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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  Best Bang for the Buck - 2008 Hyundai Accent
  By greginrichmond - September 29 - 6:05 pm

  I was looking at similar cars in the 16-17k range and just happened upon the Accent 2D SE. Handles like a sports car and sips gas like everyone else wishes their car would. The 5 speed is a must and the fit and finish of the SE is fantastic. Im very happy.

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  Fun Little Car - 2007 Hyundai Accent
  By Mike - September 27 - 11:39 pm

  I love my Hyundai accent. Its small and gets around 30mpg on gas. I have had a problem with the ignition, for some reason the key wouldnt turn at all so they had to put a new cylinder in. It didnt really bother me cause of the great warranty so I didnt have to pay a dime. Also I have used the roadside assistance twice and the service has been flawless. Overall, I love the car and plan on driving it until it dies on me.

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  Super Little Car at a low price - 2008 Hyundai Accent
  By Glenn - September 27 - 8:14 am

  I have had my new Accent for a few months now. This is the 4th Hyundai I have owned and Hyundai never lets me down. The best warranty out there. The best price for a small car out there. The 2-door Accent is sporty, peppy, has style and class you cannot find in anything in this price range. I bought the vehicle with automatic and AC with XM satellite radio and CD for only $11,200 including TT&L. No one could come close to that price. Not Aveo, Fit, Yaris, or anything else.

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  Great Car - 2008 Hyundai Accent
  By kevperro2 - September 14 - 5:45 pm

  Ive had it for a month and no regrets. It is what it is. A small efficient car that is inexpensive to buy, own and operate. In addition to that the car is well put together. It feels tight with everything working the way it should. Hyundai has really closed the gap with the Japanese. I am VERY happy with this purchase.

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  Hyundai rocks - 1996 Hyundai Accent
  By herb - September 11 - 8:25 pm

  This vehicle has been low maintenance...aside from typical wear and tear...brakes, tires, etc. Gets about 35 miles per gallon. Very reliable. Owned for 12 years

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  Great Value - 2008 Hyundai Accent
  By kevperro - September 11 - 10:36 am

  Ive only 1000 miles on her but Im extremely happy with the car. It isnt a fast car but feels very well built, is fun to drive and is extremely high-value. I drove all the competition and liked the Accent for both the interior layout, quality feel, conservative design and price. It was a good $4500 cheaper than the Honda Fit. Gas mileage was 36 MPG on first tank with mostly highway driving. In town driving on 2nd tank was down around 31 MPG. That could improve with break-in, airing up the tires and synthetic oil. Overall Im pleased with the purchase. Hyundai has made incredible strides in quality. Fit/finish is as good or better than the Japanese cars.

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  2008 accent big gas saver - 2008 Hyundai Accent
  By iner9 - September 7 - 2:28 am

  I bought this car for commuting in the NYC area I own a 07 silverado its a Nice truck but too much fuel this 08 accent took care of that its a pleasure to drive love the radio XM the air its always ice cold 6 airbags love the warranty had to pay extra for my gm one its a Nice car for the price got mine for 13,500 had pinstripe on it front rear mats cargo net and rear cargo mat thanks Hyundai keep up the good work got 600 miles on it no problems.

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  The Last "New" Hyundai I will Ever Own. - 2012 Hyundai Accent
  By Dan - September 6 - 3:55 am

  I say the last "new" Hyundai, when really I mean the last Hyundai I will ever own, and the last car I will ever buy new. I bought this car in October of 2011 as a brand new 2012 with 0 miles on it. It was a special order, from the dealer. Luckily, because it was special order, they didnt get the chance to mark it up $1500 like the other cars on their lot. Even still, I barely got out under sticker price. Up to about 20k miles was great, except for the garbage Kumho tires on these cars, which wore out after 16k. 22k miles I had the shifter knob replaced as the leather was deteriorating. 23k I had the heater motor replaced because it was whining terribly. From 23k onwards the clutch throw-out shaft had been making a chirping noise. 15 trips to the dealer.... let me repeat... FIFTEEN. TRIPS. Have all but yet to determine the noise, or even offer to replace parts. 26k I had them replace the clutch slave cylinder and bleed the system... no help. 27k they lubed the throw-out bearing... no help. Fast forward 60,000 chirpy miles later the check engine light comes on. 87k on the clock I bring it in for the light. Small evap leak code P0456. They change all the solenoids at my cost because EVAP is only covered to 82k.... thanks Hyundai. 90k the light comes back on... They clear it, not finding an issue. 92k the light comes on... They clear it, not finding an issue again. 95k.... my FUEL PUMP HOUSING falls apart. Literally cracked completely around the retaining ring and nearly bursts from the tank.... $790 later, out of my pocket AGAIN... its fixed... because the Fuel system isnt covered under the 100,000 mile warranty. 96,000 miles... I still owe $2600 on this car. Never. Again. Goodbye Hyundai.

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  I loved my little Hyundai!!!!!! - 2002 Hyundai Accent
  By Denise - September 4 - 1:09 pm

  This was my first ever car! It recently got totaled in an accident (other persons fault). I didnt have on a seat belt and walked away with some minor bruises! This little car is safe reliable and GREAT on gas! I would have rode this car til the wheels fell off if it hadnt been totaled!

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  Kurt 2008 accent GS - 2008 Hyundai Accent
  By khardiman77 - September 3 - 5:20 pm

  Have to get use to the small engine but it runs great on the highway it will run with some of the best out there on the highway with know problems at all.