Hyundai’s first foray into the world of premium autos, the original Genesis sedan, got off to a solid start by managing to score itself the North American Car of the Year title right out of the gate. The Genesis later spawned an even grander sibling, the Equus, and later this year Hyundai will launch a second generation of the car.

Further down the track Hyundai will likely expand the number of premium cars it sells, with the automaker’s new U.S. chief Dave Zuchowski revealing that a third such model may be launched within the next couple of years.

"I think it's fair to say that within a couple of years there may be another premium nameplate,” Zuchowski revealed to Automotive News (subscription required). "That's a space where we think there's some opportunity."

Zuchowski didn’t mention a specific model but a small, rear-wheel-drive premium sedan from Hyundai that would compete alongside the BMW 3-Series, Cadillac ATS and Mercedes-Benz C-Class has been rumored.

Zuchowski did reveal, however, that a subcompact crossover may be developed for Hyundai’s regular lineup. This vehicle would sit below the current Tucson and compete against the likes of the Kia Soul, Nissan Juke and upcoming Honda Vezel.

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