It is being reported that Hyundai is considering a luxury crossover that could compete vehicles such as the Lexus RX.
The company has waded into the luxury segment before (with the Genesis and Equus sedans), but this would be Hyundai’s first foray into the luxury SUV market.
Speaking to www.edmunds.com, Hyundai Motor America CEO Dave Zuchowski stated that: “We definitely studied a premium people mover. It is not in the plan and it is not eliminated. It is something under consideration.”
Zuchowski also mentioned that the vehicle could potentially be based on the Santa Fe, but selling the vehicle at a premium over the popular Santa Fe could be difficult. Unlike Toyota, for instance, Hyundai does not have a separate premium brand that would make selling upscale versions of the vehicles feasible.
“The RX is basically the Highlander and they can charge a premium for that vehicle because they are sold in different showrooms,” said Zuchowski.
We’ll have to wait and see if Hyundai decides to take the plunge.