You may pinch yourself repeatedly when driving the 2018 Hyundai Accent. Why? Mainly because this car is definitely not what you expect from an entry-level model.
For most of the time since its launch in 1994, the Accent has been considered a no frills, plain Jane model fit for rental fleets and pitying looks.
But the new fifth generation Accent ups its game notably, with a fresh, appealing design, surprisingly good performance and handling, plus features that rival larger, more expensive cars.
Slightly longer and wider than its predecessor, the design manages to avoid the awkward, bubble-backed proportions of most sub-compact sedans.
Performance from the Accent’s 1.6-liter engine is on par with the competition but what really stands out is the car’s overall refinement. A longer drive in the 2018 Accent is a surprisingly comfortable experience and the suite of infotainment features is impressive for a car priced in the mid-teens.
“The Accent is the entry point for new buyers,” says Mike O’Brien, vice president of Hyundai product planning. “It has to offer exceptional value and features because at its price it is competing with the used car market. And there are 50 million used cars sold, so that’s big competition.”
Hyundai deserves kudos for not delivering another stripped down ‘econobox’ sedan. It’s a move that will hopefully force other automakers to put more effort into their starter models.
