If you think it's impossible to be frugal and also park a nicely equipped new car in your driveway, you need to test-drive the 2020 Hyundai Accent. Offered in three distinct trims—from the price leader SE to the loaded Limited—the Accent provides something for everyone's budget. Its 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine is as efficient as the car's base price would suggest. We've found the lightweight Accent fun to drive and easy to pitch into corners with enough speed to make the tires squeal. In this case, the old saying is true: It's more fun to drive a slow car fast than to drive a fast car slow.
Pros Sophisticated styling, eager handling, businesslike cabin
Cons Noisy powertrain, cramped rear-seat passenger space, no hatchback body style.
The 2020 Hyundai Accent comes with front wheel drive. Available transmissions include: continuously variable-speed automatic, 6-speed manual.Improved fuel economy from a new, less powerful four-cylinder engine.Continuously variable automatic transmission replaces traditional automatic.
Pros Comfortable ride and impressively quiet cabin Spacious interior with solid, rattle-free build quality Long warranty coverage provides peace of mind Excellent real-world fuel economy
Cons Lacks onboard navigation but connects to smartphone nav apps Cloth seats are uncomfortable and trap heat USB port struggles to charge a phone Enhanced safety aids only available on top trim level
The 2020 Hyundai Accent is about as basic as new cars get, and that’s where its appeal lies.
Pros City-friendly size Handsome, if forgettable Good value even at top trim More efficient new engine
Cons No hatchback version Base trims lack safety features Rough acceleration noise Un-fun driving dynamics
Though not perfect, the 2021 Fiat 500X is a characterful, stylish choice that is often discounted.
Pros Italian fashion Composed ride Standard AWD Good tech
Cons Can get expensive with options Active safety tech costs extra Rivals are roomier Gearbox can fumble
The 500X undergoes few changes for 2021. The base Pop trim and the midrange Trekking both receive updated seat upholstery and dashboard trim while the Sport model can now be ordered with the Sport Value package. The optional package adds a panoramic sunroof, 19-inch wheels, a Beats stereo system, LED headlamps, front and rear parking sensors, in-dash navigation, and heated front seats.
Pros Cute appearance, gutsy powertrain, plentiful amenities.
Cons Puny cargo space, tight rear seat legroom, high starting price.
Sport Value package adds a panoramic sunroof, LED headlights and other premium features.Pop and Trekking models receive upgraded interior trim for 2021.
Pros Distinctive and well-made cabin Standard all-wheel drive More character and style than many competing small crossovers
Cons Limited cargo and passenger space Small touchscreen can be tough to use Starting price is high Several available driving aids, but few work well
