Model Strengths:

Affordability mileage similar to a hybrid; many options are included as standard features; impressive interior passenger room

Model Overview

In addition to the new Accent Blue, the 2010 Hyundai Accent is available in three trim levels: the base GS hatchback, the midrange GLS sedan and the luxurious SE hatchback. All trims have a 1.6L 4-cylinder engine that makes 110 horsepower and 106 pound-feet of torque. The engine is mated to a standard 5-speed manual or an optional 4-speed automatic transmission. (The Accent Blue is only available with a 5-speed manual). MacPherson Struts are used in front and a torsion beam suspension is used in the rear. Standard equipment on the base GS includes air conditioning, interior cargo shade and intermittent wipers. The driver's seat can be manually adjusted six ways, plus the headrests are adjustable. The rear seat splits 60/40 and can be folded down for extra cargo space on all trims. The GLS 4-door sedan adds seatback pockets, a center armrest with cup holders, illuminated vanity mirrors, a CD and MP3 player The sporty SE adds 16-inch alloy wheels, a sport-tuned suspension, fog lights and performance tires. Power windows, doors and mirrors and keyless entry are standard on the SE, optional on the GS and GLS. The SE also gets an upgraded CD/XM/MP3 6-speaker stereo as standard, as well as a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob. A sunroof is available only on the SE and is also standard. All 2010 trims come standard with 4-wheel antilock brakes and front disc brakes. Advanced front airbags, side impact airbags, side head and rear head airbags, tire pressure monitoring and seatbelt pretensioners are also standard.

Model Changes

New for 2010 is a new base trim called Accent Blue, similar to the GS but with different gear ratios and other tweaks intended to give the Accent about a 9% improvement in fuel economy. iPod and USB ports are now standard on all trims. The GLS and SE trims get revised instrument clusters for 2010.

Model Value

Similar to the Rio from Hyundia's Kia group, the Hyundai Accent is one of most affordable cars on the road, with MSRP starting at $9,970 and bumping the top range at just $16,480. There is an impressive 92.2 total cubic feet of passenger room, defying the cramped cabins common with small cars. Fuel economy is also impressive, averaging 28 mpg in the city and 34 mph on the highway.