2012 Hyundai Accent Red

The 2010 Hyundai Accent lineup gains a new low-price model that promises high fuel economy. Accent returns as a 2-door hatchback in GS and SE trims, and as a 4-door sedan in GLS form. New for 2010 is the base Accent Blue, which has equipment levels similar to the GS. The Accent is powered by a 1.6-liter DOHC in-line four cylinder engine that features four valves per cylinder with CVVT (Continuously Variable Valve Timing). The DOHC and CVVT combination gives the engine a very broad powerband, coupled with high fuel efficiency and low emissions.

With better breathing from the CVVT system, performance peaks at 110 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and torque is 106 lb.-ft. at 4,500 rpm. At 110 horsepower, Accent makes more horsepower than Yaris and Aveo. Fuel economy is equally impressive, achieving 36 mpg regardless of transmission choice. With a manual transmission, the Accent Blue’s EPA mileage is 28 mpg City and 36 mpg Highway. With the optional four-speed automatic transmission, the Accent’s 2010 EPA rating is 27 mpg City and 36 mpg Highway.

 2012 Hyundai Accent Red

 2012 Hyundai Accent Red

 2012 Hyundai Accent Red

The new Accent might just be the quietest B car on smooth highways, with little wind or road noise. The new six-speed automatic certainly has a lot to do with this, as the car will cruise in top gear at 65 mph while turning about 2200 rpm. The 138-horsepower engine can get the little thing up to 100 mph, where it's turning about 4400. Stick your boot into it to get there as soon as possible, though, and the engine whines in protest with plenty of vibration transmitting through the driver's floorboard. The six-speed automatic comes with hillstart assist and manumatic controls, and its 30/40-mpg EPA fuel mileage numbers top the Fiesta SFE's 29/40, and you can't shift the Ford's twin-clutch automated six-speeds.