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:

• 

  NEVER EVER AGAIN!!!!!!! - 2000 Hyundai Accent
  By BbyGbc - December 9 - 2:00 am

  I was in and out of the dealers for lots of problems you can say about 10 times a year. Well I have the car no more, someone was not paying attention to the road and rear ended going about 40 mph I was at a complete stop well my car was totaled, the trunk was smashed and both drivers and passenger side were buckled all the way to the front bumper.Not repairable at all, the in surance co only wants to pay 4500 and I owe 6500 they are cheap but dont stand up in a crash and what its worth after you drive off the lot, ITS JUST NOT WORTH IT buy the right car

• 

  Smart Buy - 2004 Hyundai Accent
  By Smelly - December 9 - 2:00 am

  I was very impressed to purchase a new car for only $7,000 that had such an extensive warranty. I bought it for reliable transportation back and forth from school and it has been wonderful. I will have it payed off in four years for under $177 a month. It had many more features than I have ever had before in a car such as power steering, independant suspension, variable wiper speed, air conditioning and cup holders. I can even fit two mountain bikes in the trunk when I put the seats down. Has alot of room for a small car and handles very well. Ive never thought twice about buying it and you shouldnt either if you need something cheap.

• 

  BEST VALUE OUT THERE - 2004 Hyundai Accent
  By Joe Gross - December 7 - 2:00 am

  For around $12,000 this car is the best value because of the 100,000 mile waranty plus all the features you get. Has plenty of acceleration for a 1.6 liter. The GT style we purchased has great style.

• 

  Great car your daily needs & for college - 2002 Hyundai Accent
  By SSJ4Vegeta - December 5 - 10:00 am

  My silver accent gl is so nice, i love the gleam of light it makes during a sunny day. A excellent fuel saver and smoothness when driven. I got an great price on it too!! Its packed, I play my CD-Rs in all the time too.

• 

  HYUNDAI ACCENT GREAT FOR THE MONEY - 2004 Hyundai Accent
  By bill jones - December 3 - 2:00 am

  for the price you cant beat it. A little noisy driving,but can be ACCEPTED.

• 

  I love my Accent - 2004 Hyundai Accent
  By eje428 - December 3 - 2:00 am

  I bought it in April 2003, and have driven it around town and a family trip of 2,000 miles. The ride was excellent and the mileage was great. I love the fact that My Accent has such a great warranty. I am not sorry for buying it and I highly recommend the car to anyone. The only thing I wish I did was get 4 doors. My children are grown but my grandchildren now ride with me.

• 

  80,000 miles and not one problem - 2000 Hyundai Accent
  By Jefo - November 26 - 2:00 am

  I bought my Accent new and it has been used as a commute to work car ever since. The only extras are the AC and the rear spoiler. My vechile is about to reach the 80,000 mile mark in just 3 1/2 years with not a single breakdown or problem. I enjoy driving and maintaining so the manual tranny and easy engine layout fit me fine.

• 

  Great on a budget! - 2002 Hyundai Accent
  By Kim in western MA - November 25 - 2:00 am

  I am a college student, and I was able to afford this car on my own! I bought it used with 11K miles on it, and 8 months later my accent has 30K on it! Needless to say, I do a lot of long traveling in it, and its great! So far I havent had any problems with it, and have only brought it to the garage for its scheduled maintenence. I didnt do a lot of shopping around... my dad has an elantra and has great luck with that, so I decided to go with a Hyundai, and this one was right in my price range! Its a great car!

• 

  Its the perfect car - 2003 Hyundai Accent
  By kristinac - November 13 - 2:00 am

  I just bought a brand new 2003 Accent and I love it, it is a very comfortable ride and it looks more expensive than it is. I was very impressed at how quiet it is and how good the sound system is for being stock. For a small car, it has guts. It has more horses than most cars its size. The best thing about the model I have (4DR sedan GL)is that its so convenient, with power everything. Its no Mercedes but it has a very stylish apppearance, very futuristic and nice looking.

• 

  most reliable car ive owned - 2003 Hyundai Accent
  By tommymojoe - November 7 - 2:00 am

  truly most reliable car i have owned,,,would and have recommended it to anyone as best buy for your money,,,by the way,,,,first time ive ever bothered to do something like this,im 54, finally found something worth taking the time to crow about,,,