Hyundai’s entry-level Accent has been completely redesigned for 2006. The new Accent has a stronger emphasis on interior space and safety, while a longer wheelbase, wider track, and larger wheels improve road-holding. The Accent is currently available as a four-door sedan called the GLS, with three-door GS and SE hatchbacks to follow as 2007 models.

We generally hear about Korean manufacturers elbowing their way into Japanese automakers’ territory. With the subcompact market, the roles are being reversed; the 2007 Honda Fit, Nissan Versa, and Toyota Yaris are an attempt to re-take land on which the Koreans have established their dominance. According to the J.D. Power and Associates Sales Report,^SM the Hyundai Accent was the second-best seller in this segment for 2005; it was led only by the Chevrolet Aveo, which is built by fellow Korean automaker Daewoo.