Overview & Reviews

Since its 1995 introduction, the Hyundai Accent has served as the company's entry-level small car. Although grouped with similarly priced subcompact cars, the Accent sedan and hatchback have always fallen under the EPA's classification for a compact car, which translates to a surprisingly roomy interior. Other typical Accent advantages include generous standard equipment, a choice of hatchback and sedan body styles and long warranty coverage.

The latest Hyundai Accent has made great strides toward front-runner status in this competitive segment, which is a welcome change from past models. It is now larger inside and out, and the overall look of the car is certainly more dynamic. Performance and overall quality have been notably improved as well. Prior to the current-generation car, older Accents suffered from low safety ratings and an overall level of quality that didn't match up to some competitors.

Current Hyundai Accent
Available as a sedan or a four-door hatchback, the Accent comes with a 1.6-liter four-cylinder producing 138 horsepower and 123 pound-feet of torque. A six-speed manual transmission is standard, while a six-speed automatic is also available. Power output is impressive for the class, and the Accent gets excellent fuel economy as well.

The sedan comes only in base GLS trim, while the hatchback comes in GS and the top-line SE trims. The GLS is nicely equipped with air-conditioning, full power accessories and a six-speaker sound system with a CD player, satellite radio and iPod/USB/auxiliary input jacks. Option highlights including foglights, alloy wheels, keyless entry, upgraded interior trim, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, cruise control and Bluetooth are available. The GS hatchback adds a few extra features. Stepping up to the SE hatchback gets you pretty much all of the optional features as standard.

Inside, the Hyundai Accent has a look and feel that's a cut above most rivals, with patterned upholstery, a sculpted dash and a modern overall design. Although some drivers may be bothered by the lack of a telescoping steering wheel as standard equipment on most trims, taller passengers will find all but the rear center seat roomy and comfortable. Cargo space is also quite accommodating, especially in the hatchback models.

On the road, the Accent's four-cylinder engine pulls significantly stronger than the power plants of its major competitors. Both the six-speed manual and the six-speed automatic transmissions make good use of that output, too. What it lacks in sporty handling dynamics, it compensates for with a quiet, comfortable ride and good overall composure -- criteria likely more important to buyers shopping this segment. That the Accent performs this well overall while still rating an EPA-estimated 31 mpg combined is impressive. Overall, the Hyundai Accent stands as a front-runner in the subcompact segment.

Used Hyundai Accent Models
The Hyundai Accent was fully redesigned for 2012, marking its fourth generation. Compared to the previous generation, this Accent is roomier inside, with a more stylish design and a more powerful and fuel-efficient engine. There haven't been any major changes since, although the optional telescoping steering wheel didn't become available until 2014.

The third-generation Hyundai Accent was built from 2006-'11. It's a cost-effective choice for a used car, though not a particularly exciting one. All third-generation Accents were powered by 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine that produced 110 hp and 106 lb-ft of torque. Transmission choices included either a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic.

During its run, a steady progression of changes and improvements were implemented. Initially, a sedan body style and single trim level were available. In 2007, a two-door hatchback was added to the lineup along with additional trim levels: the GS and SE were offered on the hatchback and GLS was the only sedan choice.

GS models were modestly appointed with the bare necessities. The SE added 16-inch alloy wheels, air-conditioning, power accessories, a CD player, a sport-tuned suspension and quicker steering. The GLS sedan included air-conditioning and the audio system as standard, with power accessories and alloy wheels optional. A sunroof and an upgraded audio system were optional on the SE.

There was a slight bump in fuel economy for 2009, as well as available cruise control. For 2010, the entry-level Blue trim joined the lineup as the new value leader, but was renamed the GL one year later. In the meantime, the GS received standard air-conditioning. USB connectivity was added to the available auxiliary input in 2010. Used car shoppers should pay special attention to whether or not an Accent has antilock brakes, as the car's braking distance grows excessively long without them. Antilock brakes weren't even an option for the GS until 2010. Finally in 2011, all Accents featured it as standard.

In reviews, we found the third-generation Accent to be a decent choice for those seeking basic, fuel-efficient transportation, but plain styling and cheap materials kept appeal fairly low. Still, there was enough interior space for average-sized adults to get comfortable in the front or rear. Driving the Accent offered no revelations in performance, but the brakes were strong (with ABS) and ride quality and handling were acceptable for an economy car. Power was adequate for driving around town, but sluggish at highway speeds in automatic-transmission models. One final aspect to consider is the Accent's crash test scores; it performed very poorly in the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety's side-impact crash test.

The second-generation Accent was sold in sedan and hatchback form from 2000-'05. Initially, this Accent was offered only with an 89-hp, 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine (horsepower varied slightly over the years). A 104-hp, 1.6-liter engine joined the lineup in 2001 and replaced the 1.5-liter altogether in 2003. Acceleration was adequate even with the 1.5-liter engine, however, and both the automatic and manual transmissions perform acceptably.

Handling and braking capabilities were modest on second-gen Accents, mainly because of the car's undersized 13-inch wheels and tires. Hyundai did offer the 2004 and '05 GT hatchback with 14-inch wheels and a firmer suspension, but if you're buying any used Accent, it's a good idea to set aside some money for better tires. Unfortunately, antilock brakes were optional only on 2005 Accents. Front seat-mounted side airbags were standard on 2003 GL sedans and hatchbacks, and on all 2004 and '05 models.

Sold from 1995-'99, the first-generation Hyundai Accent was also available as both a compact sedan and a three-door hatchback; it replaced Hyundai's shoddily built Excel subcompact (1986-'94). All Accents of this era came with a 92-hp, 1.5-liter engine, except for the 1996 and '97 GT hatch, which had a DOHC, 16-valve version of this engine good for 105 hp. ABS was optional on automatic transmission-equipped Accents sold from 1995-'98, but this safety feature was discontinued entirely for 1999 and didn't turn up again until 2005.

User Reviews:

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  Love it . . . but - 2012 Hyundai Accent
  By wubaja - October 11 - 7:49 pm

  I have driven my 2012 Accent for more than 4,000 miles and it is still fun to drive. There is one feature, however, that is problematic an annoying: The LCD display has virtually no contrast, i.e. it is medium blue on light blue. I find it difficult to read under any lighting conditions and brightness cannot be controlled. At night, it glows like a spot-light. During the day, its just fuzzy. And no, I do NOT have any vision issues. I hope that Hyundai fixes this because the Accent is otherwise a good value (so far).

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  Exactly what I wanted! - 2012 Hyundai Accent
  By catdaddy74 - October 8 - 1:43 pm

  Ive had my 2012 Hyundai Accent SE (mocha bronze) for 5 days now and I absolutely love it! It is roomy and comfortable with plenty of power when I need it. The engine is quiet and still feels powerful when I turn on the A/C. Reviewers like to say its not as sporty or fun to drive as the other hatchbacks in its class. Personally, I find it plenty sporty with a very smooth ride and quiet cabin. I never thought I would consider a Hyundai let alone step foot inside a dealership but Im glad I did. I am thoroughly satisfied and impressed with this little gem of a car!

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  Awesome Car Totally - 2012 Hyundai Accent
  By luvmyaccent - October 4 - 8:47 pm

  Had this car for two weeks and love this car, got mocha bronze hatchback. this car is everything i want and needed in a car, 36 miles per gallon so far, drives will, a/c is great, stero is nice lots of room, But No spare tire or jack, went to discount tire got a tire and rim for $93.00 brand new full size and fits in spare spot. This car has great pickup and fun to drive, price was under $17,000. The bronze mocha is a hard color to find. I got mine smile, only bad thing is the visalabilty out of the rear window. no regrets on getting this car at all, I love it. Test drive one and you will fall in love with it

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  2012 Hyundai Accent: Small Price Big Value - 2012 Hyundai Accent
  By talipa2012 - September 21 - 1:47 pm

  I recently was able to purchase a 2012 Hyundai Accent GLS Sedan with the premium package. I have almost put the first 1000 miles on it and overall I am extremely impressed. The Accent is a great combination of fuel economy, driver enjoyment, and build quality that is made even sweeter by falling thousands of dollars below the $20,000 mark. Driving the Accent is a great experience as a daily driver, offering excellent comfort and with 138 horsepower a great amount of confidence in all situations. Compared to the competition the Hyundai Accent has a price that many consumers can live with while getting the magic 40 mpg mark. Id make this choice again given the option.

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  BE AWARE!!! - 2012 Hyundai Accent
  By deniserodrigue - September 16 - 8:59 am

  While driving in a 25 mph school zone, my steering wheel locked making it impossible to control my car on a curvy road after having just made a right turn, as I begun to pick up speed, my steering wheel remained in the position placed in order to follow the curve, locking immediately after. My initial reaction was to try unlocking the steering, but it didnt budge I hit about 3 concrete median blocks, before drifting into an uneven field of grass luckily, there was a sewage manhole jolting out from the ground managing to slow down my car before I was able to pull the emergency break. If this wouldve occurred in high traffic, there couldve been several casualties, including my own.

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  Great car, but a few niggles - 2012 Hyundai Accent
  By dirtbag - September 13 - 8:45 am

  I got the SE hatch automatic. Nice car. Fun to drive. Quiet and comfortable. Looks good. Averages 35 mpg. Im very pleased, overall! The cruise control is useless on uphill grades. The door armrests are hard plastic and uncomfortable. Handling around curves is great but it doesnt track well in a straight line on the freeway, requiring continual corrections. No spare tire, even though there is a space designed for one...cheapskates.

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  FLIMSY DIRT MAGNET - 2010 Hyundai Accent
  By buggycrazy - August 29 - 10:27 pm

  Falling apart in 7,000 miles, side mirror cover bumped when shoveling snow, fell off, numerous dings in plastic bumper and interior, seats do not move or fold down enough, windshield cracked at 7,000, flat windows catch all kinds of crud constantly, too low of clearance, stupid shield interferes with oil change, semi sunk windshield catches all kinds of crud and is prone to having the drain holes freeze up then there is a lake in the window, with the wipers frozen into it. The rear tail light assembly is placed where it just begs to be hit - and so it has! Charger will not charge when key is off so is useless to charge my equipment, but it is safe to leave it out on the street with the keys in it and unlocked-no one will steal it! I bought this thing to save money, and that was a mistake, since it is too fragile for normal use I will not fix anything anymore and will have to save money by not washing it, all that dirt camouflages all the other stuff that is breaking up and falling apart.

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  Almost Perfect - 2012 Hyundai Accent
  By akaur - August 22 - 9:18 am

  Very impressed with this car. No other hatchbacks come close to the new Accent with regards to fuel economy and warranty. Responsive handling and enough pep that I feel confident entering the freeways. The interior is roomy and quiet, the A/C works great on even the lowest two settings, and thats saying a lot in Phoenix summer heat! I only averaged 34 MPG until I filled up at Chevron, then my MPG jumped to 36-37 mixed and 41 highway. Im not a schill for Chevron and dont work for them, but thats the only gas Ill use now.

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  2012 Hyundai Accent GLS Automatic Experience - 2012 Hyundai Accent
  By fssrk1 - August 13 - 6:42 pm

  I recently purchased a 2012 Hyundai Accent sedan with the premium package and automatic transmission. My last car was a 2003 Honda Civic DX sedan with automatic transmission. An extremely reliable car and averaged about 28-32 mpg in the city. Just a note certain color Accent are made in Pusan Korea such as the Clearwater blue color on my car. There should be no difference in quality but very minor difference on parts such as Hankook tires versus an American brand. The car rides smoothly in Eco mode but a little slow to accelerate. My gas mileage was 27 mpg on first refuel but there is a 600 mile engine wear in period. Overall happy with the car and bought it at invoice price $16,900.

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  A Great Buy - 2012 Hyundai Accent
  By greenmrt - August 8 - 10:07 am

  When looking for a fuel efficient car, I assumed we would have to settle for a boring vehicle. I am happy to have been so wrong. With a plethora of features, the Accent suprised. We are thrilled to be averaging 40mpg on the vehicle. A great car for the value. With the 60,000 bumper-to-bumper warranty and the 100,000 powertrain warranty, we also have peace-of-mind.