Dull, unappetising, and uninspiring – ask anyone what they thought of the Hyundai Accents of old and the answer should be unanimous. The same can’t be said about the new 5th-generation model previewed here at the 2018 Kuala Lumpur International Motor Show.
While the older Accents (3rd-generation and older) looked as if they were made in the Northern half of Korea, the new designs (from 4th-generation onwards) are a better reflection of the dynamic and progressive South and it’s not just the sharper lines and sleeker looks.
Those seats, the panels, the trims, even the way the door closes – the new Accent offers and projects a sense of sturdiness and quality at first impression. Should the car be sold in Malaysia, the Accent will make it hard for you to ignore it as a prospect, when shopping for a B-segment sedan.
Compared to the City (120 hp/145 Nm) and the new Vios (107 hp/140 Nm) , the Accent’s 1.4-litre engine with 100 hp and 132 Nm is certainly at a disadvantage.
That said, while both the B-segment bestsellers are now equipped with CVT gearboxes, don’t be so quick to discount the new Accent as it adopts a 6-speed automatic transmission instead – a trait that could salvage some points for the Accent in terms of delivering performance and driving feel.
The model you see here may just be a preview unit but is a good enough indication of what the Accent could offer should it arrive in Malaysia. It’s equipped with LED daytime running lights, projector headlamps, a 3.5-inch TFT LCD colour instrument cluster display, keyless entry and start, cruise control, six airbags and Hill-start Assist Control.
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