Famed for its focus on value, Hyundai continued its winning streak with its 2017 Accent, which continues largely unchanged since 2012. A great example of the brand’s strategy of providing high quality cars at affordable prices, this attractive sedan offers pleasant driving dynamics, with plenty of useful amenities. Launched in 2017, its new Value Edition trim included features like four-wheel disc brakes, 16-inch alloy wheels, and cruise control. Available as a five-door hatchback (SE and Sport models, with up to 47.5 cubic feet of cargo capacity) or a four-door sedan (base SE and Value Edition, with up to 13.7 cubic feet of trunk space), the sub- compact 2017 Hyundai Accent seats five passengers in comfort.
Under the Hood
Its 1.6L four-cylinder engine is also one of the few in its class with direct injection, helping it reach 138 hp and 123 lb-ft of torque. For urban driving, its suspension is more than adequate for ensuring a smooth ride, with acceleration that’s close to the fastest in its class, rivaling the Honda Fit and Chevrolet Sonic. Hyundai Accents with front-wheel drives and manual transmissions are rated at a fuel consumption of 8.7 L/100 km city, 6.3 highway, with 8.9/6.3 for automatic models.
Well-Finished Interior
Ranking near the top of its class for space, the 2017 Hyundai Accent includes many standard features. Its well-constructed cabin offers ample room for taller passengers in front, with the second row ideal for kids. Fitted with a tilt-adjustable steering column, power windows, air conditioning and child-proof locks, its seats are cloth-upholstered, with a 60/40-split folding rear seat. Both the Value Edition sedan and Sport hatchback are fitted with a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob; a tilt-and-telescoping steering column, steering-wheel-mounted audio and cruise controls; a blind spot monitor; premium fabric upholstery, and piano-black accents.
Five Trims, Countless Benefits
All five trims of the 2017 Hyundai Accent are available in either the sedan or five-door hatchback:
- The hatchback offers an L trim (six-speed manual only); the LE is six-speed automatic only; the GL and GLS both offer a choice of transmissions; and the SE is automatic only.
- The sedan is available in an L trim with a manual transmission, with the LE, GL, SE, and GLS trims available only as automatics.
Trim Options
The 2017 Accent L has disc brakes at all corners and 14-inch steel wheels; visor mirrors for both front seats, a driver’s armrest, and driver seat height adjustment. It also offers a four-speaker stereo with USB and auxiliary inputs and MP3 support. The LE trim adds air conditioning and a remote starter. The GL trim adds keyless entry, power, and heated mirrors; power windows; a telescoping steering wheel adjustment; cloth door trim; an improved centre console with armrest; heated front seats and folding rear seats; satellite radio, and Bluetooth phone control. The SE trim adds a power sunroof, 16-inch alloys, and fog lights. The top GLS trim adds projector headlights and automatic lights; automatic climate control, matte chrome trim; and a leather steering wheel and shift knob.
Takeaway: With standard safety features that include stability control, traction control, anti-lock brakes, and active front head restraints, the 2017 Hyundai Accent is a budget-friendly ride that’s comfortable for the whole family.
