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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  Great Little Starter Car - 2004 Hyundai Accent
  By Liz - November 4 - 7:12 pm

  I bought this as my first new car and have loved it ever since. Gas mileage is great either highway or city (I drive stick). Have had no major repairs but am up to 200K Km now and it is in need of a windshield washer motor, new windshield, and possibly clutch problems. Still drives smoothly. A little noisy but it is a small car so to be expected. Sound system is awesome! Ive replaced the breaks once and do annual tire changes for winter/summer. Perfect car for single or young couple, doesnt fit our growing family anymore, no room to put down 60/40 seats with a carseat. Cant put carseat in middle because there is a bump. Need four doors. Headlights are not bright enough.

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  Great economy car - 2004 Hyundai Accent
  By Stew - November 2 - 4:30 pm

  I bought my 04 Accent because I needed a very fuel efficient car. I bought it with 55K miles on it and have had very little problems with it, I replaced the timing belt myself at 60K miles per the maintenance schedule, the upstream O2 sensor went bad so I replaced that myself, and have been doing regular oil/filter changes. The airbag light did go on, took it to the dealer for a diagnostic but havent had it repaired yet. Its a 5-speed and I average between 42 and 43 MPG with 75% freeway driving. I bought this car because I needed a fuel efficient commuter car to rack up a bunch of miles and its fit the bill very well.

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  real diamond at a cubic zirconium price - 2002 Hyundai Accent
  By Rick W. - October 25 - 2:00 am

  I have driven this car for 6 mos./7500 miles. The driving behavior of this vehicle (engine/transmission, acceleration/speed, cornering, stopping, etc.) is smooth and first rate. The interior is thoughtfully designed and well appointed. Space/comfort for front/back is suprisingly very good for a subcompact. Final word: I am a concientious consumer. And I consider this car the very best bang for the buck.

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  Good Car - 2008 Hyundai Accent
  By PAULO - October 23 - 11:04 pm

  After a lot of research I found that the Accent was by far the best vehicle for the money. I got the SE with all the options including sunroof/body kit/Auto for $14700 including tax and fees. Just like the one you see in the marketing posters. If it wasnt for my wife I would have preferred a 5M and saved some more. I wanted a economy car with great looks and some options and the accent covered it. I avg 30mpg with DC traffic. Low 27 high 35.

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  Nice Looking!! Poor Gas Mileage.:(:(:(:( - 2007 Hyundai Accent
  By Aldo, Miami, Fl. - October 18 - 3:54 pm

  Girls dig the style, they even say is cute...nice firm seats, great A/C, look twice before changing lanes for acceleration is non existing. Gas mileage after 21,000 miles is about 22mpg. Needed battery after 14,000 miles. Plastic inside scratches easily.

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  Very Reliable - 2003 Hyundai Accent
  By Steve Oros - October 14 - 7:12 pm

  I am a sales rep on the road doing 65K a year. I bought this car in the fall of 03, and started this job in the fall of 04. I have 280K on this car of which 260Ks are from my when I started my new job. This car has been Amazing! I have not had one breakdown or false start. I do all the factory maintenance at the dealership where I bought it, all great people, great service. I still have the original brake pads on the rear wheels!! I bought the car W/O AC but when I got my job I had it installed, along with deep tint, and cruise control (need for the long drives!) I am going to put 400K on this car and then get another one!!! Well worth the money.

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  Accent Is Solid but MPGs stink! - 2006 Hyundai Accent
  By steve30122 - October 14 - 2:46 pm

  I bought my Accent after beginning to have trouble with my previous car, a VW Jetta Turbo. Notice my ratings above, they are completely honest. I have been very disappointed with the gas mileage for a car this size and with this little performance. My fuel economy averages in the mid-20s overall. I did exceed 30 mpg on a couple of long road trips, but only reached 33 mpg. Performance is pitiful if not down right dangerous. Its difficult to enter a crowded Intrste Hwy w/o getting pummeled. Now heres the good stuff. Havent had a single hiccup with this car. The reliability has been perfect for 2 yrs/53K even in tough, city driving. The design and build have far exceeded my expectations.

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  Thank you Hyundai - 2008 Hyundai Accent
  By Aaron E. - October 14 - 3:32 am

  After 3000 miles Im still thrilled with this car. Ive averaged 34 mpg so far with about 70% of my driving highway miles. I test drove the Yaris, Corolla, and Mazda 3 first, but found this a far better value. I also considered the Fit and Versa. I was most interested in a quiet ride, mpgs, price, and warranty. The Accent hatchback is great for these reasons. I was surprised the others had so much road noise at a higher price. That said, over about 60mph the Accent engine gets more noticeable. The only things I miss from my old Rav4 are cruise control and a rear windshield wiper in snowy conditions. Traction with snow tires has been great.

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  Not bad - 2001 Hyundai Accent
  By KoryuKitsune - October 7 - 5:14 pm

  Its not really that bad of a car. It ran great until the Transmission blew (THat or the head gasket were not sure what on yet). Only got in one wreck in it and that persons license plate numbers are indented in the car and thats it. Its a Sturdy car. I really wanna fix it up.

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  Cool Ride - 2008 Hyundai Accent
  By Michael Dellapenta - September 29 - 7:03 pm

  The automatic is sluggish, but have all the options. I put in a stereo with a sub, new front speakers, with a Rockford amp.