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:

• 

  Perfect Little Car - 2008 Hyundai Accent
  By Kim - November 13 - 4:53 pm

  I bought this car last weekend and i love it. the price was good and the quality is even better.

• 

  Value and Economy - 2008 Hyundai Accent
  By Ron Hansen - November 12 - 8:26 pm

  The car is fun to drive great around town. Quick and easy 5 speed makes the drive interesting. Plenty of front seat room with great driving position. This is our third Hyundai and we enjoy the security the added value options and safety provided. My accent has six air bags giving the car a five star safety rating. Great value with long term economy. Better then a hybrid.

• 

  02 Accent - great car for the money - 2002 Hyundai Accent
  By Lori - November 9 - 1:27 pm

  I just resisted the urge to trade in my 2002 Accent largely because it is so much fun to drive and has been so reliable for me. At 80,000 miles "Little Red" is still zipping along merrily. Average MPG in the high twenties for city driving. Totally agree that the standard tires should be jettisoned ASAP. Like all Hyundais this Accent runs and drives (and on the inside, looks) like a more expensive vehicle. Exterior styling is a bit on the dumpy side, but hey, you cant have everything. This Accent is a terrific buy, especially at a used price.

• 

  Surprising Korean - 2007 Hyundai Accent
  By GNTuck - November 4 - 10:27 pm

  I recently bought my Accent used with 7,000 miles on it. Ive owned 5 Hondas but this is a great car so far, for an econobox. Hugs the road. Nicely bolstered seats, plenty of room in back, decent stereo. Love the 16" wheels. Even my "car guy" friends comment on how good the car looks. 32mpg on my 2nd full tank (60% highway/40% street miles). My first full tank was 30mpg. Halfway through the 2nd tank I checked tire pressure and noticed they were slightly low. Mid 20s and the door sticker recommends 32psi. This next full tank may be even better mileage with proper tire pressure. I drive relatively conservatively aiming for good mileage. I agree about the door panels, scratch city!

• 

  Love Hyundai - 2005 Hyundai Accent
  By Jannes - November 2 - 2:13 pm

  I had a 94 Hyundai Excel before this and after losing it in a fire wanted something just like it. Found the Accent, which is basically its younger sister. I have only a couple design issues Id change, but I love this car. The speed sensors did have to be replaced before 30K but the warranty covered it completely. If youre not looking to be out racing people & dont tend to have more than 1 passenger, its about as close to perfect as you can come. I definitely plan on sticking with Hyundais from here on out.

• 

  Great little car - 2001 Hyundai Accent
  By PBishop - October 23 - 3:48 pm

  This is a great, fun, dependable little car. It has been reliable, and saved me hundred$ in gas over the years. It is also easy to park and great in traffic. Plus with the hatchback I have transported 8 ft 6x6 lumber, rototillers and a water softener. The interior is so roomy that my kids call it the "clown car". I would but another in a heartbeat.

• 

  Better than youd think - 2007 Hyundai Accent
  By Lon - October 20 - 12:39 am

  I bought my car about 2 weeks ago and have put over a 100 miles on it already. It is surprisingly quick but tops out at 75 mph w/o running it too hard. I got the sun & sound package and was glad I did, the stereo is decent for stock and the 6 disc changer is a nice addition and all in the dash. Youll want to go for the sports package because the larger wheels and the shifting is much better than the base model I test drove and the shifting isnt as loose either. Overall Im glad I made the purchase for the money its hard to beat and my girlfriend actually says its nicer than her Honda Civic.

• 

  Accent GS 2dr with 5 speed manual - 2008 Hyundai Accent
  By jpjdoc - October 14 - 8:09 pm

  I was seriously considering getting a Toyota Yaris until I stumbled across this car. The Accent offers more standard features than the Yaris: arm rest, adjustable height drivers seat, tachometer, 6 air bags, split fold down rear seat. The construction quality is superb. And the warranty is unbeatable. The car is peppy and very nimble in traffic. It is especially good on curvy roads. Shifting is smooth. It hugs the road. It also gets good gas mileage. This car is equal to anything being produced by Toyota or Honda. And it is very fun to drive.

• 

  zippy and cool color - 2007 Hyundai Accent
  By sgopus - October 14 - 12:16 am

  I bought mine in July 2007, and loved the ice blue color, I dont like the placement of the front left windshield pillar, it blocks the view sometimes, first tank of gas was 42 MPG, I drive 20 miles one way to work, currently i get 32-34 MPg but not by driving 75, I go 65 on the freeway, the cars has lots of zip, I had to get the basic model, and really miss the keyless entry and power door locks, so far its been very dependable, I did notice a slight hesitation after backing up then press on the gas it waits just a sec, then goes, a new car shouldnt do this.prefer the seat back to be more adjustable ie lean further back

• 

  Hyundai Rocks! - 2008 Hyundai Accent
  By Hyundai Rocks! - October 13 - 5:43 pm

  Great car! Hyundai sells a great product for much less than other imports. Easy clutch, great interior layout, GREAT fuel mileage! I would buy a Hyundai again.