2000-2005 Hyundai Accent: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Redesigned and slightly enlarged for 2000, Hyundai's smallest and least-expensive model also featured fresh styling. Wheelbase grew by 1.6 inches. The new Accent was about 5 inches longer than before, almost 2 inches wider, and up to 192 pounds heavier. Interior and cargo volumes were little-changed. Hyundai's front-drive subcompact competed against the Chevrolet Metro, Ford Focus, Honda Civic, Nissan Sentra, Mitsubishi Mirage, Toyota Echo, Daewoo Lanos, and Kia Rio. Two body styles were offered: a two-door hatchback in base or GS trim, and a four-door sedan that came only in top-level GL guise. The 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine produced 92 horsepower, with a standard five-speed manual transmission. A four-speed automatic transmission, optional in GS and GL models, featured Hyundai's Adaptive Logic, which was designed to limit unnecessary gear changes on grades or while decelerating. Hyundai claimed that the new-generation Accent was less noisy, smoother, with a better transmission. Reinforced A- and B-pillars were installed, and the cowl crossbar was strengthened. Double-sealed doors also were installed. Head, leg, and hip room were said to be improved. Accents got a 60/40 rear seat, new instrument panel and gauges, and a new steering wheel. GS and GL models included a tachometer, tinted glass, clock, and five-way adjustable seat. Options included air conditioning, power windows, power locks, power mirrors, and CD player. Accent was one of the few mainstream passenger cars that did not offer antilock braking. The low-end L edition didn't even have power brakes as standard equipment, but all models had power steering. Hyundai offered one of the industry's longest warranties: 5-years/60,000-miles bumper-to-bumper, and 10-years/100,000-miles for the powertrain.