2005 Hyundai XG350 in Columbus, GA - $0

Elegant, classy, tasteful and rich are terms that readily come to mind when driving the new Hyundai XG350 sedan. Freshened inside and out for 2004, Hyundai got an early start by introducing the 2004 model in July 2003. The XG350 is the Korean automaker's flagship sedan in the United States with the recent upgrades and revisions designed to reflect its position in the Hyundai lineup.

Rewriting the definition of vehicle quality and value, the XG350 sedan offers buyers a full complement of standard luxury features. Exterior changes for 2004 include a new grille, headlight design, front bumper and front air dam with projection fog lamps. The new front end with a horizontal design airdam gives the XG sedan a wider, more stable look, while the projection fog lights add an air of sophistication to the overall exterior.

Other changes to the exterior this year include a wider waistline molding, new rear decklid, rear bumper and taillight design. The CHMSL (Center High Mount Stop Lamp) replaces the traditional bulb arrangement with a bright LED. The license plate moves from the rear bumper to an inset in the trunk lid, giving the sedan a taller, more stately look.

Designed to compete in the upper middle, near luxury sedan segment, the front-drive sedan is offered in XG350 and XG350L trim levels. The XG350L, adds to the XG350 equipment roster a power tilt/sliding moonroof, leather-wrapped steering wheel rim with woodgrain inserts, electrochromic inside rearview mirror, memory driver's seat and exterior mirrors, heated front seats, 12-spoke alloy wheels and premium Infiniti speakers with a 210-watt external amplifier.

The XG350 is powered by the automaker's Sigma 3.5L DOHC 24-valve V-6 engine and bolted to a sophisticated five-speed Shiftronic automatic transmission with manual overdrive.

Underway, the large Hyundai sedan is nimble, responsive and willing to run. The drivetrain, complete with a variable intake system, anti-vibration balance shaft and fully-adaptive gearbox accelerates like a larger engine. Smooth, solid, quiet and substantial, the XG350 is a sophisticated sedan for the budget-minded consumer.

The real beauty of the XG350, of course, is much more than skin deep. The suspension is four-wheel independent, with a double wishbone with coil springs, nitrogen gas-filled hydraulic shocks and a 25 mm anti-roll bar in front. The rear suspension is multi-link with dynamic toe control with coil springs, nitrogen-gas filled hydraulic shocks and a 17 mm anti-roll bar.

Inside, the cabin is well equipped with tasteful leather appointments throughout: steering wheel, seating surfaces, door inserts and center armrest. Displays and controls are easy to read and use. Outward visibility is good with plenty of places to stow items. The center armrest doubles as two storage areas, with the deep one containing a power point in addition to the dash mounted one for portable electronic appliances.

Back seat passengers receive the same royal treatment, starting with plenty of leg room and comfort for two adults -- full fold-down armrest with storage area and cupholders. The 60/40 rear seat back folds down to add cargo carrying flexibility.



Quick vehicle stats

Wheelbase: 108.3; overall length: 191.5; width: 71.9; height: 55.9 -- measurements in inches.

Engine: 3.5L Sigma DOHC V-6 -- 194 hp at 5,500 rpm and 216 lbs/ft of torque at 3,500 rpm.

Transmission: Five-speed automatic with Shiftronic manual override.

EPA fuel economy: 17 city/26 hwy., -- using regular unleaded gasoline.

Cargo capacity: 14.5 cubic feet.

Safety features

Dual front airbags, front seat-mounted side-impact airbags, steel side-impact door beams, battery saver, remote keyless entry, four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock, electronic brake force distribution, full size spare tire, fog lamps and traction control.

Warranty

Basic: 5 year/60,000 miles, bumper-to-bumper.

Powertrain: 10-year/100,000 miles.

Corrosion: 5 year/100,000 miles.

Roadside assistance: 5 year/unlimited, 24-hour.

Pricing

The base Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2004 Hyundai XG350 sedan is $23,999 for the base sedan and $25,599 for the upscale L model. Destination charges adds $590.

As tested

2004 Hyundai XG350L sedan

Exterior color: Black Obsidian

Interior color: Black

Tire model: Michelin Energy XSE

Tire size: P205/60R16

Base price $25,599

Destination charge $ 590

Carpeted front/rear floor mats $ 89

Rear mud guards $ 35



Subtotal -- factory equipment $26,313

Plus: Dealer Installed Options

Paint protection $ 295

Gold package $ 395

Subtotal -- dealer installed options $ 690

Total as tested $27,003

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