First look: Facelift for Hyundai Accent

THIS is the new face of Australia's top selling light car - the Hyundai Accent.

Already launched in South Korea where it is known as the Verna, the facelifted Accent is expected here next year.

But with the smaller Getz hatchback due to go on sale here in September, Hyundai Automotive Distributors Australia is yet to confirm the time of the facelifted Accent's arrival or how it will fit into the market.

It has been mooted that the current 76kW 1.5-litre engine will be replaced by a 1.6, which is fitted to the Verna in South Korea.

The three-door version of the Accent may also go missing from the Australian market, leaving us with the sedan and five-door hatchback.

Both moves would be designed to make more room for the Getz, which will be sold here as a three and five-door powered by a 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine and possibly a 1.3.

The bigger engine and the arrival of the Getz should also push the entry level price of the Accent up toward the $16,000 mark, allowing the Getz to enter at around $14,000.

HADA general manager Peter Evans admitted the situation regarding the updated Accent was fluid.

"We have no plans to introduce a facelifted Accent this year," he said.

"We are still evaluating the role of Accent post-Getz.

"We are waiting on final specifications and pricing. We think there will be a role for it."The Verna has a bolder nose and tail styling, and new headlights. The sedan has a single horizontal bar grille split by a protruding vertical stay embossed with the Hyundai corporate logo, while the hatches have an egg crate-style grille. The tail-lights are also enlarged.

Inside, Hyundai claims there are new materials and improved trim quality.