sort of a sport/luxury car. I feel like the Equus is mostly luxury.

I may get slammed for this, but I suspect age can be a factor in which car you may want (there, I said it).

Personally, I love my Equus and made the right choice for me. You have to decide which TYPE of car you really prefer and what your budget dictates. I believe you're a winner either way.

NOLa

Damn! In my fantasies you were a gorgeous 30 something!
Sigh.

 

[Magoomba]

No, not gonna tell you why I think it is. It's purely subjective, and I'm not sure you'll "get it" from test drives or our stories (or reviews). We've driven the Gen and now we're driving the Equus and loving it. Perhaps you should start the same way? Not being a dick (intentionally) but your question was asked and answered sincerely.

I hear what you're saying. The car is something special and I can feel that. Before I take the leap, I want to hear from you, in your subjective view, what those things are that make you feel great about driving the Equus instead of the Genesis. You hit the nail on the head: I can't "get it" from a test drive. Spending an hour test driving the car tells me I like it and there's something special about it compared to the Genesis. My brain is very rational and logical and I'm having a hard time reconciling "something special" with an extra $12-15k in price. I'm hoping that folks like you, in particular those who have owned both, can tell me what drew you to pull the trigger. Particularly the things you weren't even aware of until you had some real time with the car.

Hopefully that clarifies my questions.

 

[sandy]

I hear what you're saying. The car is something special and I can feel that. Before I take the leap, I want to hear from you, in your subjective view, what those things are that make you feel great about driving the Equus instead of the Genesis. You hit the nail on the head: I can't "get it" from a test drive. Spending an hour test driving the car tells me I like it and there's something special about it compared to the Genesis. My brain is very rational and logical and I'm having a hard time reconciling "something special" with an extra $12-15k in price. I'm hoping that folks like you, in particular those who have owned both, can tell me what drew you to pull the trigger. Particularly the things you weren't even aware of until you had some real time with the car.

Hopefully that clarifies my questions.

You've done an intelligent and careful analysis and from everything you've said it's clear you WANT the Equus. And can afford it. You've made a solid case for justifying the price differential based on the added features, service, higher quality materials, etc.

So, what's holding you up?

I think the issue you are really trying to deal with is whether or not you believe you "deserve" the extra-special Equus when the Genesis is available. And, you are looking to the forum for "permission" to make the decision to buy the Equus.

You sound like a nice, thoughtful guy who has no doubt worked hard to earn the money to afford an Equus.

You deserve it. It's a wonderful car. I loved the two Genesis I've had and the Equus is even nicer. Go buy one tomorrow. I promise you will feel great once you make the decison.

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[Magoomba]

You deserve it. It's a wonderful car. I loved the two Genesis I've had and the Equus is even nicer. Go buy one tomorrow. I promise you will feel great once you make the decison.

I spent the week haggling some deals and took delivery of my 2011 Signature last night! Granite Gray/Black interior. The ride home from the dealership and then out to dinner with my wife was very enjoyable.

I've always been rather pragmatic about my vehicles. After all, they're "just cars" right? Well, now I understand why some people are so passionate about their vehicles. This thing is a real pleasure to drive!

BTW, I ended up leasing (3 yr./15k miles), but I was able to negotiate the price down to 47.9k. Not as good a deal as some others here lately, but I didn't qualify for any of the big discounts/incentives. I had a few dealers competing against each other and all but one bowed out when it got below 48k...

 

[timc1475]

Your decison process is in line and well thought out obviously taking note of this forum and the many valuable opinons shared.
I toyed with the idea of an Equus vs Genny 5.0 r-spec as well. For me it boiled down to a few points:

1) If I purchased the Equus living in East Peoria IL. for "any and all" routine service the vehicle would have to be flat bedded or driven to the nearest "local" Equus dealer a few hundred miles away. I envisioned a young kid with a smile upon his face and a heavy foot being the transporter. That I did not like.
2) The Equus is a heavier car, and the 429hp I feel on my 5.0 r-spec I am addicted to, so I desire not less power to weight ratio.
3) Cost. 12 to 15 grand more would equate to almost another new small car purchase. And the Genny does not skimp on amenities.
4) I preferred not to shout my wealth with a Equus and be a possible target for local thugs, trust me they are out there...The Genny is more than enough "holla I am here" looks for me.
5) Gas mileage, insurance etc.

I realize these are all subjective and I wish not to take anything away from those that own an Equus, these were 'My" choices and reasons. Your own personal reasons will vary. And if it were not for the above minute points I would possibly have chosen differently.

 

[BacktoHyundaibychoice]

I spent the week haggling some deals and took delivery of my 2011 Signature last night! Granite Gray/Black interior. The ride home from the dealership and then out to dinner with my wife was very enjoyable.

I've always been rather pragmatic about my vehicles. After all, they're "just cars" right? Well, now I understand why some people are so passionate about their vehicles. This thing is a real pleasure to drive!

BTW, I ended up leasing (3 yr./15k miles), but I was able to negotiate the price down to 47.9k. Not as good a deal as some others here lately, but I didn't qualify for any of the big discounts/incentives. I had a few dealers competing against each other and all but one bowed out when it got below 48k...

Congrats! I don't think you'll regret this for a minute.

 

[sandy]

One of he things I liked most about my Genesis was its rarity, especially here in Connecticut. Relatively speaking, they are few and far between. So with an Equus, I hoped I would enjoy even more "exclusivity".

So my friend and I are having breakfast at a diner and I am explaining to him how much fun it is to have a car that is so unique. When we leave he plans on following me to the Parkway where he goes North and I go South.

I drive away in my Granite Grey Equus, he misses the chance to be right behind me, and a car or two gets in between.

A few minutes later I look over to my left and see a Granite Grey Equus go by... with my friend following right behind.

Oh, well.

 

[NOLa]

Damn! In my fantasies you were a gorgeous 30 something!
Sigh.

Well, I'm not thirty-something, but I'm not an old crone either! LOL!

NOLa

 

[LasVegasGenesis]

My initial impression of the Equus when it first came our mid 2011 was that other than the obvious improvement and expanded use of interior materials (leather, real wood, metal trim) was that it was a Genesis on aesthetic steroids. When i went to the dealership to replace my 2009 4.6 in April, it was for an Equus. But I just retuned my lease and went 7 months without a sedan. In dec I finally decided on a 2012 5.0 Rspec. Drove it loved it but other than the killer engine, I felt i had been there done that. I kept gravitating to the Ultimate on the floor. I drove it again and the differences became more apparent to me. The Rspec is sportier, sexier and an all over better performer than the Equus, but the Equus was to me more refined, isolated and so well appointed that I immediately changed my mind and started negotiating for the Ultimate.

As I mentioned in another post, not all dealers get all components of what the Equus is. While i was able to get an incredible deal, the overall buying experience was sub-par as compared to my previous MB, Lexus, Infiniti, BMW and Audi transactions. But, I never have to go back there, I love the Equus and do not regret getting it over the Rspec. My plan is now to get a Veloster Turbo mid summer just for a fun weekend car.

Interestingly JD Powers just announced that Hyundai buyers are the most loyal for getting another Hyundai than any other make at 64%. Based upon the enthusiasm we all have on the blog, that number shouldn't be surprising.

Drive safe all!