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:

• 

  3 yrs: zero repair -- $300 maintenance - 2005 Hyundai Accent
  By WIprofessional - September 1 - 3:33 pm

  I commute 45 miles each way for work on country roads. This car has been comfortable and fun to drive for the first 3 years. Gets 40 mpg at ~50 mph ave speed w/o using air conditioning. 36 mpg highway w/o air 34 mpg highway with air. Hauls canoe well. Plenty of power without heavy load: feels sluggish with 5 passengers and luggage. Also sluggish on big hills even with only 1 passenger. Like every Hyundai Ive owned (3) very reliable and no repair costs.

• 

  still going - 2002 Hyundai Accent
  By Michael G. - August 30 - 4:48 pm

  Bought the car in 2002 - first transmission oil change was around 45,000 mi, I changed the timing belt around 69,000 but the mechanic told me tha124,141,799t was still in good condition and changed the spark plugs and the belts for water and alternator around 90,000 mi other than that just oil change (only synthetic) and tires. I have 107,000 mi and no problem I get 31 mi/gallon in city driving

• 

  First breakdown at 12,000 miles. - 2007 Hyundai Accent
  By Daniel - August 30 - 1:17 pm

  Overall a decent sporty car for the money with plenty of standard features for the price and great economy, however some switches (headlights) still feel cheap, and the engine is downright asthmatic with the a/c on (which in Arizona is a lot). Youll find a lot of people riding your tail after green lights while you get up to speed. Drivers armrest on door is rock hard, what were they thinking? I cant even bear to put my weight on it because it hurts my elbow. Shifter is slow and balky. B&M shifter, yeah right, from their spare parts bin maybe. Love the styling, the SE rims really add a wonderful sporty look to the car, get the SE if you can, it totally transforms the look of the car.

• 

  Suprise - 2007 Hyundai Accent
  By Shawn - August 20 - 11:34 pm

  What a Surprise just bought my Hyundai Accent 07 as a second car. I was looking for an affordable 2nd form of transportation as I own a Jeep Wrangler that was somewhat pricey to buy and pricey to drive at 15 mpg. I love my Hyundai Accent SE already! It handles well with the 16 in tires and sport suspension. Power windows, mirrors, and locks 10/100,000 power train, roadside assistance and a real smooth ride all for a great price. Good job Hyundai not as fun to drive as my Jeep in the Summer but surprisingly very close and for half the price. I am very happy. The only down side so far is it is a little sluggish on the hills with the AC running but that is what I expected for a 1.6l gas sipper

• 

  Very good car - 2004 Hyundai Accent
  By Dan-R - August 20 - 6:43 pm

  This is an absolutely wonderful small car. I use it to go to work everyday. Very very reliable. I am hitting around 35mpg on highway. I have never spent any money to fix anything (there werent many) yet. Hyundai honors their warranty very well.

• 

  First tank of Gas - 2008 Hyundai Accent
  By Eugene - August 18 - 10:42 am

  Good first impression, 1st fill up was pleasant surprise, 33.6MPG. How above 400 miles logged, Tried a 100 mile trip to see how it rides. All seems good, but the radio has a shorter range than my other vehicles. Have to try all the seat adjustments to see which like better. Good all around vision. Vehicle is hard to seen by others.

• 

  My little go-cart - 2002 Hyundai Accent
  By Chris - August 17 - 9:47 pm

  This was like a go-cart because of its size and power. A 1.4L is a weak engine, but I assure you it has pickup and I would whip this car around. I drove it hard, but not crazy. No major problems with anything though I have broke both door handles by pulling on them the wrong way. Regular oil changes and sensible (not conservative) driving have me at 92000 miles. I can tell the car is on its way out though. There is a hole somewhere in the exhaust and I just have this feeling that a bunch of things are about to be worn out. Great buy, great car for 8k. Would definitely buy a Hyundai again, its just simply worth the money (no headaches at 92000)

• 

  Lug at low speed - 2008 Hyundai Accent
  By Joe - August 14 - 6:05 pm

  While I do enjoy the fuel efficiency and it is comfortable for 6 ft tall man to drive for extended periods, I found that right after you have to decelerate for traffic and then try to pick up the pace, the transfer lugs sometimes. Go with a manual for stop and go traffic.

• 

  great mpg, no problems - 2007 Hyundai Accent
  By J - August 12 - 3:59 pm

  I have had my 07 Accent for over a year, and have put 22,000 miles on it. So far I have not had any problems, mechanical or otherwise. After the break-in period I have been averaging 36-40 mpg in mostly highway driving. The car is roomy for two people, is very easy to drive, and everyone comments on how it looks (most girls think its "cute" most guys think its "ugly" but at least its getting noticed, which is more than you can say for most of the cars in this price range). I traded in a full-size vehicle for this little guy, and I couldnt be happier with it.

• 

  what do you expect? - 2008 Hyundai Accent
  By boofus - August 10 - 9:15 am

  Dont misunderstand my title, I love this car. But it does what it is supposed to well. If I expected heated mirrors, seats, navigation, chrome wheels, etc. I would have purchased a Cadillac. I wanted an inexpensive, comfortable commuter that gets good gas mileage. I love XM radio so that was a surprise and the fact it has curtain airbags is a surprising benefit. Thats extra with the other mfgs. I must admit you have to be very deliberate when driving it, 0-60 in 13sec. Does not a dragster make! But once up to speed it does fine.