Tuning Truck

TuningTruck.com's editors have driven the Hyundai Accent—in both hatchback and sedan form—in order to give you an expert opinion. TuningTruck.com's car experts then researched available road tests on the 2009 Hyundai Accent to produce this conclusive review and to help you find the truth where other reviews might differ.

Likes

Excellent fuel economy

Spacious backseat

Nicely styled interior

Dislikes

Uncooperative transmissions

Noisy engine

General lack of power

ABS is optional

As the smallest and least expensive model in Hyundai's U.S. lineup, the Accent comes as a two-door hatchback or four-door sedan. The hatchback this year claims the crown of least expensive U.S.-market passenger car.

The 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine propelling the 2009 Hyundai Accent makes just 110 ponies, which is enough to feel zippy at city speeds, but freeway passing is a matter of careful calculation. However, the lack of horsepower can be overlooked, considering the 2009 Hyundai Accent gets fuel economy figures as high as 35 mpg highway.

The Accent isn’t necessarily an attractive car, but it is efficient with its space. The Accent packs more interior room into its stubby 159.3-inch overall length than the much larger Chevrolet Cobalt or Ford Focus coupe models. There is nothing cramped about the interior, and even the rear seating area offers plenty of leg-, head-, and shoulder room for an average adult male.

While it's no luxury car, the Hyundai Accent's interior looks good and feels durable. TuningTruck.com recently tested an Accent with some ill-fitting dash trim, but the seats are fairly comfortable.

The 2009 Hyundai Accent’s brakes feel strong, but the Accent's manual shift linkage can come across as imprecise. Engine noise is a problem, too. The Accent's basic suspension and light steering give it a fun handling profile, and the SE versions feel even better with their specific tires and suspension settings.

The news isn't good regarding crash-test results. From the IIHS, frontal crash protection is rated "acceptable," while side impact protection is deemed "poor." Federal results are also unimpressive, at three and four stars for side impact. All Accents come standard with front, side, and curtain airbags.

The Bottom Line: The 2009 Hyundai Accent is an affordable, if underpowered, economy vehicle with a tasteful interior.

Other Choices

If you like the 2009 Hyundai Accent, also consider:

- Honda Fit

- Chevrolet Aveo

- Toyota Yaris

- Kia Rio

Reason Why:

The Honda Fit remains the choice vehicle in this class, thanks to its flexible seating arrangement and its smooth four-cylinder engine. In terms of refinement and safety, it truly is a class ahead. The Chevrolet Aveo offers two different body styles and a frugal four-cylinder, but it's still not remotely competitive with the class leaders like the Fit or Yaris. The Yaris has smart style and an enviable reputation behind it, as well as a choice of two- or four-door models. The Kia Rio is essentially the same car as the Hyundai Accent, but it's also offered in a Rio5 wagon format where the Accent offers a three-door coupe.

Buying Tip

For the ultimate in practicality, stick with the four-door, 2009 Hyundai Accent sedan. You get more backseat space, and in the long run, the resale value should be better.