Elantra V (MD) vs Solaris / Accent I (RB): which is better?
Hyundai Elantra V (MD) (2010–2015) vs Hyundai Solaris / Accent I (RB) (2010–2017): specs, fuel economy, tax and common problems.
Hyundai Elantra V (MD)
Hyundai Solaris / Accent I (RB)Specifications
| Hyundai Elantra V (MD) | Hyundai Solaris / Accent I (RB) | |
|---|---|---|
| Production years | 2010–2015 | 2010–2017 |
| Body | sedan | sedan |
| Fuel | petrol | petrol |
| Engines | 1.6 | 1.6 |
| Power, up to | 132 hp | 123 hp |
| Torque, up to | 158 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Gearbox | automatic | automatic |
| Drive | front-wheel drive | front-wheel drive |
| Length | 4 530 mm | 4 370 mm |
| Width | 1 775 mm | 1 700 mm |
| Height | 1 445 mm | 1 470 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2 700 mm | 2 570 mm |
| Ground clearance | 150 mm | 160 mm |
| Fuel tank | 48 L | 43 L |
| KZ tax 2026 (car under 10 years) | ≈ 13 675 ₸ | ≈ 13 675 ₸ |
The better value is highlighted in green.
Pros, cons and common problems
Hyundai Elantra V (MD)
Pros
- Conventional automatic, no robotized gearbox or CVT
- Sold in all major markets of the region — parts and mechanics available
Cons
- Hyundai/Kia Gamma 1.6 engine (G4FC, G4FG): catalytic converter breakdown and debris entering the cylinders — scoring
- Hyundai/Kia automatic: jolts on 2–3 shifts and when braking
Engine (Hyundai/Kia Gamma 1.6 (G4FC, G4FG)): catalytic converter breakdown with debris entering the cylinders — scoring; timing chain stretch after 150k km; knocking when worn (valves adjusted with shims).
Gearbox (Hyundai/Kia automatic): kicks on the 2–3 shift and when braking; solenoid and clutch pack wear at high mileage.
Hyundai Solaris / Accent I (RB)
Pros
- Conventional automatic, no robotized gearbox or CVT
- Local assembly: Russia
- Sold in all major markets of the region — parts and mechanics available
Cons
- Hyundai/Kia Gamma 1.6 engine (G4FC, G4FG): catalytic converter breakdown and debris entering the cylinders — scoring
- Hyundai/Kia automatic: jolts on 2–3 shifts and when braking
- Small tank: 43 L
Engine (Hyundai/Kia Gamma 1.6 (G4FC, G4FG)): catalytic converter breakdown with debris entering the cylinders — scoring; timing chain stretch after 150k km; knocking when worn (valves adjusted with shims).
Gearbox (Hyundai/Kia automatic): kicks on the 2–3 shift and when braking; solenoid and clutch pack wear at high mileage.
Which one to choose
- Elantra V (MD) — if you care more about: power, torque, wheelbase, fuel tank.
- Solaris / Accent I (RB) — if you care more about: ground clearance.
The condition of a specific car matters more than the model: check the service history and get the engine and gearbox inspected before buying.
FAQ
Which is more powerful: Elantra V (MD) or Solaris / Accent I (RB)?
Elantra V (MD): up to 132 hp, Solaris / Accent I (RB): up to 123 hp.
Which has more ground clearance?
Elantra V (MD): 150 mm, Solaris / Accent I (RB): 160 mm.
What is the vehicle tax in Kazakhstan?
For 2026, for a car under 10 years old: Elantra V (MD) — about 13 675 ₸, Solaris / Accent I (RB) — about 13 675 ₸ (base engine). A 0.7 factor applies to cars aged 10–20 years and 0.5 to cars over 20.