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Hyundai Veloster

N Line Debut: 2019 Hyundai Elantra GT

September 20, 2019 by admin 1 Comment

N Line performance comes to Hyundai.


The N Line is the new name for the previous Sport.
Lots of updates, including performance tires set within alloy wheels.

Hyundai offers the compact Elantra in sedan and hatchback body styles, the latter known as the Elantra GT. For 2019, the first “N Line” model arrives, this one serving as the top trim for the GT.

The N Line replaces the GT Sport, but it represents much more than a name change. Indeed, this particular model benefits from stiffer engine and transmission mounts, taut springs, enhanced steering and shocks tuning, and new front and rear sway bars.

Ultimately, when you hear “N Line” you should know that it represents the entry-level style and performance category for Hyundai’s wider N performance line. Models denoted with just an “N” supply maximum power, something we’re seeing in the all-new Veloster. It is doubtful we’ll witness an Elantra GT N, but the N Line offers its own design and performance characteristics, which we’ll explore as we discuss the model at hand.

2019 Hyundai Elantra GT

Hyundai offers the standard Elantra GT ($20,450), the N Line with a manual transmission ($23,300), and the N Line with a dual-clutch automatic transmission ($24,400). This front-wheel-drive five-door hatchback holds five.

The Elantra GT competes with the Mazda 3, Volkswagen Golf, and the Honda Civic. In particular, the Golf STi and Civic Si are the nearest competitors to the N Line.

N Line Design

If the Hyundai Elantra GT N Line evokes a reminder of the Volkswagen GTi, that’s on purpose. Its silhouette is sporty, with pulled-in corners and a lowered stance. A bold mesh grille, large air intakes, sleek LED lighting elements, crisp lines, beautiful 18-inch alloy wheels, and a rear diffuser with dual exhaust, mark this model. Subtle design elements, including black side mirrors and black beltline trim, are also evident. There’s nothing “budget” about the N Line, rather there’s a quiet sophistication that should appeal to a certain breed of shoppers.

Inside, the N Line verve continues with its N Sport, bolstered bucket seats. They’re leather-trimmed with contrasting red dual stitching. The steering wheel and shifter are wrapped in leather, but that sliding armrest is covered in imitation leather. Hyundai did a remarkable job with making it feel like the real thing, however.


Red stitching and leather trim are N Line hallmarks.

Two large dials occupy the instrument panel. To the left is the tachometer. Set within it is a smaller gas readout. To the right is the speedometer. And set within that is the fuel gauge. Smack in the middle is a digital driver’s information center. A layered dashboard, a sporty steering wheel (no flat bottom!), metal pedals, and red trim surrounding the vents are among the more fetching visual cues present.

Practically speaking, the N Line is very comfortable for two, manageable for four, and very tight for five. Back seat legroom is lacking, which is typical of the segment. Figure that most owners buy this car for their ride and fold down the rear seat for long trips away from home. In doing so, you’re rewarded with 55.1 cubic feet of storage space, up from the standard 24.9 cubic feet.

On the Road

The power under the hood is one thing. How any car ultimately handles is what makes all the difference.

With the N Line, Hyundai swapped out its torsion-beam rear suspension for a multi-link setup, which combined with its rigid body and balanced chassis, enables this hatch to cut up corners and stay planted on the road. Steering is light, yet accurate. Torque steer barely registers and when it rears itself, it isn’t the distraction it might be on other models.

The 1.6-liter turbo-four makes for a proper match for the little hatchback. The turbo spools up quickly and with authority. Our test model had the 7-speed dual-clutch transmission, which is an upgrade from the 6-speed manual gearbox. We relished the idea of driving with the manual but made do with the automatic and the steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters. In any case, your 0-to-60 mph time should approach 6 seconds, which is laudable.

With lots of twisty roads ahead of us, we sought them out with glee. The N Line did not disappoint as it pushed its way into every curve and pulled out again without any negative drama. In fact, except for the most angled curves, we didn’t have to release the gas pedal — the N Line stayed within the lines.


Style, power, and performance mark this very special Elantra GT version.

There are a few points to keep in mind about the engine. It certainly is capable, but it is quieter than what we’d expect. Further, the exhaust doesn’t burble and toot to the extent we’d want. Perhaps Hyundai wanted to make a distinction between N Line and N models — we haven’t tested the latter yet, however.

What we’d like to see from Hyundai is available all-wheel drive, especially in a model to take on the “no longer offered in the U.S.” Ford Focus RS. We know Hyundai has been testing an i30 N in Europe (the i30 is another name for the Elantra) and that move would elevate Hyundai’s performance brand to also take on the Volkswagen Golf R. We think this will happen, perhaps in Veloster guise, which would give Hyundai a level of performance excitement we haven’t seen since the Genesis Coupe.

Auto Trends Recommends

If you’re shopping the Elantra GT and want a performance edge, then the N Line is worth a look.

Our N Line tester retailed for nearly $30,000 as it included the dual-clutch transmission and the Tech Package ($3,850). That package bundles such items as a panoramic sunroof, navigation, ventilated front seats, a premium audio system, wireless charging pad, and expanded driver-assist features, including adaptive cruise control with full stop and go.

Importantly, the N Line adds many of the tuner features enthusiasts want. That said, the aftermarket parts industry has an assortment of electronics, fuel delivery and exhaust systems, and kits to stir your heart. And with Ford, Chevy, and Dodge cutting back or retreating from the segment, Hyundai offers a compelling hatchback to replace your old ride.


2019 Hyundai Elantra GT N Line Specifications


Hyundai 2019 Elantra GT N Line
Segment Compact Hatchback
Price Range $23,300 or $24,400
Destination Charge $930
Standard Engine 1.6-liter, turbo I4
Horsepower 201 @ 6000
Torque (lb.-ft.) 195 @ 1500~4500
Transmission 6-speed manual; 7-speed DCT
Seating 5
Curb Weight (pounds) 3,014 to 3,155
Wheelbase (inches) 104.3
Length (inches) 170.9
Width (inches) 70.7
Height (inches) 57.7
Headroom (f,r…inches) 39.1; 38.5
Legroom (f,r…inches) 42.2; 34.8
Shoulder room (f,r…inches) 56.2; 55.4
Hip room (f,r…inches) TBD
Storage (cubic feet) 24.9; 55.1
Gross vehicle weight (pounds) 4,079
Towing (pounds) NR
Payload (pounds) NR
Fuel Regular
Fuel Tank (gallons) 14.0
EPA Fuel MPG (city/highway/combined) 25/32/27
Manufacturing Plant Montgomery, Alabama

Data compiled by Tom Keegan. Specifications supplied by the manufacturer. Photos copyright Auto Trends Magazine. All rights reserved.


See Also — Compact Delight: 2018 Hyundai Elantra GT

Filed Under: New Car Reviews Tagged With: dual-clutch transmission, hatchback, HONDA CIVIC SI, Hyundai, Hyundai Elantra GT, Hyundai Veloster, Mazda 3, N Line, turbo, Volkswagen Golf STi

The History of the Hyundai Tiburon

June 14, 2019 by admin 2 Comments

The Hyundai Tiburon represents one of this Korean automaker’s earliest forays into the sport coupe segment. It was produced from 1997 to 2008, replacing the earlier Scoupe before it was succeeded by the Hyundai Veloster and later the Genesis Coupe. The Hyundai Tiburon is a favorite car for the tuner set, people who like to customize their vehicles with engine swaps and aftermarket car parts. The Tiburon may also be a very good used car value if you are shopping for an affordable, front-wheel-drive car.


The second-generation Hyundai Tiburon has an aggressive stance, not unlike the later Genesis Coupe.

Hyundai Tiburon Overview

Tiburon is an island in the Gulf of California, located just off the coast of Sonora, Mexico. It is a Spanish word for shark, the name that Hyundai chose for its second attempt at a sport coupe model in the 1990s.

The Hyundai Tiburon was sold as a three-door hatchback through its 11-model-year, two-generation run. The first-generation model was sold from 1997 to 2001; the second-generation Tiburon was sold from 2003 to 2008. No 2002 model was built.

First Generation Highlights

When the Hyundai Tiburon made its debut, two engines were offered. The base model comes equipped with a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine rated at 130 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and making 122 foot-pounds of torque at 5,000 rpm. It’s paired with a five-speed manual transmission.


The first-generation Tiburon included this styling refresh to the front fascia.

Also available is a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, rated at 140 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and making 133 foot-pounds of torque at 4,800 rpm. It, too, comes with a five-speed manual transmission.

The base engine was dropped after the first year with the larger four standard across the model line through 2001.

First-Generation Exterior and Interior

Taking inspiration from the HCD II concept that made its debut at the 1993 Chicago Auto Show, the first-generation Hyundai Tiburon features a sport fascia, sculptured hood, strong shoulders, and sport coupe body lines. Base models have 14-inch wheels and tinted glass. Options include a rear spoiler, fog lights, alloy wheels, and keyless entry — standard features on the Tiburon FX.

Inside, the first-generation Hyundai Tiburon has 2+3 seating, with bucket seats up front and a fold-down bench seat in the back. Standard features include cloth seating, a tilt steering wheel, power windows and door locks, power side mirrors, an AM/FM cassette audio system, and power steering.


A rear spoiler is standard on all second-generation Tiburon models.

Second Generation Highlights

Beginning in 2003, the second-generation Hyundai Tiburon became available. Base and GT editions were sold initially with the model line further divided into GS, GT, SE and Limited editions before it was canceled following the 2008 model year.

The standard engine is a 2.0-liter four-cylinder rated at 138 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 136 foot-pounds of torque at 4,500 rpm. A five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic are the transmission choices.

A 2.7-liter V-6 is the upgraded engine, rated at 172 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 181 foot-pounds of torque at 3,800 rpm. This engine works with either a five- or six-speed manual transmission or with a four-speed automatic transmission.

Second Generation Exterior and Interior

Fresh sheetmetal and a sportier look define the second-generation Hyundai Tiburon. That model has a more sophisticated looking front air dam, flared headlamps and improved sporty design characteristics on its profile and along the rocker panels. For the first time, a rear spoiler is standard and all models come outfitted with either 16- or 17-inch alloy wheels.


The Tiburon’s cabin is sporty and snug.

Inside, the 2003 to 2008 Hyundai Tiburon features cloth or leather sport bucket seats and a fold-down split rear seat. Standard and available features include remote door locks, a tilt steering wheel, climate control, 12-volt power outlets, heated side mirrors, a six-speaker Kenwood audio system, XM satellite radio, and Bluetooth connectivity.

Years after the Hyundai Tiburon was last available new, it offers value to used car shoppers. Pricing differences between four- and six-cylinder models should be noted, with equipment options offering further cost separation. Among the competing models of that era were the Chevrolet Cobalt SS, Scion tC, and the Mitsubishi Eclipse.


See Also — Hyundai Veloster N: Namyang Performance

Photos copyright Hyundai Motor America.

Filed Under: Classics & Discontinued Models Tagged With: CLASSIC CAR, front-wheel drive, Hyundai, Hyundai HCD II concept, Hyundai Scoupe, Hyundai Tiburon, Hyundai Veloster, SPORT COUPE

Hyundai Veloster Dissection: All-New Second-Generation Model

August 17, 2018 by admin 12 Comments

The new Veloster targets entry-level performance enthusiasts.

2019 Hyundai Veloster Turbo
A new look for Hyundai’s sporty three-door coupe.

The Hyundai Veloster is back and is ready for round two. After a six-year model run, Hyundai seemed to have called it quits with its quirky compact coupe, but following a one-year hiatus, an all-new model has emerged.

The 2019 Hyundai Veloster reflects an important overhaul for this coupe, but the dimensions are roughly the same as before. Some of the familiar attributes, including the three-door layout, are unchanged. Besides its new styling, the 2019 Veloster has a more powerful base engine and will see a late arriving performance “N” model join the model line.

Hyundai supplied a 2019 Veloster Turbo Ultimate for my review. We’ll examine this model and I’ll share my driving impressions. But first, let’s take a look at how Hyundai is marketing the Veloster this year. You’ll want to know, because equipment and prices vary.

2019 Hyundai Veloster Turbo


(See Also — Hyundai Kona: New B-Segment SUV)


2019 Hyundai Veloster Overview

The Hyundai Veloster is a coupe with three doors. Yes, you heard that right.

On the driver’s side, is a normal (or large) door. On the passenger side are a pair of smaller doors. The rear door features a fully functional design with the handle placed in the rear pillar. It provides a sensible (and smart) way to access the second row, which is often problematic in traditional coupes.

This model seats four. The rear storage compartment is deep and measures 19.9 cubic feet. That’s more space than any full-size sedan. Access to the storage area is by means of a liftgate. The rear seats also fold, extending that storage space considerably.

2019 Hyundai Veloster Turbo

Veloster 2.0

You can begin your Veloster build by opting for the standard Veloster 2.0 model. Priced from $19,385, this one comes with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, which makes 147 horsepower and 132 pound-feet of torque. This model comes with a six-speed manual gearbox. If you prefer the six-speed automatic, you’ll pay $1,000 for the upgrade.

2019 Hyundai Veloster TurboThe standard features list for the Veloster 2.0 includes projector headlights with an automatic on/off function, LED daytime running lights, 17-inch alloy wheels and a rear spoiler. Inside, you’ll find power windows, power door locks, a tilt-and-telescopic steering wheel and air conditioning.

Among the tech features the Veloster includes a six-speaker audio system and a 7-inch color display. Hyundai also includes dual USB charging ports, an auxiliary input jack, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone compatibility. A rearview camera is standard. Hyundai also supplies lane keep assist and forward collision avoidance. There are no packages available with this trim.

Veloster 2.0 Premium

As well equipped as the standard model is, the 2.0 Premium ratchets things up considerably. This one costs from $23,635 and includes the automatic transmission.

2019 Hyundai Veloster TurboAt this trim level, you’ll find such premium features as 18-inch alloy wheels and a sunroof. The most significant improvements occur inside where an eight-speaker Infinity audio system is matched with an 8-inch display. Hyundai’s Blue Link connected car services are added as is satellite radio and a wireless charging pad.

Paddle shifters, automatic temperature control and heated front seats are included. Again, there are no packages available with this trim.

Veloster Turbo R-Spec

In the middle of the pack is the Turbo R-Spec model, which brings in the turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine. This engine makes 201 horsepower and 195 pound-feet of torque and works with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Hyundai prices this model from $23,785, which is just $150 more than the 2.0 Premium.

2019 Hyundai Veloster TurboThe R-Spec adds such sporting features as a unique front grille and rear spoiler, summer performance tires and a unique sport-tuned suspension. You’ll also find dual-exhaust tips, a 4.2-inch color instrument cluster, special cloth seating and alloy pedals.

The active engine sound feature pumps exhaust noise into the cabin. No packages are available with the Turbo R-Spec.

Veloster Turbo

The Veloster Turbo makes one crucial change. It replaces the six-speed manual in the R-Spec with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. Thus, the $26,285 starting price.

2019 Hyundai Veloster TurboThis model also gains drive mode select, unique cloth/leather seats, power lumbar support for the driver’s seat and a perforated leather steering wheel.

On the safety front, the Veloster Turbo gains blind-spot warning with rear cross-traffic collision warning. Once again, there are no packages available with this trim.

Veloster Turbo Ultimate

My test model was the Turbo Ultimate, which costs $27,535. Add $1,500 for the DCT.

This model adds a few important features, including a two-tone black roof and rain-sensing wipers. The seats are wrapped in leather and you’ll find several safety tech upgrades. These include: forward collision-avoidance assist with pedestrian detection, smart cruise control (DCT only) and a head-up display.

There are no package upgrades with this trim, although you can make the case that the Ultimate is the package upgrade for the Turbo.

2019 Hyundai Veloster Turbo

The Upcoming Veloster N

Hyundai fans are excited about the upcoming Veloster N for two reasons.

1), A bona fide performance model comes to the Veloster line. It features a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 250 to 275 horsepower. That’s a fantastic amount of power for this little coupe.

2), This model will take on the likes of the Ford Focus ST and the Volkswagen GTI. Yes, the Focus will be gone from the market by the time the Veloster N arrives. Nevertheless, it’ll allow Hyundai to capture current Mazdaspeed and Mitsubishi Lancer owners as well as Ford fans who still want an affordable performance model.

By the way, the “N” designation is for the company’s Namyang design studio in Korea. If it sounds a lot like “M” for BMW, that’s the intention. As for the remaining product information, we’ll have to wait until the N rolls out in the coming months.

2019 Hyundai Veloster Turbo

2019 Hyundai Veloster Turbo Ultimate Driving Impressions

Slip behind the wheel of the Veloster and you’ll notice that the forward sight-lines are decent, but the rear sight-lines are limited. The sloping roof and large rear pillars make for a pair of huge blind spots on this vehicle. This is where you’ll rely much on the side mirrors as well as head turns to see around those spots.

The front seats are quite supportive and they’re comfortable. No doubt, the leather-trimmed seats in my Veloster Turbo Ultimate are better than those in the base Veloster 2.0 model. They also have red piping, which also appears on the steering wheel and the center stack for a sporty expression. The metal pedals are handsome and feel solid to the touch.

The ignition switch is located immediately to the right of the steering wheel, occupying the far left side of the center stack. The transmission shifter feels firm — you’ll want to place it in sport mode and work with the steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters from time to time. The paddles are one of the few disappointments I found in this model — they’re plastic and mounted to the wheel itself. My preference is for large titanium paddles connected to the column, which prevents crossing your arms as you make turns.

Turbo Engine and a Dual-Clutch Transmission

The Veloster’s engine is not new to me. It is the same one found in the Elantra GT and is also used in other Hyundai products. It is also an ideal match for the lightweight Veloster.

Activate the ignition and engage the transmission and you’re off. Even before the turbo spools, there is ample power at the ready.

2019 Hyundai Veloster TurboPress hard on the gas pedal and the turbo jumps in, delivering sufficient kick. The mode selector defaults to normal with sport and smart the other options. The latter mode controls the amount of digitally supplied exhaust noise delivered to the cabin. If you don’t like the drone you can turn it off through the control screen. Otherwise, the sport and smart modes control throttle response and steering effort.

The Veloster Turbo excels on the twisty roads as it does on the straightaways. The sport-tuned chassis and low profile enable this coupe to hug curves with ease and it does a good job of pulling out of corners. Some torque steer is present, but it does nothing to take away from the driving feel. The steering is accurate and confidence building. The dual-clutch transmission is great — it supplies quick and accurate shifts when you expect them.

One feature not available with this model, but we think will find its way to the Veloster N is a limited-slip rear differential. But that’s where aftermarket customization comes in. For instance, Cusco and Quaife are two limited-slip differential suppliers of note whose product fits the Veloster. Our thinking is that the Veloster N will have one.

Parting Thoughts: 2019 Hyundai Veloster

Hyundai continues to keep the pedal to the metal with its small cars, even as Dodge and Ford retreat. They’re adding crossovers too, but its presence in the small car market is laudable.

The all-new 2019 Toyota Corolla hatchback is a natural competitor as is the Honda Civic. But the Corolla doesn’t have a performance variant, at least not yet. We’d love to see all-wheel drive added to more small cars, giving the Subaru WRX a run for the money.

As for the Veloster, it hits many of the right spots for shoppers of a small sporty model. If the style and limited rearward visibility are personal show-stoppers, than the similar Elantra GT hatchback is a reasonable alternative and gives you an important reason to stay in the Hyundai fold.


2019 Hyundai Veloster Turbo


2019 Hyundai Veloster Specifications

  • Sticker price from $19,385 (includes $885 destination charge)
  • Sticker price from $29,160 (Veloster Turbo)
  • Seats four
  • Engine No. 1: 2.0-liter four-cylinder gas
  • 147 horsepower @ 6,200 RPM
  • 132 foot-pounds of torque @ 4,500 RPM
  • 6-speed manual or automatic transmission
  • Engine No. 2: 1.6-liter four-cylinder turbo gas
  • 201 horsepower @ 6,000 RPM
  • 195 foot-pounds of torque @ 1,500 to 4,500 RPM
  • 6-speed manual or 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission
  • Engine No. 3: 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbo gas (late arrival)
  • 250/275 horsepower @ 6,000 RPM (est.)
  • 260 foot-pounds of torque @ 1,450 to 4,000 RPM
  • 6-speed manual transmission
  • Wheelbase: 104.3 inches
  • Length: 166.9 inches
  • Width: 70.9 inches
  • Height: 55.1 inches
  • Passenger volume: 89.9 cubic feet
  • Storage volume: 19.9 cubic feet
  • Towing capacity: NR
  • EPA: 28/34 mpg city/highway (1.6L turbo + automatic)
  • Regular gasoline
  • Fuel tank: 13.2 gallons
  • Curb weight: From 2,701 to 2,855 pounds
  • IIHS safety rating: NR
  • Limited vehicle warranty: 5 years/60,000 miles/li>
  • Powertrain warranty: 10 years/100,000 miles
  • Corrosion warranty: 7 years/unlimited miles
  • Vehicle assembly: Ulsan, Korea

2019 Hyundai Veloster Turbo


See Also — Hyundai Veloster N: Namyang Performance

Filed Under: New Car Reviews Tagged With: 2019 cars, dual-clutch transmission, FORD FOCUS ST, front-wheel drive, Hyundai Elantra GT, Hyundai Veloster, MANUAL TRANSMISSION, Veloster N, Veloster Turbo, Volkswagen GTI

Little Car, Big Value: 2018 Hyundai Accent

May 8, 2018 by admin 5 Comments

Entry-level Hyundai Accent is new and impressive.

2018 Hyundai Accent
The 2018 Hyundai Accent is an all-new subcompact sedan.
Available in three trims, a fully loaded model can be had for under $20,000.

If “entry level” represents the 2018 Hyundai Accent, then you find yourself in a laudable position. Hyundai’s smallest model has always had its accent on value, but its latest version is handsome, nimble and supplies a quiet cabin.

The Hyundai Accent remains one of the few new models you can buy for about $15,000 with a well-equipped Limited coming in at just under $20,000. Now in its 24th year and launching its fifth generation, the latest model comes as a five-door sedan only. Canada and Mexico continue to enjoy a five-door hatchback too.

2018 Hyundai Accent Overview

The 2018 Accent is a front-wheel drive, subcompact model with room for five. It is available in three trims: SE, SEL and Limited. My test model was the Accent Limited with a final price of $19,905.

Hyundai is always aggressive with its retail cash and/or financing offer. We have not seen a lease on the Accent in about a year — my recommendation is to buy one. If you must finance, you will likely acquire the title within five years. That leaves another five years of Hyundai’s powertrain warranty to keep you covered.

2018 Hyundai Accent

Hyundai Accent by the Trim

Customarily, I review models as a whole, leaning heavily on the trim presented to me. That almost always means the top trim, which also means you do not always have an accurate picture of the models available.

So, instead, we will break things down by trim and include pricing information. However, we do not include the $885 destination fee or taxes, tags, insurance or other expenses. As for discounts and other specials, you will need to head over to the Hyundai retail site for the current details.

Accent SE ($14,995)

All 2018 Accent models come with a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine with an output of 130 horsepower and 119 pound-feet of torque. Hyundai pairs this engine with a six-speed manual transmission. If you prefer the six-speed automatic standard elsewhere, add $1,000 to your price.

Standard exterior equipment includes power side mirrors and 15-inch steel wheels. Inside, you will find power windows, power door locks, a tilt steering column, air conditioning, cloth seats and a 60/40 split-folding rear bench seat.

Tech features include a 5-inch color display, a four-speaker audio system, Bluetooth, and USB and auxiliary audio ports. Among the safety highlights you will find a rearview camera with dynamic parking guidelines.

2018 Hyundai Accent

Accent SEL ($17,295)

As is usually the case, moving away from the base model brings with it important benefits. Typically, this is where we recommend shoppers start their search as there are multiple amenities not available elsewhere offered there.

To begin, the Accent SEL comes with automatic headlights and puts disc brakes at all four corners. You will also find heated side mirrors and 15-inch alloy wheels. Inside, Hyundai adds a center console with a sliding cover and includes a front passenger seatback pocket.

Among the tech items, there is a six-speaker audio system with satellite radio. Hyundai also brings in Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, a rear USB charging port and a seven-inch color display. The Android and Apply smartphone features are a big deal for many drivers.

2018 Hyundai Accent

Accent Limited ($18,895)

The Accent Limited is the model that seems most like the Sonata, Hyundai’s popular midsize sedan. In fact, if you called it a “Baby Sonata” you would not be too off the mark. This model has chrome touches on the grille and beltline molding and LED daytime running lights and LED tail lamps.

Further, Hyundai includes projector headlights, front fog lights, 17-inch alloy wheels and a power moonroof. Inside, Hyundai supplies a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, heated front seats, automatic temperature control and an information display.

On the tech front you will find a proximity key with push-button start (the car senses your presence and unlocks the driver’s door), a hands-free trunk and the Blue Link connected car system. Here, you get a three-year complimentary Blue Link subscription, what provides such features as remote engine start (not on the manual), in-car maintenance scheduling, remote lock and unlock and car finder. It works with your iPhone, Apple Watch, Amazon Alexa, Android, Google Assistant and smartwatches powered with Wear OS by Google.

The Accent Limited also supplies forward collision-avoidance assist, not available on the other trims.

2018 Hyundai Accent

Packages and Accessories

What you won’t find with with any Hyundai Accent are packages as everything comes built into the respective trim.

On the other hand, you can opt for dealer-installed accessories, including a cargo tray ($80), mudguards ($115) and carpeted floor mats ($125). The Accent’s appeal is for budget-minded owners and it succeeds in that endeavor.

On the Road: 2018 Hyundai Accent

Regardless of trim, all models have a 1.6-liter, four-cylinder engine. With an output of 130 horsepower, you will enjoy considerably more horsepower than what similar-sized engines produced just a generation ago. Hyundai uses gasoline direct injection, delivering gasoline directly into the combustion chamber of each cylinder.

The technology means your Accent moves faster and burns less gas, although we noticed the engine is loud under hard acceleration. And as for efficiency, we’ve seen larger engines in bigger cars return a higher number than the 38 mpg highway for the Accent.

Although we cannot count on the workings of the manual, we can do with the automatic. The automated gearbox is best operated in drive mode where the shift pattern is cleaner. Yes, we noticed the Accent’s transmission has a tendency to stretch out gear shifts longer than what we like and at times hunt around for the right gear under full throttle.

Steering is light and loose feeling, not exactly supplying certainty or clarity on the road. Working in the Accent’s favor is its size, which makes it easy to enter and leave tight spaces. The Accent won’t win plaudits for ride comfort, particularly on washboard surfaces. At least you’ll know which portions of the road to notify the DOT of needed repairs. The front seats are supportive with ample head and leg room. Rear seat access is tight, but once you’re seated that space easily rivals some midsize cars. Just don’t expect to seat three adults, even in a pinch.

2018 Hyundai Accent

Hyundai Accent Parting Thoughts

The Hyundai Accent is the attainable car for consumers who might also consider a late-model used car. That said, if you are in a favorable financial position, then the Accent Limited is the best choice, simply for its many amenities.

Hyundai remains strong in the car space, even as some competing manufacturers pull back or limit their offers. Not only will you find the compact Elantra and midsize Sonata sedans, but a line of compact electrified vehicles under the Ioniq umbrella. This spring, the Veloster Coupe returns after a one-year absence, bringing with it a turbo and the first expression of the brand’s “N” performance line.

Finally, always seeming to work in the Hyundai scheme of things is its class-leading warranties. From its fully transferable new car warranty to its lengthy powertrain warranty and onto its roadside assistance plan, Hyundai offers maximum protection combined with a minimum price. That represents value with a capital V.

2018 Hyundai Accent

2018 Hyundai Accent Specifications

Hyundai 2018 Accent
Segment Subcompact sedan
Base Sticker Price $14,995 ( plus $885 destination charge)
Price as tested $19,905
Standard Engine 1.6-liter, inline-four
Horsepower 130 @ 6,000 RPMs
Torque (lb.-ft.) 119 @ 4,850 RPMs
Transmission Six-speed manual or automatic
Seating 5
Curb Weight (pounds) 3,439 to 3,638
Wheelbase (inches) 101.6
Length (inches) 172.6
Width (inches) 68.1
Height (inches) 57.1
Head room (f,r…inches) 38.9; 37.3
Leg room (f,r…inches) 42.1, 33.5
Shoulder room (f,r…inches) 54.2, 53.7
Hip room (f,r…inches) 51.7, 50.8
Storage (cubic feet) 13.7
Gross vehicle weight (pounds) 3,439 to 3,638
Towing (pounds) NR
Payload (pounds) 937 to 979
Fuel Regular
Fuel Tank (gallons) 11.9
EPA Fuel MPG (city/highway) 28/37 (manual); 28/38 (automatic)
Manufacturing Plant Ulsan, Korea

See Also — Hyundai Kona: New B-Segment SUV

2018 Hyundai Accent photos copyright Auto Trends Magazine. All rights reserved.

Filed Under: New Car Reviews Tagged With: 2018 cars, Amazon Alexa, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, Apple Watch, BLUE LINK, front-wheel drive, Google Assistant, Hyundai Accent, Hyundai Elantra, Hyundai Ioniq, Hyundai Sonata, Hyundai Veloster, sedan, subcompact car

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