The 2004 Hyundai XG350 looks even more the part of a luxury car, wearing a new front end with a taller and more fulsome grille, sleeker and better-integrated projection-lamp headlights and deeper bumper and lower fascia; think recent Infiniti Q45s. Thin, inset, chrome-like strips wrap around each corner of the bumper and are mirrored on the rear bumper. Sadly for owners living in states not requiring a front license plate, Hyundai felt compelled to emblazon the bumper with a rectangular license plate emboss, scarring an otherwise gracefully clean nose presentation.Save for slightly wider molding, the side view is unchanged from 2003, presenting a modestly crisp beltline blending into gently rounded shoulders at the rear. The rear presents the only clear Hyundai indicia: taillights still reminiscent of the Sonata, although now sans the backup lights' disruptive clear lenses, and the trademark Hyundai logo. The license plate has been relocated from the rear bumper to a recess in the trunk lid topped with a bold, horizontal strip of brightwork and framed by the relocated backup lights; this gives it a look in keeping with other luxury cars. The glass house balances openness with structure. The slim windshield pillars minimize blind spots. Tall side windows add to the airy atmosphere inside. The outside door handles are very well designed: attractive, comfortable, and easy to grab. The XG350 still shows a bit more bevel in the rear quarters than might be indicated for an aspirant to true luxury status. The front end, though, could fool many a discerning observer, especially as it remains discreetly minus any Hyundai logo revealing this is a value-priced car.
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