2009 Hyundai Accent
The subcompact Hyundai Accent first arrived on our shores in 1995. Now in its third generation, the Accent is available in both 3-door hatchback and 4-door sedan models. The standard engine, shared with all models, is a 1.6-liter 4-cylinder. A 5-speed manual transmission is standard on the front-wheel-drive car, with a 4-speed automatic transmission optional. The Hyundai Accent, with the automatic transmission, earned fuel economy ratings of 26 mpg city and 35 mpg highway in EPA testing. The front suspension is independent, while the rear is a torsion beam design. Brakes are front disc/rear drum with anti-lock control (ABS) standard on the SE; optional on the GLS models. In our 2008 Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS), measuring problems experienced by original owners of 3-year-old vehicles, the Hyundai Accent ranked highest in its segment. It also fared well in our 2008 Initial Quality Study (IQS). In that industry benchmark for new-vehicle quality measured at 90 days of ownership, the Hyundai earned a top-three ranking in its segment. In crash testing, the Accent was awarded “5-star” crash test scores from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)—just keep in mind that frontal crash ratings for small cars apply only if the car impacts another vehicle of about the same size and weight. The 2009 model year brings new option packages and cruise control across the lineup, while the SE model gains a sunroof.
2009 Small Cars Buyer's Guide
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