Hyundai was on to something when it first launched the Genesis and the larger Equus a few years ago. The Korean automaker essentially started the so-called "affordable luxury" segment. Are customers flocking away from Audi and BMW to their nearest Hyundai dealer? Not so much. But what has happened is those who'd typically go for, say, a Toyota Avalon or Buick LaCrosse are checking out Hyundai for the first time. And now Hyundai is busy prepping the finishing touches to the redesigned 2017 Equus.

Our spy photographers have snapped some shots of a prototype testing in the Arctic Circle. What we can tell from these images is that, like the new Genesis, the next Equus will feature LED headlights, multi-spoke wheels, and chrome outlined windows. Power is expected to come from an updated 5.0-liter V8 that promises better power and improved fuel economy. A twin-turbo version of Hyundai's 3.3-liter V6 is also possible. Both RWD and AWD will be available. At some point, a 10-speed automatic gearbox will arrive in the Equus but this may not be ready for the initial launch. An eight-speed unit is expected to be the base transmission when the new Equus has its official debut in the coming months.