The 2020 Hyundai Accent is an economy car that aims to be a daily driver. But is this small car reliable enough for everyday wear and tear? Accent owners may have considered other comparable options before purchasing, such as the Toyota Yaris. So what made buyers choose the 2020 Hyundai Accent in the end, and were they ultimately satisfied with their choice? 

It’s easy to see the appeal of the 2020 Hyundai Accent. It’s incredibly affordable, and it returns outstanding gas mileage. However, these perks might not save you money in the long run.

Let’s examine what the 2020 Hyundai Accent offers and what owners have to say about their experiences.

The 2020 Hyundai Accent is built for minimalists

New drivers, commuters, and frugal buyers alike are the target demographic for subcompact cars. The 2020 Hyundai Accent isn’t incredibly exciting and doesn’t have the most amenities. Still, it gets you from Point A to Point B. Notably, the Accent is one of several Hyundai models that achieve 40+ MPG highway.

The 2020 Accent has a starting MSPR of just $15,295, but it offers a bare-bones package. The entry-level SE trim is one of the few cars that still includes a standard manual transmission. However, buyers can upgrade to a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) for $1,100. The added cost of the CVT is worth it in the long run. It helps boosts the Hyundai Accent’s gas mileage from 33 MPG city/highway combined to 36 MPG, according to the EPA.

The SE also includes a five-inch touchscreen, a four-speaker sound system, Bluetooth, a rearview camera, and a USB port.

That’s not much to write home about, but it’s enough to get the job done. Those seeking a more pleasurable driving experience can upgrade to the SEL or Limited trims – priced at $17,650 and $19,400, respectively.

The SEL adds Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and it upgrades the touchscreen to seven inches. Meanwhile, the Limited features some luxuries, such as a hands-free trunk release, a power sunroof, heated front seats, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob. Most importantly, it includes a couple of safety systems – forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking.

What are owners saying about their 2020 Accent?

The 2020 Hyundai Accent has the lowest consumer rating within its segment on Kelley Blue Book, scoring 2.7/5. Some might point toward the Accent’s relatively few amenities as a factor of its low score. However, owners had more serious gripes with the car.

Several KBB customer reviews noted that the Accent has transmission issues. One of these owners said, “Transmission problems already have this car in the service department. These cars are definitely cheap.”

Meanwhile, another reviewer had different issues, citing on-going electrical system malfunctions.

Notably, the 2020 Hyundai Accent scored better in quality and reliability with J.D. Power, earning a 90/100 rating. Additionally, Hyundai’s 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain limited warranty will help prevent buyers from encountering many out-of-pocket expenses.

The final verdict

The 2020 Hyundai Accent is undoubtedly a no-frills vehicle. There’s not a whole lot to love aside from its low price and gas-sipping engine.

The Accent can always run into a mechanical or electrical problem at some point. Most cars do. However, its warranty provides better coverage than most competitors.

The real issue lies with the value you’ll get for the money. Frankly, there are cars under $20K that would better fit your needs in terms of safety, comfort, and reliability.