I am an admitted Hyundai owner for life, but with the expanding line, it's getting more difficult to decide which one I want the most. I recently rented a Hyundai Accent, 2004 for a roadtrip through rural Alberta, and put it to the test.

As with the Scoupe, the interior of the Accent is suprisingly roomy. I'm 6'3 and didn't feel cramped in this hatchback at all. The seats are firm but comfortable, and all the controls for the car are within easy reach. The back seat is a little cramped with considerably less leg room, but makes for great storage. Cup holders pop out of the front dash under the stereo, and are designed to keep your cups in them, no matter how tight the turns. My Accent came with a cassette deck, but cd players are an upgrade option. The stereo speakers are on par with most maunufacturers. The exterior, well you've seen the pictures, I won't comment on asthetics.

Cargo-wise, the Accent is capable of carrying a suprising amount. The hatchback door and removeable trunk cover allow you to carry larger objects (I got a lazy boy in mine), and the rear seats split 60/40 to make more room.

This car is amazing for city driving. Its compact size and the quick pick up provided by the engine make it perfect for weaving between cars on the avenues. It provides a quiet ride, responsive steering, and an unobstructed view of everything around you, no more neck craning to see where that car behind you went!

On the highway the Accent does well. I had no problem passing other vehicles, and felt quite secure. The steering remains tight at higher speeds, and gas mileage is reasonable. I didn't notice any wind whistles, and didn't feel any drag. However with this car you do notice if there is a crosswind, but at the same time handles exteremely well in snowy road conditions.

For night driving I have no complaints. The headlamps illuminate a considerable area, allowing visability not only in front of the vehicle but off to the sides as well. The dash instruments are laid out so they don't reflect off the windshield which I found to be a bonus.

For overall gas mileage, I travelled 1200 kilometres and filled the car twice, each fill costing $30.00.

I really can't think of anything negative to say about this car. I was sad to drop it off on sunday, and it's now on my wishlist.

Amount Paid (US$): 8500.00
Condition: Used
Model Year: 2004