2002 Hyundai XG 350.
The XG 350 is an upgrade from last year's XG 300.

It just means it has a larger 3.5 liter engine. Although the horsepower stays the same, the new engine has more torque.

The wheels are also new, and they are a huge improvement over last years cheap looking ones.

It is about the size of a Camry or an Acura TL, but much heavier than these cars. Not heavier because of more equipment, but, like most Korean cars, because of pretty low tech engineering.

They still use heavy steel metal reinforcement where other manufacturers would use aluminum.

But from a safety point of view, a heavier car might have more chance in a crash.
The styling is not for everyone. It is so conservative that it makes the Camry look futuristic. It looks like a previous generation Infinity. Which is not such a good thing.

Like most car makers in their first attempt to luxury, they use too much chrome, with a big grille. The Japanese are getting better at it.

Thank God they do not import it with the hood ornament that comes standard in Korea.
In typical wanabe luxury fashion, there is tons of fake wood everywhere. But somehow, it kind of works. It does give the whole thing an upscale atmosphere.

It's almost a guilty pleasure. Why not have all that old fashion stuff?!

And the interior is so well finished and put together. It is one of the very best in that regard. The doors feel extremely solid.

The drive is exactly what you expect from the way it looks. Very comfortable. The engine is powerful and quiet. Although maybe not as refined as a V6 from Toyota of Honda, but most people would never notice.

The ride is very smooth and quiet. And the steering is something you don't really notice. But not in a bad way. The car never feels loose, like a Buick.

In fact, it pretty much is what a Buick SHOULD be.
If you don't mind all that fake wood, the detailing of the car is superb. Nothing feels cheap inside.
The back seat is one of the best place to be on the road today. It is as quiet and comfortable as a $35 000 Lexus.
All this car needs is a more modern design and a better reputation. Hyundais are getting better every year, but it takes along time for the public to accept these changes.

Most people still think every Chrysler is crap, and all Mercedes are great...

The XG350 comes fully equipped for $24 000. And the L model adds a sunroof, heated seats, memory seats, reading lights, and even more wood on the steering wheels, for $25500. these prices are pretty amazing if you consider the competition.

You get a 4 cyl Camry with similar equipment or 4 cyl Altima.

The Hyundai seems more luxurious, but also more old fashion.

Despite an amazing warranty, reliability is still pretty unknown. And that means a pretty bad resale value. But these cars, although the dealers only get a few every month, can be had with discounts up to $2000. This might help a bit.

But this is a car you must test drive if you are in the market for an upscale mid size sedan.

You should also look at:

-Toyota Camry. More expensive, but the best reliability record, and great engines.

-Nissan Altima. Great design, powerful and pretty quiet 4 cyl, but expensive with the 6cyl.

Horrible materials inside.

-Acura TL. More expensive, but.... A great car.

- Volkswagen Passat. refined and comfortable, boring interior and overpriced.

- Chrysler Concorde. Larger, very comfortable. Almost end of life cycle.

For more info on the XG350, you should go HERE.

Most people still think every Chrysler is crap, and Mercedes