The subcompact market isn't usually known for its sophistication or style, yet Hyundai's 2011 Accent will likely surprise buyers with its handsome looks and upscale dynamics. Bowing at the recent Beijing auto show, the all-new Accent clearly expresses the South Korean automaker's desire to achieve parity with the market leaders from Japan. Positioned to do battle with the popular Toyota Yaris and Honda Fit, the Accent, now in its fourth generation, benefits from a newly designed chassis and updated four-cylinder power.
As the smallest and least expensive vehicle in Hyundai's lineup, the 2011 Accent slots in below the Elantra sedan, offering commuters and young families a capable and fuel-efficient vehicle that's priced under $15,000. Though final U.S. specifications have yet to be announced, the 2011 Accent (known globally as the Verna) possesses generous dimensions, including the class's longest wheelbase. Hyundai will offer the 2011 Accent as both a four-door sedan and a five-door hatchback. The new Accent sedan is already on sale in China (illustrating that market's increasing importance to manufacturers) and should arrive in the U.S. early next year.
Though many popular subcompacts have focused on quirky styling (think Nissan's Cube), Hyundai has clearly tried to imbue the 2011 Accent with a more traditional, upscale look. The new Accent's shape is very much inspired by Hyundai's midsize Sonata sedan and reflects the company's new design theme. The 2011 Accent's front fascia features a smiling chrome grille and sweeping, multi-element headlights. A sharp, creased character line adorns the Accent's flanks and culminates in a kicked-up deck lid that is finished with chrome accents. The overall package is quite handsome, with an understated elegance that belies the Accent's bargain price.
Under the skin the 2011 Accent gets an all-new chassis with special high tensile strength steel. The beefed-up platform will likely provide an excellent ride, banishing much of the tinniness that sometimes afflicts cars of this ilk. The stronger chassis should also raise the bar for crash protection in the subcompact class; expect the 2011 Accent to feature a full complement of airbags and possibly standard antilock brakes.
Powering the 2011 Accent is a revised version of Hyundai's Gamma inline four-cylinder engine. Featuring all-aluminum construction for weight savings, this 1.6-liter motor also makes use of direct gasoline injection and dual variable valve timing. Expected to deliver around 120 hp and 115 lb-ft of torque, the new Gamma mill should move the Accent along quite smartly.
While Hyundai has lavished considerable attention on the powerplant, the new Accent's four-speed automatic transmission is a slightly disappointing throwback, especially as Honda now offers a five-speed unit in the Fit. A five-speed manual gearbox will likely be standard, and while Hyundai's sticks aren't known for slick operation, the standard shift will likely improve both fuel economy and acceleration while keeping the price down.
Inside, Hyundai has graced the 2011 Accent with the most impressive design in its class. While interior appointments often get short shrift in subcompacts, the Accent's fresh, modern design should win over many buyers. The dashboard features a sweeping, symmetrical design with all controls mounted within easy reach. The classy, integrated stereo system sits within a glossy, black trim piece so upscale that it makes the climate control knobs seem cheap by comparison. The Accent's thick, sporty steering wheel is another nice touch. The long (for its class) wheelbase and wide stance should provide generous, if not quite limousine-like, passenger room.
With its snazzy design and class-leading spec sheet, the 2011 Accent figures to be a strong competitor in the small-car sweepstakes. It seems that every succeeding Hyundai model is head and shoulders above its predecessor in terms of quality and refinement. With the 2011 Accent, Hyundai has not only eclipsed its own prior achievements but leapfrogged the entire subcompact class. While the sporty Honda Fit's performance might endear it to enthusiast drivers, the new Accent's overall competence and elegant styling should lure budget-conscious buyers who don't want to make any sacrifices.
