MODEL
Hyundai Accent Safety
NHTSA safety across every Hyundai Accent model year we cover.
Across the 4 model years of the Hyundai Accent we cover (2019 to 2022), the strongest crash-test showing is the 2022 at 81 on the NHTSA Safety Index, and the lowest is the 2020 at 79. 11 recalls have been issued across those years.
The Hyundai Accent is a subcompact sedan competing in one of the most price-sensitive segments in the American market. Aimed squarely at budget-conscious first-time buyers and urban commuters, the Accent prioritizes affordability and maneuverability in a trim, four-door package. Covering model years 2019 through 2022, our safety review examines whether this entry-level Hyundai delivers adequate protection alongside its low sticker appeal.
A perfect 5 out of 5 stars in the side-impact crash test marks a notable achievement for the 2019 to 2022 Hyundai Accent. While the 4-star frontal and 4-star rollover scores are solid, the side-impact result stands out for a subcompact. The 2022 model year earned an 81 out of 100 on our computed Safety Index, placing it in the Strong band, a meaningful result given the common structural compromises in its class. However, not all model years in this range reached the Strong band, with some falling into the Average category. The most significant caution for prospective buyers is the recall count. Across four model years, the Accent accumulated 11 recalls. For a subcompact of modest volume, this frequency is higher than ideal and necessitates careful VIN-specific checks prior to any purchase. Owner complaints total 73 across the covered years. Among these unverified filings are 5 alleged crash-related incidents, 4 fire-related allegations, and 6 reported injuries. The fire-related complaints, specifically, warrant attention during pre-purchase due diligence. The Accent's crash-test performance is respectable for its price point, particularly its side-impact result. However, the volume of recalls represents a real concern that shoppers must address directly before buying a used model.
WHAT REVIEWERS SAYReviewers generally find the Accent a straightforward, no-frills subcompact that delivers adequate refinement and a comfortable enough ride for everyday urban driving. Most acknowledge that interior materials and feature content reflect the entry-level price positioning. Driving dynamics are described as competent rather than engaging, and overall value is considered reasonable for buyers whose priorities center on low operating costs and ease of use.
- The 2022 model year earns the strongest NHTSA Safety Index in the covered window at 81 out of 100, so if you are shopping used, prioritizing the newest available model year carries a measurable safety advantage.
- Eleven recalls across the 2019 to 2022 model years is a notably elevated count for this segment. Always run a free NHTSA VIN lookup to confirm all outstanding recalls have been completed before finalizing any purchase.
- The side-impact crash test earned a perfect 5 out of 5 stars in the best-performing year, which is a genuine strength, but frontal and rollover scores of 4 out of 5 indicate the Accent is not a top-tier performer across all crash modes.
- Among the 73 owner complaints on file, 4 involve fire-related allegations and 5 involve alleged crash incidents. These are unverified claims, but the fire-related filings are worth researching by model year before you buy, particularly on older examples in the covered range.
Most-recalled year on record: 2021 Hyundai Accent with 4 recalls.