Game-changer!

MANILA, Philippines - As if its current giant-killing, market-share-gobbling rampage is not enough, Hyundai Asia Resources Inc. (HARI) unveiled yet another sure winner in a sneak peek of the new car – a drop-dead gorgeous new Accent subcompact sedan – at the A. Venue in Makati Ave. last week.

Sporting design themes first seen in its hugely successful stablemates, the Tucson compact SUV, the Genesis Coupe, and the Sonata midsize luxury sedan, the all-new Accent will be taking on the country’s best-selling car, the Toyota Vios, as well as the Honda City, the Mazda2, and the recently launched Ford Fiesta.

Unlike the Mazda2 and the Fiesta, though, the Accent comes only as a sedan. And unlike the outgoing Accent model which is powered by a common-rail-direct-injection (CRDi) diesel engine, the new one will initially be powered by a gasoline engine, with the CRDi motor becoming available a few months after.

An inch lower, a fraction of an inch wider, and a full four inches longer than its predecessor, the new Accent looks much more athletic and upscale. It sports Hyundai’s eagle-eyed headlamps and the trademark hexagonal grille that have become a familiar sight on so many new Tucsons on the road now.

The side view is a sporty wedge shape defined by a crisp pinched character line seen on the head-turning Genesis Coupe and Sonata sedan. The rear is a truncated version of the Sonata’s, right down to the boomerang-shaped wraparound taillights.

Inside, the biggest change is an X-design fascia similar to the Tucson’s, with frequently used instruments such as climate control and music buttons at the center. The instrument panel is presented right at the driver’s point-of-view and is illuminated by Supervision enhancements (Automatic model) for better readability in the dark.

The seats are ergonomically designed to interact properly with the body of the user and are engineered with artisan-crafted cushions to prevent repetitive-strain injuries while cosseted in soft fabric (Manual) and deluxe leather (Automatic). Headrests are fitted on all five seating positions to help minimize neck and head injuries in cases of accidents. Legroom and riding comfort are enhanced thanks to an extended wheelbase.

A center console in the Automatic variant provides a convenient and easy-to-reach space for items like mobile phones, iPod/portable music players, or coffee tumblers. Other useful compartments include the seatback pocket, dash slot, and door-side pouches. The audio system incorporates an AM/FM radio, CD/MP3 player, Aux Input, and an iPod/USB slot. The Automatic model adds audio controls on the steering wheel.

The other big news, of course, is the new gasoline engine. Beneath the hood of the new Accent is Hyundai’s new Gamma CVVT engine, displacing 1.4 liters for the 5-speed Manual variant and 1.6 liters for the 4-speed Automatic model.

The 1.4-liter motor delivers maximum power of 108 ps at 6,300rpm and 13.9 kg-m of torque at 5,000rpm. The 1.6-liter powerplant, on the other hand, generates 124 ps at 6,300rpm and a peak torque of 15.9 kg-m at 4,200rpm.

The Accent’s strongly-constructed body frame is designed to protect the drivers, passengers, and the fuel tank by spreading energy on the outer frame at the moment of collision, while the knee-protection pad helps protect drivers from serious knee injuries with a shielding cushion. There are also dual front airbags. Safety features include ABS and Electronic Brake-Force Distribution (EBD). The Accent rolls on somewhat small 175/70-R14 tires.

Also unveiled during the Accent launch was the One Hyundai Club, a first-of-its-kind, distributor-based car loyalty program in the country that aims to fulfil an enriching Hyundai lifestyle experience.

The One Hyundai Club serves as HARI’s newest venue in rewarding its customers with special privileges. By joining the One Hyundai Club, a member earns loyalty points every time he or she avails of Genuine Hyundai parts or services at authorized Hyundai dealerships, or accomplishes the Sales Satisfaction Index (SSI) or Customer Service Index (CSI) survey.

Loyalty points can be used to redeem premium merchandises from the One Hyundai Lifestyle Rewards Basket, which boasts of the finest collectibles from the Hyundai Brand Collection, Lifestyle Rewards featuring items and gadgets, and exclusive discounts from distinguished partner merchants.

HARI also partners with internationally acclaimed Assistance Alliance International (AAI) to provide One Hyundai Club members with reliable and quickly deployable support teams, should there be any need for roadside, medical or travel assistance. One Hyundai Club entitles its members to AAI’s 24/7 roadside aids, some of which include emergency towing, ambulance support, locksmith assistance, and referral to authorized Hyundai dealers and service centers, to name a few.

As an added premium, a One Hyundai Club member is also privileged to have his or her own Hyundai-Security Bank Mastercard credit card. The Hyundai-Security Bank Mastercard makes processing of transactions with authorized Hyundai dealerships easier and more rewarding, whether buying Genuine Hyundai parts, availing of services, or even buying a new Hyundai.

Further, One Hyundai Club members can also be given priority access to Hyundai’s most happening events, where they can meet their fellow Hyundai motorists and be privileged to see first-hand Hyundai’s latest breakthrough automobiles or get an exclusive heads-up on Hyundai’s special campaigns and promotions in the country.