The Hyundai Accent is packaged like a blockbuster theatrical release. It’s full of things a driver and passengers want: a comfortable ride, satisfying power, and a smartly designed interior. As individual attributes, a nice ride, sufficient power, and tidy cabin ergonomics get buyers to take a look. But with the Accent offering all that and more, this subcompact is a bonafide motoring hit. Accent adds a few new features for 2014, such as sliding sunvisors, driver’s blind spot side mirror, and a standard audio system with revised button layout and upgraded voice recognition. The GLS (base trim) car is sedan, while the hatchback is designated via GS and SE trims. During a one-week test drive of the Accent SE, the 101.2-inch wheelbase car proved itself deserving of a rave review.

Accent is powered by a 1.6-liter, 4-cylinder engine that churns out 138 horsepower at 6300 rpm and 123 pounds-feet of torque at 4850 rpm. A 6-speed manual transmission is standard, while a 6-speed automatic transmission is optional. This reviewer enjoyed the car’s handling characteristics. The 2.9:1 lock-to-lock steering turns were also impressive. Accent is equipped with standard front seat active head restraints and six airbags, including side impact curtains for front and rear occupants. The five-door provides 21.2 cubic feet of cargo space with rear seats upright and 47.5 cubic feet of cargo space with rear seats folded down. Accent SE carries a suggested retail price of $17,395 and collects estimated mpg of 27 city and 37 highway with the automatic transmission.