The Accent is Hyundai's entry level model and is available as either a sedan or five-door wagon. The front-wheel-drive sedan is powered by a 138-bhp 4-cylinder engine offered with either a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission. The six-speed transmissions, direct injection and low rolling resistance tires help the Accent achieve an EPA rating of 28/37 (City/Hwy). When configured with an optional package, the Accent includes alloy wheels, air conditioning, power windows, power locks, and keyless entry for around $17,000 which makes the Accent one of the best values on the market. Ironically, Hyundai's comprehensive lineup of sedans also includes the larger Elantra which offers similar equipment and fuel economy for about $1000 more.

Hyundai updated the Accent for 2012. The sedan is significantly larger outside, adding almost 3 inches to its wheelbase and some 3.5 inches to overall length. The new model gives up a little bit of passenger volume, but adds over a cubic foot of cargo volume. The new direct injected 1.6l four cylinder is rated at 138-bhp which is an increase of 28-bhp over the prior model. The new engine is combined with new six-speed manual and six-speed automatic transmissions, yielding fuel economy ratings of 28 city / 37 highway.