New Accent coming from Hyundai this fall

This new technology not only enhances power output, it also reduces emissions -- the new Accent is projected to receive Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (ULEV) certification. It comes teamed with a five-speed manual transmission, or an optional four-speed automatic.

Safety features include dual front airbags, front seat-mounted side-impact airbags, and roof-mounted side curtain airbags for both front and outboard rear seat occupants.

The side curtain airbags provide "an important advantage for Accent owners," Cosmai says, "as this feature is optional or not available on most models in this class."

All seating positions have adjustable head restraints that can reduce the risk of neck injury in the event the another vehicle crashes into the back of the Accent, and the rear head restraints are shingle-style for improved rear visibility.

The interior design has also moved upscale, says Cosmai, with a new, distinctive two-tone color scheme. Standard equipment includes an AM/FM/CD audio system with four speakers, a convenient tilt steering wheel, and eight-way driver's seat with adjustable armrest, driver and passenger vanity mirrors, front seatback pockets, and a 60/40 split fold-down rear seat that has a folding center armrest with dual cupholders.

For added comfort, air conditioning and a Convenience Package are available. The Convenience Package includes power windows featuring driver's auto down, illuminated switches on all four doors, and driver's side power window reserve, power heated mirrors, and power door locks with keyless entry with panic, and six speakers.

Equipment levels and packaging for Canada are still to be determined, says Jamie Smith of Hyundai Auto Canada, as are prices.

The 2006 Accent features what Cosmai calls "a surprising level of storage. Accent delivers greater trunk space than its predecessor, and has plenty of areas in which to store items, too. There's a bottle holder and storage pockets located in every door panel, plus storage trays are located in the front and rear."

Accent has been designed and equipped to meet today's more demanding drivers, says Cosmai, even if they're looking for "maximum value at an affordable price. This is just another example of how Hyundai is responding to the needs of North American drivers and providing them with vehicles that are fun to drive and economical to own."

Cosmai says the all-new, "affordable Accent delivers a comfortable ride and responsive handling thanks to a front MacPherson strut suspension with coil springs, and a coupled torsion beam rear suspension with coil springs. Unlike some of its competitors, Accent has standard power rack-and-pinion steering for precise feel."
photo:Hyundai Motor America