2008 Hyundai Accent [ 2007 ]
Based on analysis of 33 Accent reviews and test drives.
Hyundai Accent - What the Auto Press Says
The 2008 Hyundai Accent ranks 12 out of 29 Affordable Small Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 33 published reviews and test drives of the Hyundai Accent, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
The Accent is a good value if you're looking for predictable, no-frills transportation. It doesn't have the performance and sportier styling of some competitors, but few can complain about the low price. If you're in the market for a subcompact car and willing to spend a few thousand more, you should also consider the Honda Civic or Honda Fit for their performance capabilities and more upscale feel.
The 2008 Hyundai Accent's low sticker price and long warranty make it a great buy for drivers seeking a hassle-free economy car. The Hyundai's slow acceleration and less-than-upscale styling are downsides, but most budget car buyers don't expect a Lexus experience. Plus it offers something most Lexus drivers can't boost about -- regular fuel at the gas pump.
According to many, Hyundai's selling point is its lengthy warranty, but while Accent buyers can expect years of worry-free driving, many say Hyundai has a ways to go before establishing the resale value of a stalwart like Honda.
For 2008, the Hyundai Accent comes in three trims, the GS and SE, which are three-door hatchbacks, and the GLS, a four-door sedan. The 2008 Accent carries over from last year virtually unchanged, save a few interior enhancements.
- "It's not exciting -- unless you get jazzed over supercheap stuff -- but the Accent offers a lot for a little." -- U.S. News
- "Put this down as the blue plate special of the day." -- Motor Week
Accent Performance - 6.5 (Mediocre)
The Accent has become a more rigid, better handling car over the years, but most test drivers are still underwhelmed with the engine. "Up to about 40 mph, the Accent feels pretty zippy," BusinessWeek writes. "Short and closely spaced gears help that happen, but the pull to highways speeds reminds you that this is an economy car, not a performance car." Check out our full Performance Review for more on the Accent's handling. continue
Accent Exterior - 7.3 (Good)
Design updates in 2006 and 2007 did little to change perceptions that the 14-year-old Accent is less than eye-catching. To U.S. News' Rick Newman, Accent buyers should "be happy it's not ugly." Click on to our full Exterior Review for more opinions of the Accent's style, or check out our Hyundai Accent Photo Gallery. continue
Accent Interior - 7.1 (Good)
Stepping inside the 2008 Hyundai Accent, drivers are impressed with front seat room and intuitive controls, but some complain about interior materials. Check out the Accent's photo gallery to judge the cabin materials for yourself, or continue with our full Interior Review to read more about the Accent's standard and optional features. continue
Accent Safety - 6.7 (Mediocre)
While the Accent receives reasonably high scores in government crash tests, its insurance industry scores are somewhat low. Continue with our full Safety Review for details on crash scores and safety equipment. continue
Accent Reliability - 8.0 (Very Good)
The 2008 Hyundai Accent reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). Hyundai provides one of the longest warranties for the class, new vehicle coverage for five years or 60,000 miles. Continue with our full Reliability Review for more on the Accent's predicted reliability. continue
