Style and glamour may have eluded the Hyundai Accent, but since its 1995 introduction, this economy car has been one of the better-built, better-performing choices at the bottom end of the new car market. Although grouped with similarly priced subcompact cars, the Accent sedan and hatchback have always fallen under the EPA's classification for a compact car, which translates to a surprisingly roomy interior. Other Accent advantages include its quiet cabin, a generous standard equipment list and decent acceleration (especially when paired with the five-speed manual) and handling. Generous warranty coverage is another plus: Since 1999, Hyundai has backed the Accent with a five-year/60,000-mile basic warranty and a 10-year/100,000-mile drivetrain warranty.

But there are two reasons you might avoid the generally competent Hyundai Accent: low safety ratings, and an increasingly diverse selection of competitors. Competing import manufacturers offer new models with added style, personality and options availability. Another drawback is the Accent's typically low resale value (though this does make it quite affordable on the used market). For buyers who don't need all the glitz and plan to keep their car for more than five years, though, the Hyundai Accent is a sensible choice among budget sedans and three-door hatchbacks.

• Current Hyundai Accent
• Used Hyundai Accent Models