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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  excellent ride - 2007 Hyundai Accent
  By M. Gibbons - August 1 - 1:08 pm

  First 4 tanks 37,38,37,39 MPG. That is mostly highway averaging 63-65 MPH. My daily commute is 100 miles. Compared to the older Toyota Tercel and Saab I was driving I am thrilled with the ride quality - smooth and quiet. I wanted a Yaris but could not find one with side curtain airbags. I am very happy with the way the car looks (I got in black). I thought I would get the hatchback but the visibilty was not great and since our other vehicle is an FJ Cruiser.......enough said. The tires and wheel covers with the base GLS trim are very nice, not the usual economy car bicycle tires. Under 13K, excellent mileage, standard side airbags (I have a 2 yr old) great warranty...easy decision

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  Good at first- Didnt last long! - 2002 Hyundai Accent
  By L Hecker - July 31 - 4:21 pm

  This car was great for about the first year only. If that! I had a major problem with my transmission in the first year. They told me that I was lucky it was covered under warranty because it would have cost me an arm and a leg! The next major problem was the brake light - apparently their was another major problem with the engine. It served the purpose of taking me from point A to point B in the city. I commute and I DO NOT recommend this vehicle to commuters! After commuting for 1 1/2 years the car broke down left me stranded twice. I put so much money into this car because the parts are soooo expensive for such an inexpensive car! The gas mileage is about the one good thing.

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  Im surprised! - 2007 Hyundai Accent
  By Shambooey - July 30 - 8:46 pm

  This is a neat little car! I got a base GS with A/C and the upgraded stereo as the ONLY options. First time I have had crank windows and manual locks since college! The A/C blows COLD in the sticky MN summers and the stereo is great! Its a peppy little city car and it eats up the miles on the freeway with ease. Noisy above 3500 RPM. Takes bumps well for a little car, too. Top gear acceleration with the A/C on takes a little planning, but I knew what I was getting when I bought it. Driving with the drivers window down on the freeway results in amazingly little turbulence. First tank resulted in about 30 mpg in combined driving - looking for more once broken in.

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  OMG love it!! - 2007 Hyundai Accent
  By Hot Car - July 26 - 12:51 pm

  Since day one this car has continued to impress me. MPG strated at less than expected but has now peaked at 37 MPG. More room than you could imagine from seeing outside. I drive 100 miles every day and is more than comfortable. The elevation at home is about 6500 feet above sea level and work is 9500 feet above sea level. This car has no issues with the hills and is completely fun in the corners. Love it!!

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  Nice Ride - 2007 Hyundai Accent
  By kelley - July 8 - 9:09 pm

  This is a cute little car. It is comfortable and reliable. For the first 11000 miles I got around 27mpg now I am getting 30mpg. This is driving 25 miles to work some back paved roads and some city. My highway driving is around 35mpg. The one thing I am finding is that the tires are not the best in the world. It comes with a 40000 mile tire and are starting to show some wear at 13000 miles.

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  Satisfied - 2003 Hyundai Accent
  By Accent fan - June 27 - 7:36 am

  I got the 5 spd manual 2003 GT model and added the cruise control after the sale for approx. $200. This car has been great, the only problem I had was the muffler corroding, and this was replaced under warranty. With the manual version I dont find any lack of power unless the A/C is on. The car is comfortable and has all of the features that I need in a car. So far I have only driven 48k in the car, but I far prefer it to the Sonata that I also own. Having got the sports version, my only real complaint was the fact that they put premium tires on the car that had very little traction. Driving on snow and even wet streets was difficult until I replaced the tires.

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  The little car that could - 2007 Hyundai Accent
  By Gearcat - June 18 - 5:30 pm

  I really like most everything about this car except for the low quality, hard plastic door panels which scratch so easily. The car handles and steers with great precision. Fuel mileage is not quite what is stated on the sticker. I average 28-30. I doubt Ill ever see 38 on the highway. The car is no dragster but its right in the pack with the other subcompacts. Its more fun to drive a slow car quickly than a fast car slowly anyway! Its very fun to drive and the speakers sound awesome with my new aftermarket HD stereo. I love the THUNK of the doors when they are shut. they sound like a luxury car. I dont find the car to be overly noisy at highway speeds. Its typical of the class.

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  Ice Blue Accent GS 3-door - 2007 Hyundai Accent
  By 06ultra - June 16 - 8:55 am

  I am 63" and find more than enough room to drive. I am impressed by the interior room and the easy access through the rear door. I found the price outstanding. I elected not to get any thrills such as electric windows and locks so I found the price outstanding. I compared about 7 other cars in the price range and found the Hyundai to be the best buy. I found the vehicle was only about 10-12" shorter than her PT Cruiser but the Access "looks" to be a much smaller vehicle. I am really impressed with the mpg. It is outstanding.

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  puddle jumper - 2005 Hyundai Accent
  By bob - June 13 - 1:14 pm

  traded my explorer for it .wise trade has plenty of go with 5 speed, added mud guards and hood bra and window vents. will tint out hatchback this week

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  Unbelievable! - 1997 Hyundai Accent
  By John - June 8 - 4:34 am

  When I read some of the negative reviews about this car, I think I must have linked to the wrong page. I bought this car brand new in 1997 for under 10K. I have driven it hard for 10 years, in all conditions and terrains. It has never once failed me or cost me more than miscellaneous maintenance money. The car handles great and is fun to drive. The interior and exterior look brand new after years, except where a kid hit a left fender playing street hockey. It now burns a little oil, but after 140K miles, it is forgiven.