2012 Hyundai Accent: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2012 Hyundai Accent is an all-new, fourth-generation model. Its full redesign brings a larger body, a new 1.6-liter engine, and new six-speed transmissions.
About the 2012 Hyundai Accent
4th generation Accent (RB), first U.S. model year after a full redesign.
Hyundai positioned the Accent as a small car that did not feel stripped down. The message centered on strong fuel economy, unusually strong power for the class, and interior room that felt bigger than the car’s footprint. The sedan served as a simple commuter, while the 5-door added everyday cargo flexibility. Against rivals, Hyundai leaned on roomy packaging, a more upscale look than bargain-car buyers expected, and a strong standard safety story.
The GLS is the simple sedan, while the GS and SE are five-door hatchbacks with more cargo flexibility. The GS adds everyday conveniences such as air conditioning and power accessories, while the sportier SE has standard Bluetooth, cruise control, 16-inch alloy wheels, fog lights, and a rear spoiler.
What changed, by category
2012 Hyundai Accent specs and features by trim
| Feature | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl, 1.6 Liter | 4-Cyl, 1.6 Liter | 4-Cyl, 1.6 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 6-Spd w/Overdrive & Shiftronic | Auto, 6-Spd w/Overdrive | Automatic, 6-Spd w/Overdrive & Shiftronic |
| Drivetrain | FWD | FWD | FWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 28 mpg | 28 mpg | 28 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 37 mpg | 37 mpg | 37 mpg |
| Horsepower | 138 hp | 138 hp | 138 hp |
| Torque | 123 lb-ft | 123 lb-ft | 123 lb-ft |
| Trunk/Cargo | 21.2 cu-ft | 21.2 cu-ft | 13.7 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 33.3 in | 33.3 in | 33.3 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Cruise Control | |||
| Hill Start Assist | |||
| Alloy Wheels | |||
| Fog Lights | |||
| Power Mirrors | |||
| Rear Spoiler | |||
| Bluetooth | |||
| Satellite Radio | |||
| USB Ports | |||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | |||
| Power Windows | |||
| Remote Keyless Entry | |||
| Tilt Wheel | |||
Frequently asked questions
Is the 2012 Hyundai Accent a redesigned model?
Yes. The 2012 Accent starts the fourth generation in the U.S., with a new body, new engine, new transmissions, a roomier cabin, and expanded standard safety equipment.
What engine and transmissions does the 2012 Hyundai Accent have?
The 2012 Accent has a new 1.6-liter direct-injection four-cylinder producing 138 horsepower and 123 lb-ft of torque. It is paired with a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission.
Is the 2012 Hyundai Accent a sedan or a hatchback?
The 2012 Accent comes in both body styles. The GLS is a sedan, while the GS and SE are five-door hatchbacks with 21.2 cubic feet of cargo room behind the rear seat.
What safety equipment changed on the 2012 Hyundai Accent?
The redesigned 2012 Accent has a stronger standard safety package with six airbags, stability control, traction control, and four-wheel disc brakes.
Which 2012 Hyundai Accent trim has standard Bluetooth?
The 2012 Accent SE hatchback has standard Bluetooth with voice recognition. It also has steering-wheel audio controls, cruise control, 16-inch alloy wheels, fog lights, and a rear spoiler.