Equus wins U.S. value award

Hyundai Motor’s Equus took first place in the luxury car segment in the 16th annual Strategic Vision Total Value Awards in the United States.

“Our flagship sedan Equus beat out competitors such as the Mercedes-Benz CLS, the Audi A8 and the Jaguar XJ,” the company said in a statement Sunday.

While Strategic Vision’s Total Value Index reflects all aspects of perceived value ― from quality, to economics to customer appeal ― the Equus also received the award for Best Model and the automaker’s Sonata sedan scored top marks for medium cars.

In addition, Hyundai Motor ranked second overall in total value. “Hyundai has increased its Innovation Factor Score by 20 points since 2008,” said Strategic Vision president Alexander Edwards.

Hyundai Motor America vice president Mike O’Brien said the company’s 2013 lineup showcases “Hyundai’s philosophy behind building cars.”

By Kim Yon-se (kys@heraldcorp.com)