2012 Hyundai Accent

What's New for 2012

The 2012 Hyundai Accent will be fully redesigned.

Introduction

For the past few years, the Hyundai Accent has been overshadowed by newer subcompact competitors that offered fresher designs, more innovative interiors and better fuel economy. It was a decent little car with a super-affordable price tag, but generally we suggested buying a Ford Fiesta or Honda Fit instead. But for 2012, Hyundai's introducing a redesigned Accent that should shake up this established order.

Hyundai's new Accent will likely be the most powerful car in the subcompact segment when it hits dealerships this summer in both sedan and four-door hatchback styles. Thanks to direct-injection technology, the Accent's 1.6-liter four-cylinder will produce 138 horsepower and 123 pound-feet of torque. For comparison, the 2011 Fit produces 117 hp and 106 lb-ft. Fuel economy should also be superior; Hyundai is claiming 30 mpg city and 40 mpg highway.

A six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission will be available in the Accent. "Active ECO," a feature that tweaks engine and transmission control to optimize fuel economy, can be switched on to increase fuel economy up to 7 percent, according to Hyundai. Inside, Hyundai promises an upscale design and superior passenger and cargo room.

We'll know more about how the 2012 Hyundai Accent stacks up against models like the Chevrolet Sonic, Ford Fiesta, Honda Fit, Mazda 2 and Nissan Versa as we get closer to its summer on-sale date. Check back later for complete buying advice and driving impressions.