Hyundai Accent

Hyundai introduced a new-generation Accent (MC) at the 2005 New York International Auto Show. A new exterior, larger interior, and CVVT engine are the notable features.

A single trim level, GLS, is available in the United States for the sedan. This sedan includes 6 airbags, air conditioning, power steering with tilt, four-wheel disc antilock brakes with electronic brake-force distribution, and a 6-speaker CD stereo. Pricing starts at US$12,995, nearly $2,000 more expensive than a base 2005 model. A premium sport package, priced at $1,500, includes air conditioning, 15 in. alloy wheels, power windows and heated mirrors, and remote power door locks. An automatic transmission retails for $850, bringing the price of a loaded Accent to $15,345.

Hyundai began selling the 3-door hatchback in the United States during the spring 2006 as a 2007 model year vehicle. The 3-door is available in two trims – GS and SE. The GS is equipped much like the GLS sedan, with some equipment deleted for a base price of US$10,415. The SE replaces the former Accent GT, offering a sport-tuned suspension, 16 in. alloy wheels, and other sporting features, along with available dealer-installed performance parts such as a cold-air intake and suspension stress bar. The SE is sold as the Verna Sport in Korea.

The Accent is presently the third-bestselling subcompact in the United States, trailing after its rivals the Chevrolet Aveo and Toyota Yaris.

In Europe, this model is heavily promoted by the motoring press and even Hyundai themselves as being a “stopgap” model – that it is intended merely to plug the gap in Hyundai’s range until a brand new small family car is launched in 2008 with a new name to try and distance itself from the budget reputation the Accent suffers from.

1.6 L CVVT Alpha II I4, 112 hp (82 kW) and 107 ft.-lb. (146 Nm) (for the North American market)
1.5 L D I4 turbodiesel, 110 hp (81 kW) and 174 ft.-lb. (235 Nm), fitted with common rail direct injection and variable geometry turbocharger

In Mexico, this is marketed as the Dodge Attitude: trim levels are 1.4 GL and 1.6 GLS. Hyundai does not have any official representation in Mexico.

Interestingly, in India, it is marketed as Hyundai Verna. Previous generation is also under production and that is marketed as Accent.