Hyundai Accent accelerates briskly, rides smoothly, and is surprisingly quiet. Its twin-cam, 16-valve, 1.6-liter inline-4 produces 103 horsepower at 5800 rpm, and 106 pounds-feet of torque at just 3000 rpm. That's a good amount of low-speed torque for a four-cylinder, and it translates into fast launches into traffic, where the Accent easily keeps pace.We found the Accent relatively quiet inside. The stiff structure of the body, plenty of sound-deadening insulation, and double door seals all work to block out noise from the motor and surrounding traffic.
Of course, the whole package weighs only about 2300 pounds, which explains in part why the Accent feels zippy. Cars are getting heavier and heavier these days, but apparently Hyundai didn't get the memo. That's a good thing, as weight is bad for acceleration, stopping distances, handling, and fuel economy. The Accent's favorable power-to-weight ratio combines with slippery aerodynamics and well-selected gear ratios to make the most of the engine's torque.
Accent handles mountain switchbacks with a poise and agility unexpected from such a low-rung economy car. Even the base model is actually fun to drive. Most fun is the sporty GT.