Background :

The Accent made its debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show, last September. Outside India it's sold as the Verna with the only distinguishing feature being a toothy grille instead of the smiling one for India. And thank Hyundai Motors for that.
Design And Engineering :

The Accent is based on a new platform codenamed LC, A notch wider than others in its class, the Accent's elderly styling with square edges and bulky overhangs gives it the look of a mainstream mid-size car in the Lancer mould.

Engine And Transmission :

The Accent is powered by Hyundai's 1.5-litre, 12-valve 'Alpha' engine with a claimed output of 94bhp at 5500rpm. This unit is one of Hyundai's mainstream powerplants with 2.5 million units been produced, and has been revamped several times. The unit's MPFI system with two-hole nozzles is a feature you'll find only in Indian Accents.

Interiors and Convenience Features :

The quality of Accent's interiors exudes a plushness and luxury that makes it feel like a car in the premium segment. The feel of the plastics and fabric is all top notch and the air-conditioning superb. The moulded front door pads come with cleverly designed pockets that can even take a bottle of water. The generous width also adds to its big-car feel. The driver's seat is pretty comfy with generous width. Equipment levels on these cars are pretty impressive with power steering, central locking and power windows all-around coming as standard.

On the road : Steering and Suspension :

On the move, the Accent feels thoroughly modern, its taut and stiff chassis contributing in no small measure to the overall feel of sure-footed and safe road manners. The handling does not have the same fun factor of the Ford Ikon of the Honda City. It does not dart into corners with the same enthusiasm and response but then neither does it put all your senses on red alert. The Accent is a docile handling car, the kind that does not call for any additional input from the driver.