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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  08 accent gs 5speed 2door El-Stripo - 2008 Hyundai Accent
  By mark - March 15 - 9:34 am

  I bought this car because of the need for better mileage,I also wanted to be able to haul two hockey bags and my two boys. I bought the base model two door gs 5speed. This car works great for me. 37mpg hwy, 30city.I paid 8,950 not including t&l.

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  Almost There - 2007 Hyundai Accent
  By dogula - March 14 - 11:09 pm

  Nice Car. I really enjoy the Handling, Stereo, Power Accessories and Hatchback. High Quality Build with nice fitting and reliable function. Gas mileage is lower than expected but changed to Mobil 1 and added turbonator and increased mileage by 4.7 per gallon and added 11 horsepower to help with passing gear and highway ramp entry. Love the rims, low profile tires and fog lights. I also own 2 volvos (S80 and 40) and I find this a fun commuter to add to the stable.

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  Check it out and drive it - 2008 Hyundai Accent
  By joe - March 14 - 6:05 pm

  After owning a Mazda 3 for 2 years I was looking for a good looking fuel sipper with reliability. After checking VW rabbit, Scion XD, Honda Civic and Lancer, I drove the Accent SE as I always liked the looks and still own a Santa Fe with 70000 miles. It has respectable power and the SE handles very well. The 5 speed B&M shifter is smoother than the Mazdas and is very comfortable and quiet on the road. Interior is spacious and fit and finish is very good. Im averaging over 30 miles per gallon so far in combined city/highway driving. Dont overlook this car when considering a compact vehicle DRIVE IT . The warranty is unbeatable.

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  Great first car!! - 1999 Hyundai Accent
  By Anuj - March 14 - 2:55 pm

  I bought a 2nd owner Accent with 54K on it. I needed to for college and moving around the city. I used to drive it for more than 20 miles a day for 7 months and never and I repeat never did it malfunction. About an year now and I did not have to visit the mechanic once, sparing the routing emission test. To my surprise, the engine cranked to a start after more than 45 days in the cold. The pickup is not great, nor does it have a power steering, but it is simply awesome for the price. Go get one in a decent condition, you will not regret it..

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  Great Car - Not so great mileage - 2007 Hyundai Accent
  By Lori - March 13 - 2:20 pm

  I love this car but expected better mileage. I get 260 miles per tank which is 21 mpg. Thats local/highway driving. This particular car is NOT good in the snow. It fishtails like crazy even if theres just a dusting of snow. I would highly recommend a different car if you drive in the snow. Ill be selling this car for that very reason. Almost slid off the mountain after less than 1 inch of snow.

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  A new car for the budget minded! - 2007 Hyundai Accent
  By sburnell - March 13 - 1:29 pm

  So you envy that friend or neighbor of yours their new Toyota Yaris. You know that is what you really wanted, but you couldnt afford it. But you still wanted a new car, even though you are on a very tight budget. Well, friends, despair no more, because the perfect new car for us budget minded is here, and its the sporty, peppy and very spacious new Hyundai Accent hatchback. Its got everything you could ever want in a new car: A/C, a CD player, more room than youd ever imagine, a superb sound system and a very responsive engine that will get you on the freeway - FAST! Its steering is nice and tight and youll get lots of heads turning as you zip down the road in your new Accent!

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  Its so easy - 1996 Hyundai Accent
  By Dame Carter - February 19 - 10:32 pm

  Truth is the car uses a mitsubishi engine if people didnt know and its so easy to to customize, its not a car people normally assume is fast so when persons realize whoa thats a hyundai, its like yea fast isnt it. Its cheaper than alot of other cars to maintain and cheap to boost if your interested in speed.

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  Love Hyundai - 2005 Hyundai Accent
  By J8 - February 19 - 9:58 am

  I had a 94 Excel before this and although that was the best car in the world, the Accent is basically its younger sister. I love hatchbacks to begin with and prefer Asian cars. The Accent will take whatever you throw at it, even though its not exactly in a big hurry. If you want a powerhouse, this isnt the right car the Accents all about economy. Handles great, fits in anywhere, I complain if my MPG dips to 27 (only in winter - when it warms up its back pushing on 40). Also, never having dealt with a warranty before, I was impressed by how simple Hyundai is to deal with. The speed sensors went out & I was a bit late finding my paperwork to transfer the warranty but it was no problem.

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  Good daily commuter - 2002 Hyundai Accent
  By Chrisndogs - January 23 - 11:34 am

  Bought this vehicle when gas prices were going up and I didnt feel like feeding the SUV anymore. It was purchased from a dealership and had previously been a rental car. Ive now owned it for 2 years and have put about 20K mi on it (roughly 60% city, 40% highway). I have done all the suggested scheduled maintenance, and I can honestly say that the car has been reliable. While its not thrilling to drive, it makes a great city commuter car for someone on a tight budget.

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  NEVER AGAIN - 1998 Hyundai Accent
  By April - January 19 - 1:49 pm

  This car is not worth the gas you put into it. At 70,000 miles, it totally fell apart. It would have cost more to fix it than what it was worth. The axles needed to be replaced. The engine block cracked. The exterior door handles broke off of it. I mean, really, the door handles?! The list goes on, but I don’t have enough characters to tell about each one. When it was working, it could barely go up the freeway ramp. It didnt like going above 50 mph. All around a piece of junk!