Back to basics

What we like:

Slick shifting 6-speed manual mated to a decent engine

What we dislike:

It’s rather bare everywhere

The 1.4l engine makes just shy of 100 bhp but doesn’t feel all that slow considering the car doesn’t weigh much (1,120 kg) and the manual box allows you to control how much go you’d like the car to make.

It’s not an exciting car at any rate; rather it is quiet, comfortable and easy to operate in a manner that will allow you to concentrate on what you might do with your kids at Sentosa later instead of being caught up with the noise and drama like in say a C 63 S Mercedes.

The Accent’s 6-speed manual box is a real joy to operate – it’s slick and smooth, with reasonably short throws that pop into gear quickly and without you having to wrestle the stick every now and again. Clutch operation is also light and easy, albeit with a slightly vague biting point on this particular car. But that’s not really an issue once you get in the groove, because the car engages quickly and drives off without so much as a lurch once you get used to the set up.

I never would have thought that sat behind the wheel of an entry level compact sedan anyone would ask me questions about the car. So I was pleasantly surprised when a motorcyclist pulled up alongside me and started to ask about the engine, because he was impressed by how quickly the Accent pulled off at an earlier stop light. Also he complimented the exterior of the car, so it’s all rather exciting. Especially if you’d just bought one.

While I don’t have the pleasure of calling it mine, I’m sure you would if you were looking for something that’s fuss-free and relatively inexpensive in today’s world. You’ll also be reminded of just how much fun driving with a proper manual gearbox can be. Sort of like the one you might have learnt driving in if you don’t yet consider yourself a dinosaur. Just don’t attempt to buy one if you’ve got a Class 3A.

Credits: Story and Photos by Alvan Sio