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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  Dan B.s Gray Accent - 2001 Hyundai Accent
  By Lou Garou - February 22 - 2:00 am

  This Accent has given almost 39 MPG on an extended trip of over 250 miles. It handles great and it has enough power to get me on to the Capital Beltway. Its air conditioner and heater work great!

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  Great Job - 2002 Hyundai Accent
  By CoryApp - February 21 - 2:00 am

  I Love my accent. Very fast and takes corners well.

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  Horrible Car for Kids - 2001 Hyundai Accent
  By Hopkins - February 20 - 2:00 am

  This was my first Korean car as well as my last. Although on highway speeds, steering is not so good. One bad thing with this car is that the shifting in automatic is horrible. I got stuck in the middle of an intersection many times because the shift gets stuck in between gears, leaving you helpless until it shifts in. Other than that it is a fun car to drive- until you have a accident. This car was hit offset and it looked just fine. However even with not that high of a speed the car was totaled- the whole frame bent and it became almost impossible repair to repair. Do not buy this car if you are worried about your life or you have a brain.

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  Best economy car.......hands down!! - 2003 Hyundai Accent
  By JoelP - February 20 - 2:00 am

  This is the BEST economy car on the market....hands down! I replaced my automatic 1998 Accent hatchback with a new, 2003 same model and the improvements made by Hyundai are numerous and welcomed. No more turning off the air-conditioner to pull out on the highway...this Accent has spunky pick-up! The automatic transmission has been improved with the car now shifting/staying in the correct gear. The ride is quiet (okay, the engine could be quieter but hey, it is an economy car remember), smooth and sturdy. Hyundai did a great job on redesigning this Accent from the exterior classy look to its comforable interior. Guess you can tell, I love my Accent!

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  My 1st Car - 1997 Hyundai Accent
  By Sweetiepie115 - February 17 - 2:00 am

  I received my Hyundai as a graduation gift from high school. And in the 6 almost 7 years I had this car it has only had major work done to it 3x and I purchased it with 11k miles on it. The gas mileage is great considering this is my second vehicle. Overall I would buy another if they didnt depreciate value so quickly.

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  frijss - 2000 Hyundai Accent
  By frijss - February 16 - 2:00 am

  I bought my hyundia in 2000. The reason i bought it was for the warranty it turns out you really need it. I had no problems the first year of ownership. Just after a year it seems like i was at the dealership every couple of months. Some work was under warranty. Some wasnt . I wouldnt consider buying another one in the future.

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  an Accent that is eccentric - 2004 Hyundai Accent
  By accent22 - February 15 - 2:00 am

  when i got this car i had my doubts, cause i have been driving japanese nameplates all my life, but this car surprised me. in just one month i had no problems at all. the car is easy to drive a manuever around tight situations and the engine, automatic and suspension work beautiful together. it is also roomy for its size and the quality is excellent inside and out!

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  my 04 accent - 2004 Hyundai Accent
  By gaf - February 14 - 2:00 am

  i love everthing about my new accent, i have been a gm buyer for over twenty years, i cannot not find what im looking for at the american car dealers, some one at gm ford and chrysler should wake up, i dont want a suv or giant sized pick up, my accent does everything well , ive had 0 problems, mine is the 3 door, i call it my mini truck , this is my third hyundai

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  Great Ride. - 2002 Hyundai Accent
  By GooberSnattch - February 13 - 2:00 am

  It was my first car and I am very impressed by the quality of the vehicle. Ive learned a lot from driving my Accent. And I recommend it for anyone looking for great gas mileage for a low cost.

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  Own 2001 hyundai and put on 25000 miles - 2004 Hyundai Accent
  By Rhinocryno - February 12 - 2:00 am

  I dont own the current year model, I bought a 2001 year model brand new in 8/01. I put 25000 miles on it. I just wanted everyone to know that Hyundai accents are really good cars. It hasnt caused me any problems at all since I got it 2 and a 1/2 years ago. It has started up every time and it is really a good car in the winter. I got my car for $8400 new ( GL with A/C) with free oil for life. I liked the echo but I didnt want to spend $3500 more. The Hyundai accent is a great deal. The warranty is for 10 years. Just shop around for your car. Buy at year end or when the new years cars come in. Youll get good bargins.