The Hyundai Accent is a five-passenger compact offered in four trim levels: GL, GS, SE and GLS. The GL, GS and the SE are two-door hatchbacks, while the GLS is available only as a four-door sedan. All Accents are powered by a 110-horsepower, 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine. Transmission choices are either a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic.

The base GL makes do without a standard stereo, but does feature a six-way-adjustable driver seat with height adjustment, a reclining 60/40-split rear seatback, front seat-mounted side airbags and full-length side curtain airbags. Moving up through the trims nets air-conditioning, AM/FM radio and optional power accessories and antilock brakes (standard on SE and optional on GS and GLS sedan). The SE also offers alloy wheels, a sport-tuned suspension and a leather-wrapped steering wheel.

Inside, there's a clean, two-tone decor with straightforward controls. But plain styling and cheap-looking materials make the Accent less attractive when compared to newer competitors. Still, there's enough interior space that average-sized adults can get comfortable in the front or rear. In terms of feature content, the Hyundai Accent delivers on all the essentials.

In reviews, we've found the Accent to be a good choice for those seeking basic, fuel-efficient transportation. Driving the Accent offers no revelations in performance, but the brakes are strong, and ride quality and handling are fully acceptable for an economy car. The four-cylinder engine provides ample power for driving around town, but acceleration can be sluggish at highway speeds in automatic-transmission models. Get the manual gearbox if you can.