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Speak Up

Few can argue with the sensibility and flexibility of an economical hatchback, especially given today's fuel prices. If you're a student seeking a reliable first vehicle, or the car-shopper in a family that requires an efficient second car, then consider the Hyundai Accent.

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Accent combines a comfortable and accommodating interior with sporty manners, a peppy engine and an overall fun-to-drive attitude. Standard models get a five-speed manual gearbox, 8-way driver's seat, power windows, locks, mirrors, keyless entry and air conditioning. A high-output stereo system is available to music lovers, and it features 6 speakers and MP3 capability, alongside an auxiliary input for an iPod.

The interior impresses markedly in two key areas: space and sound. There's a nearly shocking amount of headroom, and even very tall passengers will be pleasantly surprised. Additionally, Accent maintains a notably quiet and solid ride at highway speeds. Owners may forget they're in an economy car and not a family sedan from time to time. The interior also feels solid and well bolted together as well.

Fuel economy is competitive, rated around 7.4 L/100 km in the city and 6.2 L/100 km on the highway. The manual shifter maximizes the Accent's fun-to-drive quotient.

Dave Koski and his wife Martine just purchased an Accent as their second vehicle. "The minivan is hard on gas, and my old Volkswagen was getting old- so we wanted something new that was also cheap to run and reliable" Koski says. His young daughter, Adleigh, loves the car too.

"There's enough room inside for just about anything we may need to do, and I was surprised at how quiet and solid the car felt when we test-drove it. I love the MP3 CD player for my music, and the warranty helped seal the deal, too!"

The 2008 Accent is protected by the Hyundai Auto Canada Comprehensive Limited Warranty, which includes 5 years or 100,000 kilometres of bumper to bumper and powertrain coverage. Cash buyers can even get their hands on a new Accent hatch for under $10,000, with current incentives. Visit www.hyundaicanada.com for more details.