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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  The Perfect Car For Me! - 2002 Hyundai Accent
  By Missabou - August 9 - 2:00 am

  I was very surprised when I test drove my Accent. For being an inexpensive car, it had features that the more expensive cars have. I feel I got ripped off by the dealer, but that isnt a Hyundai problem, its a dealer problem. I bought my car Sept 2001, so I have been driving it for 2 years now. I had to get a couple of minor repairs done and a new battery, but besides that, I have no problems with it and Im very happy. I plan to buy another Hyundai for my next car.

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  my last hyundai - 1999 Hyundai Accent
  By kml99 - August 4 - 2:00 am

  this car had so many problems. my friend and i bought the car on the same day and she ended up trading it in 2 years later, because it was so bad. the suspension was horrible.it would never get into the proper gear on the highway (i have an automatic). and i have had a problem with the air conditioner since day one, and no one seems to know how to fix it.

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  Overly Happy - 2003 Hyundai Accent
  By sweet16drvr - August 4 - 2:00 am

  The hyundai accent is the best car on the market. I currently was given a new black 2003 accent for my birthday, and i am in love with it. I fully believe it was worth the wait for the car.

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  Accent is the best! - 1997 Hyundai Accent
  By ELISSANB - July 30 - 2:00 am

  The 4 dr Accent was the best vehicle I have owned. It is so much fun to drive and has never given me any problems beyond routine maintenance. I have had my car for 4 years, and it will be hard to part with it.

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  The price is right - 2003 Hyundai Accent
  By tandbwms - July 30 - 2:00 am

  This my second Accent. Ive also owned a 96 model which I got rid of in favor of a Mitsubishi Eclipse. The Eclipse was turned back in at lease end and instead of paying high loan payments, I decided to go for price and pick up another Accent. All in all, its an OK car. It isnt going to WOW you in anything that it does. One day each week and one day each month youll like the car a little more than others. The day of the week is the gas station stop. Ive been getting a steady 34 mpg while kind of beating on the little thing. The day of the month is, of course, loan payment day. The rest of the time, eh, its OK.

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  Hyundai Accent - 2003 Hyundai Accent
  By sjones958 - July 27 - 2:00 am

  Sales People are very friendly. Price is excellent. The warranty is best available. I received a full tank of gas. The 1st oil change is free. Ive never been happier about a new car.

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  Lemon - 2001 Hyundai Accent
  By HyundaiLemon - July 26 - 2:00 am

  I have had this car into the dealer 30 times and 50 some days for 5 problems. The Service stinks.

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  100,000+ NO PROBLEMS ! Still Going!! - 1998 Hyundai Accent
  By Drifus - July 25 - 2:00 am

  This car has been no trouble. For less than 5 years old and 100000 + its been great. I have replace tires once, spark plugs once. Regular oil changes. This car has never been serviced other then what was mentioned. I have driven this car hard the whole time. (Shifting at 5500 rpms most of the time) If it can endure me like this car has I call it either a fluke or a great car. This car was in Minnesota for 4 years of its life and was wonderful in the snow.

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  Value for Money - 1997 Hyundai Accent
  By mkarias - July 17 - 2:00 am

  I bought my car in Sept 2002 with 33K. Although it will be a year, I only have about 37.5K. I mostly use it to drive to the bus stop. For a second car or commuter car, this is perfect. The only problems I had was the "check engine" light which the dealer had to replace the computer module. Had to go 3x before it was finally fixed. Great gas mileage. It is small so for a family, it is no good. I tried putting my 2 kids child seats and it is tight. No power though when trying to accelerate especially if you have AC on.

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  Hyundai Accent - 2003 Hyundai Accent
  By Kanevision - July 17 - 2:00 am

  This is my first Hyundai car i have ever driven and i love it! It is the best car equal to the Tiburon!