Like many cars in its class, the 2006 Hyundai Accent offers a look that is neither inspiring nor offensive. There are mild creases in the hood that line up with the large, swept back headlights and continue rearward to blend in well with the A-pillars. The face of the Accent features a small, chrome-trimmed grille with the brand logo presented prominently just below the hood. Below the front body-color bumper is a black fascia insert. Along the flanks are recessed creases that run from the rear of the front fender to the taillight, with thin body-color side moldings glued onto all but the quarter panel. The side profile also exhibits the Accent’s expansive greenhouse, lower cut line that demarks the rocker panels, slightly flared wheel wells, and body-color mirrors. Wrapping things up at the rear are simple yet effective red taillights, body-color trunk lid trim, and a slight upper lip that creates a very subtle spoiler. Standard wheel covers are ho-hum, but the optional alloy wheels spice up the Accent’s exterior nicely.

Considering its $11,995 starting price, the 2006 Hyundai Accent’s interior packs some nice surprises and garners only a few complaints. The front bucket seats and the rear 60/40 split folding rear bench are on the stiff side, but they’re supportive and fairly comfortable. Every passenger is afforded an adjustable headrest, though back seat drivers suffer from a lack of foot, leg, and headroom – making enough room for adult rear seat riders requires those in the front seats to slide forward and likely bang their knees against the hard plastic dashboard. Standard on all models and somewhat unusual for this class are padded fold-down armrests for the driver and the rear passengers. Those are points where drivers and passengers will choose to rest their arms, as the door armrests and window sills are covered in hard plastic. That same material is used on the dash and instrument panel, and while a rubberized or soft plastic is preferred, at least the finish is low-gloss rather than shiny. Primary systems like the radio and climate control are within easy reach of the driver, and utilize simple, logical buttons and dials. Seats are upholstered in a durable cloth fabric, and a mesh material is used for the headliner, unusual for this class and price point. Controls for power options, when equipped, are placed on door panels that mirror the two-toned scheme used on the dash. Storage in the 2006 Hyundai Accent is plentiful and includes a trunk offering 12.4 cubic-feet of space, a cubby next to the spare tire for extra gear, that fold-down split rear seat, five cupholders, and seatback and door pockets.