You Have A Nice Accent!

The fifth generation has a bold design, enhanced driving dynamics and new advanced safety and convenience features. Has the subcompact saloon grown up? We find out

- Imran Malik

The term ‘subcompact’ wasn’t designed to fill you with excitement — you knew exactly what you’d be getting from cars in this class, that being the most basic mode of transportation. However, it’s hard not to conjure images of terrible plastic interiors, tinny bodies and screaming little engines straining to muster up the oomph to overtake the girl on her bicycle when it comes to cars in this segment but Hyundai is aiming to change that notion with its new fifth-generation Accent. Having spent some time with the small saloon, it’s clear that this one has quite a lot going for it. Affordability doesn’t necessarily have to mean bare-bones commutes.

Starting with the redesigned exterior, it stands out a lot more than the predecessor thanks to the new, bolder styling. The sculpted body lends it an air of confidence and sophistication with the sweeping roofline and sharp character lines both smart touches. The signature cascading, chromed grille is flanked by large wraparound headlights and it rides on 16 in alloys that fill the wheel arches nicely. It features side mirror LED turn signal indicators that go some way in adding an upscale feel to the car. It’s more aerodynamic too (it has a new front lip, lower ride height and sculpted chassis) which helps it achieve a drag coefficient of 0.308.