Hyundai Accent Hatchback

The Hyundai Accent hatchback, primarily a hatchback version of Accent sedan, is one of the most affordable small cars in Australia. Priced in the range of $15,990 and $17,985, the Accent hatchback gets a single Sport trim in manual and automatic versions. Under the bonnet, it features a single 1.6-litre powertrain with two gearbox choices. This city car from Hyundai is available with six exterior colour options-chalk white, lake silver, phantom black, pulse red, thunderbolt, and blue lagoon. 

Dimensionally, the Hyundai Accent hatchback is slightly shorter than its sedan sibling at 4,115 mm against latter’s 4,370 mm of length. This apart, both have the same proportions measuring 1700 mm wide and 1450 mm high. Akin to its sedan counterpart, the Accent hatchback sits on a 2,570 mm wheelbase that translates into a spacious cabin. At the front, it features a petite mesh grille with Hyundai’s logo in the center, enclosed by a thin chrome lining. The grille flanks pulled back headlamps, and lower down, there are other bits such as mesh-type grille that double up as air-inlets, etc. Akin to the previous model, the current version also misses out on the fog lamps. Moving to the sides, there is a sharp shoulder line that runs across the length of the hatchback and meets the tail-lamps at the back. A steeply raked in short windscreen is separated by the petite boot lid though a prominent hump. 

Interiors of the five-seater hatchback are spacious, giving rivals in the segment a run for their money. It comes with a bunch of storage points within the cabin such as cup holders, glovebox compartment, bag hooks and cup holders on the centre console, etc. As for comfort, the seats are flat and have an upright position which restricts the knee room, especially at the back. The luggage storage capacity is claimed to be 370-litres, which is decent for a car this size. Material quality used inside isn’t on par with the competitors in the segment and the cabin looks a bit dated in terms of styling. As for features, it misses out on an automatic air conditioner, though it gets a height adjuster for driver’s seat, 12V power outlet in front, power windows at front and rear, rear wiper, cruise control, and steering mounted controls among several others. A 5-inch touchscreen audio system is layered inside supported by Bluetooth connectivity, Apple CarPlay, etc. 

This hatch plonks a 1.6-litre, DOHC engine with D-CVVT technology and makes a maximum power of 103 kW at 6,300 rpm against a peak torque of 167 Nm at 4,850 rpm. Compliant with Euro 5 emission norms, the engine is available with a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed automatic gearbox. The braking set-up comprises disc brakes at both ends, in addition, the hatchback gets a host of safety tech including ABS with EBD and brake assist, vehicle stability control, dual front airbags, impact sensing auto door unlock, side curtain airbags for front as well as rear seats, height adjustable headrests, child safety rear door locks, and ISOFIX child restraints.