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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  Good Deal - 2002 Hyundai Accent
  By Ritesh - June 17 - 2:00 am

  Its like this - if you can afford a new Camry or an Altima, go buy it. But if you are a poor graduate student like me, and are thinking about getting a used sedan or a cheap new one like Accent, Id put my money on the Accent any day of the year. Admittedley, it doesnt have the greatest pick up in the world, and the engines a little nosy too, but a new 4-door sedan for about $11,000 is worth all these deficiencies. This car is making me so much happier compared to the used Toyota I had earlier. That one was making me take a trip to Midas every other month. This one hasnt given me any problem so far, and comes with a great warranty plan.

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  My thoughts - 2009 Hyundai Accent
  By MrSilver - June 16 - 10:12 pm

  Ive owned the car for over 2 years now. I bought it used with ~52k miles on it back in the fall of 13. It is the SE with all the options and a MT. I just turned over 80k miles this month. What I like: For a hatchback, it looks kinda neat. I like the tail lights and the stubby spoiler. The cloth interior is nice, its the charcoal with rough texture and thats right up my alley. For a 110 HP engine, it sure feels like more, so Ive been alright with the power, even though Im accustomed to more powerful vehicles (200 HP Taurus, 220 HP Eclipse GSX). I like the amount of space in the engine bay for repairs and maintenance. The engine has the capability of going into high RPMs. I like the hatchback and the cargo area, especially with the rubber floor mat. Liked the Sirius XM radio. Ive never had the car break down on me or leave me stranded or fail to start. Things that I like less: 5th gear really really needed to be longer. I run on the freeway to commute, and at 70 MPH, the engine is at ~3,500 RPM. How great the MPG could have been if the final gear left me at 2,000-2,200 RPM! I had the same complaint with my Eclipse GSX. These engineers really need to lengthen the final gear, its not for acceleration, its for cruising! Unfortunately, the MPG is not what I expected out of a car this size. I expected 34-35 MPG but average somewhere just under 30 MPG. The tires. Oh my the tires. Firstly, why a tiny hatchback comes with 16" rims is beyond me. You feel every bump with these low profile tires, and let me tell you, they are easy to pop! Lost one along with a dented rim in a pothole. Lost a second on a gravel country road. These are simply not made to be durable or comfortable. To add the cherry on the top, tire shops do not stock this size! Blow a tire? Guess youre waiting a day or two for your size to come in! Do yourself a favor and "upgrade" to the stock 14" rims off a GS and put normal tires on it with a higher sidewall. Squeaky clutch pedal. Dont know how to fix it, its always squeaked. Asked the dealership to lube it or something, they couldnt fix it. Cheap dashboard thats guaranteed to scratch. Seems to be the industry standard these days. Sirius XM will mail you to get you to sign up. Seems like the little birdies told them I bought a car equipped with XM radio. Did not appreciate that. Car feels like a kite in the wind. You will fight the gusts and be tossed about on the highway. I honestly contemplate how I can add extra aerodynamic enhancements to keep this thing grounded in the wind. Its so low to the ground already, how is it this bad? Its low to the ground. As in, you cant use normal ramps to change your oil. I mean, you can, but you will certainly scuff up your front bumper cover. And after numerous times of doing that, it will eventually crack. The suspension. Dear me, even worse than the rim/tire fiasco. These cars are notorious for having suspension components that wear out far too rapidly. Be prepared to listen to the lovely sound of popcorn being made for the life of this car. Sway bar end links. Tie rod ends. Ball joints. Shocks/struts. Its all garbage, and it all needs to be replaced at least once (or more) under 80k miles. Some say Moog aftermarket will help. Metal shift knob is heavy and looks good, but it gets HOT in the summer and COLD in the winter. Watch out for both. Sun visors - utter garbage. Work well until they simply break. Want to get a replacement? OK, $80. Great... The sound system is very meh. Almost no bass. Back seat latch rattles anyone? Yeah, you know what Im talking about... Depreciation. WOW that is a killer. This car lost $6-7K value in the 2 years Ive owned it. Ouch. I thought with the gas prices being high that the need for small, economical hatchbacks would be worth something to somebody. Nah, gas came down. Looks like dealer trade in is only around $3,500 now. Almost pays to just keep it and drive it into the ground. With all the nit-picky things, I still think its a decent car. If I bought a Hyundai again, I would opt for a slightly higher make.

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  excellent first time buyer car - 2002 Hyundai Accent
  By cc5galvan - June 10 - 2:00 am

  I have had a lot of fun driving my accent. It is a peppy little thing and gets great gas mileage. I would buy another Hyandi

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  Great car for price - 2003 Hyundai Accent
  By St. Cloud Dave - June 4 - 2:00 am

  I bought this used at 18000. Ive driven 9000 mi. so far and had to have it serviced twice in the first month but since then has been great. Actually Im surprised its as good a vehicle as it is. It may not be as good a vehicle as you would expect for a 20 thousand dollar car buts it costs a heck of a lot less and for its competition its one great deal. Its been a pleasan ownership experience so far.

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  very functional - 2002 Hyundai Accent
  By ftc - June 4 - 2:00 am

  I have been driving mine for over a year now, including trips from Illinois to North Carolina, Nebraska and Tennessee. No problem driving through rain storms and a snow storm. I had ample power in the mountains. When I bought a computer system last summer, had no problem fitting all of the boxes inside. I regularly carry my bicycle inside. I am a small person, and the drivers seat is exactly the right size.

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  My Red Rocket - 2000 Hyundai Accent
  By sdholly5 - May 27 - 2:00 am

  Just surprised at the avg. rating of 5.8. I inherited this from my daughter (had to have a firebird). No major problems so far (first 45,000 miles). Any other issues have been taken care of by the dealership and they have been great. I wish a little more power, but I sacrifice that for great mpg. I wish cruise was an option but not for mine. No knocks, little more road noise then higher priced cars but the warranty is so super. I have thought about other cars but cannot convince myself to get rid of this gem. I highly recommend this car

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  the best economy car - 2003 Hyundai Accent
  By alexander - May 18 - 2:00 am

  This is a great car for the price you pay and is alot better then the chevy metro

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  Good Job - 2002 Hyundai Accent
  By Jermain - April 29 - 2:00 am

  I think the people at Hyundai have done a great job with the 2002 Hyundai Accent. It is a great car for its size and it is fast for the engine size also. However, the car disappointed me last Sunday, in that the transmission is slipping and it is high idoling. That confuses me because I have had no problems. Its only a year old. Besides that I cant complain with the performance.

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  I WOULD BUY ANOTHER HYUNDAI! - 2000 Hyundai Accent
  By DAVID HUARACHAS - April 20 - 2:00 am

  I AM VERY PLEASED WITH MY CAR. IT WAS DIRT CHEAP AND ALMOST NEW. THE ONLY THING I DONT LIKE IS THE SMALL TIRES BUT A COUPLE HUNDRED BUCKS FOR BIGGER RIMS AND TIRES AND SHES PERFECT. I AM A BMW OWNER AND I KNOW ABOUT SHIFTING, HANDLING, PERFORMANCE WHEN I DRIVE A CAR. IT DOES ALL VERY VERY WELL. ITS BEEN 4-5 MONTHS IT RUNS PERFECT, NO PROBS WITH ANYTHING. I WAS GOING FOR VARIOUS YR 2K ENTRY CARS LIKE THE FORD FOCUS, PROTEGE,COROLA, ETC.. I TEST DROVE THEM ALL AND THE ACCENT WAS SUPRISINGLY BETTER IN ALL ASPECTS! REAT DEAL. I WAS SICK OF MY BMWS SUCKING ALL MY HARD EARNED SAVINGS MONTHLY IN MAINTENANCE & REPAIR! HYUNDAI PARTS ARE A WELCOME CHANGE!

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  Really excellent low-end car - 2003 Hyundai Accent
  By ggurr - April 11 - 2:00 am

  We *were* a 100% Toyota family until we tried the Accent GSi looking for a 2nd Echo. Our criteria was just the best we could get for the least $$. We considered all the low-end cars: Mazda, Mitsubishi, Honda were too expensive Kias still a little on the fringe, North American is still a maintenance problem although the Cavelier/Sunfire powertrain was nice (simple/powerful). The Accent has 2 things that are truly excellent: excellent fit&finish (inside & out) and excellent handling (GSi is sport- tuned). Since the engine will be low- powered when youre buying economy its those other two features that can make your day-to-day driving a real pleasure.