Next-gen 2023 Hyundai Accent could stir PH subcompact sedan segment

Hyundai has officially debuted the next-generation Verna, also known as Accent in our market. The new sixth-gen iteration comes with the brand's Sensuous Sportiness design, as well as a great amount of on-board tech.

Next-gen Hyundai Accent

So much so that the 2023 Hyundai Accent could stir up the Philippines subcompact sedan segment ruled by the likes of the Toyota Vios, Honda City, and Mitsubishi Mirage G4, among others. What exactly does the new Accent offer? Let's find out.

Exterior

As mentioned earlier, the new Accent features Hyundai's design language that looks futuristic and sporty. A Staria-like daytime running lights (DRLs) span the width of the front fascia, while the rear end sports a similar taillight assembly with fang-like design cues on each end.

It comes with the brand's design concept

Depending on the variant, the Indian-spec Accent is available with 15- and 16-inch alloy wheels, with the top-spec model getting a blacked-out finish. For an even more sporty appeal, the front brake calipers can be had in red. 

Interior

Two interior themes are offered in the new Accent, namely a premium dual-tone beige and black, and a sporty black cabin with red accents. Both interiors can be finished in either cloth or leatherette. Select variants are equipped with a power driver seat, and front ventilated and heated seats.

Interior of the new Accent

One feature that could appeal to Filipino car buyers is the smart electric sunroof as it is still considered a unique small sedan equipment. The MG 5, Volkswagen Santana, Changan Alsvin, and Geely Emgrand are some of the subcompact sedans in the Philippines that come with a sunroof. Moreover, ambient lighting has been made available.

Tech & Safety

The new iteration boasts a segment-unique one-piece dual-screen on the dashboard. An 8-inch or 10.25-inch screen is available for the infotainment, with a digital cluster with color TFT MID serving as the other screen. Other notable tech include Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, an 8-speaker Bose sound system, and a wireless charger.

The ambient lighting looks clean

Perhaps the feature should stand out the most if the new Accent will be brought locally is its Hyundai SmartSense, which is the brand's advanced driver assistance system (ADAS). Only the Nissan Almera is the other small sedan offering this equipment.

Rear of the all-new 2023 Hyundai Accent 

Among the Hyundai SmartSense functions are Forward Collision Warning (FCW), Blind-spot Collision Warning (BCW), Lane Keeping Assist (LKA), Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Driver Attention Warning (DAW), and Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go (SCC with S&G).

Engine & Powertrain

Numbers-wise, the all-new Hyundai Accent has the most potent power output rating when compared to PH-available small sedans. The Indian-spec Accent can be powered by a 1.5-liter turbocharged gasoline engine capable of generating 158 horsepower and 253 Nm of torque. This can be connected to either a 6-speed manual or a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission.

Hyundai guns out with the new Accent

A naturally-aspirated 1.5-liter engine is also available, capable of generating 113 horsepower and 144 Nm of torque. It can be paired with a 6-speed manual gearbox but the 7-speed DCT is replaced with an Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT), which is the brand's version of the continuously variable transmission (CVT).

Price

While the all-new Hyundai Accent sounds like a promising prospect in the local subcompact sedan segment, the chances of it arriving locally are still unknown. Currently, Hyundai Motor Philippines, Inc. (HMPH) offers a lineup of crossovers/SUVs, MPVs, and vans only. 

All-new Hyundai Accent

The pricing is also another critical factor in determining whether the new Accent will be a hit among Filipino car buyers. For now, let's check out the prices in India where the model debuted.

• Accent 1.5 MPi 6MT EX - 1,089,900 Indian Rupee (or around Php 719,505)
• Accent 1.5 MPi 6MT S - 1,195,500 Indian Rupee (Php 789,218)
• Accent 1.5 MPi 6MT SX - 1,298,500 Indian Rupee (Php 857,214)
• Accent 1.5 MPi IVT SX - 1,423,500 Indian Rupee (Php 939,733)
• Accent 1.5 MPi 6MT SX(O) - 1,465,900 Indian Rupee (Php 967,724)
• Accent 1.5 Turbo GDi 6MT SX Dual Tone - 1,483,500 Indian Rupee (Php 979,343)
• Accent 1.5 Turbo GDi 6MT SX - 1,483,500 Indian Rupee (Php 979,343)
• Accent 1.5 Turbo GDi 6MT SX(O) Dual Tone - 1,598,900 Indian Rupee (Php 1.056 million)
• Accent 1.5 Turbo GDi 6MT SX(O) - 1,598,900 Indian Rupee (Php 1.056 million)
• Accent 1.5 Turbo GDi 7DCT SX Dual Tone - 1,608,000 Indian Rupee (Php 1.062 million)
• Accent 1.5 Turbo GDi 7DCT SX - 1,608,000 Indian Rupee (Php 1.062 million)
• Accent 1.5 MPi IVT SX(O) - 1,619,500 Indian Rupee (Php 1.069 million)
• Accent 1.5 Turbo GDi 7DCT SX(O) Dual Tone - 1,737,900 Indian Rupee (Php 1.147 million)
• Accent 1.5 Turbo GDi 7DCT SX(O) - 1,737,900 Indian Rupee (Php 1.147 million)

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