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 inexpensive car - 2004 Hyundai Accent
  By Howie - October 17 - 5:57 pm

  Got my 04 Accent 5spd at used dealership tent sale a couple months ago. It had 4975 miles total and I got it for $6500 plus tax...around $7200 OTD! How can you beat that for a car that was practically NEW w/a great warranty? I ride my motorcycle 90% of the time out here in CA but needed an inxpensive reliable car for errands, taking the dog to the park..etc. This car so far has been excellent...no frills....am/fm cassette only but has A/C. Good on gas and drives really nice for a little car. 5spd is actually kinda peppy. Can ride 80mph w/out much problem. Styling is nice. Buy one used...they can be had for MUCH under msrp....almost 1/2 with low miles. Very happy w/the Accent!

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  Junk - 2001 Hyundai Accent
  By Laura - October 10 - 2:49 am

  This car is junk. If you want a car that crumbles like a ball in a minor collision from a company that does not back they warrenty (especially on paint) than this is the car for you. If you would like something that will hold up in accidents from a company that backs their merchandise, I suggest you RUN far, FAR away from this companys and any of their cars. If you do chose this car, good luck to you, I suggest you invest a helmet and a great insurance company.

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  35 MPG is awesome! - 2002 Hyundai Accent
  By Wa - October 9 - 2:09 pm

  This car is awesome! It was at fiore VW for $5000 with 50000 miles and it is a 2002.It gets 35 MPG on the highway.

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  awesome car!! I love it!!! - 2001 Hyundai Accent
  By Synka - October 6 - 11:48 pm

  I have never had a problem with my Accent. I commute back and forth to school, and this car does the trick. I have left it stock, except for some changes to the interior. This car is also used for drag racing, in which it does pretty well. It is consistent, as well as responsive. Like I said, this a great car, for a great price. And thats not even mentioning the fuel economy!

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  terrible running - 2009 Hyundai Accent
  By ron - October 2 - 6:39 am

  car is very unreliable car has only 140.000 miles an it very very well maintain but car is having engine not worth buying stick with toyotas

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  Great Commuter Car - 2003 Hyundai Accent
  By skierx420 - September 26 - 8:15 pm

  My wife and I purchased a 2003 Hyundai Accent base 2 dr. This car is a stripper. It was exactly what we wanted. 2 dr 5 speed. It has a radio and AC. Thats it. This car gets excellent fuel economy. We drive in rual Iowa. This car does well in the snow. We average over 20k miles a year because of our 50+ mile commute. The thing that this car lacks is power at low rpms. Rev it up and it has lots of pep. Hyundai makes use of all the available space and can seat 4 adults in reasonable comfort. The 5 speed makes this car a fun drive. This is my first foreign car and I am impressed with the build quality and the ease of maintaining it. My other car is a full size 89 Dodge RamCharger 4x4.

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  Excellent Economy Hatch - 2017 Hyundai Accent
  By Lucas S - September 18 - 12:14 am

  Very enjoyable ride, holds tight in the corners and has plenty of power for emergencies, though high reving is needed for such, cargo space is great, huge space with the back seats folded. I would suggest adding an upgraded entertainment/infotainment system (Im putting in a 6.2 inch screen with Bluetooth, GPS, DVD player, backup camera, OBD2, etc), K&N 33-2472 High Performance Air Filter, as well as cruise control as the SE doesnt have it. The car is very responsive in handling, though if you like a sportier feeling like I do, Id suggest adding Storm Lowering Springs and a short throw shifter. For an even better driving experience, a front strut tower bar (upper strut brace), rear torsion bar, 2 or 4 point (I prefer 4) lower tiebar brace, can be found at piercemotorsport.

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  Pretty good but not enough - 2002 Hyundai Accent
  By Ed&Veve - September 17 - 9:29 pm

  This is a 5-speed A/T. Mileage to date is 22K. We purchased this car as new. The only major problem encountered so far was on the rear brakes (factory defect) when about 3K miles. Longest trip was from Georgia to Ohio (500+ miles) with 3 adults, 1 child, and lots of baggage. With a combine load of about 800lbs, we traveled for 8hrs, 60- 80mph on highways. Fastest trip was for 2hrs, 70-90mph with 2 adults and a child. Acceleration from traffic stops, uphill and passing is slow. Combine mpg is about 30. A/C, heater, steering, braking, controls are fine. Enough spaces for front seats but cramped for 3 at the back. Overall, pretty good economy car for lower end buyers and small family.

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  This car is awesome - 2000 Hyundai Accent
  By Mike B - September 10 - 11:57 am

  My 2000 Accent has 176,000 miles on it and has no problems. Runs excellent to this day. Great gas mileage, fun to drive, roomy for a sub-compact car. I cant complain. I love it.

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  Not a pocket rocket, Not a fuel hog. - 2000 Hyundai Accent
  By Chris - September 7 - 6:00 pm

  With todays struggle over fuel costs, consumption, and supplies. It is a great value to have ownership of one of these little cars. The Accent has good lines and really good airflow which allow it to move down the road with very little wind resistance, making it feel as though youre barely moving while you fly down the road. It has the capability to corner on a dime, although it would not be recommended that you do so at speeds higher than 25mph as the narrow wheel base makes the experience feel a bit unstable. The fuel economy of this vehicle makes a drive from Illinois to Virginia still seems reasonable even with our current fuel crisis. The ride is a smooth one. I would recommend this car.