2019 Hyundai Accent review

What We Like:

Performance: A sports car the Accent is not, but it surprises with its nimble responses, especially through turns and corners where it’s agile and stable, even over the bumpy stuff. The scrappy four-cylinder engine is down seven horsepower in the new model, but it’s still a strong performer — except at highway speeds, where it runs out of breath when attempting a pass or merge. In those situations you’ll need to kick down a gear to get extra power, something you won’t need to do in turbocharged competitors like the Ford Fiesta or Chevrolet Sonic.

Comfort: The 2019 Accent carries over its predecessor’s quiet cabin environment, which is well-isolated from harsher road surfaces and impacts. The Accent’s longer body introduced in 2018 helps here, as does a well-tuned suspension that not only contributes to comfort, but also helps the Accent handle surprisingly well. Inside, the sloping dash creates a roomy feel with excellent headroom. Wide door openings make it easy to get in and out, although a sloping roofline means a bit of a duck into the backseat.

Utility: The Accent’s 13.7 cu-ft of trunk space is average for the class, but Hyundai makes it feel bigger with a large opening, lowered trunk floor and a low bumper, making it easier to wrangle suitcases, boxes and groceries. The rear seats also split in a 60/40 configuration, enhancing the Accent’s cargo space and utility.

What Needs Improvement

Technology: The Accent finally offered a few modern tech features with 5- and 7-inch touchscreens (base model and upper trims, respectively), Apple CarPlay^® and Android Auto^™, Bluetooth^® with voice control, and an upgraded six-speaker sound system. In-dash navigation was not available, leaving buyers to rely on smartphone app solutions, which many might prefer. A rearview camera came standard, while forward collision alert and automatic emergency braking were available, but only on upper trim levels. Better than nothing, but the contemporary Honda Fit offered a full suite of driver’s aids, so it’s disappointing for shoppers on a budget.