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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  Follow up to review 8-08, now at 21,000 - 2007 Hyundai Accent
  By Daniel - February 27 - 1:04 pm

  I have now owned this car for 3 years. The inside armrest for the driver cannot bear a lot of weight and is now sagging. I had to have an alignment done because there was so much play in the steering and the car felt so disconnected on bumpy roads it felt downright dangerous to drive. The alignment made it much better but it still doesnt inspire confidence. The battery went out at 12,000 and Im just waiting for the new one to go out. The "passenger airbag off" light is now flickering. The brakes and shocks have held up well so far. The remote for the alarm/unlock/lock has to be pressed several times to get it to work. The stock tires are junk. Plastic panels near right back seat rattle.

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  This car may have saved my life - 2010 Hyundai Accent
  By Karen - February 26 - 7:11 pm

  Two days ago I was plowed into the drivers side by a Subaru, who suffered minimal damage to his car but mine had to be totaled. Ive had several people say they are amazed I managed to walk away without a single scratch or bruise. I loved this car from the moment I test drove it but in the aftermath of my accident I am hooked for life just on the safety features. If little cars are your thing, get one of these!!

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  Not the wisest choice - 2008 Hyundai Accent
  By Genovese - February 25 - 7:28 am

  I purchased this car a little over a year ago. Ive had issues with the engine misfiring, oddly enough after Ive had oil changes from the dealer. I even had one service tech suggest that E85 gas (which I dont use) could have something to do with it. My wife owned a 2002 Accent and had issues with the engine and exhaust system. The fuel economy is not what it claims to be either. I will never buy another Hyundai. In fact, Ill be trading this one in soon for another companys equivalent.

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  Great Commuter Car In Tampa,FL - 2010 Hyundai Accent
  By brians2510 - February 18 - 6:44 pm

  Great car for heavy traffic areas. I get a little under 30 miles to the gallon due to sitting in traffic in downtown Tampa. Very comfortable and great warranty.

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  I LOVED my little red accent... - 2003 Hyundai Accent
  By ks2282 - February 18 - 1:06 am

  I bought this car new off the lot as my first car for about 10k...super cheap for a car that lasted me about 7 years. I never once had a problem with it until someone side-swiped it last weekend and totaled it. I was so sad to see it go. I had over 110,000 miles on it,and i only had to replace the brakes once, and change my headlights once. Otherwise it was all sched. maintenance. BEST warranty ever too. A good first car for anyone, or even a commuter. Just maintain your oil changes and services, and this car will last you forever!.

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  Wish I had bought American - 2007 Hyundai Accent
  By Larry - February 16 - 2:27 pm

  I bought the car during the 2007-2008 fuel crunch for better mileage than my American v8 sedan. Initially, it paid off in dividends. However (gradually) the economy of the car has become less & less. Using synthetic oil, high flow / reusable filter, and upgraded plugs have now changed the decline in economy. Found a bad coil, tail light switch gave out, check engine light on & off, and now having to slam the driver door shut & opening the door to find the panel seems broken ...tomorrow is my dealer appointment to have it looked at.

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  Love It - 2010 Hyundai Accent
  By practicalme - February 1 - 4:47 pm

  This is my first NEW car and Im 51 years old. I was waiting for this car. It cost me $8,900, has a great warranty and is fun to drive.

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  DO NOT BUY THIS CAR! - 2008 Hyundai Accent
  By joseph - January 22 - 7:17 pm

  I have had my accent for two years now and I cant stand it. Let me tell you about the problems I have had. Starter both Windows in the doors fell out hatch would not stay closed throw out bearing and clutch went out weather striping fell apart paint has blistered in a lot of places fabric on both front seats has busted open and seams coming apart and it wont even start half the time. And I had to replace and fix all these things myself because Hyundai does not stand by any of there so called warranties if you have anything go wrong with your new Hyundai, they will find some way of putting the blame on anything but the fact they make junk cars. Will never own another Hyundai!

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  Accidentally Got The Best - 2009 Hyundai Accent
  By Happy Hyundai Owner - December 28 - 10:47 am

  I bought the Base 09 Accent Coupe because it was half the cost of my 1st choice, the Honda Fit. However, the longer I drive the Accent, the more I feel its the best choice I couldve made. Ive even come to love the apple green color. It has an amazing amount of room inside - I went from a GMC Jimmy and have had little trouble adapting, space-wise. The exterior design is simple, clean and well- proportioned I think its one of the best-looking cars on the road. It handles and drives like a sports car, feels like an extension of my body: I think, it responds. Very solid, well- made car, reminds me of an MGB-GT I once had (without the constant repairs!).

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  airbag problem - 2010 Hyundai Accent
  By sherwood brubaker - December 22 - 5:31 pm

  I have a GS with 2500 miles on it. I have the ABS/power package. It is a fun little car to drive, peppier than I thought it would be. I avg 31 mi/gal. The only problem is that the passenger air bag intermittently does not recognize the passenger. The dealership does not seem to be able to find the problem.