2008 Hyundai Accent Review

Hyundai's entry-level Accent is certainly worth a look for anyone interested in an inexpensive people-mover. With fresh styling and the choice of either a hatchback coupe or a sedan, the Accent offers something for most buyers.

The hatchback comes in either GS or SE trim, while the sedan is only available in GLS dress. All Accents are front-wheel drive and powered by a 16-valve, 1.6L inline four-cylinder putting out 110 horsepower. Each car comes standard with a five-speed manual transmission, which allows for 27 mpg city/32 mpg highway, while a four-speed automatic with overdrive is available.

The GS hatchback is the barebones choice. It rides on 14-inch steel wheels, features manual mirrors, tilt steering, and a 60/40 split flat-folding rear seat. Power mirrors, keyless entry, a six-speaker CD stereo, a urethane B&M manual sport shifter, and air conditioning are optional, either on their own or as part of a Premium Package, which also adds power windows.

The SE is a sportier option featuring sport-tuned suspension and 16-inch alloy wheels. Fog lamps and a rear spoiler complete the look. Tinted glass, a rear wiper with washer, dual power mirrors and remote keyless entry come standard. Inside, standard features include a six-speaker CD stereo, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, a B&M manual sport shifter, a rear center armrest, air conditioning, and metallic accents. A power sunroof is part of a $1,250 Sun & Sound Package.

The GLS finds the happy medium between the GS and SE in its equipment. Like the GS, it rides on 14-inch steel wheels, though 15-inch alloys are optional. Like the SE, it features tinted windows, the rear center armrest, and illuminated vanity mirrors. Unique to the GLS are rear door pocket storage compartments. On automatic-equipped cars, a Premium Package adds ABS, remote keyless entry, and power windows, mirrors, and locks.

For the safety-conscious, all Accents come with dual front advanced air bags, front side-curtain air bags, and a tire-pressure monitoring system. Anti-lock brakes are not available on the GS, while they are standard on the SE and optional on the GLS.
Following a redesign in 2006 and the addition of a hatchback in 2007, the 2008 Hyundai Accent arrives with few changes. Among them is a revised instrument panel, as well as some new available features, including a new sport shift lever in manual-equipped SE cars. see less