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 penalty box - 2009 Hyundai Accent
  By Robin - January 25 - 7:36 am

  This car has been used and abused to no end.Driven high and wide through sleet ,snow ,chicken poop,low on fluids in below zero and hundred degree stop and go Boston traffic.And still she gives me no gripes.I even put her in first at the light and leave em in the dust for fun.The poor thing hardly ever even gets an oil change and only a top up of half a quart now and then when i check the others.I have done the timing belt twice with one new water pump,two ball joints from pot holes,and new belts all aroud.The heat blows hot,ac cool,seats as hard and uncomfortable as ever.i dont know why she treats me so well.I love her for it.I should be nicer.Bought her new,8 years ago.

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  Great Buy - 2002 Hyundai Accent
  By NDM - December 4 - 11:03 pm

  I was a little worried about buying a Hyundai, especially their cheapest model. My wife and I have always purchased Honda, Toyota, or Nissan. However, we needed a second vehicle, and we did not see the need nor purpose of spending major money on a second car. The Accent was just right. I truly recommend this car to anyone. Hyundai has really come a long way!!!

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  Good economical car - 2007 Hyundai Accent
  By Dave - October 21 - 4:06 pm

  Small car, but good headroom, legroom, overall comfort. Economical to own and drive. Would happily buy another.

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  hottest deal in town - 2002 Hyundai Accent
  By chipper - October 16 - 10:00 am

  this is my first new car.it handles very tight in cornering and speed pickup is adequate.it feels great to have such a fine machine under my control.my wife says it adds character to our lives.for the money you cant beat it. we will definitely check out next years hyundais.

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  a lot of car for the money - 2002 Hyundai Accent
  By julianef - October 16 - 10:00 am

  Comfortable for a medium built person, remarkably quiet within 60mph, has all basic stuff: AC, CD, power windows and mirrors, interior trim is well done. Took it on a 1600miles ride, performed well, 36mpg, however, becomes unstable and noisy at speeds above 65-70mph. The 1.6l engine manual provides good acceleration, one has no problems at all merging onto highway, around 30- 32mpg in suburban comuting. It does not excel in any regard, but everything is done right, one can not expect more from this type of entry level car. If the reliability improves for the new 2001-2002 model it is definitely a better choice than a 3-4y old Civic or Corolla.

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  Outstanding Value - 2016 Hyundai Accent
  By Marc Brunetti - October 10 - 6:46 pm

  Purchased 2013 Accent Sedan, and very happy with it. 116,000 miles in three years and not one problem. Drove from Florida to New York with two adults and two teenagers fully loaded and got 42 mpg on highway. Got the mpg on highway up to 51 mpg by coasting down hill. Just bought another, 2016 model. Stability control and anti lock breaking a plus. Downside: fabric on seats gets stained too easily. Comfort on long rides. No rearview camera.

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  Great Value, but sedan was more practical - 2016 Hyundai Accent
  By Carolyn S - August 16 - 7:30 pm

  Its a great little car for the price. I had a 2012 4 door 4 1/2 years that I loved and the dealership had a special. I had wanted a hatchback. Found out after delivery the hatchback is 10" shorter than the sedan so I really did not get the additional space I was looking for. Gas mileage is less than the sedan, averaging about 28 unless I am really conscious of how I am driving and coasting (I have a manual stick) There is a bizarre film that keeps creeping up on the inside of the windshield that is driving me absolutely batty. I clean it and days later it returns and I cant figure out if the defroster, heat or AC i causing it. but cleaning the inside of the windshield always leaves greasy streaks. Very Bizarre. I had the Simonez coating put in and on the car. not impressed by that - ended up putting seat covers on it anyway and its the only logical cause I can think of for the film being greasy. Sluggish acceleration. Pretty much get what you pay for. I did get the bumper to bumper warranty for 100,000 miles over the 50,000. I wish I had gotten it on the 2012 instead. I probably would have held onto the 2012 longer had the warranty not run out. This has less rearview visibility because of the tiny hatchback window. I had driven the 12 63,000 and loved it. This turns tight, stops on a dime, great for parking in small spaces but interior space is disappointing. Car is comfortable, AC is very cold, heat is great. Stops, goes great.

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  Awesome Bang for the Buck... - 2017 Hyundai Accent
  By JP - February 20 - 3:34 pm

  Apparently October 2017 is a great time to cut a deal on a brand new Hyundai Accent Sport Hatchback. I leased a 2014 Sonata Limited for 3 years and have a foundation with Hyundai automobiles. I wanted a fuel efficient run around town car and the Accent Sport has exceeded my expectations. The car is literally loaded with every imaginable Sub Compact Options, Safety Features, Entertainment, and Electronics. I test drove the car twice and it was the 2nd test drive that sold me. Comfortable Seat, Sure Footed Ride, Acceptable Road Noise, Adequate Stereo, Fuel Burn Computer, Plenty of Room in the Cockpit for 4 plus Cargo. Alloy Wheels? 4 Wheel Disc Brakes? Steering Wheel Mounted Controls? Bluetooth Hands Free? 30mpg around town? 37mpg HWY? Best Warranty in America today. I paid $13,000 Cash. Whats not to like? The ONLY gripe I would pass on is without a Turbo the 1.6L DGI engine requires a healthy amount of pedal to get moving. 3 Driving Modes...Eco, Sport, Normal... Take a Test Drive and decide for yourself. After all, this is a bottom of the line model for Hyundai...

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  125,000+ miles and still going strong! - 2005 Hyundai Accent
  By Rick - February 3 - 1:29 am

  I bought this car new as a commuter car in 2005. Paid $7750 and I was hoping it would last until I retired. It did -- plus another 10 years, and still going strong. It is a "basic" car, a cassette deck, a small back seat, small wheels and a few other disadvantages, but hey, a "simple" car is what I wanted! In 11 years it has had exactly TWO non-maintenance service calls. One was the previous mechanics fault and the other was a "check engine light" which resulted in a minor adjustment. Thats ALL! I listed the MPG as "35" but, on the highway, the mileage has flirted with 40! It has plenty of pep on the road, too. I got through college on VW Bugs and this is the modern equivalent. Not fancy, but this car has been extremely reliable and I almost consider it a member of the family!!

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  I love my Hyundai Accent - 2017 Hyundai Accent
  By Chelsea B - January 28 - 10:43 pm

  This is my first new car and I love it! I have had absolutely zero buyers remorse. Previously I was driving a 1995 Nissan Altima, so this car is a huge improvement in every way possible. I live in a rural area and commute to work so I wanted something with good fuel economy, great night time visibility, and something I feel safe driving. The Accent exceeded all of my expectations. I am averaging 40 mpg! Ive driven over the mountain pass recently and averaged 41 mpg! The steering is fantastic and I love driving through traffic circles and winding roads. The interior feels huge when youre inside the car and I can haul so much that Im still shocked by the cargo space! The headlights are amazing, I feel like I have a really clear view of whats happening on and off the road around me. I love the Bluetooth capabilities, I am constantly playing music from my phone and love that I can safely answer phone calls. Even the color and appearance of the car is enjoyable. I opted for red because I wanted a bright color so my car wouldnt blend in with the background of rural driving. The dealership has contacted me multiple times to ask how Im enjoying the car and I have no complaints. This is by no means a luxury vehicle and Ive seen plenty of reviews complaining about the lack of features. This is a very basic vehicle by todays standards but if youve been driving an old rust bucket this car is a dream.