FYI: Hyundai rolls out the 2020 Accent with notable efficiency upgrades and premium features, making it a top contender in the affordable sedan market.
The 2020 Hyundai Accent: A Refined Subcompact Sedan
The 2020 Hyundai Accent continues to capture attention as Hyundai’s entry-level model, combining comfort, affordability, and efficiency into one sleek package. Starting at just $16,250 for the base model with a manual transmission, the Accent offers a compelling option for budget-conscious buyers.
Performance and Efficiency
Under the hood of the 2020 Accent, you’ll find a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine generating 120 horsepower and 113 pound-feet of torque. While this marks a slight decrease from the previous year—10 horsepower and 6 pound-feet of torque, to be precise—the trade-off comes in the form of improved fuel efficiency. The switch from last year’s six-speed automatic transmission to a continuously variable transmission (CVT) enables the Accent to achieve over 40 mpg on the highway, a significant improvement that makes it an economical choice for daily commuting.
Premium Features in the Limited Trim
Our test vehicle, the top-tier Limited model, was equipped with several high-end features typically reserved for pricier cars. With a total price of $20,365, this model included:
- Automatic emergency braking
- Blind spot monitoring
- 17-inch alloy wheels
- Sunroof
- Fog lights and LED daytime running lights
- Automatic climate control
- Heated front seats
- Leather-wrapped steering wheel and shifter
- Six-speaker sound system
- 7-inch infotainment system supporting Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
These features add a layer of luxury and safety that make the Accent stand out in the crowded subcompact sedan market.
Spacious Interior
Associate Editor Byron Hurd noted that, despite its classification as a subcompact, the Hyundai Accent feels surprisingly roomy inside. The EPA even rates it as a size larger in terms of interior volume, enhancing its appeal for those who value space without the larger footprint.
Comparison with Competitors
When comparing the Accent to its competitors, such as the new-generation Nissan Versa, the Accent stands out for its interior space and well-rounded features. While the Versa has a notably large trunk, Hyundai has focused on optimizing interior space for passenger comfort.
Driving Experience and Practicality
Assistant Editor Zach Palmer remarked on how often small, affordable cars like the Accent are overlooked in favor of taller crossovers. Yet, the Accent remains a fun-to-drive car with a well-equipped interior. The new CVT does a commendable job of mimicking traditional gear shifts, making the driving experience more engaging. The trade-off for the CVT is minimal, especially considering the substantial improvement in fuel economy.
The Verdict
Associate Editor Joel Stocksdale added that he has been a fan of the Accent since first driving the base manual version. Despite the engine’s lower power output, it feels peppy and responsive. The Accent is roomy, comes with essential features, and provides excellent fuel economy, making it a highly recommended option for those seeking a cheap new car.
However, buyers may also want to consider the 2020 Hyundai Venue, a hatchback that offers a stylish design, a funky interior, and better cargo capacity, all while delivering a similar driving experience to the Accent.
Conclusion
The 2020 Hyundai Accent strikes a compelling balance of affordability, efficiency, and premium features. If you’re in the market for a budget-friendly sedan that doesn’t compromise on comfort or quality, the Accent is definitely worth considering.
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Jack Carney, Editor of Automotive.fyi
