2014 Hyundai Accent Full Review

The 2014 Hyundai Accent is a subcompact with significant improvements compared to the previous version which brought it to the title of one of the best equipped cars in its price class. It is obvious that Hyundai intended to make an affordable and versatile vehicle – coming in three trim levels and sedan and hatchback body types - but with just enough perks to make it stand out from the rest.

2014 Hyundai Accent

On the Outside

Looking at the 2014 Accent, we have to say that it is up to date. It follows the same line that Elantra and even Sonata are a part of, with some of Hyundai’s own styling solutions. Still, there are significant differences in the appearances of the two body types.

The hatchback is just great. It has that familiar profile that adds a lot to the aggressive side of even very inhibited cars (which the Accent is not), so, combined with several sharpened edges and ascending profile line, the side view makes the 2014 Accent hatchback look just beautiful.

Hyundai Accent Hatchback

On the other hand, the sedan seems far more timid. The side ascending line is still present, but the relatively short and very angled hood and similar rear window and trunk make the car’s top seem like one continuous line. Now, this continuous line is generally a good idea that adds a lot of style and smoothness to larger cars, but when a car is on the short side, as is the case with the sedan version of the Accent, there is not enough space for the line to develop and the car’s top line seems a bit egg-shaped. If there weren’t for the small upward part at the end of the trunk, the sedan would be a bit reminiscent of the very rare sedan version of the Peugeot 206, which was disliked as much as the 206 hatchback was adored.

Hyundai Accent Sedan

Simply a lot better than the sedan

The front of both versions is great. Large, angled headlights direct the eyes to the elongated trim on the grille that holds the Hyundai logo. The front seems a bit massive, which is good, but this is a feature of almost every modern car regardless of its class.

Both versions look the same from the front

Exterior features include the body-colored handles, optional fog lights, 14-inch steel wheels and a lot better looking 16-inch alloy ones, optional projector headlights with LED accents, while the hatchback also features the rear washer and wiper and optional rear spoiler and sunroof.

16-inch alloy wheels

On the Inside

The cabin is even better. The low-gloss plastic elements are of surprisingly high quality, which is not often the case with modern cars even in more expensive models. The dashboard finish reminds of carbon fiber and this adds a lot to the cars appeal.

Surprisingly good materials of the interior

The central console is big enough and easy to use, even though the space around the small, but very clear screen is packed with buttons. Each of the buttons has an unambiguous function and is large enough to be pressed easily even without looking after some time in the car has been spent. The dials under the screen control the air conditioning. The central console is not as prominent or modern as it is in some of the competitors’ cars – namely the new Fiesta – but this is actually a good thing because in a car of these dimensions it leaves a lot more room for passengers, while still retaining full functionality and serving the design purpose.

Well designed and lit interior

Driver’s position is good, everything is at hand and easy to use and the steering wheel is just perfect – it has a somewhat conventional shape, but with large buttons and silver details that make it pretty stylish. Looking at the instrument cluster is a pleasant experience, due to softly colored lights and fine placement of all the elements.

Nice, clear and easy to read instrument cluster of the 2014 Hyundai Accent

There is no navigation or leather upholstery available, but, depending on the trim level, you can get keyless entry, alarm, air conditioning, auto up driver's window, telescoping steering wheel, sliding sun visors, one-touch turn signals, stereo with iPod connectivity and MP3, USB port, satellite radio cruise control and audio controls on the steering wheel, chrome door handles and even Bluetooth connectivity. The interior has a far better finish than in most of Hyundai Accent’s competitors.

Just some of the useful modern features

Rear space is pretty good. Five people will not welcome a longer journey in the new Accent – which is the case with all cars in this class - but four will have more than enough room. The only downside is the headroom in the sedan version which can be a bit insufficient for taller passengers.

Not very roomy, but not cramped up either

2/3 folding rear seats add a lot to practicality of the 2014 Accent

They do not give way to flat surface at the back, but the space gain is still significant

Under the Hood

All three trim levels have the same engine – a 1.6l, four-cylinder unit that produces 138hp and 123 lb-ft of torque. However, even though it produces the most power of all the cars in the class, it is still kind of unremarkable to drive getting to 62mph in about 10 seconds. The engine can be paired up with a six-speed manual or optional automatic both of which provide great MPG figures ranging between 27mpg in the city and 38mpg on the highway. Automatic version also has the Active Eco button that adjusts the response of the engine and transmission to provide better fuel efficiency.

When it comes to safety, it is pretty standard. Side impact tests showed somewhat lower results, but altogether the 2014 Hyundai Accent safety figures are pretty typical of the class including anti-lock brakes, traction control, side curtain air bags and side impact airbags at the front, active headrests and electronic stability control.

The Verdict

If you are on a budget that does not surpass $20,000, getting a 2014 Hyundai Accent is definitely a good idea. It provides luxury and comfort that surpasses most of its competitors; it looks better than most of them and requires reasonable expenditure with amazing balance between fuel efficiency, performances and space that is available. The sedan version is recommended only to buyers who require more trunk space than the hatchback offers, while everything else is on the hatchback’s side – it looks a lot better, has more perks available and even the company put higher emphasis on it. Still, as with any other car in this class, you cannot expect too much. It is a matter of preference and only a test ride will tell you if this car is perfect for you. On the paper, it looks like it could be.

Photos: http://www.netcarshow.com/