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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  Be forwarned - 2002 Hyundai Accent
  By pepper - October 26 - 1:00 am

  I bought this car because I needed reliable transportation with a low cost. The warranty was what suckered me in. The check engine light came on at 400mi. and has stayed on. I now have 28,000mi. Ive taken it in to be looked at, and the dealership cant seem to figure out what is wrong. My dealership tried to charge me to look at the car. I had to call Hyundai to get a refund, and I still have the problem. Mechanically, otherwise, it has been fine...I have yet to be left stranded. I do plan to replace this car with another Toyota in a few months. I was hoping for similar quality, but sadly mistaken.

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  silver bullit - 2004 Hyundai Accent
  By patrick nugent - October 23 - 2:00 am

  i love my accent.the is built with the highest quality.the fuel economy exceeded my expectations.also for a 4 cylinder it has surprising power.

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  Wonderful - 2003 Hyundai Accent
  By logan - October 17 - 2:00 am

  I was hesitant about buying this car, but I had read an article in the paper and this car got rave reviews. I have always liked Hyundai but never heard good things about their product. Never the less I bought an Accent anyway and instatnly fell in love. Great dependabilty and great gas mileage, whats not to love.

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  Not good, Not bad either! - 2002 Hyundai Accent
  By Jimmy Joe - October 17 - 2:00 am

  The car is used as my commuter car. I drive 1/2 hr to work each day in it. i think I paid $8200 total (including TTL) and pay around $12 in gas a week. the car is cramped (I am 61) and the seat does not slide back enough for me. The radio also has a problem with keys sticking and being hard to press. The car runs well enough...although it has too much power for the light frame so the front tires peel out froms tops at times.

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  Delivers much more than it costs - 2001 Hyundai Accent
  By TimAv - October 14 - 2:00 am

  I have run my fully loaded GS for over two years as a spare car and it is worth every penny. That is all you spend on this car is pennys. Even with the bigger engine the oil capacity is just 3.5 qts. Oil changes are cheap! It is actually fun to drive and decently engineered. Im 62" and it fits me ok. The body rolls a little more than I like but the ride is good for a small car and you can hustle it around and it responds. A really good value.

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  cheapest and nicest car i ever bought - 1999 Hyundai Accent
  By niceDave - October 12 - 2:00 am

  This car gets great gas mileage and is fun and easy to drive.

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  Forget the Mini Cooper - 2003 Hyundai Accent
  By tsky - October 11 - 2:00 am

  I bought this car after looking at all the other models in its class and hands down the Accent GT was the best buy! I have in quartz green and people comment on the cool color everywhere I go. Not to mention the cool white tack like those in the Porche 911 the great warrenty.....I mean all cars lose their appeal after a while, why not have one that looks cool and leaves you money to go have fun...great, great car.

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  Great car for the money! - 2000 Hyundai Accent
  By The reseller - October 9 - 2:00 am

  This car is excellent in just about every way. I have to try the new tires some of you suggested. It helps to be going downhill but the car moves right along. I have no complaints. I bought it for the gas milage, not the horsepower. (obviously) Car looks much better than the older ones. Great inside and out.

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  A GREAT LITTLE CAR - 1996 Hyundai Accent
  By FJP6910 - October 8 - 2:00 am

  Have made many trips in the 250 oneway range over the years and never had a problem. Made several 3500 mile oneway trips..had no problems, was comfortable and loved the mileage. Has been virtually NO MECHANICAL problems since buying it new.

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  OK - 2003 Hyundai Accent
  By Crazy8 - October 1 - 2:00 am

  This car is very affordable and reliable, plus you cant beat the warranty!