Hyundai XG: V6 Sedan, Engines, and Trims
The Hyundai XG is a large V6 sedan produced from 1998 to 2005. In Korea, it was known as the Grandeur XG, and in the US, it was sold as the XG300 and XG350. It was sold in limited numbers in Europe, so in Lithuania, you'll find individual cars. We'll briefly look at the essentials and what to check.
XG in brief
The XG was Hyundai's attempt to offer a spacious, quiet, and well-equipped sedan for less than its Japanese or German rivals. It's a front-wheel-drive car with a V6 engine and an automatic transmission.
Later versions received a facelift, and in the US market, the model was renamed the XG350. Today, it's an old car, so the most important thing is its technical condition.
Which version to choose
If you're looking for a simpler and cheaper option, go for the XG300 with the 3.0 V6. If you need more power, choose the XG350 with the 3.5 V6. In some markets, smaller V6 engines were also offered.
Pick the best-maintained example: price is less important here than service history.
Engines and transmissions
Used V6 engines: 2.5, 3.0, and 3.5 litres. Power ranges from around 165 to around 195 hp. The transmission is a 4-speed automatic.
The car is of simple construction but is now quite old, so some components may be worn out.
What to check when buying a used XG
Check the transmission operation, especially the smoothness of gear shifts, and engine oil leaks. It's crucial to replace the timing belt on time for V6 engines.
Inspect the suspension, brakes, and look for rust in the wheel arches and sills. Make sure the air conditioning, electric windows, and seat adjustments work.
Trims
Trim names vary by market; the US offered XG300 and XG350 with L and Limited trim levels.
XG300
1998–2003The base XG model with a 3.0 V6.
- Often — cloth interior
- Often — electric windows and mirrors
- Base sound system
XG300 L
1998–2003Better-equipped version.
- Often — leather interior
- Often — electric seat adjustment
- Often — sunroof
XG350 L
2002–2005Updated version with a 3.5 V6.
- More powerful 3.5 V6 engine
- Often — leather and more comfort
- Refreshed styling
Comparing versions
| XG300 | XG300 L | XG350 L | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Who it's for | For everyday use | For comfort | More power |
| Common wheel sizes | 15–16 inch | 16 inch | 16–17 inch |
| Interior | Cloth | Leather | Leather |
| Engine | 3.0 V6 | 3.0 V6 | 3.5 V6 |
| Price in the used market (relatively) | € | € | € |
If you're after an affordable, spacious sedan, opt for the best-condition examples, not just based on trim level.
Pros
- Spacious interior and quiet ride
- Simple construction
- Low cost
- Comfortable for long journeys
Cons
- Old car, condition varies greatly
- High fuel consumption
- Some parts may be hard to find
Frequently asked questions
Are the Hyundai XG and Grandeur XG the same?
Yes. In Korea, the model is called Grandeur XG, while in the US it's known as XG300 and XG350.
Which engine is the best?
For most buyers, the 3.0 V6 is sufficient. The 3.5 V6 is more powerful but drinks more fuel.
Is the XG reliable?
In many cases, yes, provided the oil and timing belt are changed on time. However, it is an older car, so its condition is key.
Updated 2026-10-14 · Trim levels and equipment vary by market and model year — check the equipment of the specific car. · Translated automatically





























