2010 Hyundai Equus First Photos Surface

Some of the first images of the upcoming Hyundai Equus have made their way to the web.

These photos are not even in focus but already we can see Hyundai has nicked some styling cues from BMW. Just look at the multi-spoked wheels pattern and rear lighting design. Okay, so there's a little Mercedes-Benz in there too.

Well, in an earlier rendering of the Equus you almost see more Merc than Hyundai. It must be good news for the German premium brands that their Asian competitors have no ideas but to rip them off on design.

The 2010 Equus will be Hyundai's flagship model. It will be based on the Korean automaker's new rear-wheel drive architecture derived from the Genesis platform.

The new Equus will be driven by a 4.6 liter V8. A 5.0 liter V8 with about 400 hp will follow later. According to Hyundai Blog, both engines will likely feature direct-injection technology which comes from Hyundai's new Theta engine line.

Hyundai will also be loading the Equus with cabin technologies such as Lane Departure Warning System and a Pre-Safety Seatbelt System which can tighten a belt split-seconds before an impact.

The Equus will arrive in South Korean dealerships in February of 2010. A US launch will follow short afterwards.