2012 Hyundai Accent SE Hatchback: An Affordable, Practical Subcompact

Highlight:  The entry-level Accent three-door hatchback has been discontinued for the 2012 model year.

Test vehicle’s MSRP: $16,925 (base GLS model starts at $13,320)

Seating Capacity: 4 occupants (2 adults front, 2 small kids rear)

Standard Safety Features: electronic stability control with traction control; ABS; front side impact airbag; side curtain airbags; front seatbelt pretensioner; a tire pressure monitoring system; and active front head restraints

Standard Equipment SE: 16-inch tires; air condition; steering wheel control; power windows; power door locks; remote keyless entry; leather wrapped tilt steering column; sliding front center armrest with storage box; front foglights; cloth manual adjustable seats; and a
rear spoiler

Trim Levels:

GLS (sedan)
GS (five door hatchback)
SE (five door hatchback)

Standard Audio: a 6-speaker AM/FM/CD with a MP3 and a 90-day subscription to XM satellite radio

Bumper-to-Bumper Warranty: 5 years or 60,000 miles

Powertrain Warranty: 5 years or 60,000 miles

Standard Engine/Horsepower: 1.6-liter, 4-cylinder/138-hp

Recommended Fuel: Regular

Standard Fuel Mileage: 30-city/40-hwy

What’s New: Hyundai rolls into the 2012 model year with a redesign Accent. With the new design, Hyundai engineers also made tweaks underneath the hood, offering a new, fuel-efficient 1.6-liter engine with a 6-speed transmission.

Pros: Besides its sister vehicle, the Kia Rio, the Hyundai Accent SE is one of the best buys in the subcompact category, offering a best-in-class new-vehicle (and powertrain warranty), an adjustable front center armrest, a XM satellite radio subscription and automatic headlights.

And besides this subcompact being loaded with content, buyers can look forward to this roomy subcompact offering comfortable front seats along with ample cargo space, especially when the rear seats are folded down.

     

Cons: When a vehicle is prices at under $17,000 these days, there isn’t much to gripe about, except the fact that the Accent hatchback we reviewed lacked a cargo cover light and illuminated vanity mirrors.

The Verdict: Depending on one’s needs, the redesigned Hyundai Accent can fill the void. It can serve as an affordable practical choice for first-time buyers or as a second vehicle for empty- nesters looking for a fuel-efficient, reliable subcompact with a great sound system.

Now unlike most of today’s well-appointed Hyundais, don’t expect such features as power leather seats or rear heated seats in the Accent. However, for the price point, who expects these features? The Hyundai Accent is definitely worth considering for those in the market for a stylish, heavily contented subcompact backed by a phenomenal warranty.

Competition: Chevy Sonic, Ford Fiesta, Honda Fit, Kia Rio and Toyota Yaris