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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  Too soon to tell, but looks good. - 2006 Hyundai Accent
  By junemart - May 2 - 2:14 pm

  The car seems to be very well built and the ride feels like that of a much bigger vehicle. The truck is large and all controls are in the right place. I have not gone over 55MPH nor exceeded 4K RPM (as suggested by Hyundai for first 1200mi.) so cant rate acceleration. Engine is quiet and idle is very smooth. Suggested maintenance skeds using time against miles is absurd. I only use this car 250 mi. per Month. Change Mobil 1 oil and filter at 3 months with only 750 Mi.,ridiculous. Same with plugs..24 months at 6k miles. Most wear comes from miles, not time!! With so few miles MPG is dissapointing. I know it will improve. The finish on metallic paint does not seem hard nor very glossy.

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  Good starter car - 2005 Hyundai Accent
  By Brenda - April 30 - 7:42 pm

  The Accent is definitely economical but it offers a rough ride. The engine is loud especially when accelerating quickly. The ride is stiff (not floaty) you know you are in a small car when you drive it. It will get up and go if you push it but dont plan on any long drives with a car full of people in comfort. Overall I would rate it at about a 6 or 7. It would make a great first car because of the Parking capabilities, fuel economy, low price and warranty. Seasoned drivers are bound to be disapointed. Just try to remember this car is not intended to handle like a Camero or even a Corolla. It is a compact car and performs like a compact should.

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  Safe & Fun - 2006 Hyundai Accent
  By Lisa - April 29 - 5:57 pm

  Love this little car! The reason I bought this car was for its safety, fuel economy and sporty look. It is great to drive, very responsive. The interior is very spacious, so is the trunk. Feel confident about traveling with my 16 month old. I researched other cars in this class and the Accent rules. I cannot believe there arent more on the road. This car does not disappoint. Go buy one.

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  Great little car! - 2006 Hyundai Accent
  By Lee & Bill - April 26 - 8:07 pm

  Weve had the car about 30 days! Very pleased with the performance and it is very quiet! Alot of fun to drive and the gas mileage is great!

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  heck of a car - 2006 Hyundai Accent
  By Paul - April 3 - 7:52 pm

  Picked up this small eco box for the wife and found out that it’s a gas fun to drive, coming from a person that drive’s a 2004 TSX Acura, finish and ride is fantastic. I love the feel and smooth control, the car runs like a bigger more expensive car. Will see how reliability will be, but with a solid warranty better than Acura, I’m sure it’s solid….

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  Affordable , sporty and safe - 2006 Hyundai Accent
  By Patti K. - April 3 - 1:10 pm

  We have only had this car 1 week, but the husband loves the great gas milage hes getting. We picked the Accent over the Elantra b/c the ABS & the 8 air bags came standard, on the Elantra they are options. We choose the sports package that includes A/C, power windows and door locks, heated mirror,15 inche alloy wheels and an alarm system. After the rebate, dealer fees, tax, & tags, we walked out the door paying $13,775. We feel we got a great price. Thank you Edmunds and other car websites that help the consumer get the best deal for their dollar. Also helpful was the dealers inventory pages. With our research in hand we were able to confidently walk into a dealership ready.

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  great car - 2002 Hyundai Accent
  By hyundaiaccet - April 2 - 2:03 pm

  hyundai makes a great car and it shows with the accent. affordable, fun, fast, reliable, and high in quality. i really enjoy the Hyundai brand. great cars.

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  So far money well spent - 2005 Hyundai Accent
  By Greg - March 20 - 4:22 pm

  Waited to submit the review until I could actually review it properly. After one year of owning the car and driving back and forth to work all I can say is.. Im impressed. 5 speed allows me to grab some decent speed from a pretty small engine and the fit and finish of the vehicle still impresses me. I even took it camping last summer and managed to get all the equiment, three people and a dog in.... Wow... Love the hatchback.

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  Bang for my buck - 2006 Hyundai Accent
  By Tony - March 18 - 5:00 pm

  I just wanna say that I love my 2006 Accent it has a ton of stuff that most economy cars dont have like 4 wheel ABS ,front and side air bags , several cup holders , armrest in the front pass side and rear seat. 4 wheel disk breaks, CD player with 6 speaker system , and a Tachometer with rebate I paid 12,500 with the manual Trans. I think this is the best Deal on the market and the new design for 06 is sweet mine is wine red and it gets 35 mpg so far.

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  A fun cheap little car - 2005 Hyundai Accent
  By Nathan - March 18 - 2:33 pm

  I bought my 2005 Accent as a new left over in 06. I bought it a month after I bought an 06 Tiburon as a second car. This has been the best second car you could ask for. Its cheap, reliable, great on gas, has plenty of room for a little hatchback, and is fun to drive with the 5 speed manual. Its a very plain car with no CD player, and no air conditioning which is okay for what I use it for. Most people would probably get a little higher version with these features. It is built very well, and rides smoothly for its low price of $11,000. And of course, it has Hyundais wonderful 10 year 100,000 mile warranty on the engine and transmission