2005 Hyundai Accent SR Concept

A full set of airbags including front, side and curtain-type, have been fitted to the concept. (Photo: Hyundai Auto Canada)

While the Playstation generation that this vehicle is aimed at is more interested in appearances, unadulterated performance and the admittedly cool brushed alloy trim, the Accent SR also appeals to a more sensible side. ABS, ESP stability control and a full set of airbags including front, side and curtain-type, have been fitted to the concept, ensuring that what lurks beneath its hood can be contained. If Hyundai could just translate the detail, innovation and expensive-feeling materials of the SR concept into production, it would be a smash hit, no doubt.

Mechanically, it appears that the Accent SR is a twin to the Kia Sport concept which was shown at the Paris Motor Show in 2004. Both cars ride on a 2,500 mm (98.4 inch) wheelbase, with MacPherson Struts up front, torsion beam suspension in rear and are powered through the front wheels. Seemingly borrowed from the Sport is the powertrain, consisting of a 2.0-litre inline-four that's been turbocharged to liberate an undisclosed amount of horsepower. Given the Kia Sport's output of 200-hp, it's most likely the same. Unfortunately, a new gearbox wasn't developed, as the engine is still mated to a five-speed automatic. Major coincidence? No, given both cars target a similar demographic, but either

Believe it or not, the Accent SR actually stands a chance of becoming a reality. (Photo: Hyundai Auto Canada)

way it's got the power and the performance to satisfy young speed-frenzied drivers - just need to drop an aftermarket six-speed manual in between the front seats to make it perfect.

Believe it or not, the Accent SR actually stands a chance of becoming a reality, even though Hyundai claims that the car isn't scheduled to be mass produced. With Hyundai's possibly moving the Tiburon up market, or at least a decision to build a more powerful personal coupe on a larger chassis with rear wheel drive has been made, there is a clear open road for a pocket-rocket style compact. If Hyundai could bring something similar to the Accent SR to market within a reasonable amount of time, brands from all over the world would really need to reconsider their sport compact offerings.


Specifications:

Body Type: 3-door hatchback
Layout: front engine, FWD
Engine (est.): 200-hp 2.0L, 16-valve, DOHC I-4 turbo
Transmission: 5-spd auto
Dimensions (L/W/H/WB): 4,035 / 1,745/ 1,470/ 2,500 mm (158.9 / 68.7 / 57.9 / 98.4 in)
Brakes (front/rear): disc/disc, ABS
Wheels / Tires: 225/40R 18
Seating Capacity: 2+2
Web Site: www.hyundaicanada.com