As expected of a car that aspires to luxury status, the XG features a fully independent suspension that smoothes out sharp pavement ridges and coddles the body through abrupt directional changes. Handling is helped by a multi-link rear suspension geometry that keeps the back tires in better line with turning front tires. On bumpy pavement, however, the XG350 doesn't quite match the sophistication of pricier luxury sedans. Road noise and tire noise seem a bit loud to merit upper class designation.

We found the XG350's engine smooth and quiet, willing and free-revving. Its relative silence adds to the pleasant ambience of the interior, not intruding on comfortable conversation or quiet thought. This dual-overhead-cam engine produces 194 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 216 pound-feet of torque at 3500 rpm. That's respectable power at reasonably low rpm, which translates to good throttle response around town.

Hyundai's five-speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly enough. Upshifts are on the long side, and the transmission is slow to kick down for passing. In semi-manual Shiftronic mode it always upshifts at a pre-programmed engine speed, rather than holding a lower gear when you open the throttle wide. That's unfortunate, because the XG is fun to drive and we would enjoy holding a lower gear and pushing the engine to its redline.

Steering is light and easy. The power assist to the steering varies with engine speed, a strategy that is invisible most of the time but noticeable when the transmission upshifts when exiting a turn and the power assist increases.

Braking is reassuringly linear. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) help maintain steering control while braking on slippery surfaces. Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) apportions brake application front-and-rear to minimize stopping distance. Traction control helps maintain steering control when accelerating, especially on slippery surfaces. EBD doesn't come into play in normal driving, but its presence was comforting as were the large front brake discs, now 12.1 inches in diameter. When it comes to stopping, any little bit can make a big difference.