Hyundai upgrades Accent range

Hyundai has re-imagined, respecified and reinvigorated its light-car Accent model range.

The two-tier Accent range now starts with the revised Accent Active powered by Hyundai’s impressive multi-point injected 1.4-litre Kappa engine. Transmission choice is six-speed manual or new state-of-the-art CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission).

Importantly, entry-level Accent Active’s MLP has been reduced by $2,000 for both manual and CVT-equipped hatchback and sedan variants.

The sporty Accent SR hatch, featuring the 1.6-litre direct-injection Gamma engine, also received the same $2,000 MLP reduction for both the six-speed manual transmission and six-speed automatic variants.

Like all new Hyundai models the Accent range boasts ride and handling painstakingly fine-tuned for Australian roads by Hyundai Motor Company Australia’s acclaimed chassis development team.

Apart from broadening Accent’s appeal, the revised model range effectively also replaces the Accent’s outgoing light-car segment stablemate, the i20.

DRIVETRAINS

Entry-level Accent Active now comes standard with Hyundai’s Kappa 1.4-litre multi-point injected in-line four-cylinder petrol engine.

The dual overhead cam (DOHC) Kappa 1.4 MPi boasts such innovative technologies as Dual Continuously Variable Valve Timing (D-CVVT) and two-step variable induction system. Its 74kW maximum power arrives at 6,000rpm and generous 133Nm maximum torque is available from just 3,500rpm.

The Kappa engine also boasts a long list of clever efficiency technologies. Weight-saving and friction-reduction measures engineered into the Kappa engine contribute to its lively performance and impressive fuel economy.

The range-topping Accent SR retains Hyundai’s direct-injection 1.6-litre Gamma engine, also with DOHC and D-CVVT but with a gutsy 103kW maximum power at 6,300rpm and 167Nm maximum torque at 4,850rpm.

Accent Active’s fuel economy is improved seven percent (six-speed manual) and three percent (CVT) over its 1.6 MPi-engined manual and four-speed auto predecessors.

Accent Active’s new multi-point-injected 1.4-litre Kappa engine is available with six-speed manual gearbox or, for the first time in Australia, Hyundai’s new computer-controlled CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission).

The MPi Kappa engine with CVT powertrain replaces the previous Accent Active’s MPi 1.6-litre/4-speed automatic transmission combination.

Because it has been optimised for the Kappa engine, Hyundai’s new CVT helps the strong 1.4-litre maintain its maximum torque at low revs. For an even sportier driving experience, the CVT includes a sequential manual mode – activated via the console-mounted gearlever – with six simulated gear ratios.

Both six-speed manual and CVT-equipped new Accent Active variants offer excellent driveability with eco- and pocket-friendly fuel economy.

FEATURES AND EQUIPMENT

Both Accent Active and SR are comprehensively specified and equipped.

High levels of active and passive safety equipment – including a full suite of Electronic Stability Control (ESC) features and six airbags as standard – have helped Accent achieve a benchmark ANCAP 5-Star rating.

Similarly, benchmark comfort and entertainment features – including front and rear power windows, 5-inch touchscreen audio system, AUX/USB audio input with digital iPod® compatibility and Bluetooth connectivity – are standard across the two-tier Accent range.

KEY SPECIFICATIONS

Accent Active 1.4 MPi Hatchback or Sedan:

• 6 airbags: driver & front passenger; driver & front passenger side (thorax); and, full-length curtains
• Electronic Stability Control (ESC) including:
  • Traction Control System (TCS)
  • Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
  • Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)
  • Brake Assist System (BAS)
• Vehicle Stability Management (VSM)
• 14-inch steel wheels with 175/70R14 tyres
• 5-inch touchscreen audio system with CD player, MP3 capability, 6 speakers, media ripping/storage
• AUX/USB audio input with digital iPod® compatibility
• Bluetooth connectivity (hands-free phone and audio streaming)
• Steering wheel-mounted audio controls
• Front and rear power windows (driver’s one-touch auto up/down)
• Height-adjustable driver’s seat
• One-touch turn signal operation (3 flashes)
• Trip computer
• Cloth interior
• Manual air-conditioning

Accent SR 1.6 GDi Hatchback (key specifications above Active):

• 1.6 GDi engine (+29kW and +34Nm vs. 1.4 MPi)
• 16-inch machined-face alloy wheels with 195/50R16 tyres
• Automatic dusk-sensing headlights
• Front foglights
• LED daytime running lights (DRL)
• Projector-beam headlights
• Cruise control with steering wheel-mounted controls
• Deluxe front centre floor console with storage compartment
• Front centre armrest with sliding function
• Premium gearknob and steering wheel
• Roof-mounted rear spoiler

PRICING

* All prices are Manufacturer’s List Price. Price excludes dealer delivery and on road costs. Metallic paint pricing is $495.