2010 Hyundai Accent: Road Test
2010 Hyundai Accent ▼
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- MSRP: $9,970 - $16,995
- Invoice: $9,872 - $16,480
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Our road test for the 2010 Hyundai Accent includes a full evaluation of the 2010 Hyundai Accent from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2010 Hyundai Accent, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2010 Hyundai Accent help you decide if a 2010 Hyundai Accent is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| GS Popular, manual | GLS, automatic | SE, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 2 | 3 | 3.3 |
With the automatic transmission, acceleration is weak, as evidenced by the slow 11.1-second 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 seconds 0-60. The manual transmission has positive, if somewhat clunky, shift action.
FUEL ECONOMY
| GS Popular, manual | GLS, automatic | SE, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9 | 6 | 9 | 8 |
In Consumer Guide testing, a manual-transmission GS averaged a frugal 34.2 mpg. A manual-transmission SE averaged 30.6 mpg. An automatic-transmission Accent GLS averaged just 21.8 mpg in exclusively city driving. Accent uses regular-grade gas.
RIDE QUALITY
| GS Popular, manual | GLS, automatic | SE, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 5 | 4.8 |
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 allows more bumps to register and doesn't completely quell bounding motions. All models have a surprisingly solid structural feel that belies their low price and enhances impression of ride comfort.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| GS Popular, 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. Skinny tires on the GS and GLS provide only modest grip. The SE is only slightly better; it still exhibits noticeable body lean.
QUIETNESS
| GS Popular, manual | GLS, automatic | SE, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 3.9 |
Accent's engine buzzes from 3000 rpm on up, but it's never objectionably loud. Wind noise is modest for the class, and coarse-surface tire thrum is noticeable though not excessive.
CONTROLS
| GS Popular, manual | GLS, automatic | SE, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 8 | 6.4 |
The dashboard shows good design. Gauges are clear and large. Audio and climate controls are mounted within easy reach and are very simple to operate. Kudos to Hyundai for making a USB and auxiliary input ports standard on all models equipped with a radio.
DETAILS
| GS Popular, manual | GLS, automatic | SE, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 4.9 |
The cloth upholstery has an unexpectedly classy look and feel. Accent's plastic dashboard panels look nice too. A few feel budget-grade flimsy to the touch, and padded surfaces are scarce.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| GS Popular, manual | GLS, automatic | SE, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 5.9 |
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 Popular, manual | GLS, automatic | SE, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 4 | 3 | 3.5 |
Foot space is better than the subcompact-class norm. Legroom and knee space are tight with the front seats set far back. A sloping roofline limits headroom in hatchbacks. Entry and exit are OK in sedans, stoop-and-twist in hatchbacks.
CARGO ROOM
| GS Popular, manual | GLS, automatic | SE, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 3 | 4 | 5.2 |
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 Popular, manual | GLS, automatic | SE, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 8 | 6.4 |
Accent is hardly quick, but these sedans and hatchbacks deliver solid build quality, reasonable interior space, and a variety of comfort and convenience features. Hyundai's strong warranty cements Accent as a good choice in this class.
Total Score
| GS Popular, manual | GLS, automatic | SE, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 61 | 57 | 61 | 57.4 |
Total Score: 60
Scores for all Subcompact Cars
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