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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  Buy the 5 speed manual - 2008 Hyundai Accent
  By 3rd Car - June 26 - 6:15 pm

  I picked up my 08 Accent about a week ago, I did about 4 weeks of research before choosing the little Hyundai, The car is fun to drive, looks good and best of all gets 27mpg city and 35 highway. It seems to be well built and comes with a 5 year bumper to bumper warranty. I drove both the 5 speed and auto transmission, what ever you do, go with the 5 speed. Look, its not the fastest or best looking car on the road but since it is our 3rd car, we also have a 98 Honda Accord and a 02 Toyota Tundra, and with gas coming in at almost $5.00 a gallon I am finding myself driving the Accent every where I go. I paid $13,800 with the rebate for a fully loaded SE, A comparable Civic came in at $17,900.

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  sporty accent - 2008 Hyundai Accent
  By leifval - June 25 - 8:55 pm

  I really enjoy driving my Accent. For a small car it is very quiet inside. The manual 5 speed is fun to drive and provides adequate pickup.

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  This is a great little car! - 2008 Hyundai Accent
  By cwrivera - June 25 - 2:57 pm

  This is my second Hyundai. I bought it for the commute and havent been disappointed. After looking at the the Yaris, Fit, and Rio I found the Accent to be the best value for the money. At 10,000 dollars and mileage at 37-38,(moving along at 70-75mph) the cost to own in my opinion is better that the 15,000 dollar Toyota or Honda. I have the GS manual with the "popular" package that has air conditioning and the upgraded radio. If you are looking for a reliable commuter vehicle that will last forever and get excellent gas mileage, this is the car for you.

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  Hyundai 2007 hatch back - 2007 Hyundai Accent
  By Yvyuca - June 25 - 11:32 am

  I bought my car in 2007. I have had problems from the beginning. I just wanted to know if anyone else out there has had problems with the car not starting after making a few stops around town? I turn the key but nothing happens. It is almost like the battery is dead but everything else works. After I try for a while the car finally starts. I took it to the dealer, but they cannot seem to find anything wrong with the car. I am very frustrated with the situation. I was stuck in a parking lot for over a half hour . I have finally decided to let them keep the car until they can find what is wrong with it. I am very interested in knowing if anyone else is experiencing this same problem.

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  My first new car. - 2008 Hyundai Accent
  By Grumpy - June 21 - 3:39 am

  After 38 years of driving I decided to buy my first new car. The style, size, performance and costs all come together with this car. I get 29/35 mpg. Accelerate lightly, let the car get up to 36 and let the overdrive kick in. Dont beat it to death. More than enough cargo space for day trips. Checking under the hood is a breeze. All cabin controls are at your finger tips. Im over six foot tall and have plenty of head, hip and leg room. Very quiet cabin, even with a big truck next to you. Best warranty in the business!

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  A great throw away care - 2002 Hyundai Accent
  By wildbrushfire - June 19 - 4:45 pm

  I bought this car in 2004, it had 13K miles on it. Thank God I had at least half the manufacturers warranty on it. I had to have both power window tracks placed - I had to have the TP sensor replaced. I have regular maintenance on this car, I use it to get back and forth to work. Ive put the average 10-11K miles on it every year. It has 54K miles on it now and its in the garage getting the transmission rebuilt. I know this is a cheap but if youre having to replace your tranny after 50K miles you might has well just spend the money up front for a better made vehicle.

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  gas guzzler where is the promised m.p.g? - 2007 Hyundai Accent
  By accent hatch back - June 16 - 2:07 pm

  Your advertised m. P. G on sales sticker and email of 33 mpg is wrong. My wife averages 20.5 mpg around town at average speed of 45 mph shopping locally round trip 10 miles 3 or 4 times per week. Have car tested.

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  good starter car - 2008 Hyundai Accent
  By SAM - June 15 - 8:09 pm

  We actually bought two Hyundai cars at once. I had one graduating from UCONN and another from community college that needs a commuting car for her junior year. The price was right and the warranty better than the others. They each bought the version they liked and they are better than the used cars out there. There is nothing on the used market with good gas mileage like the deal we got on new cars. They both complained about the blind spot, but are happy with the mileage and having reliable transportation.

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  Rattle Trap - 2008 Hyundai Accent
  By mrmll37 - June 10 - 5:32 am

  I have owned my Hyundai Accent SE for less than two months, it is under 3000 miles and has already been at the dealer twice for rattles from either the rear suspension of the hatch. The dealer cant seems to fix it, took it to a body shop with no avail. Driving 80 miles a day, the noise is VERY annoying. I was told if they cant correct this time, I would have to "Deal With It". Not acceptable.

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  Great Starter Car!! - 2008 Hyundai Accent
  By DOtarola - June 9 - 6:40 pm

  Honestly, I was set on buying either a Nissan Versa or Sentra but now I see that my Hyundai Accent was a great choice and is a great starter car for me because of the great gas mileage it gets and it is compact with all the necessary options. I especially love the radio because of the bigger screen and the XM. Most of all I feel safe driving it even though it is smaller than most cars. It has great control and sustains the bumps and potholes on the streets. Overall, I would recommend any student driver to purchase this car because it is affordable and has mostly everything you need.