2010 Hyundai Accent gets Better Fuel Economy and New Blue Edition with up to 36MPG - Starts at around $10,000

Hyundai has updated its 2010 model year Accent with new standard features, a number of improvements to increase its fuel efficiency and the presentation of a new entry-level Blue Edition that boasts a combined fuel economy of 31mpg. All 2010 Accents receive lower friction engine components, aerodynamic improvements, lower-rolling-resistance silica tires, a "smart" alternator management system and other enhancements all of which are aimed at reducing fuel consumption.

While the Accent's 1.6-liter engine continues to develop 110HP at 6,000 rpm and 106 lb.-ft. of peak torque at 4,500 rpm, these upgrades result in a 1mpg bump in both city and highway on all available versions. According to Hyundai, the 2010 Accents return a combined fuel economy of 30mpg regardless of transmission choice compared to 29mpg of the 2009MY.

The Blue Edition, which is the new entry-level trim model priced at around $10,000, receives the same treatment as the other Accents plus revised transmission gear ratios and lowered ride height for better fuel efficiency. The maker said that it gets 27mpg city and 36mpg highway with a combined fuel economy of 31 mpg.

All 2010 Accents receive an "eco indicator" with the automatic transmission models featuring a green ECO light to indicate when the driver is achieving good fuel economy and the manual transmission a EcoShift indicator to inform drivers of the optimal time to shift gears.

Other updates for the 2010 model year include the addition of iPod/USB ports to auxiliary input on all audio- equipped models, standard steering wheel audio controls on Accent SE, optional on Accent GLS, standard blue backlit gauges on all models, standard cruise control and sunroof on Accent SE while ABS is now available on Accent GS.

Hyundai has yet to release pricing for the 2010 Accent.

SCOOP: New Hyundai Accent Sedan Looks Like a Baby 2011 Sonata

Our friends over at 'Thecarblogger' and the 'Hyundaiblog' sent us these scoop photos of what appears to be a prototype model of the next generation Hyundai Accent that is penciled in for production by 2011. As you can see in more detail in the gallery after the jump, while the new model is still quite heavily disguised, those with a sharp eye will spot many design similarities with the rather well received 2011 Sonata YF that was officially unveiled in South Korea in mid September.

In fact, judging by these spy photos, we'd say that the Accent's replacement will most probably look like a mini-version of Hyundai's new mid-size sedan. And if anything else, that's a huge improvement over the rather dry styling of the current model. Design highlights include the lower roof line that stretches out to the back and the arched belt line.

Not much else is known about the new Accent, but aside from the sedan model, the range will also include a hatchback version offered in three- and five-door body styles.

Via: Thecarblogger & Hyundaiblog

Facelifted Hyundai Accent / Verna Unveiled in Korea

We're not quite sure what exactly this lovely lady is pointing at, but behind her is the facelifted Hyundai Verna Transform, or as it is more commonly known in markets around the world, the Accent. Revealed today in South Korea, the sub-compact model gains a redesigned front fascia with new headlights, grille and bumper plus new exterior mirrors that now house the turning signals. We don't have any photos of the car's rear-end, but it is said that changes include the restyled tail lights and bumper.

Inside, the 2010 Verna, or if you prefer, the Accent, benefits from a revamped instrument panel that features blue lighting, a subtly redesigned center console and new equipment features including the addition of USB/AUX inputs and Bluetooth connectivity.

Hyundai also said that the entire engine range has received minor improvements that help reduce fuel consumption and evidently, CO2emissions. The new Verna goes on sale across South Korea today. There's no official word when the updated sub-compact model will hit other markets including the U.S. and Europe.

Via: Worldcarfans , Source: rpm9