Next-gen Hyundai Accent to come with Staria-like daytime running lights

Hyundai’s parametric design on the grille may be what the automaker is known for these days, but the signature light bar on the Staria is also gaining traction. Case in point: the visual element may soon find its way to the next-generation Accent sedan.

This could be the face of the new Hyundai Accent  

This was hinted at with teaser images released by Hyundai for the Indian market, where the Accent is sold as the Verna. The largely obscured pictures depict the LED light bar illuminated at the hood’s leading edge, accompanied by what looks like an enlarged grille at the bottom. This same element is also present on the upcoming new Kona.  

There’s also a shot of the car’s profile, striking for its use of a rising beltline with a stylized C-pillar that gives it an aggressive-looking streak. The rear portion hints at a fastback-inspired body, with a full-length LED tail lamp ending in vertical fangs at the sides resembling those on the Stargazer MPV.

The rising beltline accompanies a fastback-like silhouette

Technical details for the next iteration of the subcompact design are scarce, although Hyundai is reportedly shipping the new Accent with two 1.5-liter gasoline engines. One uses multi-point injection, rumored to be rated at 111 horsepower and 144 Nm of torque. 

Meanwhile, the other is a more powerful turbocharged motor with direct injection, with an expected output of 158 horsepower and 260 Nm of twist. Transmission choices include a 6-speed manual, an intelligent variable transmission (IVT), and a 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox.  

Since its introduction, the Staria's lightbar element has appeared on other Hyundai models such as the Grandeur and new Kona 

The Accent was one of Hyundai’s mainstay offerings in our market, sold with both naturally aspirated gasoline and turbocharged common-rail direct injection diesel engines. Arriving here in its third generation, the model found purpose not just for private use but also as a taxi unit due to the diesel power unit’s torque and efficiency.

However, the Accent was removed from the lineup when Hyundai of Korea took over the automaker’s Philippine operations in 2022, as the focus shifted to crossovers and MPVs. If the upcoming Hyundai Verna makes its debut in India this year, would you look forward to its Philippine comeback as the new Accent?  

Take a peek at the next versions of familiar nameplates at Philkotse.com.