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Hyundai Accent 1.5TD

There's no arguing with the logic of Hyundai's decision to fit the 1.5-litre turbodiesel from its Matrix mini-MPV in its budget hatchback. The common-rail engine is one of the most refined of its type.

By Craig Cheetham

July 2002

There's no arguing with the logic of Hyundai's decision to fit the 1.5-litre turbodiesel from its Matrix mini-MPV in its budget hatchback. The common-rail engine is one of the most refined of its type.

Nor can there be any complaints about performance or fuel economy. A 0-60mph time of 14 seconds might not sound impressive, but with peak torque available at just over 2,000rpm, the Accent pulls well through the gears and is quiet at speed. In heavy urban traffic, it returns nearly 40mpg, while Hyundai claims a combined figure of 51.4mpg. But there's confusion as to why the Korean firm has bothered to use the engine in a car facing imminent replacement - as there's a completely revamped Accent coming out in January (see Newsweek, issue 714).

The current version is showing its age. Flimsy trim, a dated facia and cramped cabin mark out the small Hyundai as a budget offering, and the build quality is shocking - our test model had five serious electrical faults.

The firm says the next Accent will address these issues, but until then we can't recommend it. Ford's entry-level Fiesta TDCi costs only ΂£200 more, and while it lacks the Hyundai's standard equipment, it's a much better buy.

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FIRST OPINION

    Hopefully, next year's new model will have more of an Accent on quality. Until then, the current car remains severely compromised. It isn't even that cheap in diesel form - there are plenty of much better machines for the money. The only saving grace is a smooth and responsive engine, but that won't be enough to convince most buyers.
 

AT A GLANCE

    Hyundai Accent 1.5 GSi TD on sale now priced £9,295
    Standard equipment includes twin airbags, ABS, power windows
    0-60mph in 14 seconds
     
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