2016 Hyundai Accent long term review
I don't make a whole lot of money, I needed a vehicle which was inexpensive and dependable. That's exactly what I got with my 2016 Hyundai Accent. I bought it new in April 2016, 3 years later I now have 43,000 miles on it, with no problems to speak of whatsoever. The car gets great gas mileage overall in suburban and highway driving, well into the 40s and 50s, but in the city it could be better. Granted, the ActiveECO mode helps that problem, but you will need to tap the accelerator lightly and learn how the computer alters engine takeoff power to get a smooth start from zero. I would only use that feature in heavy stop-and-go city traffic, never while entering the Interstate.
That said however, I'm so glad Hyundai chose to use a regular tried-and-true 6-speed automatic transmission instead of a CVT as many other carmakers have done. While a CVT could produce better gas mileage it has shown to not last as long as a regular automatic, which we've been using in cars for decades. Reliability and durability is the number one reason a person buys a brand new car, and you generally cannot go wrong with using an older, proven technology to serve that purpose.
The only complaint I've ever had about this car was that a spare tire was not included, and the dealer did not tell me this when I bought the car, I had to find out the hard way a year later when one of my tires was damaged in a construction zone on the road.
As I covered before, driving in normal mode the car has decent acceleration, once you're up to speed the car delivers great fuel economy. It's not the most powerful car on the road, but horsepower is not the reason one buys a car in this class. (Who expects Italian supercar performance out of a $15,000 compact city car?)
I also really like the seat materials in this Accent. They are comfortable yet very easy to clean. The interior panels and center console are made of plastic so occasionally you will hear some rattling, but again, that's generally to be expected in this class.
If I could ask an improvement anywhere, it would be in regards to how the car handles on the highway. Yes, I know it's a small car so it will wobble a little more in the wind and wake turbulence than a large car would, but those of us who are fans of small cars would greatly appreciate suspension revisions or any other improvements that could deliver a smoother ride.
In closing, I'm very happy with this car and would absolutely buy it again. Thus far, Hyundai has proven themselves in terms of what I need in my car.
Recommended
Verified Owner
