Hyundai Accent Model Years and History

The Hyundai Accent carries over with minimal changes for 2022.

The Hyundai Accent carries over with minimal changes for 2021.

The Hyundai Accent returns for 2020 with a new engine. It displaces the same 1.6 liters as the outgoing one, but gets considerably better fuel economy thanks to a host of new technology such as dual port injection and improved engine management. Paired with a new Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), mileage jumps to 33 mpg in the city and a very impressive 41 mpg on the highway.

After a full redesign last year, the Hyundai Accent returns for 2019 with relatively few changes. The changes Hyundai have made to the car, result in slightly more features on the lower level models. A chrome grill and beltline, along with fog lights were standard on the limited in 2018 but are now all included on the SEL trim. LED headlights were not available last year, and are now standard on the updated 2019 Limited trim.

The Hyundai Accent is all-new for 2018 as it enters its 5th generational update in the sub-compact category. Unfortunately for hatchback lovers the Accent will only be offered as a sedan this year. Updates for 2018 include a more efficient version of its 1.6L inline 4-cylinder engine as well as improved suspension that results in better handling. Hyundai also claims a 32-percent improved torsional rigidity due to the majority of the vehicle being compromised of high strength quality steel. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are now standard equipment on all SEL and Limited trim level vehicles with automatic emergency braking as available equipment.

The Hyundai Accent remains essentially unchanged for 2017, though a new trim level has been added. The Accent Value Edition adds several notable features at a cost of only $705 more than the base vehicle, staying true to its name by offering buyers more for less.

For 2016, the Hyundai Accent receives a few updates, including an upgraded standard stereo system and a repackaging of trims; GS and GLS trims have been combined into an SE trim.

The Accent gets a mild exterior refresh for 2015, with new headlights, new wheels and a new grill. The interior car has also been touched up with new seating fabrics. Equipment levels are mostly unchanged though the GLS sedan is now available with a Popular Equipment Package. Last year's SE model has now been renamed as the Accent Sport.

For 2014, the Hyundai Accent gets some new standard features, including one-touch triple-flash turn signals, sliding sun visors and a driver's side blind spot mirror, while the standard audio system has been upgraded. SE hatchbacks and Premium Package sedans feature new projector headlights with LED accents, a driver's side auto-up window and tilt/telescopic steering wheel.

For 2013, the Hyundai Accent gets a bump in base price but also a substantial bump in standard equipment. Starting at $14,545, the base 2013 Hyundai Accent GLS now comes with air conditioning, a 6-speaker AM/FM/CD/MP3 player, heated mirrors and a sunglass holder. All 2013 Accents now come with keyless entry and a power sunroof is now optional on SE models.

The Accent has been completely redesigned for the 2012 model year. A new 1.6L engine has been fitted to all models, which makes 138 horsepower and achieves 40 mpg on the highway. Two body styles are available: a 5-door hatchback and a 4-door sedan. The 3-door hatchback has been discontinued. Both feature all-new styling, with new bodylines, larger headlamps and higher-mounted tail lamps helping to give the car a more upscale look. The car's interior has also been completely redesigned for 2012, with a class-leading 21.2 cubic feet of cargo space in the 5-door model.

For 2011, the Hyundai Accent sees only minor changes. Last year's Blue model has been renamed the GL, and the SE now gets a lower price point and 16-inch wheels. The GS now gets a 172-watt sound system with standard MP3 and iPod connectivity. Two new colors join the options list as well: Clearwater Blue and Boston Red.

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.

There are few changes to the Accent for 2009, but fun options like XM satellite radio and an MP3 jack are still available. Thanks to minor tweaks, the gas economy is a bit higher than last year, putting it at 27 mpg city, 35 mpg highway.

Following a redesign in 2006 and the addition of a hatchback in 2007, the 2008 Hyundai Accent arrives with few changes. Among them is a revised instrument panel, as well as some new available features, including a new sport shift lever in manual-equipped SE cars.

For 2007, the redesigned Hyundai Accent adds a GS and sporty SE three-door to the new-for-2006 GLS four-door sedan. ABS brakes are no longer standard, but are available as an option. The Accent still continues to offer loads of safety equipment for the money.