Hyundai Accent

The Hyundai Accent proves that being affordable doesn't have to mean sacrificing style. With its sleek design and 120-horsepower engine, it's as practical as it is fuel-efficient. While the interior is simple, it boasts modern conveniences like heated seats, a touchscreen infotainment system, and push-button start. Choose any trim, and you'll find the Accent's exterior to be both refined and modern.

History

Now in its fifth generation, the Hyundai Accent has been a go-to fuel-efficient car for small families since 1994. With fresh updates in 1999, 2005, 2010, and 2017, it's continually evolved to meet the demands of the times.

The new Accent sedan is more than just good looks. Offering two engine and transmission options, it brings versatility to the table. Its fresh exterior design, featuring new headlight and fog lamp shapes, aligns it closely with its big brother, the Elantra sedan.

The Hyundai Accent stands out with a sharper, edgier design, including a pronounced grille that gives a sense of dynamic movement. Despite its economical appeal, it's a must-have, boasting standout features like automatic climate control, a multifunction steering wheel, and three seat trim options.

Variant and Price

The 2023 - 2024 Hyundai Accent is offered in 6 variants - which are priced from ₱ 840,000 to ₱ 1,088,000.

In the Philippines, the Accent showcases Hyundai's fluid, sculptural design across its 4,440mm length, 1,729mm height, and 1,460mm width. Large wraparound halogen headlamps surround a wide, six-slat grille. A prominent shoulder line flows through the doors to segmented rear lamps, while the top model adds LED headlights, taillights, and daytime running lights for a modern flair.

With 15-inch steel wheels and a compact design, the Accent is the perfect choice for small families, professionals, and students alike. Its size not only adds to its appeal but also makes navigating tight parking spaces a breeze.

Hyundai Accent has total 5 color options in the Philippines: Star Dust, Phantom Black, Sleek Silver, Fiery Red, Polar White

Dimensions

The Accent's interior, though well-made and mature, lacks the flair of rivals like the Kia Rio or the spacious rear seat of the Honda Fit. While the black interiors offer a serious, businesslike look, an optional beige scheme adds richness with two-tone seats and matching dash and door panels. Despite its modern exterior, the absence of upscale trims or leather seats arguably keeps the Accent's interior from standing out.

The Accent's dashboard and media system feel dated, starting with a basic 5.0-inch touchscreen radio and USB/auxiliary ports. Upgrading to SEL or Limited models brings a more modern 7.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system that features Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with an extra USB port and SiriusXM satellite radio. Bluetooth connectivity is standard across both systems.

Safety features

The lack of SRS or airbags in certain trims of this sedan may be concerning. Despite the high risk, the upside is more choices with only slight differences in price.

Despite some safety concerns, the car's critical areas are reinforced with 50% advanced high-strength steel, offering added protection. This robust design has earned the car a four-star rating from the Global New Car Assessment Program, highlighting its safety features.

The sedan is packed with safety features including standard anti-lock brakes and electronic brakeforce distribution. Top-tier trims also boast hill-start assist, brake assist, parking sensors, a reversing camera, and adjustable seat belts, enhancing both comfort and protection.

Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

Hyundai, along with sister company Kia, leads the pack with a 10-year or 100,000-mile powertrain warranty, and the Accent enjoys this top-tier coverage. Plus, the complimentary scheduled maintenance outshines mainstream competitors like Toyota, adding extra value to the deal.

• Limited warranty covers 5 years or 60,000 miles

• Powertrain warranty covers 10 years or 100,000 miles
  

• Complimentary maintenance covers 3 years or 36,000 miles
  

Storage space

Although the Accent sedan has limited cargo space with the rear seats up, the Accent surprisingly holds more carry-on luggage than the hatchback Rio. Even with the rear seats folded, it's only two less luggage than the roomy Fit.

In the Philippines, Hyundai's smallest sedan offers two engine options. A 1.4-litre dual CVVT petrol engine develops 100 hp and 13.6 Nm of torque. Models such as the Accent 1.4 GL are available with or without airbags and come with a 6-speed manual transmission or a continuously variable transmission (CVT).

The top model in the Hyundai range is powered by a powerful 1.6-litre CRDi VGT diesel engine. Whether you opt for the manual or automatic, you'll get an impressive 136 PS at 4000 rpm. Torque varies slightly, with 26.5 Nm from the 6-speed manual and 30.6 Nm from the 7-speed dual-clutch automatic.

Despite a bouncy rear and some harsh acceleration noise, handling this modern sedan is generally smooth. Even in diesel-powered trims, there's no problem with noise, vibration, or harshness (NVH), making for a comfortable ride.

With light and responsive steering, this sedan ensures efficient cornering and a solid grip. Though the driving experience may be average, it's a safe and dependable option on the road.

The car's diesel engine boasts an impressive range of 27 to 37 km/l. If performance is also important, then a 6-speed manual transmission may be your best option.

The Accent, with some shortcomings in active safety features and ride quality, might feel a bit outdated. However, its impressive warranty and ease of driving make it a solid choice for those on a budget. For Filipinos seeking an affordable car, the Hyundai Accent stands out as a great option.