REVIEWS AND ROAD TESTS

Price makes a difference

Hyundai executives owe a lot to the Accent, it has put their stylized H logo at the top of Quebec ’ s list of best-selling sub- compact cars. Hyundai is also greatly indebted to the Accent because since the beginning of this year, it represents nearly 70 % of the company ’ s total sales in Canada.

If you have less than $15,000 to spend on a new vehicle, the Hyundai Accent will definitely be on your shopping list. At first glance, the Hyundai package has its attractions (roomier interior, attractive price), but upon closer inspection the truth emerges. Power steering, air-conditioning and automatic transmission are some of the accessories that are not available on the model advertised at $12,395.Before visiting the interior, it ’ s worth noting that the exterior design is less cheerful than that of the previous generation. The variegated grille gives it an older look. Chalk it up to a question of taste, which like the choice of colours, is not to be discussed.

Both the sedan and hatch-back coupe have the same dimensions and the same wheelbase, so that the interior volume of these two vehicles is virtually the same. A surprising fact, the hatchback version does not offer a larger trunk than the sedan, unlike the earlier model. However, the trunk is still equipped with a large opening that makes loading easier, and it is possible to fold back the back bench partially or fully to help transport cumbersome objects.

The interior has been totally and skillfully updated. Bucket seats are broader and allow for a better driving position (a tad firm, some might complain), a happy contrast to certain competitors who insist on neglecting this very important detail. Both the standard driver ’ s seat and the steering column are height regulated. With its sub-compact, the Hyundai executives in Canada silence once again, those who accuse it of building only cheap vehicles.

The Accents plasticized two tone interior (color and texture) is attractive, but what is even more attractive is the price. In short, quality is noteworthy and the finish is meticulous. The main controls and instruments are well within the driver ’ s reach, and storage spaces are numerous and practical.

The standard model lacks certain pratical accessories, which would make life easier, particularly with the coupe, even if they were available for an additional charge. Among these include rear window washer/wipers (only available on the GSi), and remote- controlled trunk (absent from the options list). Even more irritating: Only the driver is entitled to airbag protection. Can one be comforted by the fact that all Accents come equipped with a tachometer?Renovations have not changed the tried and true 1.5-litre 4- cylinder engine. However, Hyundai engineers have inserted a new engine head and block, designed more sophisticated electronic control system, and fitted the vehicle with new hydraulic supports, which according to engineers will reduce interior noise levels by three (3) decibels.

On paper this motor produce 92 hp. Not enough? Think again.

This engine proves to be extremely energetic and boasts decent accelerations and pickup when outfitted with the 5-speed manual transmission. The latter, formerly the Achilles’ heel of the Accent, has significantly improved, despite slightly deficient synchronization. The optional automatic transmission is a bit brutal and has slow reaction time at pickup.

Behind the wheel, the Accent is more impressive than its predecessor. More stable, more rigid, quieter and especially more pleasant to handle, this Hyundai has obviously improved in many aspects. Base models are regrettably still deprived of the assisted controlled steering, and unless if you plan on developing some muscles, it ’ s worth the $400 charged dy dealers.

Good stability (as long as it ’ s not too windy) and good suspension, you ’ ll appreciate its handling. With an astonishinlgy short radius, the Accent is perfect for busy city streets.

Despite rickety tires 155/80R13 the Accent behaves wonderfully, thanks to its independent suspension that enables it to negotiate turns without too much roll. The Accent absorbs road bumps efficiently for its category. If you ’ re looking for more special effects, the GSi with a firmer suspension and higher performance tires (185/60R14) is the car for you. These two ingredients help prevent understeering and make driving more precise and pleasant.

But the Accent isn ’ t perfect. The brakes (discs in front and drums in back) although improved, can no longer rely on the help of ABS brakes, which is unfortunate, because in emergency situations, particularly wet roads, stability suffers. The Accent is agile, pleasant to drive and affordable, but be wary of its enticing bas price because it excludes a number of invaluable accessories.

PROS
Competitive price
Well-executed revisions
Improved quality

CONS
Weak brakes
Poor quality tires
Sensitive to crosswinds