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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  Fuel Economy is important - 2008 Hyundai Accent
  By E. Stanfill - August 9 - 1:00 am

  Great Commuter Car. I travel approx 70 miles per day and had been driving a Diesel Pickup that was costing me over $140 per week in fuel, this little car has enough room for a driver 63" tall and Im only spending around $40 per week Im saving $400 per month and the car payment w/ insurance are much less than that. Its money in the bank to buy this car and keep the diesel parked.

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  Loving It!!! - 2008 Hyundai Accent
  By Coro - August 7 - 3:07 pm

  I just bought my new Hyundai Accent last weekend. I replaced a 1999 Accent and this one is light years over the old one! As soon as I sat on the drivers seat, I fell in love with the car. Its my first new car and I couldnt be any happier. My dad owns a Nissan Versa and the Accent has a much more comfortable driver seat, and have to admit the Versa it better in the back seat. Overall, I find the Accent to be a great value and an excellent car for a college student like me. I already took it to a 250 mile trip and was awesome!

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  HYUNDAI ACCENT 2-DOOR - 2008 Hyundai Accent
  By Glenn - July 31 - 8:45 am

  I did a ton of searching for the best but cheapest gas saver on the market today. I considered the fit, matrix, aveo, rio, and serveral others. By far Hyundai makes the best little gas saver out there. The warranty cannot be beat. This is my 4th Hyundai! I have never been disappointed yet by a Hyundai product or service. The only thing I can say is that if you buy a Hyundai in the Houston area do not go to best Hyundai as they are total crooks. I dealt with hub Hyundai in two different areas in the Houston area and they have both been great. I got this little baby for $11,250 with automatic and air and I just love it.

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  Efficient and FUN! - 2008 Hyundai Accent
  By Beterraba - July 30 - 4:55 pm

  We bought our Accent a couple months back, it has been averaging 34mpg with some highway, some city driving. Radio is great. My husband is the main driver, and is 64" and fits just fine. A/C is working great, plenty of space in the car. We already fit a 40" tv in the back, and some other furniture (not all together). We love this car, and are so happy with the purchase!

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  great car for the money - 2001 Hyundai Accent
  By dashingwave - July 28 - 8:34 pm

  Ive had this car for almost 7 years and its been very reliable. The only repairs : the power steering pump had to be replaced and the exhaust pipe was replaced. I think the power steering pump went because I turned the wheel a lot after the car was turned off ( turned to put the crook lock on ) . Other then these repairs and normal maintenance, Ive had no trouble with this car. Starts up everyday and runs great. And its still under warranty 7 years after I bought the car in 2001 . You cant beat Hyundais warranty ! If you buy an old car , check to make sure the timing belt is good. If the timing belt breaks itll ruin your engine and cost you at least $1500 to repair.

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  MPG? Big MPG! - 2008 Hyundai Accent
  By litesong - July 27 - 9:06 pm

  My wife drove Accent thru a tough commute & winter, getting 33MPG. She let me drive over 1400, 3000, 4000 & 5500 ft. mtn. passes, getting exceptional 41.5, 42.6, & 45.2MPG, 13 MPG over the EPA highway! Think Honda Fit would have a tough time getting such mountain MPG. At 10,000 miles, Accent is 100% w/no squeaks, creaks or rattles. Although Accent, Yaris & Honda Fit have the same exterior width, Accent has 1 to 3 more inches of shoulder room than Yaris, & a bit more shoulder room than the space efficient Fit. The rpms at 60MPH are too high at 2900rpms. Needs a 6th gear. Engine & ride are smooth. Short shifter coupled to the clutch is the 2nd smoothest combo Ive ever tried.

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  Wish Id shopped around more - 2002 Hyundai Accent
  By Valkyrie1015 - July 27 - 3:51 pm

  What a disappointment! I bought this car brand new with only a few miles on it from the test drive. In August 2008, Id have owned the car for 6 years and have only put about 48,000 miles on it. As of last week, it sits dead in front of my house. One year after purchase, the Power Relay went (covered by warranty) in 2006 the engine was really loud, turned out to have a hole in the exhaust and needed to replace some sensors over the next several months- more than once! Had to replace the e-brake and have work done on other brakes in 8/06 as well. By 7/08, need e-brake again, check engine light on, timing belt broke while driving and wrecked the engine. Cheaper to buy another than fix this!

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  Problems from day one - 2007 Hyundai Accent
  By Robbie - July 25 - 7:54 pm

  Had it since 8-07 Within a week my interior dome light broke. had to replace all the tires TWICE, gas mileage isnt as great as they say...i have to fill up AT LEAST twice a week, if not more. I have 50000 miles on it and it overheats bad, and its in the shop getting a new Head gasket...ugh...Trading it in as SOON as i can!

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  Great little car - 2008 Hyundai Accent
  By NBB CHALESTON WV - July 23 - 5:46 pm

  I love this little car. The short shifter and sunroof are great. The car rides really well and is very spirited for a small car. The back seat folds down and creates a large cargo area. I took my sister and niece on a 150 mile journey. The back seat had plenty of room behind the passenger side seat. The back seat armrest and cup holder was Nice. There was no difference with one or three riders. The car rides smooth and very quite. The seats are comfortable and supportive. The rear window wiper and defroster works, the air conditioner is ice cold. Never had to change the radio station. Nice quite car and fun to drive. Get the manual. Filled up before we went needle hardly moved. Tire pressure system.

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  I love my SE - 2008 Hyundai Accent
  By Nancy - July 23 - 5:08 pm

  I was only window shopping, but fell in love with this car. I never thought I would own a small car again. Its silver with a sunroof, and as everyone says....its fun to drive. It has every feature I was looking for. I did not shop around for other small cars. This was the one I HAD to have.