The Hyundai Accent is a compact sedan that has been a staple in the automotive market for over two decades. With its sleek design, impressive fuel efficiency, and array of standard features, the Accent has become a popular choice for budget-conscious buyers. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the latest generation of the Hyundai Accent, highlighting its key features, technical specifications, and competition in the compact sedan market.

Design and Features

The current generation of the Hyundai Accent was introduced in 2018, with a fresh new design that exudes modernity and sophistication. The car’s exterior is characterized by clean lines, angular shapes, and a sloping roofline that gives it a sporty appearance. Inside, the Accent boasts a spacious cabin with ample legroom, a comfortable driver’s seat, and plenty of storage compartments.

Technical Specifications

The Hyundai Accent is available in several trim levels, including the SE, SEL, and Limited. The base model comes equipped with a 1.6-liter inline-four engine that produces 130 horsepower and 119 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a six-speed manual transmission or an optional continuously variable transmission (CVT). For those who prefer a more potent powerplant, the Accent offers a 1.6-liter turbocharged engine that delivers 201 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque.

Fuel Efficiency

One of the standout features of the Hyundai Accent is its impressive fuel efficiency. The base model with the manual transmission achieves an EPA-estimated 28 MPG in the city, 38 MPG on the highway, and 31 MPG combined. The CVT-equipped model gets slightly better numbers, with an estimated 32 MPG in the city, 40 MPG on the highway, and 35 MPG combined.

Safety Features

The Hyundai Accent comes standard with a long list of safety features, including forward collision avoidance, lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control. The car also boasts a five-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and is a Top Safety Pick+ from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

Infotainment System

The Hyundai Accent’s infotainment system is one of its strongest features, offering a range of amenities that cater to modern drivers. The base model comes with an 8-inch touchscreen display, Bluetooth connectivity, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. Higher trims add more premium features, such as navigation, a premium audio system, and wireless charging.

Competition

The Hyundai Accent faces stiff competition in the compact sedan market from other popular models like the Toyota Corolla, Honda Civic, and Nissan Versa. While each of these cars has its own strengths and weaknesses, the Accent stands out for its impressive fuel efficiency, spacious cabin, and generous list of standard features.

Comparison to Competitors

Here’s a brief comparison between the Hyundai Accent and some of its key competitors:

• Toyota Corolla: The Corolla is a perennial bestseller in the compact sedan market, known for its reliability, comfort, and strong resale value. However, it falls short of the Accent in terms of fuel efficiency and standard features.
• Honda Civic: The Civic is another popular choice in the compact sedan segment, boasting a sporty design, agile handling, and impressive safety credentials. However, its starting price is slightly higher than the Accent’s, and its interior space is not as generous.
• Nissan Versa: The Versa is one of the most affordable options in the compact sedan market, but it also has some drawbacks, including a less powerful engine and fewer standard features.

Conclusion

The Hyundai Accent is a solid choice for budget-conscious buyers who prioritize fuel efficiency, comfort, and a generous list of standard features. With its sleek design, impressive technical specifications, and competitive pricing, the Accent is an excellent option in the compact sedan market. While it faces stiff competition from other models, its unique strengths make it a compelling choice for anyone shopping in this segment.

Technical Details

• Production Company: Hyundai Motor Company
• Release Date: 2018 (current generation)
• Length/Width/Height: 172.2 inches / 68.1 inches / 57.5 inches
• Wheelbase: 103.9 inches
• Curb Weight: 2,459 pounds (base model)
• Engine Options:
  • 1.6-liter inline-four engine (130 horsepower)
  • 1.6-liter turbocharged engine (201 horsepower)
• Transmission Options:
  • Six-speed manual transmission
  • Continuously variable transmission (CVT)
• Fuel Economy:
  • EPA-estimated 28 MPG city, 38 MPG highway, 31 MPG combined (base model with manual transmission)
  • EPA-estimated 32 MPG city, 40 MPG highway, 35 MPG combined (CVT-equipped base model)