German Car Zone

Sure it can!

To compete with the S-class a car must have -

1. A proper V8 engine and proper engineering capabilities (Something that Acura still doesn't understand, but Hyundai does).

2. Above average technology

3. A significant amount of luxury features with the quality to match

4. Be a full-size sedan

.....but that will only get you in the door.

You will still need to offer something in comparison to their long history, outstanding quality and name recognition.

What works for Hyundai right now is the "Economy". The problem they might have is the fact that for that price range someone could get a well equip E-class or 5 series. Then again Hyundai might win on maintenance and that wonderful 10 year warranty (if someone is looking into long term ownership).

You forgot the most important ingredients -- character and an original design with impeccable elegance. This is were most S-Class imitators have come up short.

Not to mention a Hyundai won't drive, handle or ride like a Mercedes. Nothing in the segment does. BMW rides sportier, Lexus rides softer cushier, but the handling is sloppier. Audi just doesn't ride well to most folks, too stiff.

Price the Equus on top of the E-Class/5-Series is what they should do, in effect offering what they think is an S-Class/7-Series level car for E/5 money, this is exactly what VW should have done with the Phaeton, but they goofed it by charging too much.

A SWB Phaeton would have, and a SWB Equus will sell better with a price right around (maybe a little less than) what a loaded 550i or E550 goes for. LWB models should cost a few grand more, but have much more content.

It could work, but don't expect huge numbers which is what VW did. Hyundai on the other hand will market their luxury car better than VW did.

Can't wait to see the comparision with this LWB Equus, S550, 750Li, LS460L, A8L and the new XJL.

Poor Acura, Cadillac, and Infiniti, they must sit on the porch and watch the big boys play.

Cadillac actually thinks a large FWD car (the XTS) is going to compete in this segment. The OLD GM LIVES!


M