2018 Hyundai Accent Review, Pricing, and Specs

Overview

The Hyundai Accent brings many of the latest useful features into the subcompact segment, although most are optional extras. The Accent comes wrapped in a grown-up exterior that won’t embarrass owners when it’s parked in the company lot next to larger, more expensive vehicles, especially in its Limited trim. But those with less to spend can still get good value with the base SE or the midrange SEL. Some rivals rely on bold styling or trick packaging to attract buyers, but for those seeking an unassuming but capable small car, the Accent will deliver.

What’s New for 2018?

The Accent is all new for 2018. Hyundai’s last-generation subcompact was offered as both a sedan and a hatchback, but starting with the 2018 model year, the Accent is available only as a sedan.

Pricing

Original MSRP:

• SE: $15,880
• SEL: $18,180
• Limited: $19,780

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

All Accents come with a 130-hp 1.6-liter inline-four engine that drives the front wheels through either a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission. Of the two, we’ve found the crisp manual gearbox offers a more engaging driving experience, in addition to superior acceleration and better highway fuel economy. The automatic saps too much power from the engine. We don’t expect sports-car-like performance and handling from subcompact cars, but the Accent did deliver spirited acceleration, and its chassis proved surprisingly lively. Still, it’s clear that ride comfort takes a priority over deft handling. Rough roads are smoothed out adequately by the suspension, but harsh impacts will generate vibrations through the cabin.

Fuel Economy

EPA fuel economy testing and reporting procedures have changed over time. For the latest and most accurate fuel economy numbers on current and older vehicles, we use the U.S. Department of Energy’s fueleconomy.gov website. Under the heading “Find & Compare Cars” click on the “Compare Side-by-Side” tool to find the EPA ratings for the make, model, and year you’re interested in.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

The Accent’s grown-up interior is well built, but it lacks the cheeky style of the Kia Rio or the rear-seat spaciousness of the Honda Fit. Very few interior panels are soft to the touch, but the vast expanses of hard plastic are nicely grained and don’t feel cheap. The base SE trim offers few interior luxuries, but the SEL adds a telescoping function to the tilt steering wheel, an upgraded infotainment system, and a center armrest with a storage bin. Move up to the Limited model and treat yourself to a sunroof, heated front seats, automatic climate control, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. At 14 cubic feet, the Accent’s trunk is smaller than that of most rivals, but its useful shape makes it practical enough.

Infotainment and Connectivity

A standard touchscreen gives the Accent an advantage over some rivals. The 5.0-inch screen provides a stereo, as well as USB and auxiliary ports. But the 7.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system that comes on SEL and Limited trims is higher tech, easy to use, and reasonably responsive. The larger display also boasts Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity as well as a second USB port. Both systems offer Bluetooth connectivity, but the 7.0-inch version also comes with SiriusXM satellite radio.

Safety Features and Crash Test Ratings

For more information about the Hyundai Accent’s crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites.

Warranty

Some older vehicles are still eligible for coverage under a manufacturer’s Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) program. For more information visit our guide to every manufacturer’s CPO program.