For over a decade, the Hyundai Accent has been recognized for delivering exceptional value, quality, and a surprising array of features in the entry-level car market. The 2008 model year continued this tradition, bringing even more to the table with enhanced standard equipment and refined design elements both inside and out. If you’re in the market for a reliable and economical compact car, especially on the used car market, the 2008 Hyundai Accent deserves a closer look.
What’s New for the 2008 Accent?
Hyundai made significant improvements to the 2008 Accent, focusing on features that buyers truly appreciate. Here’s a rundown of the key upgrades:
- XM Satellite Radio®: Enjoy a wide range of digital radio channels with the included XM Satellite Radio®, offering three months of complimentary service. This was a standout feature in its class at the time.
- Auxiliary Input Jack: Seamlessly connect your iPod or other MP3 players directly to the Accent’s audio system using the new auxiliary input jack.
- Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS): Safety is enhanced with the addition of a standard Tire Pressure Monitoring System, alerting drivers to low tire pressure for improved safety and fuel efficiency.
- Redesigned Instrument Cluster: The GLS and SE models feature a fresh instrument cluster design, improving the interior aesthetics and driver information layout.
- New Alloy Wheel Design: The Accent GLS receives a stylish new 15-inch alloy wheel design, adding to its visual appeal.
- B&M Racing Sport Shifter (SE Model): For driving enthusiasts, the Accent SE comes standard with a B&M Racing sport shifter, providing shorter throws and a more engaging driving experience.
- Exterior Color Option: The GS and SE trims now offer a vibrant “Mellow Yellow” exterior color, allowing for more personalization.
- Rear Center Armrest with Cupholders (SE, GLS): Rear passengers in the SE and GLS models benefit from added comfort and convenience with a rear center armrest equipped with cupholders.
These enhancements solidified the 2008 Hyundai Accent‘s position as a leader in the compact car segment, offering features often found in higher-priced vehicles.
Safety First: Advanced Features in an Affordable Car
Hyundai prioritized safety in the 2008 Hyundai Accent, equipping it with a comprehensive suite of standard safety technologies, particularly notable for its price point. It boasts an impressive six airbags, including:
- Dual front airbags
- Front seat-mounted side-impact airbags
- Roof-mounted side-curtain airbags covering both rows
This combination of airbags provides enhanced protection in various collision scenarios. Furthermore, all 2008 Hyundai Accents are equipped with front seatbelt pretensioners and load limiters. These systems tighten the seatbelts in the event of a collision, further minimizing occupant movement and injury risk. The robust safety features of the 2008 Hyundai Accent GLS four-door were recognized with a five-star frontal crash safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), highlighting its commitment to passenger protection. The inclusion of the Tire Pressure Monitoring System as standard equipment further underscores the focus on safety. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) were available as optional features on the GLS and standard on the sporty SE model.
Design that Stands Out in the Compact Class
The 2008 Hyundai Accent received design refinements that elevated its appearance beyond the typical entry-level car.
Refined GLS Sedan Design
The Accent GLS sedan was styled with upscale details to create a distinctive presence. Features like a chrome-accented grille, body-color door handles, mirrors, bodyside moldings, and rear garnish trim contributed to a more sophisticated look. Bold taillights and strong character lines added to its visual appeal. Even practical elements like the roof-mounted flexible micro-antenna were designed to be both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The new 15-inch wheel design further enhanced the GLS model’s overall design.
Sporty GS and SE Hatchback Design
The three-door Accent GS and SE models showcased Hyundai’s confident and sleek design language. The front fascia of the GS and SE featured an aggressive body-color grille, with fog lights standard on the SE trim. The Accent SE’s sporty character was further emphasized by its high-performance P205/45R16 tires and lightweight five-spoke aluminum wheels. A rear spoiler and wiper were standard on the Accent SE, adding to its sporty hatchback appeal.
Surprisingly Spacious Interior
Despite its classification as a compact car, the 2008 Hyundai Accent offered a remarkably spacious interior. Its design prioritized interior volume, exceeding that of the Toyota Corolla and Honda Civic in total interior space, even though those models are classified in a segment above the Accent. The four-door sedan boasted 104.6 cubic feet of total interior volume, surpassing even the larger Civic sedan. The three-door model was even roomier at 108.1 cubic feet, significantly exceeding the Civic Coupe’s interior volume. The Accent also offered class-leading front legroom and rear shoulder room, ensuring passenger comfort. The three-door Accent further excelled in cargo space within the three-door segment.
Inside, the Accent’s interior finish, attention to detail, and color options were designed to exceed expectations for its class. It featured a handsome two-tone interior color scheme with gray or beige options, and a sporty black monotone interior available in the three-door model. Improved analog instrumentation in the GLS and SE models provided clear driver information. Features like power steering, a tilt steering wheel, and an eight-way adjustable driver’s seat with a fold-down armrest contributed to driver comfort. Ample storage spaces were thoughtfully placed throughout the interior, including bins in the front and rear center console and glove compartment. GLS and SE models added front seatback pockets and door storage pockets with bottle holders. All 2008 Hyundai Accents included a 60/40 split fold-down rear seatback for enhanced cargo versatility, and the three-door model featured reclining rear seats.
Hyundai maintained its reputation for providing generous features for the price in the 2008 Accent. Standard features were comprehensive, including variable intermittent wipers, adjustable head restraints, cabin air filtration, rear window defroster, tachometer, digital clock, and multiple 12-volt outlets. For audiophiles, an available 172-watt AM/FM/XM Satellite Radio/CD/MP3 audio system with an auxiliary input jack and six speakers provided a rich sound experience. The inclusion of standard XM Satellite Radio was a significant advantage over many competitors in its class.
Efficient and Clean Engine Performance
Powering the 2008 Hyundai Accent was a 1.6-liter DOHC in-line four-cylinder engine equipped with Continuously Variable Valve Timing (CVVT). This technology optimized engine performance, fuel efficiency, and emissions. The engine produced 110 horsepower and 106 lb.-ft. of torque, outperforming competitors like the Toyota Yaris, Honda Fit, and Chevrolet Aveo in horsepower. Fuel economy was also competitive, with EPA ratings of 27 mpg city and 32 mpg highway for the manual transmission and 24 mpg city and 33 mpg highway for the automatic transmission. The CVVT system also contributed to cleaner operation, allowing the 2008 Hyundai Accent to achieve Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (ULEV) certification. The Accent was recognized by the American Council for an Energy Efficient Economy (ACEEE) as one of the “Greenest Vehicles” in the industry. The engine, part of Hyundai’s reliable Alpha engine family, was built for durability and backed by a 10-year/100,000-mile limited powertrain warranty.
Transmission Choices and Driving Dynamics
The 2008 Hyundai Accent offered two transmission choices to suit different driving preferences. A standard five-speed manual transmission provided engaging performance, while an optional four-speed automatic transmission with overdrive and lock-up torque converter maximized fuel economy at highway speeds. For the performance-oriented SE model, the B&M Racing shifter enhanced the manual transmission experience with shorter, more precise shifts.
The Accent’s rigid body structure contributed to a comfortable ride and responsive handling. It featured a MacPherson strut front suspension and a coupled torsion beam rear suspension, along with a front stabilizer bar for reduced body roll in corners. Rack-and-pinion steering with engine-RPM sensing assist provided easy maneuverability at low speeds and a secure feel at higher speeds. The Accent also boasted a tighter turning diameter than the Honda Fit and Nissan Versa, enhancing its agility in urban environments.
Hyundai tuned each Accent trim level to cater to specific consumer needs. The GLS sedan prioritized comfort while maintaining agility. The GS three-door offered a sportier steering feel. The top-of-the-line SE model aimed to deliver a fun-to-drive experience in the under-$15,000 price category with a sport-tuned suspension featuring stiffer springs, a larger stabilizer bar, and unique strut valving. The SE model’s performance tires and enhanced suspension resulted in a significant increase in roll control compared to the GLS. The Accent SE also included a four-sensor, four-channel Antilock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) for enhanced braking performance.
Value and Personalization
The 2008 Hyundai Accent‘s combination of strengths made it a compelling value proposition in the compact car market. Its advanced standard safety features, spacious and well-appointed interior, and new standard equipment like XM satellite radio demonstrated Hyundai’s commitment to exceeding customer expectations. Backed by “America’s Best Warranty,” including a 5-year/60,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty and a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, the Accent offered peace of mind to buyers.
Hyundai also recognized the growing trend of vehicle personalization, offering over 35 options and accessories for the Accent three-door. These included performance upgrades from DC Sports and AEM, B&M Racing components, premium audio systems, and styling accessories, allowing owners to customize their Accent to their individual tastes.
Trim Levels: GLS, GS, and SE
The 2008 Hyundai Accent was available in three distinct trim levels:
- Accent GLS (Sedan): The four-door sedan was offered in a single GLS trim level, well-equipped with features like a 1.6-liter CVVT engine, XM Satellite Radio, air conditioning, power steering, and a comprehensive suite of safety features. Optional packages added features like ABS, power windows and locks, and alloy wheels.
- Accent GS (Hatchback): The entry-level three-door GS hatchback provided a sporty look and a generous list of standard features, including a tilt steering wheel, adjustable driver’s seat, reclining rear seats, and a rear spoiler. Optional equipment packages added air conditioning, premium audio, power windows and locks, and keyless entry.
- Accent SE (Sport Hatchback): The sport-oriented SE model took the Accent’s value proposition in a fun-to-drive direction. It included the B&M Racing sport shifter, sport-tuned suspension, 16-inch alloy wheels, fog lights, and a host of convenience features like air conditioning, power windows and locks, remote keyless entry, and a premium audio system.
Conclusion: The 2008 Hyundai Accent – A Smart Used Car Choice
The 2008 Hyundai Accent successfully built upon its reputation as a value leader in the compact car segment. With its enhanced features, safety, design, and fuel efficiency, it remained a compelling option for budget-conscious buyers. Today, as a used car, the 2008 Hyundai Accent continues to be a smart choice for those seeking reliable, economical, and surprisingly well-equipped transportation. Its proven track record, combined with its available features and fuel-efficient engine, makes it a practical and sensible option in the used car market. If you are looking for an affordable and dependable used compact car, the 2008 Hyundai Accent should be on your list.
