Used Hyundai Accent Hatchback 1999 - 2003 review

What's the used Hyundai Accent like?

Too big to be a supermini, yet not quite a small family hatchback, the Accent sits awkwardly between the accepted class categories. But, less of an issue is that it is well equipped, with good space in the front cabin and the boot, although the rear is a squeeze for adults.

Its big attraction is that it's cheap to buy after a couple of years, thanks to scary depreciation from new. But, it was never a big seller as a new car, so it's scarce on the second-hand market, and usually offered by franchised dealers or private sellers. You can find the occasional cosseted, one-owner low-miler, but others take a battering and receive little servicing.

Overview

Other than its sheer low cost, the Accent has little on its side

Pros

• The Accent is cheap to buy and well equipped
• All models are tough and practical

Cons

• It's noisy, and handling is poor
• Good used Accents are thin on the ground

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1.4 Atlantic 3dr

£1,000

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£1,500

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Mind you, even the best examples are uninspiring to drive, with an unpleasant slackness about the steering and gearshift. At least the 1.6 petrol engine is powerful enough.

You may be attracted also by its five-year warranty, but don't go thinking it'll solve all your problems, because cover reduces dramatically for years four and five.

Our recommendations

Which used Hyundai Accent should I buy?

Pick from two trim levels and three engines.

The GSi has twin front airbags, alloy wheels, a CD player, remote locking doors and electric windows, while the CDXi adds side airbags, a trip computer and air-conditioning.

We'd go for the top model. This cost £2000 extra from new but will scarcely be any dearer two years on.

Turning to the engines, the 1.6 is the one to have, because it shifts the car well, but remains economical. The 1.3 in cheaper Accents needs working hard and kicks up a racket as it does so.

Your other choice is a 1.5 diesel, which is also noisy and delivers most of its power across a narrow rev band, making it awkward and unpleasant to drive.

An automatic gearbox is available, but only on the 1.6 CDXi, which is the dearest model, so it's not an option many new owners took - and very rare on the used amarket as a result.