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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  WoW! Boy was I wrong! - 2008 Hyundai Accent
  By Larry R - April 21 - 4:35 pm

  I have always driven either a large sedan or suv. I thought that a small car would be uncomfortable,slow and poor quality. Boy! Was I wrong! The Accent that we purchased is quick, made of great quality and is as smooth as any large sedan or suv that I have ever owned. Let me clarify quick. I took this Accent on a short road trip to California from Las Vegas. I was able to cruise at around ninety and I was passing much large and more expensive cars along the way and in L.A. The best is now I put in $25 of gas every eighth day instead of $50 every three days. I did look at other small cars such as the Toyota Yaris and the Chevy Aveo. I found the Accent to have a better value and warranty.

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  Great Car - 2008 Hyundai Accent
  By kiwiegrrl - April 13 - 2:00 pm

  I bought the car about a month ago, and Ive enjoyed every minute of driving it. It handles much better then other small compact cars that I have driven. The gas mileage was the biggest reason for purchasing this vehicle. 38mpgs highway, you cant beat that. Its a very fun and peppy car to drive and the Mellow Yellow color just adds to the fun. The only thing i had to get used to was the blind spot. Very large blind spot. Overall though, very impressed.

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  Cant beat it, for the price. - 2007 Hyundai Accent
  By Mark - April 12 - 11:04 pm

  I bought my GS Accent NEARLY new. It was 6 months old with about 10k miles. It is the bare bones model, no AC, not even a radio. I only paid $7,500 for it though. For the money, its as good as they come. I made a few upgrades, put in a stereo (it had speakers, go figure), tinted the windows, put some 16" alloys on it, and presto! Its a sweet little ride! It has significantly more power than my 2001 Honda Civic, but the gas mileage is not nearly as good as my Civic. They really should throw a 6th gear on the M/T as the RPMs are 4k at 80+ MPH. This might help with gas mileage too. I can accelerate up a hill in 5th gear, which tells me it needs a 6th. Quality is comparable to the 01 Civic.

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  its a good car - 2001 Hyundai Accent
  By elisha - April 11 - 1:15 am

  The accent is a good car. I got it at 102,000. Now I have 108,000ms on it. So far its ok. Not the best car. Hondas are much better. Ive only had it a short time and I think the trans is going the people that had it before me really did a number on it. Drive it right its fine and the gas mileage is great it takes like $13 to put a half a tank in that bad boy.

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  GREAT -- For the Money - 2008 Hyundai Accent
  By Phil - April 10 - 5:20 pm

  I drive about 70 miles per day to work and back, and my 90 Montero had over 200K , so I went for it. I am totally happy with it, no complaints whatsoever. I am averaging 37-38 MPG on every tank. I am a consistent, conservative driver who has kept a record of every drop of gasoline since 1959 that I have bought. Nothing has ever compared to this car mileage wise, and it is surprisingly fun to drive as well. With a price of $10,000 including A/C, I recommend it to anyone who needs fuel economy combined with a high quality vehicle (10 yr/100K warranty thrown in) that is fun to drive. I normally keep them until they die, and hope to have this one at least 10 years. Go see your Hyundai dealer now

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  Grand austerity - 2007 Hyundai Accent
  By bbwalk - April 2 - 7:04 pm

  Purchased it in Jan. 08, very pleased with the build quality, performance and gas mileage. I am tall, over 6 ft and have adequate leg, hip, head and shoulder room. However: the drivers seat is very uncomfortable. The side cushion on the left side of the seat pokes me in the ribs, making driving even a short distances uncomfortable. I have been told there is nothing wrong with the seat. The dealership is refusing to replace the seat. My wife finds the seat comfortable even on long rides. If you are tall check out the comfort level before purchasing this vehicle.

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  Wise Up - 2007 Hyundai Accent
  By Brad - March 21 - 6:55 am

  I like this car. Great fuel mpg, Dont expect this until after 5000 miles/8000kms.Usually get 33/36(winter with snow tires)35/41(summer) mpg.The interior is roomy up front,Im 511" 210 lbs no complaints.I dont plan on being in the back, all controls are where they should be (except the trip meter),and easy to use. Great road feel,precise steering,(the rims and rubber help). For an (entry level) Ride Im very surprised, with the fit and finish of the interior, (yes the door panels scratch easy), The audio system is ok for now. Did my homework before buying a new ride. Try to find sunroof,rims and rubber,foglights,pwr winows/locks,leather accents,keyless,with a comparable warranty/price GoodLuck

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  Suprise- Great car. - 2008 Hyundai Accent
  By steve davenport - March 19 - 6:40 pm

  The more I drive it the more I like it. This is the smallest car Ive ever owned, but room has not been an issue. The back seat is just fine (kids are teens), The 5 speed makes the small engine work just fine. Seems like a well made car.

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  Accent Hatckback - 2007 Hyundai Accent
  By willard - March 18 - 3:51 pm

  I enjoy driving this vehicle around. I only go short distances so I do not know how it is on long trips. I am satisfied with the gas mileage, I had a Honda Civic before this car and the mpg is about the same, but much better than most vehicles out there. I think it was a good buy with gas prices so high....and it can fit anywhere!

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  Not bad, but could be better - 2002 Hyundai Accent
  By Stephanie - March 15 - 2:49 pm

  Bought car BRAND NEW in Oct 2001. At 99k miles had to have transmission re- built ($2500) Not covered under warranty due to loss of transmission maintenance papers (apartment flooded). Only other problems were, window actuator broke and window would get stuck down & at about 2 years old the spark plug wires melted and caused the car to slip and had to have towed to dealer to have fixed. Multiple trips to dealer due to check engine light on for no reason and had an A Pillar recall(had fixed). Car could be better, since transmission started going and still even after being re- built it shifts hard between 2nd & 3rd. Had to have dash panel background replaced, was disintegrating.107,500 miles now