The Hyundai Accent is an award-winning subcompact car and leader in its class.
Last year, the Accent was designated by J.D. Power as the “Highest Ranked Small Car in Initial Quality.” It is one of the most fuel efficient subcompacts on the market, yet still boasts a powerful engine. It also has the lowest projected 5-Year Ownership Costs according to Kelley Blue Book. That means a new Hyundai Accent beats the competition in depreciation, projected cost of fuel, insurance fees, maintenance costs and repair costs. Now it’s time to pop the hood, unlock the doors and see what the 2016 Hyundai Accent has to offer.
The Specs
The 2016 Hyundai Accent comes in three models: SE Sedan, SE Hatchback and Sport Hatchback. The SE Sedan, at 14,745 Total MSRP, is a 4-door sedan that boasts a 137-horsepower 4-cylinder engine and your choice of a 6-speed manual or automatic transmission. The sedan reaches an impressive 137 horsepower while maintaining fuel efficiency. The aerodynamic exterior reduces drag to contribute to the Accent’s excellent fuel economy, 38 MPG Highway.
The 5-door Hyundai Accent SE Hatchback also features a 4-cylinder, 137-horsepower engine and 6-speed manual or automatic transmission. Despite its hatchback shape, it retains the aerodynamic design and fuel efficiency of the SE Sedan. Starting at 16,495 MSRP, the Sport Hatchback features upgraded 16-inch alloy wheels from the SE Hatchback’s 14-inch steel wheels.
Both hatchback models offer a more spacious interior than the already roomy Hyundai SE Accent Sedan. They also offer options for cargo space by lowering the seats in different configurations, earning the Hyundai Accent top marks for cargo storage. All three models are praised for the smooth, quiet ride they offer occupants.
Features
Even the standard package of the Hyundai Accent offers unique features to impress drivers. All three models feature LED headlights and LED accents to supercharge the look of the sleek Hyundai Accent. Aerodynamics are also improved by a sporty spoiler. Dash controls are conveniently located on the steering wheel in addition to the control tower. Six interior speakers and a sound system equipped with Sirius Satellite radio and Smartphone input resonate, crystal clear, through the roomy interior.
The Hyundai Accent has a 4-star Overall NHTSA safety rating. One of the reasons insurance and 5-year projected costs are impressively low for the Accent is its exceptional safety performance. Impressive safety features come standard in the 2016 Hyundai Accent. Front side-impact and front side-curtain airbags lend riders peace of mind. Vehicle Stability Management offers stability control, traction control and a stable ride. Stability and traction control prevent skidding and hydroplaning for safe going in any weather.
Fuel Efficiency
In terms of fuel efficiency, expect 31 miles per gallon combined city and highway driving from the SE sedan. The SE Hatchback and Hatchback Sport also achieve 31 miles per gallon combined highway and city driving. The Hyundai Accent offers 38 miles per gallon highway. Do not expect the superior fuel efficiency to compromise engine power, as the Hyundai Accent features an incredibly powerful engine for such a small package.
A Leader in Its Class
Compared to similar subcompacts, the Accent stands out as a leader. It boasts greater horsepower that the Toyota Yaris, Ford Fiesta and Honda Fit. At 38 miles per gallon highway, the Accent outperforms the Chevy Sonic, Toyota Yaris and Honda Fit in fuel efficiency. The spacious interior offers more cargo space than the Toyota Yaris, Honda Fit or Nissan Versa NOTE. It’s no wonder the Hyundai Accent is regarded as an exceptional value for a subcompact by J.D. Power and Kelly Blue Book.
Pros and Cons of the Hyundai Accent
While the pros of the Hyundai Accent are numerous and obvious, there are a few shortcomings to this subcompact. First of all, even the upgraded packages lack some of the flashy new safety features hitting markets. This is to be expected, as the Accent comes at an extremely reasonable price compared to others in its class. Still, for the tech-savvy driver who dreams about the car of the future, the Accent leaves something to be desired. The Accent also cannot be upgraded to include a sunroof, leather seats or navigation.
If you’re thinking about a Hyundai Accent, know that for the price this little subcompact really can’t be beat. Impressive standard features, a smooth, quiet ride, standard safety features and a powerful engine are the chief advantages of a Hyundai Accent.
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