MORE AFFORDABLE ACCENT SE ARRIVES IN 2011

08/23/2010

Hyundai

For the 2011 model year, the fun-to-drive Accent SE with 16-inch alloy wheels is now more affordable. By removing the sunroof from the SE, Hyundai was able to reduce the SE manual transmission price by $850 for an MSRP of $15,345 before destination. The Accent GS gets a 172-watt AM/FM/XM(R)/CD/MP3 audio system with six speakers and iPod(R)/USB and MP3 auxiliary inputs as standard equipment due to consumer demand. Two new colors, Clearwater Blue and Boston Red have also been added to the color palette.

The Accent's many strengths make it not only a smart choice for buyers, but also a clear value leader in its segment. The Accent's smart design pays comfort dividends inside, with more total interior volume than class above competitors Civic and Corolla. An efficient 1.6-liter DOHC in-line four cylinder engine powers Accent with up to 36 miles-per-gallon on the highway while producing low emissions. Add in the J.D. Power and Associates IQS Sub-Compact Car award, and Accent is a clear choice for consumers in this category.

2011 ACCENT PRICING

Model Engine Transmission MSRP

Accent GL 1.6L CVVT 5-Speed M/T $9,985

Accent GS 1.6L CVVT 5-Speed M/T $12,695

Accent GS 1.6L CVVT 4-Speed A/T $13,695

Accent GLS 1.6L CVVT 5-Speed M/T $13,695

Accent GLS 1.6L CVVT 4-Speed A/T $14,695

Accent SE 1.6L CVVT 5-Speed M/T $15,345

Accent SE 1.6L CVVT 4-Speed A/T $16,145

MSRPs in chart exclude freight charges of $720.

NEW EQUIPMENT HIGHLIGHTS FOR 2011

Eliminated the power sunroof to make the SE price more affordable

A 172-watt AM/FM/XM/CD/MP3 audio system with six speakers with iPod/USB and MP3 auxiliary input jacks is standard on the GS trim

Two new colors added to the color palette, Clearwater Blue and Boston Red

CLASS LEADER IN J.D. POWER AND ASSOCIATES INITIAL QUALITY STUDY

In June 2010, the Accent topped the sub-compact segment in the 2010 J.D. Power and Associates Initial Quality Study (IQS). Owners of the economical and fun-to-drive 2010 Accent reported the fewest problems per 100 vehicles in its segment.

INTERIOR SPACE AND UNEXPECTED FEATURES

Interior space and unexpected features keep Accent a class above the competition. The Accent has more total interior volume than either the Toyota Corolla or Honda Civic - both a vehicle class above Accent and priced thousands of dollars more. Unexpected features include a B&M Racing(R) Sport Shifter and XM Satellite Radio with three months of free service. The Accent SE's standard (M/T only) B&M Racing Shifter adds shorter throw-lengths and offers more precision performance-tuned driving dynamics.

Advanced safety features

In a bold stroke in this price-sensitive market segment, Hyundai has outfitted the Accent with state-of-the-art standard safety technologies highlighted by six airbags, including dual front airbags, front seat-mounted side-impact airbags and roof-mounted side-curtain airbags covering both rows of seating. The combination of side and curtain airbags, which help protect the head and body during side impacts, can reduce fatalities by more than 45 percent according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). All Accents come equipped with front seatbelt pretensioners and load limiters, which are designed to tighten the seatbelt in the event of a collision. This safety package helped the Accent GLS four-door receive a five-star frontal crash safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) is optional on the GS and GLS and standard on the SE.

REFINED AND CONFIDENT DESIGN

Hyundai designers gave the Accent GLS a distinctive look within its market segment. Upscale details like a chrome-accented grille combine with bold tail lights and strong character lines to deliver a standout presence. The roof-mounted flexible micro-antenna not only looks good, but also provides improved radio and satellite reception.

Externally, the three-door Accents reflect Hyundai's sleek, confident design direction. Up front, the GL, GS and SE feature an aggressive bodycolor grille with fog lights standard on the SE. Accent SE's high-performance P205/45R16 tires and lightweight five-spoke 16-inch aluminum wheels provide a big dose of street credibility. A long wheelbase and higher seating position increase the spacious feeling of the interior. A rear spoiler and rear defroster are standard on all Accent three-door models with the GS and SE adding a standard rear wiper.

LARGE INTERIOR

The Accent's smart design pays comfort dividends inside, with more total interior volume than either the Toyota Corolla or Honda Civic - both cars that are a vehicle class above Accent. The Accent four-door sedan has a total interior volume of 104.6 cubic feet, offering an unexpectedly spacious feel which bests the larger Civic sedan. In addition, Accent four-door has more passenger volume than Honda Fit, Toyota Yaris and Chevrolet Aveo. Accent three-door also delivers class-leading interior volume in the three-door segment. Its total interior volume of 108.1 cubic feet makes it roomer than the Civic Coupe by 12.9 cubic feet. Front passengers enjoy class-leading legroom and rear passengers enjoy a class-leading 53.1 inches of shoulder room. Accent three-door's cargo space is 15.9 cubic feet, a total of 6.6 cubic feet larger than the Yaris three-door.

Accent's interior finish, attention to detail and color options have reset expectations in its market segment. There's a handsome two-tone interior color scheme available in gray or beige, or a black sporty monotone is also available. Analog instrumentation keeps the driver informed, while power steering and a six-way adjustable driver's seat with fold-down armrest ensure long-haul comfort. Convenient storage areas are placed throughout the interior, including bins in the front and rear center console and glove compartment. GLS and SE add a passenger side seatback pocket and bottle holders in each door. Door storage pockets are standard on all trims, as are two more cup holders in front and another pair in the fold-down rear center armrest of the GLS. All Accents have a 60/40 split fold-down rear seatback making it easy to load large objects, or to mix cargo and passengers for maximum flexibility.

Hyundai has traditionally delivered high feature content for the money, and the Accent is no exception. Standard features are comprehensive, including two-speed variable intermittent wipers, adjustable head restraints for all seating positions, cabin air filtration, rear window defroster, tachometer, rear coat hook, digital clock, two 12-volt outlets and a remote hood release.

For audiophiles, a 172-watt AM/FM/XM/CD/MP3 audio system includes auxiliary iPod/USB inputs, large-format display with easy-to-use controls and a total of six speakers positioned throughout the interior for GS, SE and GLS trims. While XM Satellite Radio is either optional or not available on most competitors, it comes standard with all Accent audio systems.

CLEAN, FUEL EFFICIENT ENGINE

The Accent is powered by a 1.6-liter DOHC in-line four cylinder engine that features four valves per cylinder with CVVT (Continuously Variable Valve Timing). The DOHC and CVVT combination give the engine a very broad powerband, coupled with high fuel efficiency and low emissions.

With better breathing from the CVVT system, performance peaks at 110 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and torque is 106 lb.-ft. at 4,500 rpm. At 110 horsepower, Accent provides more horsepower than Yaris and Aveo. Fuel economy is equally impressive, achieving up to 36 mpg regardless of transmission choice. With a manual transmission, the Accent EPA mileage is 28 mpg City and 34 mpg Highway. With the optional four-speed automatic transmission, the Accent's 2011 EPA mileage is 27 mpg City and 36 mpg Highway besting Versa and Fit on the highway.

Besides the added performance it provides, CVVT also helps the engine operate cleanly, resulting in an Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (ULEV) certification for Accent. Part of the Alpha engine family, the Accent's powerplant is a durable and technologically advanced unit that features a rigid cast-iron block and lightweight aluminum cylinder head. Engineered for the long haul, the Alpha is backed by a 10-year/100,000-mile limited powertrain warranty.

REMARKABLE DRIVING DYNAMICS

Accent's stiff body structure allows the affordable Accent to deliver a comfortable ride and responsive handling. Accent features a MacPherson strut front suspension and torsion beam rear suspension both with coil springs and gas shock absorbers. A 21.0 mm diameter front stabilizer bar helps reduce body roll when cornering. Rack-and-pinion steering with engine-RPM sensing assist makes for low-effort maneuvering around town and a secure feel at high speeds. At 33.1 feet Accent's turning diameter is better than Fit's 34.4 feet and Versa's 34.2 feet.

Accent has been developed to satisfy unique consumer needs. The GLS four-door is tuned for comfort, but still feels agile. The GL and GS three-door models have a unique steering rack with a sportier feel. The top-of-the-line SE trim sets the standard in the entry-level fun-to-drive category, delivering even more road-holding capability. Accent SE's sport-tuned suspension features a 24 percent stiffer front spring rate, an 11 percent stiffer rear spring rate, a larger stabilizer bar (24 mm) and unique strut valving. This model's 205/45R16 tires are tuned specifically for precision and improved lateral acceleration. Accent SE delivers a 70 percent increase in roll control over the GLS. To complete the performance package, Accent SE has standard four-sensor, four-channel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) is integrated into the ABS, automatically adjusting braking force front to rear based on vehicle load.

QUALITY AND VALUE

The Accent's many strengths make it not only a smart choice for buyers, but also a clear value leader in its segment. Accent has more passenger interior volume than the Chevrolet Aveo, Toyota Yaris, Honda Fit and Honda Civic, and upscale interior appointments make it remarkably comfortable and accommodating. Features for like steering-wheel-mounted audio controls and iPod/USB inputs - demonstrate Hyundai's commitment to continually meeting higher customer expectations and being a class-above the competition. Add in the advantage of America's Best Warranty(TM), including five years and 60,000 miles of bumper-to-bumper coverage and a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, and choosing Accent becomes an even simpler decision for the savvy buyer.

ACCENT GL THREE-DOOR - THE PERFECT ENTRY-LEVEL CAR

Key standard equipment for the GL includes a five-speed manual transmission with EcoShift indicator, sport-tuned power assisted rack-and-pinion steering, dual front, side and head curtain airbags, variable intermittent windshield wipers, six-way adjustable driver seat with armrest, 60/40 split fold-down rear seatback, rear spoiler and rear window defroster. Accent GL also features adjustable head restraints for all seating positions, cabin air filtration, tachometer, digital clock, two 12-volt outlets and remote hood release.

ACCENT GS

The Accent GS offers standard automatic transmission, air conditioning, a 172-watt AM/FM/XM/CD/MP3 audio system with 6 speakers and iPod/USB inputs, tilt steering wheel, maplights, rear wiper, and bodycolor mirrors and door handles. The GS Premium Package includes dual illuminated vanity mirrors, power windows with driver's window auto-down feature, power mirrors, door locks and remote keyless entry with alarm and panic alert. ABS with Electronic Brake-force Distribution is also available on the GS as part of the Premium Package.

ACCENT SE - ENTRY-LEVEL PERFORMANCE

The sport-oriented Accent SE takes value in an exciting, fun-to-drive direction with the addition of the B&M Racing Sport Shifter (M/T only). To complete the driving experience, the Accent SE features a sport-tuned suspension with unique springs, strut valving, stabilizer bar and steering gear - delivering a 70 percent increase in roll stiffness over the GS. Accent SE also features air conditioning, steering-wheel-mounted audio and cruise control, a 172-watt AM/FM/XM/CD/MP3 audio system with six speakers and auxiliary iPod/USB inputs, steering wheel audio controls, power windows with driver's window auto-down feature, illuminated vanity mirrors, power door locks, remote keyless entry with alarm and panic alert and power-adjustable exterior mirrors. On the outside, the 16-inch alloy wheels and P205/45R16 tires deliver enhanced road-holding capability, and fog lights keep the driver's path illuminated in adverse weather conditions. The SE trim is equipped with a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, and metallic interior accents. Additional storage is available with a passenger-side seatback pocket and front door bottle holders.

ACCENT GLS

To simplify the buying process, the four-door Accent sedan comes in a single GLS trim level with either a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic transmission with overdrive. GLS trim offers a wide range of features, including several items that are either optional or unavailable on competitive vehicles such as a powerful 110-horsepower 1.6-liter CVVT engine, power steering, rear coat hook, 60/40 split fold-down rear seatback, AM/FM/XM/CD/MP3 audio system with auxiliary iPod/USB inputs, driver and passenger illuminated vanity mirrors and standard air conditioning. There are a total of six airbags, including dual front airbags, front seat-mounted side-impact airbags, and roof mounted side-curtain airbags. Carpeted floor mats are optional. The GLS Premium Package includes ABS with EBD, tilt steering wheel, cruise control, power windows, mirrors, door locks, steering-wheel-audio controls and remote keyless entry with alarm and panic alert.

HYUNDAI MOTOR AMERICA

Hyundai Motor America, headquartered in Fountain Valley, Calif., is a subsidiary of Hyundai Motor Co. of Korea. Hyundai vehicles are distributed throughout the United States by Hyundai Motor America and are sold and serviced through about 800 dealerships nationwide. All Hyundai vehicles sold in the U.S. are covered by the Hyundai Assurance program, which includes the 5-year/60,000-mile fully transferable new vehicle warranty, Hyundai's 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty and 5-years of complimentary Roadside Assistance.