A few years ago the subcompact class was supposed to take over the auto industry. There was a slew of small cars with low sticker prices and decent efficiency, power and features. While all of them got you to Point B, few did so as a complete package, and the segment as a whole didn't set the world afire, even with high gas prices. Hyundai's Accent was at the rear of the pack, and for 2012 the company has completely redesigned its entry-level offering.

The Accent now runs away from the rest of the segment in terms of value and features.

The bulbous two-door hatchback body style — and its sub-$10,000 price tag — are gone, replaced by attractive four-door sedan and hatchback body styles. The base price has risen by a few thousand dollars, but it actually delivers more value now.

The Accent sedan is on sale now, and the hatchback will arrive at dealers by the end of June.

• Performance
• Exterior
• Interior & Cargo
• Features
• Safety
• Accent in the Market