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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  Reliable Car - 2005 Hyundai Accent
  By Jim - December 22 - 3:32 pm

  A great basic reliable commuter. Not very attractive inside or out, but it does it job at a very low cost. I drive it 104 miles to and from work every day and after 125,000 miles have only replaced light bulbs and tires (amazingly, it still has the original brake pads!) This is a well built, rugged and inexpensive little car. It is not comfortable nor fun to drive. Acceleration is adequate and handling on dry rods is OK. Wet/slick road handling is very poor, however. Also, gas mileage is not quite as good as I would like from such a small car, but is in the high 20s. I do not recommend as a first car because of its poor wet/slick road handling, however.

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  Proud Hyundai owner - 2001 Hyundai Accent
  By erikgonzalez90 - December 19 - 2:54 pm

  I owned a few older Hyundais and they were crap before 99 I got my 01 accent and I love it, I get my usual oil change I had bought it from the original owner at 96,000 I have put 10,000 miles since aug of 09 it has good power with the a/c off, fuel up with less than 25, it takes the abuse I throw at it, recommend Hyundai for life, at 107,000 the serpentine belt squeaks

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  well built- low cost auto - 2010 Hyundai Accent
  By silverflash - December 14 - 4:27 pm

  Just bought the car last week to use as my primary commute car. So far love it. Got 39mpgs!!!!! Now that was all highway at 55 (break in speeds) but still rocks! got a sweet deal on it, and it is built like a tank! much better than my 2006 civic i owned, that things metal was like a tin can! car is solid, drives well, peppy enough as I have the manual and a gas-sipper! It is quite cute as well and feels great even with me being 61 tall. Looking forward to 100,000+ miles on this baby! With gas going back up, this will be a good bet. warranty, cost, mileage, build quality- hyundai made this one right!

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  Winter Beater - 1998 Hyundai Accent
  By EricXJR37 - December 6 - 7:03 am

  I bought this car at 284 000km , it has done its time , i paid 400$ only as a winter car. I have a RWD 320hp car in the summer , but i really like driving the Accent , theres no performance to it really , i have it as a 5spd manual and i really love it , it heats quick , handles corners well , so overall for a 1998 and the kms thats on it it doesnt burn oil and its tough.

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  Just got it. - 2010 Hyundai Accent
  By Bill - December 1 - 12:56 pm

  Bought it as a tow vehicle for my RV. First tank of gas got me 38 MPG. Only has AC. Basic Accent Blue. Runs good at 65 mph. Pretty quiet. Tows well.

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  Mediocre Hyundai Accent - 2006 Hyundai Accent
  By Andie - November 28 - 12:01 pm

  I bought this car used from Enterprise Car Sales. It is a 2006 Accent GLS with about 45,000 miles on it when I bought it. It still had some of the 60k warranty left, which turns out I really needed! The car was fine for about a month, then a sensor went bad. Took the car to the dealership and they fixed it, it was covered under warranty, I was only disappointed that I was not provided with a rental car. Now I am at 54,000 miles, purchased that car 5 months ago, and an engine coil went bad. Took it in to the dealership, and turns out the warranty doesnt cover new spark plugs or a "decarbon" which I was told i needed, so this little car is starting to cost me quite a bit of money in repairs.

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  NOT A BAD CAR - 2002 Hyundai Accent
  By ERICD77 - November 26 - 6:56 pm

  Overall I got my moneys worth but at 124,000 miles theres something wrong with my transmission thats around a grand to fix. I think the trannys a big issue on this vehicle but its reliable and although Im not buying another Im very satisfied with it.

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  Fun to drive- great mpg! - 2009 Hyundai Accent
  By HollyG - November 23 - 3:43 pm

  I purchased my Accent this summer, and am completely thrilled with my purchase! I changed careers, and now drive quite a bit, thus making the Accent a perfect fit. It fit my budget, and I ended up paying $11,000 for my little car. Since I drive into rural areas, I purchased the XM/MP3 package, and Im pleased with it- Ive not lost a signal yet! One thing that I miss however, is cruise control. It was not an option with the 5-speeds that were on the lot. I would imagine that Id get even better mileage with cruise. :)

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  Better than expected - 2009 Hyundai Accent
  By W. Henry - November 22 - 7:01 pm

  4 months of usage and the first 4,737 miles used 122.75 gallons of gas for 38.59mpg and I had to round for the JD Powers survey so it rounded to 39mpg. Course, I only use the first quarter inch on the gas pedal and park behind the slow moving trucks on the freeway. I think this is the least expensive car sold in America and to get 39mpg--this car is a steal. My son thinks that Korea is building the best cars for the price just like the Japanese companies did when they first started. They are trying harder. Im not just comparing it to my last car, a 1981 Rabbit diesel, but also w rental cars such as the sporty Cadillac and a Mercedes that I owned in 1970. I didnt get AC.

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  Money well spent - 2009 Hyundai Accent
  By Azawon - November 15 - 4:16 pm

  I was also looking at other cars when I stumbled on the Accent SE. Im so glad I did, because I really couldnt decide between the 10 cars I had on my list. There was always something wrong, or missing. Either the price was too high, or the warranty too short, or I just couldnt fall in love with the cars styling. I had never considered a subcompact, but reluctantly started looking at them. I was intrigued with the Accent SE. It had a lot of nice features, and was sporty to boot. Its so much fun to drive, and has been solid and comfortable. This car gets many looks in traffic, from all angles, by drivers slyly checking it out. It is very sharp in Ebony black, and stands out.