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There’s no radical choice in the subcompact segment. Everything is based around the idea of providing safe, reliable transportation that doesn’t break the bank. The 2018 Hyundai Accent continues that legacy, hedging its bets and making small but appreciable updates.
The South Korean automaker says that the new Accent improves upon its predecessors and alongside adopting a thoroughly updated design, includes a multitude of mechanical modifications to distinguish it from the outgoing model.
For 2018, Hyundai has given the Accent a revised 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers 132 hp and 119 lb-ft of torque. Compared to the outgoing model, this results in a 4.5 per cent increase in torque from 1,500 rpm while cutting the 40-80 km/h (24-49 mph) time by 0.2 seconds and 80-120 km/h (49-74 mph) by 1.3 seconds. In short, it is a tiny, tiny, tiny bit quicker than the current Accent.
Mated to this engine is either a six-speed manual transmission or a six-speed auto, depending on the customer’s preference. The combination of low-friction piston rings, an upgraded ECU and variable fuel pressure module enable the improved engine to sip 7 per cent less fuel.
Alongside its improved powertrain, the 2018 Hyundai Accent features a strengthened chassis that includes a better front crumple zone, upgraded front side airbags and more resilient front side members. The car also comes with Autonomous Emergency Braking and a rear view camera.
In the cabin, the updated model receives a 7-inch touchscreen display that supports both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto while also including voice-controlled search capabilities, dual USB and auxiliary input jacks.
From a styling front, the 2018 Accent is dramatically different to the existing car. Gone is the happy face accentuated by curved fog lights and instead, the model adopts a more muscular front grille with chrome trimmings. The headlights and taillights are also sharper than ever before and help make the affordable sedan much more appealing to the eye.
Agencies/Canadajournal
