2018 Hyundai Accent Limited: A Premium Subcompact That Drives Like A Bigger Car

Highlight: A rear camera is standard on the Accent.

Test Vehicle’s MSRP: $19,905 (Base Model $15,880)

Seating Capacity: 5

Standard Safety Features: ABS; air bags; a rearview camera; vehicle stability management system; an electronic stability control system; a traction control system; and a tire pressure monitoring system

Standard SE Equipment: 15-inch tires; a 6-speed manual; a remote keyless entry system with an alarm; dual power folding mirrors; hood insulator; tinted, windshield glass; air condition; power windows and door locks; manual adjustable front seats; a passenger seat back pocket;  cloth seats; and a tilt steering wheel

Limited Equipment:  17-inch wheels; a 6-speed automatic transmission; a keyless ignition starter system; a remote keyless unlock/lock system; a chrome grille rear disc brakes; automatic emergency braking; a driver’s blind spot mirror; heated side mirrors; side mirrors with turn signal indicators; chrome exterior door handles; LED Daytime running lights; automatic headlights; LED taillights; front fog lights; a handsfree smart trunk; a power sunroof; a sliding front center armrest; heated front seats; a tilt/telescopic steering wheel; an outside temperature display; an automatic temperature control with a defogger; a leather wrapped steering wheel with a shift knob; a 7-inch infotainment screen with Auto/Apple Carplay; a 6-speaker audio system with SiriusXM; and Hyundai signature Blue Link standard for 3-years  

Optional Features On Test Vehicle: carpeted floormats

Standard Audio On Test Vehicle: a 4-speaker AM/FM/CD

Bluetooth Connectivity: Yes

USB Connectivity: Yes

                                                                                                        

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

Powertrain Warranty: 10 years or 100,000 miles

Standard Engine/Horsepower: 1.6-liter, 4-cylinder/130-hp

Recommended Fuel: Regular Unleaded

Standard Fuel Mileage:
28-city/38-hwy (automatic/manual transmission)

Trims:

SE
SEL

What’s New:  For the 2018 model year, the Accent is all-new. The design theme mimics its larger siblings, the Elantra and the Sonata.

Why:  The all-new subcompact Accent feels and rides more like a compact vehicle. Hyundai has been known for designing roomy, well-equipped interiors. The 2018 Accent does not disappoint in either area.

Hyundai’s fifth generation Accent is available in three trim levels, with either an automatic or a manual transmission. A new trim joins the list of new changes for the 2018 model year. A more upscale Limited model is now available in the subcompact. We had an opportunity to spend time behind the wheel of the Limited model.

The higher end trim included such features as a 7-inch infotainment screen, automatic headlights, a manually operated 6-way driver’s seat, heated front seats, an automatic temperature control ventilation system, a power sunroof and a premium paint job.  These features and more were available for under $20,000. What a bargain!

Added to that, we found the peppy 4-cylinder, 1.6-liter engine to be quite responsive. In fact, the fuel mileage of the 2018 model improved slightly over the outgoing model. And the driver is also able to adjust the driving characteristics of the vehicle between two settings, normal and sport.

Furthermore, the infotainment, which is easy to navigate, is compatiable with all smartphones.

But: Don’t expect a navigation system. One can use their smartphone or another device. And, we found the heated seats, when placed on the lowest setting, provided more warmth than our body could tolerate. So, we can only imagine what the higher level settings produce, in terms of heat.

Verdict: In this segment, we usually suggest to consumers to consider buying a larger pre-owned vehicle. However, with the new upscale Accent, we don’t feel as though we can make such a statement, after spending several days behind the wheel. The Korean-built subcompact really won us over. It is larger, in terms of interior space, than most subcompacts. 

The all-new Accent Limited was outfitted with a number of features that are usually reserved for more premium vehicles. So, for those individuals looking for a first time buyer car, a well-equipped vehicle suitable for city driving car or a vehicle for a young family, the Accent should be at top of one's shopping list. Like all Hyundais, the all-new Accent offers a lot of bang for the buck. Yes, this subcompact offers a heart and soul!

Competition: Chevy Sonic; Ford Fiesta; Honda Fit; Kio Rio; and Toyota Yaris