An automaker could reveal a new car just about anywhere, but most choose a popular stage like one of the major auto shows — Los Angeles, Detroit, New York, Frankfurt, Geneva, Paris, Tokyo …you get the idea — to make the biggest splash. Instead of being a small fish in a big pond, however, Hyundai chose to reveal its 2018 Accent at this year’s Orange County Auto Show in Anaheim, California.
In the backyard of Hyundai’s U.S. headquarters, the fifth-generation Accent shows off its revised styling, updated interior, and new convenience and safety features. The 2018 Accent uses a high-strength steel platform to improve torsional rigidity 32 percent over its predecessor, while a revised suspension and adaptive steering system improves ride and handling.
Exterior design cues are borrowed from larger Hyundai sedans like the Elantra and Sonata, including a new “cascading” hexagonal grille, LED daytime running lights, a defined beltline, LED taillights, and fog lights. Hyundai expanded the 2018 model by 0.6 inches in length and 1.2 inches in width for a more elegant stance. The new Accent also rides lower than its predecessor, sitting tight on its available 17-inch alloy wheels.
The 2018 Accent is one of most handsome subcompacts around – a segment which includes the Honda Fit, Chevy Sonic, Nissan Versa, and Ford Fiesta.
Inside, the latest Accent moves further upscale in terms of design and materials. Highlights include a standard 5-inch color display or optional 7-inch LCD monitor, available heated seats, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, dual USB ports, a standard rearview camera, and a range of driver aids. Hyundai BlueLink is also on offer along with remote start and some other app-specific functions.
Passenger volume grows to 103.9 cubic feet, which technically bumps the Accent into the EPA-classified compact class. Whatever you want to call it, the Accent is spacious and benefits from a 60/40 split folding rear bench to maximize its 13.7 cubic-foot cargo hold.
Under the hood is an updated version of Hyundai’s 1.6-liter GDI four-cylinder, which makes an improved 130 horsepower and 119 pound-feet of torque. A six-speed manual is standard and a six-speed automatic is available, with both sending power to the front wheels. Hyundai says fuel economy improves 7 percent over last year’s estimated 27 city/37 highway mpg.
Following its debut, the 2018 Accent will arrive at dealerships this fall. Pricing information has yet to be announced.
Apple won the PC market’s worst quarter, but that’s not the entire story. It won the race by stumbling less than everyone else.
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