| The Hyundai Accent is roomy, comfortable, well-appointed and practical. Beyond those qualities, it is also commendably fuel-efficient and offered at a very attractive price. For the buyer looking for a strong value for the money in an economical small car, it would be hard to beat the Accent. Power for the Accent comes from a clean and sophisticated 1.6-liter double overhead-cam engine, featuring variable valve timing and delivering 110 horsepower and 106 pound-feet of torque; it is available with either a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission. Perhaps more important, the Accent offers EPA-rated fuel economy numbers of 28 mpg City/34 mpg Highway with the manual transmission, and 27/36 mpg with the automatic. At the same time, the Accent offers a generous list of safety features. Six airbags (front, seat-mounted side-impact, and side-curtain) are standard on all models; antilock brakes with electronic brake-force distribution are optional on the sedan and standard on the sporty SE coupe. The Accent is one of the least expensive cars on the market with these important safety features. For 2010, Hyundai Accent offers some worthwhile changes and enhancements. All 2010 models have notably improved fuel economy. A new Blue edition, offering a lower price and even better fuel economy, is added to the line. Standard equipment now includes iPod/USB ports and blue backlit gauges; and steering-wheel audio controls, cruise control and sunroof on the SE trim level. There is also the availability of steering-wheel audio controls on the GLS and ABS on the GS. We think people in the market for a small, practical, and thrifty car should consider the Hyundai Accent alongside the best from the Japanese name brands. A generous five-year/60,000-mile basic warranty with roadside assistance and a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty make the Accent a particularly good deal for anyone who does not want to buy a used car and intends to keep the vehicle for an extended period of time. |