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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Couldnt Get Better Than This! - 2001 Hyundai Accent
By Beth - June 29 - 1:42 pmI bought this car with the intention of only having it for a few years, until I could afford something better. Well, five years later, this car has only had one minor problem: the recirculation/fresh air knob popped off. THATS IT! Of course, I take care of it... get regular oil changes, get tune-ups, etc. Overall, I am VERY satisfied with my purchase. Especially since I only paid $8,000 for it brand new. Perfect car for young people who cannot afford much, but want a reliable car.
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a decent size car thats decent on gas - 2001 Hyundai Accent
By drew - June 3 - 7:36 pmThis is the first Hyundai Ive owned and I can say I may very well own another in the future. This S.Korean company has made many improvements since the infamous Excel, but this little coupe has good pickup and good handling in the rain. (unlike a Mustang) Turns are a different story, esp. at a roundabout but it is very good on gas and when pushed the right way has good acceleration on the highways. The 4 cyl engine lacks some horsepower but it is a small car so dont expect the performance of a Miata.
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Hyundai definitely gets my vote! - 2002 Hyundai Accent
By Amy - June 1 - 11:20 pmI purchased a 2002 Hyundai Accent GS to use as my commuter car! I had my doubts, but thought what the heck, as long as it gets me from point A to point B. To my surprise, Hyundai has been more reliable then my Audi. Anyone looking for reliability, gas economy and affordability, look no further. Your Hyundai will always take you where you want to go!
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little money and a good reliable car - 2001 Hyundai Accent
By Zach - May 29 - 7:38 amThis hyundai accent i got for $5400 cash with 30k miles. My dad got this for me as a gift, so I can get to and from northern illinois to indianapolis. 4 hour trips, the trip alone there and back is 550 miles. I can do the trip for just 40 bucks. (50 if you include chicagos ridiculous toll rates) great car, just dont hit the gas at 60 otherwise you will hear and feel the transmission.(not suggested. Keep the plugs and wires fresh, oil changes, and get fresh tires every 25k and the car rides smooothly. Ive kept up with high speed traffic on I-65 going just over 100mph. I am 59 200 lbs and the car is fairly comfortable with the armrest. Get a 25 dollar cd player for your tape deck. KEEPER!!!
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best value i found - 2005 Hyundai Accent
By jenn - May 27 - 1:52 pmthis car has made traveling to and from work an easy hassle-free item in my everyday life. Maintnence is easy and the warranty makes it the most complete package
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ok school car - 1997 Hyundai Accent
By rose2003 - May 23 - 2:27 amThe car was really fun to drive when i first bought it in 2002. Ive had a problem with it eating tires. i have to put new tires on about every 3 months even when i buy expencive tires. ive had the alinement done and it still goes through tires. Ive had to put an alternater in and replace a barring in one of the tires. Otherwise it has been fairly reliable i drive about 45 miles everyday for school and work. It gets about 32-35 mpg. so thats nice but it shakes really bad and there is a lot of noise when driving. it has 135,000 miles so i guess problems are to be expected.
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great purchase - 2005 Hyundai Accent
By Don - May 21 - 4:17 pmthis car was a great purchase for me...its very reliable,fun to drive and cant beat the price. And for a few extra bucks...you get the 10yr/100k mile. I will have nothing to do with this car except drive it...and keep the oil changed.
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A Great Car - 2005 Hyundai Accent
By D. Richardson - May 21 - 11:12 amThere is no better small car, bar none.
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Great Basic Car - 2005 Hyundai Accent
By GT Dallas - May 13 - 7:41 pmA solid car with good value for the price. Economical gas mileage with enough performance to make it onto the freeway without fear.
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great little car - 2005 Hyundai Accent
By John - May 13 - 6:25 pmgreat little car, fun to drive, solid on the road, fantastic handling, lots of power
