Excellent warranty, low price, nicely appointed interior, standard side airbags, solid build quality, smooth ride.
Cons
Weak tires, low handling limits, buzzy engine.
What’s new
Trim levels are revised and ABS is finally available.
Edmunds says
A decent buy for those determined to own a brand-new car with full-warranty coverage, though we'd encourage prospective owners to shop the used car market before closing the deal.
I bought this car out of desperation when my old car died.
I was looking for anything when I went to a dealer who pushed it on me more or less.
I felt I paid a little too much but whatever.
I bought it 6 1/2 years ago with 13,000 miles on it.
Today I'm at 200,000 and the only problem I have had is the timing chain went out (my fault since I should have changed it).
It is hands down THE … MOST reliable car I have ever owned.
I'm always looking at other cars, but I know I will keep driving this thing just to see how long it will last.
It reinforces my theory that cars you love will screw you over, but cars you don't car about will serve you well for years.
I bought my car used in 2007 w/ 25K miles on it after owning an Excel, it's older sister. There was one major issue it had immediately after purchase (speed sensors went out - totally covered by warranty). Heard it's good to change timing belt before 100K so had a full $500 tune-up done then and have never had an issue in the now 5 years I've had it & only done routine oil changes … otherwise. I have maintained 35 mpg consistently in town and 40 mpg highway. Plush? Frills? Sporty power? No - but if you're ok with feeling the road under you and enjoy great gas mileage & the joys of a hatchback, an Accent rules! Con: poor visiblity out the back window due to its 'bubble butt' as I call it.
I'm 17 and this was my first car. Being a teen, I don't make a lot of money, but thats ok since this baby gets great mpg. On average I get about 33 mpg. Plus the car itself is really fun to drive. The car is extremely nimble. With my aggressive driving habits, I find myself weaving through highway traffic with ease.
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