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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  Great little car!!! :) - 2007 Hyundai Accent
  By Antione - June 7 - 7:03 am

  This is a wonderful gas saving car. I love the performance of the car & I love the sleek exterior of the body of the car. Its fun to drive, I just love the specs on the car. Quality sound system that would blow your mind, Its equip with 6 speakers,cd player,a/c,adjust your seat up/down - front/back, you can also fold down the back seats to create more space. Overall this is a gas saver,and created less pollution then most cars.

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  07 Accent SE - 2007 Hyundai Accent
  By hatchbackfreak - June 3 - 9:49 pm

  Economical with a little touch of class with Sunroof, leather steering, fog lamps, 16" alloys and low profile tires. Sport economy would be called if there is. Perfect for everyday use as well as going to outdoor sport. Fantastic warranty. unmatched savings on maintenance. Perfect choice for the budget car enthusiast.

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  like a go-cart for adults - 2007 Hyundai Accent
  By ultimate - June 1 - 8:57 pm

  The car is slow slow slow. Its actually average for its class, but if youre moving from any recent midsize sedan to this, be prepared to step hard on the accelerator. Having said that, this car is a blast to drive around town. You feel like Mario Andretti as you are weaving in and out of traffic. You can pull a U- turn almost anywhere, and sightlines are excellent. The brakes are also top notch, stopping fast and with good pedal feel. I didnt get great gas mileage on my first tank, but Im on my second tank and am expecting 30 mpg in entirely city driving. The only complaint I have is with the hard plastic doors. They arent comfortable and scratch easily.

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  Needs A Few Refinements - 2007 Hyundai Accent
  By mikeyhd - June 1 - 5:01 pm

  I like my car but if I knew then what I know now I may not have bought it. Keeping in mind that this is an entry level car, they could have added a 6th gear to the tranny. This is a really loud car when driven at US highway speeds (65-75mph), and Im not talking about the exhaust notes. The engine spins at 3500-4000rpms at these speeds and makes sure you know it. A little sound baffling under the hood and on the firewall would make it a better car to ride in. I still feel that Hyundai offers the best value for your dollar, but I would have paid a little more for a little less engine rpm.

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  Good LIttle car - 1996 Hyundai Accent
  By tzz50 - May 15 - 2:48 pm

  Just got the a few weeks ago but no big mess ups yet but it has the capability to be a good street racer.

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  Zippy little ride - 2007 Hyundai Accent
  By Mrs.Alvarado - May 14 - 10:04 pm

  This is a fun little car to drive that is most comfortable for smaller people. My husband, who is 61" and 240 lbs. does NOT enjoy this car, and would be hard to fit in the back seat. Also, you can not get a large stroller in the trunk, nor can you get a rear-facing car seat in the back without pushing the seat all the way to the front. With that being said, its got fantastic MPG, great looks, my children and I love to be in it and it was a great price!

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  Hyundai Accent Review - 2006 Hyundai Accent
  By Hal - May 12 - 6:02 pm

  Excellent car to own. Sometimes need to double clutch to get in reverse gear. But this is only a slight inconvenients - not a problem to be concerned about. Excellent car to tow behind a Motorhome, just put in neutral, turn key to "ACC", and off you go (I pull the fuse for the dash on long tows).

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  So far - So good - 2007 Hyundai Accent
  By Jeff - May 11 - 3:32 pm

  I have had my Accent Hatchback for one week so far. Do not like the plastic doors. Too easy to scratch. What were they thinking?? Radio only partially worked, dealer had to order me another one, no biggie. Fuel economy on the second tank of gas not living up to its hype. I will give it a month and see what happens. If my Hyundai does not impress me in the first year, I will not buy another one. Too much to choose from that are just like it.

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  The best compact car your money can buy - 2007 Hyundai Accent
  By Estherfil - May 9 - 12:44 am

  Hyundai has nothing to envy to the other so called "giant motor companies". I totally impressed with the Hyundai Accent 2007 I bought. This car has style, performance, quality and a superb interior design. Great Job Hyundai!!! you finally are getting the respect you deserve. When I ride my accent 2007 I feel so comfortable inside, every aspect of the interior design was perfected for the driver and passangers. The car has no noise while riding, has a lot of power considering its small engine 1.6, and its super saving gas fuel economy make this car the best of its class. Two thumbs up for Hyundai!!

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  Checked Entire Competition Before Buying - 2007 Hyundai Accent
  By Applejuice - May 6 - 7:39 pm

  Let me start and say, GET THE SE version! Fog lights - standard! Great when driving in the mountains early in the morning with all that mist. The SE version has so many options - and I know cause when I checked out other models calculating the same specs any of them would have cost 2-4,000 dollars more! The SE sport handling makes a big difference which I noticed caused I compared the GS and the GLS to it in test drives. Power handling, leather trim-both the wheel and transmission shifter - standard!The 16" inch tires didnt hurt either and helped with the handling. I love this car. I have read all the reviews on Yahoo Autos,MSN,Cars.com, Edmunds and it comes down to this drive one first!