2001-2005 Hyundai XG350: Full Review
Updated: 11/23/08
2005 Hyundai XG350
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2001-2005 Hyundai XG300/350 ▼
- Price Range: $2,300 - $9,400
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Learn about the year-to-year changes and reliability for the 2001-2005 Hyundai XG300/350 and our price chart details a range of prices based on vehicle mileage and condition.
Pros
- Ride
- Front-seat room/comfort
Cons
- Road noise
Vehicle Highlights
South Korea's biggest automaker moved upscale for 2001, with a new U.S. flagship sedan positioned above the compact Sonata in size, price, and features. Essentially a stretched Sonata with different styling, the XG300 held a 192-horsepower, 3.0-liter version of the compact's 2.5-liter V6. The sole transmission was a five-speed automatic with a manual shift gate. Dimensionally, the XG300 was similar to the midsize Honda Accord and Toyota Camry, with a base price close to those rivals' V6 sedans. Nissan's Altima was another competitor. Standard equipment included front side airbags, antilock all-disc brakes, automatic climate control, leather upholstery, a CD stereo, cruise control, and 15-inch alloy wheels. An option package transformed the XG300 into an XG300L, adding a power moonroof, heated front seats, CD/cassette stereo, leather/wood steering wheel, and auto-dimming inside mirror. The XG300 had gone on sale several years earlier in South Korea, and more recently in Europe. By introducing this model, Hyundai hoped to attract new customers while improving its stature and striving to boost resale values. Hyundai's basic warranty was among the industry's longest: 5-year/60,000-mile bumper-to-bumper, and 10/100,000 powertrain.
Expert Ratings Summary (view detailed report)
| Category | Hyundai XG300 Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 5 | |
| Fuel Economy | 6 | |
| Ride Quality | 7 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 6 | |
| Quietness | 6 | |
| Controls/Materials | 6 | |
| Interior Room | 6 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 5 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 4 | |
| Value within Class | 4 | |
| Total Score: | 55 |
Learn about the year-to-year changes of the 2001-2005 Hyundai XG300/350. Get full details of the styling and performance changes throughout the history of the 2001-2005 Hyundai XG300/350.
Year to Year Changes
2002 Hyundai XG:
Hyundai's flagship sedan gained a larger engine for 2002, a change reflected in its new model name: XG350 rather than XG300. The XG350 had a 3.5-liter V6, versus the 3.0 used in the XG300. The new engine produced only 2 more horsepower, but delivered 38 more pound-feet of torque. A five-speed automatic transmission with manual shift gate again was the sole transmission. Standard equipment included front side airbags, antilock four-wheel disc brakes, traction control, and leather upholstery. The XG350L sedan included a sunroof and seat/mirror memory.
2003 Hyundai XG:
Except for a revised instrument cluster, little was new for 2003.
2004 Hyundai XG:
The XG350 got revised front and rear styling and lighter-tone woodgrain interior trim for 2004.
2005 Hyundai XG:
For 2005, an 8-disc CD changer becomes standard in the L model. XG350 is to be replaced in 2006 by a new model called Azera.
Our road test for the 2001-2005 Hyundai XG300/350 includes a full evaluation from the inside out. We've evaluated every aspect of the 2001-2005 Hyundai XG300/350 and highlighted the vehicle's performance with pros and cons. Use our comprehensive road test ratings to decide if this generation 2001-2005 Hyundai XG300/350 is right for you.
Consumer Guide® Road-Test Evaluation
Performance and ride comfort are strong points. The V6 engine feels strong, and is capable of 0-60 mph acceleration in about 8.3 seconds. Low-end torque is quite good, though one test model tended to leap forward at low speed with light application of the throttle. The automatic transmission generally shifts smoothly and promptly. An XG350L averaged 16.8 mpg in a mix of city/highway driving, using regular fuel. Comfort-oriented suspension settings smooth out broken pavement with little harshness, though the front end jounces over seriously rough surfaces. Highway stability is good even in gusty conditions. Body lean is evident, but not severe. Tires demonstrate only modest grip in swift turns, so the nose is likely to plow in aggressive driving. Braking takes place in a stable manner, with good brake-pedal feel. Despite the XG's frameless door glass, wind noise is modest. Tire roar is not noticeable, and occupants can expect a generally hushed experience. The V6 engine emits a muted whine under full-throttle acceleration. Dashboards are straightforward, with sensibly-sized controls. Lanky adults get fine leg space and good head room, even beneath the available sunroof. Ordinary-looking seats are comfortable and power-adjustable. Rear corners are invisible to the driver, but sight lines are good elsewhere. Space is sufficient in back for two medium adults, and possibly a small child, on a reasonably supportive seat. Space-robbing sickle-shaped trunklid hinges impinge on an otherwise roomy cargo hold, which has a flat floor. Split rear seatbacks fold easily but not quite flat, revealing a pass-through that's not full-width, either.
Value for the Money
The XG350 isn't as solidly built as the leading midsize cars, specifically the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord. It isn't as sporty as the Nissan Altima, either. Nevertheless, an XG350 does deliver perfectly adequate performance; quiet, comfort-oriented road manners; and good interior room. The main lure has been a long warranty and plenty of features for the money, though those assets might not fully offset Hyundai's unproven track record and low resale values. Low resale, on the other hand, translates to more appealing prices on the used-car market.
The XG350 isn't as solidly built as the leading midsize cars, specifically the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord. It isn't as sporty as the Nissan Altima, either. Nevertheless, an XG350 does deliver perfectly adequate performance; quiet, comfort-oriented road manners; and good interior room. The main lure has been a long warranty and plenty of features for the money, though those assets might not fully offset Hyundai's unproven track record and low resale values. Low resale, on the other hand, translates to more appealing prices on the used-car market.
Expert Ratings Summary
| Category | Hyundai XG300 Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 5 | |
| Fuel Economy | 6 | |
| Ride Quality | 7 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 6 | |
| Quietness | 6 | |
| Controls/Materials | 6 | |
| Interior Room | 6 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 5 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 4 | |
| Value within Class | 4 | |
| Total Score: | 55 |
Each vehicle report contains one rating chart for representative model. Consumer
Guide® rates in ten key areas: Performance, Fuel Economy, Ride Comfort, Steering
and Handling, Interior Noise, Controls and Materials, Driver Room, Passenger Room,
Cargo Capacity, and Insurance Costs. These ratings compare the particular vehicle
rated to ALL other vehicles, not a vehicle's standing in a particular class. In the
ratings table, "1" is the lowest rating and "10" is the highest rating.
Our reliability study for this generation Hyundai XG includes details on average repair costs, manufacturer recalls, and everything you need to know to gauge the long-term reliability of this generation Hyundai XG .
Trouble Spots
Consumer Guide's® Auto Editors have scoured repair bulletins and questioned mechanics to search
for commonly occurring problems for a particular vehicle. In some cases we also give possible manufacturer-suggested
solutions. In many instances these trouble spots are Technical Service Bulletins posted by the manufacturer,
however, we have our own expert looking at additional vehicle problems.
Engine noise:
The XG300 3.0-liter engine's hydraulic lash adjusters, although functional, may be too noisy for some people and quieter replacements are available with larger oil holes. (2001)
Engine stalling:
The lockup torque converter may not work at highway speeds or may cause stalling when coming to a stop and the problem may require replacement of the torque converter, the transmission or the radiator in which the trans cooler is plugged up. (2001)
Poor transmission shift:
The transmission may not shift when the "D" mode is selected or may not upshift or downshift when the "sport" mode is selected due to a faulty switch in the console shifter housing. (2001-02)
Poor transmission shift:
The shift from park to reverse or drive is harsh in many models, but if it is extremely harsh, a revised transmission control module may be required. Likewise, harsh shifts in other gears may also require a new module. (2001-02)
Consumer Guide® Estimated Repair Costs
This table lists costs of likely repairs for comparison with other vehicles. The
dollar amount includes the cost of the part(s) and labor (based on $50 per hour) for the
typical repair without extras or add-ons. Like the pricing information, replacement
costs can vary widely depending on region. Expect charges at a new-car dealership
to be slightly higher.
| Item Name | Repair Cost |
| A/C Compressor | $595 |
| Alternator | $275 |
| Automatic Transmission or Transaxle | $1,345 |
| Brakes | $280 |
| Constant Velocity Joints | $1,430 |
| Exhaust System | $310 |
| Radiator | $350 |
| Shocks and/or Struts | $860 |
| Timing Chain or Belt | $515 |
Our price chart for this generation Hyundai XG details a range of prices in
year-by-year listings based on vehicle mileage and condition.
| Prices | Good | Average | Poor |
|
|
|||
| 2005 | |||
| XG350 | $9,400-10,400 | $8,500-9,400 | $4,900-5,400 |
| 2004 | |||
| XG350 | $7,200-8,000 | $6,400-7,100 | $3,500-3,900 |
| 2003 | |||
| XG350 | $5,500-6,300 | $4,700-5,400 | $2,300-2,600 |
| 2002 | |||
| XG350 | $4,200-5,000 | $3,400-4,100 | $1,400-1,700 |
| 2001 | |||
| XG300 | $3,000-3,800 | $2,300-2,900 | $700-900 |
|
|
|||
This chart details a range of prices in year-by-year listings for vehicles in three condition levels:
Good: a clean low-mileage, solid-running vehicle that needs little or no repair.
Average: a car with normal miles on the odometer, perhaps a few scrapes or dings;
engine might need a minor repair or two, but runs acceptably well.
Poor: might have potentially dangerous problems with the engine and/or body, or
abnormally high mileage; definitely in need of mechanical attention. Valuations
reflect wholesale prices paid by dealers at auction, and retail prices on used-car
lots. Each range covers all trim levels and engine types for a vehicle with a typical
amount of equipment--usually an automatic transmission, air conditioning, stereo,
etc. Fully loaded vehicles may cost more. Average mileage is 12,000 miles per year. Keep
in mind that these are guidelines only. Actual selling prices vary- especially from
region to region.
Specs for this generation Hyundai XG include everything from fuel mileage to seating capacity to options availability.
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | 4-door sedan | |
| Wheelbase, in. | 108.3 | |
| Overall Length, in. | 191.5 | |
| Overall Width, in. | 71.9 | |
| Overall Height, in. | 55.9 | |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 3651 | |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 14.5 | |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- | |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 18.5 | |
| Seating Capacity | 5 | |
| Front Head Room, in. | 39.7 | |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 43.4 | |
| Rear Head Room, in. | 38.0 | |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | 37.2 | |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
||
Powertrain Options and Availability
Hyundai started out by giving its upscale sedan a 3.0-liter V6 engine, but switched to a 3.5-liter V6 in the second season. That modification was accompanied by a name change, to XG350. A five-speed automatic has been the sole transmission.
| Engines | cu. in |
Horse- power | Torque | Transmission: |
Consumer Guide Observed |
| dohc V6 | 3.0 / 181 | 192 | 178 | 5-speed automatic: -- | 5-speed automatic: -- |
| dohc V6 | 3.5 / 221 | 194 | 216 | 5-speed automatic: 18/26 | 5-speed automatic: 16.8 |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
|||||
Built In: South Korea
Drive Wheels: transverse front-engine/front-wheel drive
Detailed safety information for this generation Hyundai XG include detailed crash test scores from the NHTSA.
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
Vehicle crash test information not available at this time.The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury: 5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Sideimpact crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%; 1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%; 2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Learn about official auto recalls, reliability issues, and vehicle problems for the 2001-2005 Hyundai XG300/350 directly from the NHTSA and manufacturers.
NHTSA Recall History
2001 XG300:
Faulty powertrain control modules were installed in some vehicles, which could result in engine stalling. Dealers will inspect the affected parts and replace if necessary.
2001 XG300:
Shorting side airbag wiring harness could cause dashboard airbag light to come on and possibly prevent airbag from deploying in an impact. Dealers will securely fasten harness and connectors.
2001 XG300:
Some vehicles do not have the correct tire pressure placard attached. Owners will be provided with a correct placard and installation instructions.
2002-03:
Fuel tank assembly vales on some vehicles may not close properly, causing possible spillage. Dealers will inspect and replace affected parts.
2002-03:
Fuel tank assembly valve may not close properly; in a rollover, fuel spillage may occur.
2002-03:
Valve on fuel tank assembly may not close properly; if vehicle rolls over and valve is not closed, fuel spillage may occur.
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