2018 Hyundai Accent – Test Drive, Review, Ratings, Specs

The Slur between Sedan and Statement

A point in time where such name so accurately mirrors upon its character still remains somewhat of a rare occasion. Yet; here we have just that, and in all honesty, can’t come up with a better description for its sound, sight and touch. The grammatical symbol so widely used to express subtle tone exactly mimics the Hyundai Accent in this week’s journal entry.

Extravagant contours elegantly carved throughout with the intention to cut through air, and the indulgence of spectacular interior found even in mid-tier modern cars. With the Accent, you get none of that. Some would argue and even develop the emotion of being cheated; but on the contrary, most might accept the Hyundai Accent for what it is – a basic, simple and dependable form of 5-passenger transportation. But don’t let its book title fool you though. Good complements can be had underneath the hood and is set out to compete with the Mazda 3, Honda Civic, Toyota Camry and the like.

For 2018, Hyundai releases the all new Accent model promised to deliver a smooth ride and enhanced fuel performance. Noise, vibration and harshness and use of high strength steel in its construction are key focus points within its genetic blueprints. And that’s primarily accomplished by its 1.6L GDI Dual-CVVT 4-cylinder engine as its propulsion unit. The net effect is 130 horsepower and 119 lb.ft of torque.  Variations between a 4 door sedan, or a more practical 5 door hatch back are available.

Going Back to Basics with its Outer Skin

Despite its kindergarten level complexity in its outer shell, the Accent still manages to display a contemporary look with chrome door handles, enlarged polygonal front grille and LED headlamps. Combine that with full audio and smartphone connectivity on a larger 8″ infotainment screen helps float the Hyundai Accent above the sea water of today’s design and technological expectations – marginally.

Its overall shape remains almost that of a box-like sedan with a modern flare to it. There isn’t much going on in the interior either, and the overall scheme is mostly bland to the visual eye and may even trigger the reminiscence of a car rental. Most of the impression is driven by the boring instrument cluster that’s probably borrowed from the leftover bin.

 

The Drive

Power isn’t going to be expected of much from its smaller 1.6L GDI Dual-CCVT 4 cylinder engine with the choice of a 6 speed manual or automatic transmission. 130 horsepower and 119 lb-ft of torque is all you’re going to be able to squeeze out of its small package and that’s unfortunately, going to be noticeable in its drive and especially prominent on uphill battles, multiple onboard passengers, and the century wait for acceleration to kick in on throttle demand to ramp up.

There’s some good news to be had though. The suspension setup is surprisingly well balanced and steering reacts well on driver demand while remaining planted on all four wheels with minimal body roll. And the absorption of road chatter and wind noise isn’t too shabby either. Excellent fuel economy is rewarded for driving patience with a respectable 28, 32, 30mpg city, highway and combined EPA ratings for both the six speed and manual transmission.

Economical Competence

The Hyundai Accent achieves incredible pricing with a base price tag of just $14,599 with our highest GLS tester model coming in at just $21,099. With that said, I can’t think of any other alternatives that would give you a better bang for the buck for what the Accent has to offer. There’s a lot of things the Accent doesn’t offer for reasons backed by its bargain price tag, but for what it has to offer, the deal just can’t be beat.

Specifications

• Vehicle : 2018 Hyundai Accent
• Model : Hyundai Accent GLS
• Vehicle Type : Sedan / Hatchback
• Seating Capacity : 2+3
• Powertrain Configuration : FWD
• Engine : 1.6L GDI Dual-CCVT 4 cylinder
• Transmission : 6 Speed automatic

Pros

• Amazing bang for the buck
• Basic but contemporary looks
• Great sound insulation within cabin space
• Decent handling capability for its price point.

Cons

• Lack of aesthetics within the cabin interior
• Underpower in various driving conditions due to limited power from the miniature 1.6L four cylinder engine