If I'm not mistaken, Hyundais and Kias are built off of the same platform(i.e. the Kia Spectra is the same platform as the Hyundai Elantra). Both Kia and Hyundai are owned by Hyundai. Hyundai is the more "upscale" of the 2, not that Kias are a poor value, because they are good values, as are Hyundai. It's more of a matter of what features you want, which body style you like better, and which is more in your price range.
I'll confess to not knowing much about either, but the Accent really impressed me with the quality, especially considering the price and the *ahem* questionable heritage.
If you like the Accent, you will really like the Elantra. It is one of Hyundai's best sellers and it only cost a little bit more. With rebates and customer loyalty, you should get a good deal. Just my 2 cents.
I too love the Accent. My only issue with the car is that the auto tranny will not shift into OD until the tranny fluid is warmed up. Other then that the car has been problem free. Brant
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Kia - 
RE: Kia - 
If you like the Accent, you will really like the Elantra. It is one of Hyundai's best sellers and it only cost a little bit more. 
