The 2018 Hyundai Accent clouds the new-or-used question, but only in well-equipped Limited trim.
Pros City-street nimble Pretty, if not distinctive Well-equipped as a Limited Quieter cabin
Cons No more hatchback No AEB on SE or SEL Full-throttle noise Gas mileage isn’t tops in class
No need for excuses here: The Accent, with its distinctive design and fuel-sipping engine, is a fine choice for an economical car. The interior feels more upscale than that of the competition, but the Accent is available only as a sedan. Its 130-hp 1.6-liter inline-four pairs with either a standard perky six-speed manual or an optional sluggish six-speed automatic.
Pros Mature design, nicely equipped, overall sophistication.
Cons Modest fuel economy, sluggish automatic, weaker value than the base model.
The 2018 Hyundai Accent is all-new. It rides atop a new chassis that is a half-inch longer than before, yielding slightly more interior space and passenger room. Increased use of high-strength steel in the frame and the body promises improved handling dynamics, and the revised four-cylinder engine delivers better fuel economy.
PROS Comfortable ride and impressively quiet cabin Spacious interior is upscale for the segment Long warranty coverage provides peace of mind Fuel efficiency is more competitive
CONS Enhanced safety aids only available on top trim level Lacks in-dash navigation but connects to smartphone nav apps
The 2019 Ford Taurus is a dead car driving. Look closely at its rivals.
Pros Rides softly Comfortable front seats Advanced optional infotainment Discounts readily available
Cons Tight rear seat Hard to see out of Lacks key features Will be dropped from lineup
Pros Steering feedback Massive trunk Seating comfort Child-safety seat usability
Cons Unresponsive transmission with non-turbo V-6 Undersized cabin for a full-size car Visibility Interior build quality
The 2019 Ford Taurus Sedan comes with all wheel drive, and front wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 6-speed shiftable automatic.
Pros Rides comfortably and quietly on the highway The giant trunk is one of the roomiest in the large sedan class Available all-wheel drive for enhanced wet-weather traction
Cons Skimpy list of standard features on base SE model Performance SHO model lacks the punch of big-engine rivals Feels slow and ponderous when driving around turns The interior doesn't seem as airy or spacious as it should
