A thrifty fuel sipper with mature styling!

In the past few years, the whole world has seen prices of gasoline skyrocket. Conversely, the demand for giant truck-like SUVs has plummeted and the demand for tiny economy cars has risen greatly. In America, the subcompact market has gone from a small niche that automakers paid the slightest bit of attention, to a critical market that is doing nothing but expanding. Cars like the Honda Fit, Toyota Yaris, and Scion xB have lead this resurgence with their youthful styling and low price of ownership. But what about those who are not interested in such polarizing looks or deep customization options, and simply need efficient transportation for a long commute?

Enter the 2008 third-generation Hyundai Accent. Available as a sedan in GLS trim, and as a hatchback in the entry-level GS or sporty SE trims, the Hyundai Accent is a sharp car that might not stand out at first glance. Indeed, it's conservative styling may be one of it's stronger draws to an older, more mature buyer. It's outstanding 10-year/100,000-mile warranty, build quality, price, and fuel economy will be a draw to any buyer, however.

Fuel Economy
The main reason I purchased my 2008 GS Accent was the price of fuel and my long commute. At 24/33 mpg city/highway with the 4-speed automatic, I've seen my fuel expenses drop by almost half. While 24/33 is slightly higher than the average compact sedan, it lags behind it's subcompact competition slightly. The Honda Fit returns 27 city and the Yaris returns 29 city according to the EPA. Even still, the Hyundai Accent has much higher than average economy, especially with the 5-speed manual.

Styling
The conservative styling might be a draw for many, but it is exactly that. Pretty conservative. The Accent is attractive, especially since it's 2006 redesign, and it's sleek hatchback design is a nice change of pace compared to it's boxier brethren. The hood features two character lines that extend from the head lights to the windshield, and the sides have a strong character line that keeps the Accent from being totally bland. From a functional standpoint, the exterior and interior are very well done. The car is easy to get in and out of, and the hatchback opening is quite large.

Warranty and Price
The price and warranty of the Hyundai Accent can't be beat. With a 10-year/100,000 mile powertrain warranty and 6-year/60,000 mile bumper to bumper, the Accent is unmatched in it's subcompact class. The starting price is very low, but be warned that a barebones GS comes with manual transmission, manual windows and doors, no A/C, and a very low-end AM/FM stereo only. For about $3,000 more, you can add these modern creature comforts, but the entry price is no longer much lower than the competition.

Performance
The Accent is relatively fun to drive, it's 2,400 lbs being pulled along by a 110-hp 4-cylinder engine hooked up to the front wheels. The car is very light on it's feet and has good acceleration in the city. On the highway, it performs well up to about 80mph. Here, it really begins to have a hard time passing, and the engine noise becomes unbearable at this point. Merging is not a problem, however. The biggest drawback on the highway is the lack of cruise control. Cruise control is not available on any Hyundai Accent, unfortunately, and is missed on long morning commutes.

A Long-Running Nameplate
For those looking for a efficient car that excels in reliability and economy, then look no further than the Hyundai Accent. With a powerful warranty, excellent fuel economy, and the longest-running subcompact nameplate in America backing it, the Accent is an excellent choice for first-time buyers or those looking for a commuter car. I highly reccomend this car to those who want a spartan, but reliable way to travel.