2012 Accent Long On Value, But Short On Excitement, Leaves Nissan's Versa In the Dust

The 2012 Hyundai Accent subcompact hits the road with good fuel economy and an appealing price, but bland character.

Sportier subcompacts like the Chevrolet Sonic, Ford Fiesta and Hyundai's own Veloster will appeal more to drivers looking to mix a little fun with their frugality, however. The Accent's interior is a bit noisy, and its hands-free phone and iPod compatibility could use work, too.

The 2012 Nissan Versa sedan feels like a throwback to the days when the smallest cars were dismissed as "cheap and cheerful" or "econoboxes."