Used 2019 Hyundai Accent SEL Sedan Review

Freshly overhauled last year, the 2019 Hyundai Accent sedan is roomier, safer and more fuel-efficient than before. It drives even sportier than it looks, thanks to a nicely calibrated suspension and an available manual transmission. We're not talking autobahn-ready performance here, but the Accent is surprisingly nimble, and it makes for a sensible and stylish subcompact choice.

After a thorough redesign, the Accent is a little longer and wider, and the interior is roomier with more front and rear legroom, and more space between the driver and front passenger. Cargo space remains among the best in the class. There are only minimal changes for 2019, including a new chrome grille for Limited trim levels and the addition of foglights and chrome exterior trim for SEL models.

The Accent's four-cylinder engine makes less maximum power (7 horsepower less) than earlier models, but there's more low-end torque, which proves useful in city driving. With an automatic transmission, the Accent returns a very good 32 mpg in combined city/highway driving.

The Accent also surprises with a comfortable and quiet interior, although we've found the seats could be better. They're relatively flat and shapeless. That said, there's plenty of room for passengers for a car of this class. The svelte shape of the tapering roofline may give taller rear passengers a bit of a brush with reduced headroom, however.

Overall, the Accent is a handsome car that will endure the daily grind with minimal fuss. We think drivers with longer commutes won't regret choosing this Accent over a larger, more expensive car. It's a solid pick for its satisfying combination of performance, utility, comfort and style.

The 2018 Hyundai Accent is a four-door sedan that straddles the line between subcompact and compact. It's offered in base SE, SEL and Limited trim levels. The SE covers the basics, while the SEL adds more style (alloy wheels) and functionality (7-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto). The Limited trim adds conveniences including a sunroof, heated front seats and advanced safety features.

All Accent models use a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine (130 horsepower, 119 pound-feet of torque) and either a six-speed manual or automatic transmission. The Accent is front-wheel-drive.

The SE sedan comes standard with a six-speed manual transmission, 15-inch steel wheels, air conditioning, power accessories, a tilt-adjustable steering wheel, cruise control, a 60/40-split folding rear seat, Bluetooth, a rearview camera, a 5-inch touchscreen display, and a four-speaker sound system with a CD and USB/auxiliary inputs. The six-speed automatic transmission is optional.

The SEL adds 15-inch alloy wheels, rear disc brakes, automatic headlights, foglights, heated side mirrors, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, a center-console storage box with a sliding armrest console, dual USB charging ports, Bluetooth with voice commands, a 7-inch touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay-Android Auto smartphone integration, and an upgraded six-speaker sound system.

Moving up to the Limited brings 17-inch wheels, LED headlights, side mirror-integrated turn signals, a sunroof, a hands-free trunk, keyless entry, push-button start, automatic climate control, heated front seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, and a three-year subscription to Hyundai Blue Link Connected Services. It includes features such as app-based remote start and locking and unlocking, vehicle diagnostics and emergency collision notification. The Limited also features forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking, which aren't available on the two lower-level trims.