New Accent takes the gap

Tweaks to the design have enhanced the Accent's appeal.

Powered by a perky 1.6 litre petrol engine that churns out 91kW and 161Nm, the new player is available with a choice of a six-speed manual or a four-speed automatic gearbox. Both derivatives get their power from an economical four-cylinder 1.6 litre Gamma engine that Hyundai says will deliver a combined fuel usage of 6.4-litres/100km in the case of the manual and 6.8-litres/100km when linked to the automatic. At the same time, it will keep CO2 emissions down to 152g and 161g respectively.

The latest Accent models are already on Hyundai dealers' showroom floors.

Boxy but cheeky

Hyundai has made significant strides in recent times with fresher, Eurocentric looks, improved handling and increased practicality and in spite of its boxy shape the Accent is quite cute and even a touch sporty with a roofline that slopes down and the door bulges going upwards. The cheeky looks are attractively supplemented by nifty alloy 16-inchers, pretty headlights (and fog lights, which are also standard) and the band's new trademark hexagonal grille.

The practical, wide luggage door provides easy access to quite a roomy packing space (with a full-size alloy spare wheel tucked away out of sight). The load capacity can also quick and conveniently increased by simply folding down the rear seats.

Hyundai says will deliver a combined fuel usage of 6.4-litres/100km in the case of the manual and 6.8-litres/100km when linked to the automatic.

The living quarters have lots of pleasing touches and finishes that are far removed from the bargain basement plastic look and feel of a few years back. The cabin is liberally sprinkled with convenience features for both passengers and driver, including a multi-function steering wheel with controls for audio and Bluetooth (the sound system is good and is boosted by four speakers and two tweeters), electric side mirrors and automatic up/down window controls, iPod/USB/Aux ports.

A welcome feature that will go down well with the more senior drivers is a large, clear and easily readable instrument cluster (something that is sadly neglected by many manufacturers in their quest for zip-zap styling and colour combinations). Although the steering wheel is not fully adjustable, the seats are, so finding a comfortable driving position is actually quite easy.

A willing performer

I drove the six-speed manual version on the media launch in the pretty Swartland region and found its engine more than willing, even when pushed briefly into big fine territory. The little hatch sits comfortably on the road and handles twists and turns with steady confidence even when you pour on the coals.

The practical, wide luggage door provides easy access to quite a roomy packing space.

Typical of Korean vehicles, the steering is on the light sight and a tad lacking in feel although it does make for easy parking. The main thing is that it will meet with approval of the target market buyer who is more interested in practicality, price, economy and safety rather than performance.

Hyundai claims its Accent will seat five comfortably although I reckon four would be better on long journeys, particularly if the backseat travellers are adults. The seats are comfortable and all-round vision i9n the airy cabin is good. The ride quality is surprisingly good for a vehicle this size and the safety features and passenger protection lists are impressive, with tick-offs for strengthened body panels, ABS brakes with EBD and lots of airbags.

Hyundai is riding a wave of popularity and success at the moment with sales in excess of 50,300 in South Africa last year and more than 4,4 million vehicles globally to make it the 5th largest automotive company in the world.

Stiff competition

The Accent is a very likeable asset to the Hyundai arsenal - but it does face stiff opposition. The manual competes with the likes of the Chevrolet Sonic, Toyota Auris, Opel Corsa and sister-brand Kia's offerings. The Accent automatic takes on the Honda Jazz and Kia Cerato.

The cabin is liberally sprinkled with convenience features for both passengers and driver.

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But in spite of strong opposition the sales and marketing suits at Hyundai are confident that the Accent will stack up well enough thanks to its punchy performance, style, quality, practicality, price, good ride and safety and convenience features, plus excellent warranty, service plan and roadside assistance. (The projected sales of the latest addition to the Hyundai fleet is between 200 and 250 units for the year ahead).

Unlike modern trends (particularly prevalent with the top three German brands) of offering a long list of fancy and costly optional extras, the Accent has only two additional cost options - leather seats and metallic paint. The Manual retails for R234,900 and the automatic wears a price tag of R244,900.

Specifications

Retail price list as at 1 April 2014

2014 Hyundai Accent Quick Take First Drive Review

2014 hyundai accent interior

Hyundai Accent review from Consumer Reports