As Hyundai's least expensive offering, the stylish Accent offers value, economy and reliability at a sub-$16,000 price. No longer the flimsy and Spartan econobox of the past, the Accent looks and feels more substantial than the average subcompact and it comes standard with an amazing 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty. The 2016 Hyundai Accent subcompact comes as a sedan or 5-door hatchback, further expanding its versatility. Although competent, the new Accent isn't as fun to drive as the Ford Fiesta, Chevy Sonic or Honda Fit, and its fuel economy lags behind the Nissan Versa and Toyota Yaris. Then again, none of these competitors can match the Accent's standard 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty.

You'll Like This Car If...

If you're seeking economical transportation that is inexpensive but still playful, the 2016 Hyundai Accent sedan and hatchback hold strong appeal. Optional features, such as heated side mirrors and Bluetooth, don't add much to the bottom line.

What's New for 2016

Hyundai's subcompact 2016 Accent sedan and hatchback receive revised trim names, replacing GLS and GS with SE. The Sport trim's power sunroof option has been deleted.

Driving the Accent

Driving Impressions. The term "economy car" used to imply a small, cramped and Spartan device with few frills. But, in the 2016 Hyundai Accent sedan and hatchback, there is a new definition,...

... one that includes comfort, content and capability. While frugal on the fuel, the Accent's 4-cylinder engine isn't stingy when it comes to power, although we can't sing the same praise for the rubbery and vague 6-speed manual transmission. We'd go with the 6-speed automatic, which delivers better performance and only a 1-mpg reduction in fuel economy. The Accent's seats are comfortable and there's good head- and legroom up front, although the rear seat isn't as generous. As for driving dynamics, the Accent is a capable car, but nowhere near as dialed-in as the Ford Fiesta or Chevrolet Sonic. Not our first choice for twisting back roads, the Accent is much more comfortable in city and highway driving.

Favorite Features

GENEROUS WARRANTY

Although you hope you'll never have to use it, the peace of mind provided by the 2016 Hyundai Accent's generous standard warranty is priceless. The warranty includes 5-year/60,000-mile basic coverage and a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty covering the engine and transmission.

STANDARD 172-WATT AUDIO SYSTEM

Some economy cars don't even offer a radio, let alone a 172-watt, 6-speaker system that comes standard in every Accent. SiriusXM satellite radio and USB/iPod connection are also standard, while Bluetooth for phone and music streaming remains an option.

2016 Hyundai Accent Details

Interior

The 2016 Hyundai Accent sub-compact's 5-passenger interior layout isn't all that exciting, but it is functional. Controls for audio, climate and phone connectivity are easy to locate and use. The backlit buttons and knobs are a nice touch and especially useful at night. Sedan versions of the Accent have a 13.7-cubic-foot trunk and 60/40-split-folding rear seats to accommodate larger items. But the real cargo-carrying hero in this lineup is the Accent hatchback, which offers 47.5 cubic feet of capacity with the seats folded – nearly as much as a small SUV.

Exterior

Using the same "fluidic sculpture" design language incorporated into other newer Hyundai models, the 2016 Accent hatchback and sedan stand out with dynamic and sculptural lines that give this subcompact an upscale look. A newly styled grille, headlights and taillights help keep Hyundai's subcompact looking fresh, especially in 5-door hatchback form. Accent Sport 5-door models look the most appealing with satin-chrome door handles, rear spoiler, fog lights and side mirrors with integrated turn signals. Speaking of mirrors, the driver's-side blind-spot mirror aids visibility.

Under the Hood

All 2016 Hyundai Accent models use a 1.6-liter 4-cylinder engine with gasoline direct injection (GDI) that translates to satisfying throttle response. Offering 137 horsepower and up to 38 mpg, this little engine puts out a good blend of power and efficiency. All Accent models are front-wheel drive and use a standard 6-speed manual transmission or the more recommendable and popular 6-speed automatic transmission with Hyundai's Shiftronic manual control.

1.6-liter inline-4

137 horsepower @ 6,300 rpm

123 lb-ft of torque @ 4,850 rpm

EPA city/highway fuel economy: 27/38 mpg (manual), 26/37 mpg (automatic)

Feel free to Contact Group 1 Hyundai or visit their website for even more detailed information.