In what could be the last generation of the sub-compact sedan, Hyundai has pulled out all the stops by transforming it into a truly head-turning vehicle. The 2024 Accent adopts the corporate Sensual Sportiness design language. The seamless horizon LED light bar is present, as is Hyundai’s parametric grille design (finished in high-gloss black). The compound-style LED headlights have also been integrated into the grille as are the turn signal lights. Oddly enough, there aren’t much photos of the rear-end, but it happens to have the same full-length LED bar design. If there’s one complaint it’s that the wheels are too small, and a gander at the spec sheet confirms that: 15-inchers are standard (185/65R15), while top-of-the-line models get 16-inchers (205/55R16).

Inside, the Accent gains the same “floating” instrument cluster motif seen in other current Hyundai models. However, the setup here makes do with a simplified digital gauge cluster (ala the Stargazer). Although a 10.25-inch high-def infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and get this, an 8-speaker Bose sound system is available.

Two color schemes are available for the Indian market—a sporty monotone black interior with red accents, and a premium dual-tone black and beige scheme. Either way, features such as heated/ventilated seats with power adjustment for the driver, a sunroof, wireless device charging, ambient lighting, automatic climate control, and a manual rear sun blind are available.

Now comes the most interesting part. The all-new Accent comes in either normally-aspirated or turbocharged versions. The base 1.5-liter does 115 horsepower and 144 Nm of torque—no surprise given it’s the very same engine found in the Creta and Stargazer. This engine is mated to either a 6-speed manual or IVT. The headline here is the availability of a turbocharged 1.5-liter that makes 160 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 253 Nm of torque from 1,500 to 3,500 rpm. Better yet, it comes with a 6-speed manual or 7-speed dual clutch flavors.

Prices for the all-new Accent in India start at 1.089 million Rupee (P 716,438) and tops out at 1.737 million Rupee (P 1.114 million).

Should Hyundai Motor Philippines bring back the Accent? That is a good question. It must be remembered that it was one of their best-selling nameplate during its former distributor. Its sourcing varied from Korea to India, before being locally assembled in the Philippines before its eventual discontinuation.