We have a 2001 GS hatchback. We bought it new. After 5 years, we only have 35k miles on it, so we haven't given it average wear.

I bought it because the fit and finish and the way it handled reminded me of my Mom's Civic hatchback, which has been a champ. The Accent doesn't quite measure up, but considering we paid less than she did in '89, I guess I can't complain too much.

The Accent has cheaper interior details than a Honda or Toyota, but better than any American car even close to the price.

In the first year we had to get a rear bearing and a computer chip in the transmission fixed, but that was covered by the warranty. It's been fine ever since.
One should note that Hyundai warranties do not cover loaner cars, unless it's being kept overnight.

It responds with lots of torque and feels like a small fwd car should - quick and nimble. I worked a second job as a valet driver last summer, and drove pretty much every make and model of car available. At the end of my shift, I still loved getting into my Accent, because it was so nimble and responsive compared to most of them!

The 1.6L engine actually has more torque than horses, and though a bit noisy, it never sounds like its straining. I've cruised at 75+ on long trips, and it never overheats or acts funny. It handles well at higher speed. When visiting Western Pennsylvania, which is very hilly, it never loses momentum like previous little cars I've owned.

My two biggest beefs have been the poor clearance and the rear strut housings. The front towhooks scrape on everything! The rear strut housings are large, and the speakers protrude inward, so that many things won't fit in the hatch! I've owned or used a dozen different hatchbacks and usually large boxes and furniture slide right in. But styling trends in '01 lead to no small hatchbacks with that kind of big rear mouth anymore.

I think if I should get another car in the next few years, I'll get a low-mileage Scion xB. Yes, it's ugly, but it's so practical, efficient and I know the quality will be a notch higher.
Amount Paid (US$): 11,000
Condition: New
Model Year: 2001
Model and Options: GS, Auto, AC, Cruise Control