16/05/2022
The new 5th generation Hyundai Accent is enough to make its rivals feel a lot of jealousy: an attractive design, its powerful and efficient engine and its on-board technologies consolidate its positioning in its segment.
There are several changes,
particularly in terms of the profile, the bodywork or of the cabin. The new
model incorporates the latest LED technologies and projection on the entire
front lighting. This of course for a better visibility. We also note the
presence of chrome details on the grille and the surround of the fog lamps
which add a sophisticated touch top of the line.
In terms of dimensions, the vehicle is more 15mm long, 2.9mm wider and 10kg heavier. This revision to the increase concerns space on board and passenger comfort. Being part of subcompacts, this car is ideal for families with its more generous dimensions. The new chassis, much more rigid than its predecessor, embeds an improved front axle to gain precision and a rear axle which positions itself correctly in the right axis when acting on a transverse force.
Aligning with the latest
standards adopted by the brand South Korean, the cabin stands out with
confirmed ergonomics. The board dashboard features a 7-inch Android Auto/Apple
CarPlay touchscreen. The sleek and intuitive infotainment system provides easy
access to smartphone apps.
When braking on wet and slippery roads, any steering deviation is detected by the sensors of the anti-lock brake system (ABS). The individual anti-lock braking system brakes (ABS) then activates to prevent the wheels from locking, preventing the skid and maintaining directional control.
The instructions tell you
your position relative to other vehicles and the sidewalk. Rear bumper sensors
detect objects you cannot see and alert you with a sound.
Under the hood, the vehicle
is fitted with the 4-cylinder 1/6 I CRDI diesel unit developing 128 hp. and
260N.m. If the power and torque have been slightly reduced, the performance is
identical. Which significantly improved fuel consumption. CRDI technology thus
makes it possible to have an engine that is flexible at low revs and fuel
efficient, but also capable of remarkable acceleration and pick-up. It is mated
to a 6-speed manual gearbox and another automatic. The BVA is offered from the
entry level.
In addition to optimizing
engine performance, it allows for smooth, discreet and quick gear changes.
Despite its power, the engine is sober, because its consumption in a combined
cycle varies between 4.6 l and 5.4 l/100 km only. The vehicle is both suitable
for urban traffic but holds up well for long journeys, delivering performance
above the segment average. Unlike the other vehicles of the category, the new
model has suspensions that are not firm. Soundproofing has also been improved
and provides more comfort to passengers.
The
Hyundai Accent has always been renowned for its great technological performance
as well as its fuel economy. The new four-cylinder engine has improved fuel
economy across the lineup: manual transmission models are rated at 33 mpg
combined, and automatic models claim a combined rating of 36 mpg. We didn't
have a chance to put the Accent's new powertrain through our real-world on-road
fuel economy tests, but the 2018 Accent's less efficient engine impressed us
with a result of 41 mpg when equipped with the standard six-speed manual
transmission.
More modern and understated,
the interior of the new Accent is centered on the driver. It is equipped with intuitive controls combining increased
roominess, well-made materials and cutting-edge technology. The large dashboard offers a new touch
screen with Bluetooth connectivity
and Android Auto / Apple CarPlay compatibility for more fun and up-to-date
infotainment. A conventional 3.5-inch cluster or a full digital cluster are
available depending on the finish.
The control panel is fixed at the bottom of the screen in a horizontal position. It includes buttons and elements arranged in logical groups according to their functions. Vehicle convenience features include remote automatic opening (Smart Key), the Start button and a smart trunk. The car also offers two USB ports, additional auxiliary ports, as well as a rear-view camera for more convenient parking. The designers behind Accent have shown their talent and skill with one of the most beautiful strokes of the pencil we have seen this year in this category. The locations, sizes and spacing of every contact point and line of sight have been precisely analyzed and thought out for ease of handling and minimizing driver movement.