Hyundai Motors America revealed their all new 2006 Hyundai Accent Coupe 3dr to crowds at the 2005 Sema Motor Show.
The new 2006 Hyundai Accent was originally introduced during a press conference at the New York International Automobile Show on March 24, 2005.
The car has undergone a complete re-design from the previous model and should reach UK shores early 2006. As well as a new look, the 2006 Accent bristles with safety features, something the previous model lacked by today’s standards.
6 standard airbags (front, front side-impact and side-curtain), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake Force Distribution, front seatbelt pre-tensioners, adjustable head restraints for all passengers and an optional remote keyless entry system with panic feature are just some of the safety features incorporated into the new design.
Hyundai claim that the new Hyundai Accent engine is the most powerful in its class, offering a range topping 1.6 DOHC, 16-valve inline 4-cylinder engine with Continuously Variable Valve Timing (CVVT) which produces 110 bhp @ 6,000 rpm as well as 106 lb-ft of torque @ 4,500 rpm.
The current Hyundai Accent in the UK uses this engine as well as a 1.3 DOHC unit, but that is likely to be replaced with a new 1.4 version which is can now be found in the facelift Hyundai Getz.
Slightly longer, wider and higher and with 50mm added to the wheelbase, Hyundai claim the new Accent boast’s class leading interior space and improved road holding. However these extra safety features and interior space do come with a weight penalty as the car is approx 84 lbs (38kg) heavier than the current model.
In the US Hyundai are also launching the car with more than 35 Accent accessories at launch including a ground effects kit, cold air intake system, Kenwood MP3 satellite-ready radio, aluminum pedals and doorsills, iPod holder, chrome exhaust tip amongst others.
Expect prices to be competitive as usually with the models starting at around £8000.