Acceleration

GS, manual	GLS, automatic	SE, manual	Class Average
3	2	3	3

With the automatic transmission, acceleration is weak, as evidenced by the slow 11.1 sec 0-60-mph time in our test of a GLS. At least the automatic downshifts promptly and smoothly for passing. Manual-transmission versions are quicker; a similar test Kia Rio with manual did 9.4 sec 0-60. One test Accent SE suffered imprecise shift action.

Fuel Economy

GS, manual	GLS, automatic	SE, manual	Class Average
9	6	9	8.2

In Consumer Guide testing, a manual-transmission GS averaged a frugal 34.2 mpg. An automatic-transmission Accent GLS averaged 21.8 mpg in a test that included gas-eating performance runs. Accent uses regular-grade gas.

Ride Quality

GS, manual	GLS, automatic	SE, manual	Class Average
6	6	5	4.7

Comfortable over smaller bumps, but soft suspension tuning on the GS and GLS models allows moderate bounding over large high-speed humps. SE versions' sport suspension stops bounding but allows more bumps to register. All models have a surprisingly solid structural feel that belies their low price and enhances impression of ride comfort.

Steering/Handling/Braking

GS, manual	GLS, automatic	SE, manual	Class Average
4	4	5	5.1

The steering is overboosted and lacks road feel. Fast cornering induces fair body lean, modest grip from skinny tires on the GS and GLS. SE has sharper moves thanks to its firmer suspension and 16-inch tires vs. other models' 14s and 15s. Note that for 2008, Accents have rear drum brakes instead of discs.

Quietness

GS, manual	GLS, automatic	SE, manual	Class Average
5	5	5	4.1

Accent's engine buzzes from 4000 rpm on up, but it is never objectionably loud. Wind noise is modest for the class, but coarse-surface tire thrum is fairly high.

Controls

GS, manual	GLS, automatic	SE, manual	Class Average
6	6	6	5.6

The dashboard shows good design with clear gauges and simple, logical controls.

Details

GS, manual	GLS, automatic	SE, manual	Class Average
5	5	5	4.6

The cloth upholstery has an unexpectedly classy look and feel. Plastic panels look nice too, but a few feel budget-grade flimsy to the touch, and padded surfaces are scarce.

Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)

GS, manual	GLS, automatic	SE, manual	Class Average
5	5	5	5.5

Fairly roomy for the class, though tall drivers may wish for more seat travel. The seats are set relatively high but need better thigh support. Good all-around visibility.

Room/Comfort (rear)

GS, manual	GLS, automatic	SE, manual	Class Average
3	4	3	3.1

Foot space is better than the subcompact-class norm. Legroom and kneeroom is tight with the front seats set far back. A sloping roofline limits headroom in hatchbacks. Entry/exit is OK in sedans, stoop-and-twist in hatchbacks.

Cargo Room

GS, manual	GLS, automatic	SE, manual	Class Average
4	3	4	4.5

The hatchback's cargo area is usefully larger than the sedan's trunk, but both body styles have a shallow opening that complicates loading bulky items. Folding rear seatbacks increase useful cargo space. Cabin storage is not great, but front door map pockets include handy bottle holders.

Value within Class

GS, manual	GLS, automatic	SE, manual	Class Average
8	9	8	6.8

Accent one-ups most subcompact rivals by supplying front side airbags and curtain side airbags as standard equipment. These hatchbacks and sedans are hardly quick, but they deliver solid build quality, reasonable interior space, and more equipment than their low prices imply. Hyundai's strong warranty adds to Accent's Best Buy appeal as an entry-level subcompact.

Total Score

GS, manual	GLS, automatic	SE, manual	Class Average
58	55	58	55.2

Scores for all Subcompact Cars

Low Score		42
Average Score		55
High Score		63