2019 Hyundai Accent: First impression

The all-new 2019 Hyundai Accent was showcased at the recently concluded Kuala Lumpur International Motor Show (KLIMS) 2018. We were taken aback as we weren’t expecting to see the Accent posing at Hyundai’s pavilion. But since it was there, it was quite apparent that Hyundai is planning to bring it to the ASEAN countries. But until that happens, here is our first impression of the 2019 Hyundai Accent.

Looks and style

Hyundai has played it safe here and had imparted the new Accent with the looks of the much popular Elantra. The new Accent looks quite similar to its elder sibling, which is a good thing. It carries forward Hyundai’s fluidic design language. The front of the 2019 Accent gets large swept-back projector headlamps along with LED DRLs. The Y-shaped front grille is familiar and does its job well. The front bumper is nicely designed and is also a bit sporty.

The side profile of the 2019 Accent is pleasing too. The roofline is smooth and curved. The chrome treatment on the door handles and window sills look great and add to the premium-ness of the car. Reaching the rear of the car, we are greeted with large wrap around two-piece combination tail lights. Perhaps, these are the best part of the Accent as far as styling is concerned.

Interior and features

Although Hyundai has not released a whole lot of information regarding the new 2019 Accent, certain things are expected from the sedan. Just like the styling, the interior of the new Accent would be similar to that of the Elantra except for the quality of materials used. Overall, the cabin would be very minimalistic.

Hyundai would include a non-touchscreen 3.8-inch LCD with AUX and USB connectivity features to take cater to the entertainment needs of the occupants. But there would be no support for Android Auto and Apple CarPlay which is a bit disappointing. Even Bluetooth would be skipped. If that would be the case, then the Accent will be many steps behind when compared to its rivals like Honda City, Mazda 2 Sedan, and all-new Toyota Vios.

Engine options

The 2019 Hyundai Accent specs will feature two engine options. There will be a 1.4-litre MPI dual CVVT petrol engine that was fitted in the display model at the KLIMS 2018. This engine is tuned to churn out a max power of 100 PS and generate a peak torque of 132 Nm. The other engine will be a diesel unit- a 1.6-litre CRDi engine which produces 128 PS and 260 Nm of torque. Both the engines will be available with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic gearbox.

Conclusion

The new Hyundai Accent is already being sold in a few other countries. So, it was only a matter of time for it be made available in the Philippines. Then it was showcased at the KLIMS 2018. Hence, its arrival in our country has become inevitable. Now, we’ve got some more details about the new car. The masses would appreciate the 2019 Hyundai Accent because it looks like a premium car, comes with Hyundai’s brand name and trust, and it has both petrol and diesel engine options.

To keep the costs low, Hyundai has skipped a few features like Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and even a touchscreen display, which could be a turn off for some. We were not expecting this from Hyundai because Hyundai is known for providing feature-laden products. Let’s wait for an official feature list to know what exactly we would be getting with the new Accent.

Hyundai has not released any details regarding the 2019 Hyundai Accent price or availability. A large portion of the success of the new Accent would depend on its pricing. If Hyundai does that right, then the Filipinos will have an affordable and a good sedan. We will be covering all the latest updates about the new Accent, so stay tuned.