Hyundai has officially dropped the i20 from its local line-up, as we first reported late last month, replacing the light-segment hatch with new Accent variants, priced $2000 lower than the previous entry point for the range.
The timing of the change is impeccable, with Hyundai releasing full pricing and specification details during the same week Mazda is introducing its new Mazda2 sedan – a logical rival to the Accent sedan, albeit with a slightly larger engine and marginally better output.
What distinguishes the new entry-level Accent variants is their 1.4-litre Kappa engine and a six-speed manual transmission or an optional continuously variable transmission (CVT). Previously the smallest engine available in the current generation of Accent was a 1.6-litre Gamma four-cylinder.
The 1.4-litre engine will be available solely in the Accent Active level of trim, at a new starting price of $14,990. For $2000 more, the Accent Active can be specified with the CVT. The prices are the same for either hatchback or sedan variants with same drivetrain options. Hyundai is continuing to offer the 1.6-litre engine in the Accent SR, but as a hatch only. The company has also reduced the prices for this model by $2000 – now $16,990 for the manual variant or $18,990 with the optional six-speed automatic.
Unlike the larger-displacement Gamma engine, the Kappa powerplant is a port-injected unit developing 74kW and 133Nm. Fuel economy is respectively improved seven per cent in manual form (to 5.7L/100km) and three per cent in CVT form (to 6.2L/100km) over the 1.6-litre manual and (four-speed) automatic equivalents now discontinued. Power and torque figures for the Accent SR's direct-injected 1.6-litre engine have not changed.
The Accent, even at entry level is equipped with six airbags and has been rated five-star safe by crash testing authority, ANCAP. Standard comfort and convenience features for the 1.4-litre Accent Active include 14-inch steel wheels, five-inch infotainment touch screen, six-speaker MP3-compatible audio system with CD player, multi-function steering wheel, electric windows, trip computer and air conditioning.
Over and above the Active level of trim, Accent SR features as standard 16-inch alloy wheels, auto-on/off headlights, front foglights, cruise control, premium gearknob/steering wheel rim and roof-mounted rear spoiler.