2012 Hyundai Accent Video Review

The Hyundai Accent fits into the line-up between the smaller i20 and the larger i30 and Elantra, and competes with the likes of the Mazda2, Ford Fiesta and the Volkswagen Polo.

The Accent is available in four-door sedan and five-door hatch body styles. Of the two, the hatch has a much better ride quality than the sedan.

The base model Active model is best suited to fleets, while private buyers should look up to the Elite and Premium models, which are both well equipped for the price.

All Accents come standard with the maximum five-star crashworthiness rating from ANCAP, a full-size spare wheel and an industry-leading five-year/unlimited-kilometre warranty.

There’s only one engine at the moment – a 91kW/156Nm 1.6-litre petrol engine – but it is set to be joined by a direct-injection petrol engine as well as a diesel option in the near future. The engine itself is acceptable without being inspiring, but the optional four-speed automatic transmission is a bit behind the times.

Inside, the steering wheel would benefit from reach adjustment and there are perhaps a few too many hard plastic surfaces, but in general it’s clean, modern and functional.

Overall, the Hyundai Accent is a strong new contender in Australia’s light car class.

2012 Hyundai Accent manufacturer’s list prices (excluding government and dealer charges):