The Verna is actually the latest generation Accent globally, but Hyundai India does not want you to know that. Primarily because they want to sell both, the old Accent and the new (a.k.a. Verna), at the same time in the same showroom. Surprisingly, it looks very bland and certainly not as classy as the Accent did at launch. The Verna actually looks smaller in person than pictures would have you believe. Owners found the styling to be uninspiring inside out, and that could probably be a major reason for it not setting the sales charts on fire in India. Build quality has gotten more solid and feels better than some of the Verna’s tinny Japanese competitors. In fact, Hyundais now have a reputation of being rattle-free and the Verna lives up to that. The interior is very spacious and, in fact, amongst the best in this class. There is superb room for front and rear passengers, while the firm yet supportive seats only elate the comfort levels. The significant glass area creates an airy ambience. However, Verna buyers felt that the interior design is bland and the dashboard too simplistic for this segment.
Hyundai sells the Verna with a terrific diesel engine and a lackluster petrol. The diesel engine with 110 BHP of power boasts impressive acceleration, mid-range and fuel-efficiency. It is much faster than the petrol sibling and has the performance to out-run most other cars (petrol included) from its segment. City driveability is good too. Owners report that though the engine is a tad noisy at the start, it feels sufficiently smooth once warmed up. The 103 BHP petrol engine scores well on refinement, but the overall performance level is just about adequate. It is not too fuel-efficient either, while some felt that the mid-range could have had more punch. Of the two engines, the common-rail is undoubtedly the star of the Verna show. In addition to the 5 speed manual gearbox, Hyundai also offers a 4 speed automatic as an option (diesel only). The automatic makes urban commuting very convenient. Though it is only a 4 speed gearbox, and shift response times are strictly average, the automatic is a good match to the peppy diesel. The Verna is softly-sprung and this, combined with the solid build, makes for a comfortable ride at low speeds. The sedan even tackles badly broken patches of urban roads very well. However, as the speedometer climbs, owners sorely complained of a “bouncy” suspension. The Verna can get tiring on the open road, especially for rear seat passengers. The other drawback of a soft suspension setup is uninspired handling. Owners comment that grip levels are only average while body roll is noticeable around corners. Also, the light steering feels lifeless at speed. Ownership reviews recommended caution before any spirited driving. The brakes were rated well by our reviewers.
