If you think it's impossible to be frugal and also park a nicely equipped new car in your driveway, you need to test-drive the 2020 Hyundai Accent. Offered in three distinct trims—from the price leader SE to the loaded Limited—the Accent provides something for everyone's budget. Its 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine is as efficient as the car's base price would suggest. We've found the lightweight Accent fun to drive and easy to pitch into corners with enough speed to make the tires squeal. In this case, the old saying is true: It's more fun to drive a slow car fast than to drive a fast car slow.
Pros Sophisticated styling, eager handling, businesslike cabin
Cons Noisy powertrain, cramped rear-seat passenger space, no hatchback body style.
The 2020 Hyundai Accent comes with front wheel drive. Available transmissions include: continuously variable-speed automatic, 6-speed manual.Improved fuel economy from a new, less powerful four-cylinder engine.Continuously variable automatic transmission replaces traditional automatic.
Pros Comfortable ride and impressively quiet cabin Spacious interior with solid, rattle-free build quality Long warranty coverage provides peace of mind Excellent real-world fuel economy
Cons Lacks onboard navigation but connects to smartphone nav apps Cloth seats are uncomfortable and trap heat USB port struggles to charge a phone Enhanced safety aids only available on top trim level
The 2020 Hyundai Accent is about as basic as new cars get, and that’s where its appeal lies.
Pros City-friendly size Handsome, if forgettable Good value even at top trim More efficient new engine
Cons No hatchback version Base trims lack safety features Rough acceleration noise Un-fun driving dynamics
The DS 3 Crossback E-Tense is a seriously stylish electric car with comfy suspension and a stunning interior but it’s let down by cramped back seats and limited electric range.
Pros Fabulous interior Very comfortable to drive Plenty of personalisation options
Cons Cramped back seats Alternatives are cheaper… … and have greater ranges
Not the EV we’d recommend, but if you like the way it looks and battery-power suits your lifestyle then by all means.
Pros Bit different to look at and sit in, as practical as ICE car
Cons Ride comfort, inconsistent brake pedal, awkward infotainment
The DS 3 Crossback E-Tense offers enough range for most people, but it's far from the best electric car on sale.
Pros Choice of trim levels Characterful design Fast-charging capability
Cons Shorter range than rivals Not a huge boot Feels heavy
