The 2018 Hyundai Accent clouds the new-or-used question, but only in well-equipped Limited trim.
Pros City-street nimble Pretty, if not distinctive Well-equipped as a Limited Quieter cabin
Cons No more hatchback No AEB on SE or SEL Full-throttle noise Gas mileage isn’t tops in class
No need for excuses here: The Accent, with its distinctive design and fuel-sipping engine, is a fine choice for an economical car. The interior feels more upscale than that of the competition, but the Accent is available only as a sedan. Its 130-hp 1.6-liter inline-four pairs with either a standard perky six-speed manual or an optional sluggish six-speed automatic.
Pros Mature design, nicely equipped, overall sophistication.
Cons Modest fuel economy, sluggish automatic, weaker value than the base model.
The 2018 Hyundai Accent is all-new. It rides atop a new chassis that is a half-inch longer than before, yielding slightly more interior space and passenger room. Increased use of high-strength steel in the frame and the body promises improved handling dynamics, and the revised four-cylinder engine delivers better fuel economy.
PROS Comfortable ride and impressively quiet cabin Spacious interior is upscale for the segment Long warranty coverage provides peace of mind Fuel efficiency is more competitive
CONS Enhanced safety aids only available on top trim level Lacks in-dash navigation but connects to smartphone nav apps
The 2019 Lexus ES 350 Sedan is offered in the following styles: 4dr Sedan (3.5L 6cyl 8A), F SPORT 4dr Sedan (3.5L 6cyl 8A), Luxury 4dr Sedan (3.5L 6cyl 8A), and Ultra Luxury 4dr Sedan (3.5L 6cyl 8A). Lexus ES 350 Sedan models are available with a 3.5 L-liter gas engine, with output up to 302 hp, depending on engine type.
Pros Excellent ride quality, especially with the F-Sport's adaptive dampers Surprisingly capable handling Comfortable and mostly upscale interior for the price Dramatically improved technology compared to the previous generation
Cons A few interior plastics feel thin and cheap Efficiency-first transmission doesn't match the F-Sport's character Some controls require using the infotainment interface Finicky infotainment interface
Pros F Sport athleticism, shapely sheetmetal, gorgeous interior, whisper quiet.
Cons Vague hybrid steering, leisurely standard-model dynamics.
The 2019 Lexus ES promises to be both sedate and sporty.
Pros Best-looking ES ever? F Sport looks promising Apple CarPlay, finally! Thrifty hybrid
Cons No all-wheel drive Will it really be sporty? Infotainment controller could be complicated Shoppers want crossover SUVs, which the ES is not
