Hyundai Accent

Looking inside the Hyundai Accent Sedan you’ll find a typical cockpit with beautiful accents of metallic colors. The basic trims might lack the features that you’ll find more comforting and convenient so upgrading a little bit to the top-spec models can be ideal. The absence of a touchscreen infotainment system can quite be a disappointment, but Hyundai did try well on some other parts.

The tilt-adjustable steering wheel comes with audio and Bluetooth controls on it that are also compatible with smartphones. Meanwhile, the instrument cluster is a twin-pod unit that contains the usual information that you need while driving.

Some standard interior features like vanity mirrors and seatback pockets are also present. The 3.8 LCD Radio Display with RDS can be a small fallback but good thing it doesn’t really make the cockpit so outdated, just a typical, but not really advanced.

You may also choose between three upholstery colors including beige, grey dual-tone, and black monotone.

Sleek but not that striking, this actually gives the right balance for the smallest sedan of Hyundai’s collection. The overall outlook of the Hyundai Accent might come out as basic for everyone but the illusion of dynamism through its curves and lines is actually a plus. The slim front fascia has the signature trapezoid grille with horizontal bars bearing the company’s emblem and is accompanied by two halogen headlamps for the basic trims. As for the top-spec models, it comes with LED headlights, taillights, and daytime running lights.

The Accent’s dimension is quite compact which makes it an ideal car for a small family, businessmen, working girls, and even students. Its compact dimension allows it to become easy to handle and maneuvred even on tightly spaced parking lots. 

Currently, in the Philippines, the available colors are Star Dust, Phantom Black, Sleek Silver, Fiery Red, and Polar White.

Apart from the rough acceleration noise, one problem with handling this Sedan from Hyundai is that it is quite bouncy at the back. On the other hand, there is no problem with Noise, Vibration, and Harshness (NVH). This is even applicable to the diesel engine powered trims. 

The light and responsive steering allow better road grip and efficient cornering. Although this sedan only gives middling driving experience, it is safe to say that driving this car is safe and durable. 

The smallest sedan from Hyundai comes in two different engine options here in the Philippines. There is the 1.4-litre Dual Continuous Variable Valve Timing (CVVT) petrol engine that fires up to 100 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 13.6 Nm torque at 3500 revs per minute. The models with this engine set-up are the Hyundai Accent 1.4 GL 6MT and 1.4 GL 6AT with airbags and the versions without SRS. The cars shift gears either through a 6-speed manual or a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT).

As for the top-spec models, both manual and automatic trims are employed with a 1.6-litre Common Rail Direct Injection (CRDi) VGT diesel engine. Both AT and MT trims’ engines can fire up to 136 PS at 4000 rpm while generating a peak torque of 26.5 Nm between 1500 to 3500 rpm for the 6-speed manual and 30.6 Nm torque between 1750 and 2500 rpm for the 7-speed dual-clutch automatic trim.

When it comes to the fuel economy, the diesel engines can cover 27 to 37 kmpl. But, if you are into the fuel economy and performance, the one with the 6-speed manual transmission might be the best option.

One thing that might really tick you off while learning about the spec sheet of this sedan is that it comes with trims that have no SRS or airbags. Quite risky, but good thing you’ve got more options for just a little bit of a difference in terms of price.

On the other hand, you might be amazed after knowing that the critical areas of this car are made with 50% reinforced and advanced high strength steel that can add up as your guard in case the unfortunate happens. It was even given four stars by the Global New Car Assessment Programme for its claimed safety features.

This sedan has the standard Anti-Lock Braking System with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution as well as hill start assist and brake assist for the top-spec trims. Adding to the premium features are the parking sensors, a reverse camera, and height-adjustable seat belts.

If you are looking for a compact car for your small family or you just find it economic to have a car for the commute to work, the Hyundai Accent sedan can be the best affordable option. It may not deliver the most advanced features but it has a reliable driving performance that can still take you to places.