Just as Korean pop music and TV series have won the hearts of many, so do, too, the country's cars such as the Hyundai Accent.

Why is the car a common sight? Well, perhaps the Accent has proven its reliability. It's also the only car in its segment with diesel power (aside from the standard gasoline one) so those who want to save fuel and fuel costs have found the perfect ride. 

The RB generation Accent (below) was sold locally from 2011 to 2018, so there's a good number of used examples in the market. Shell out between P300,000 to almost P500,000 for this model.  

Launched in 2018, the YC Accent goes from P790,000 to P1.038 million, with the diesel starting at P910,000. 

In what more areas do the cars differ from one another? 

Styling

The RB Accent was one of the first Hyundai cars to speak the "Fluidic Sculpture" design language. In translation, that means the Accent wore body creases, lines, and a swoopy shape. 

With the YC Accent, a mature, minimalist, and modern design was applied. Even with less body creases and lines, this car retained the rotund shape. Up front, there's a bolder grille, while the rear benefits from slim tail lamps. 

Diesel power

The power and torque output of the RB Accent's 1.6-liter diesel put out 134hp and 260Nm. The model's torque is upped to 300Nm when the engine is mated to a seven-speed dual clutch. 

With the YC Accent, the dual clutch is swapped for a six-speed automatic, while a six-speed manual is standard. Power is now lower at 126hp, but the 260Nm is retained. Based on internal tests, this Accent can muster 29.4kpl. 

Versatility

Whereas the previous car was available in a hatchback body style, the current Accent is only sold here as a sedan. 

 

While the current Accent appears to have decent cargo space, it will miss out on the hatchback's folding seats, and a boxier body shape that fit bulkier items better. 

Features

The RB Accent is available with a single-DIN radio with CD/ MP3/USB/AUX connectivity, which is linked to four speakers.

Inside the YC Accent is a 3.8-inch LCD display radio with AUX and USB input. The radio is integrated, rather than an aftermarket affair, for a classier feel. 

Photos from Hyundai

Also read:

Let's check out the variants of the Hyundai Accent

Why the Hyundai Accent is a good purchase option in these trying times