Hyundai unveiled the fourth-generation 2011 Accent overseas at the 2010 Beijing Auto Show recently. The 2011 version of this nice little subcompact vehicle will be offered in a couple new colors, and in two body styles: a 2-door hatchback and a 4-door sedan. The sedan uses the same chassis as the hatchback but the body is a little bit (about nine inches) longer. Hyundai gave the new version of this car a 101.2-inch wheelbase to improve the spaciousness of the interior passenger areas, as opposed to the 98.4-inch wheelbase in the previous version of the vehicle.
Some of the updated exterior cosmetic changes include a redesigned front fascia, new oversized headlights, wavy front grille, bumper, and mirrors (in which turn signals are also housed), along with a sloping roof and distinct character lines. The taillights and rear bumper have also been updated. The new version of the Accent gives it a fluidic sculpture design. Hyundai used ultra high-tensile steel to give this car better crash protection, which makes it safer for the whole family.
Like the previous version, the 2011 Hyundai Accent will have front-wheel drive. The new version will be powered by a new generation Gamma gasoline 1.6-liter engine and will have motor-driven power steering. It will have transmission choices of a five-speed manual shift or four-speed automatic.
The Accent is one of the most fuel-efficient vehicles of its size in the U.S.A. Hyundai is careful to make their vehicles as aerodynamic as possible and they adjusted the engine to promote fuel economy, in part through the latest technologies of variable valve timing, direct multiport fuel injection and a low-demand alternator. Low-rolling-resistance tires are also standard, in a 14-inch size (except the SE hatchback, which sports 16-inch tires). There have been added improvements to the 2011 version that help reduce fuel consumption and carbon dioxide emissions.
A height-adjustable driver’s seat and a split fold-down rear seat back are included on all models, and most have tilt standard on the steering wheel. Most of the models offer remote keyless entry and power locks and windows in the available options list.
Some of the interior adjustments in the new generation of Accent include a revamped instrument panel with blue lighting, a central console that has been updated, and new equipment such as Bluetooth hands-free and USB and Auxiliary input jacks for mp3 and other audio players. There are storage areas conveniently placed throughout the passenger areas, as well as behind the rear seat.
The SE, GLS, and GS models’ audio can feature six speakers with their auxiliary jack and USB interface – this is standard on the SE and GLS, and in the option list for the GS. The SE comes standard with (and the GLS includes in its available options) cruise control; the SE comes with steering wheel audio controls standard, while they are options on the GLS. Only the SE model comes with a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, interior accents in a metallic-look finish, and a power sunroof.
