2000 Hyundai Accent...Continued

With the GS and GL buyers get even more, including a digital quartz clock, tachometer, tinted glass, built-in driver's seat armrest and five-way adjustable driver's seat. The GS hatchback offers a split-folding 60-40 rear seat and rear window wiper/washer. And on the GL sedan there's a remote trunk release.

Air conditioning is a popular option. This year the air conditioning system has been refined and upgraded; the system is smaller, yet more efficient.

The 2000 Accent's wheelbase has been extended by 1.6-inches to 96.1-inches and overall width is increased by nearly 2-inches. These changes result in additional headroom, hip room and legroom for the driver and passengers.

The gap between Japanese and Korean quality is closing, and Hyundai is making great progress. The styling is tidy and modern, if a little conservative, but daring for Hyundai. While Hyundai relied on Ford, Mitsubishi and Ital design in the past, the company engineers and stylists take credit for this Accent. The Korean car industry is coming of age.

The new Accent is both bold and sporty with a combination of straight lines and edges to create a more elegant look. Distinctive character lines swoop inward toward the bold-looking grille and large headlamps with wraparound turn signals are slanted rearward to add to the sporty look. The windshield is steeply raked and the pillars are slim to provide increased visibility. The driver's side mirror is heated and electronically controlled. Restyled rear delta shaped lamps are positioned at the far corners to accentuate the width and have a distinctive European look.

The economy segment is only 3.3% of marketplace, but many of the first time, single buyers choose these cars. They have a fuel economy emphasis, but are interested in interior comfort and low noise. Others are looking for economical commuting or occasional use. Most of the buyers put 18,000 miles per year on their little cars.

The 1.5 liter engine is one of the most powerful in its class, and had its origin in Korea with their new Alpha project. That makes the upscale Accent quick enough for suburban commuting without any concern. Most other Hyundai engines were licensed from Mitsubishi. But be aware that the power drops when mated to the automatic transmission.