Hyundai’s new-model tsunami just shows no sign of losing momentum. This year we’ve been impressed by the i10 hatchback mini, followed in short order by the imposing Sonata sedan. Surely they couldn’t keep this up? Well, if the Elantra and its follow-up, the Accent, are anything to go by, they have: class acts, both.

Accent

The Accent is where it all started for Hyundai, as the Pony in the mid-1970s. Now into its seventh generation, the company’s mainstay sub-compact sedan continues to move on up the premiumclass ladder with a feel considerably more sophisticated than its predecessors. Its organic lines bear Hyundai’s “Fluidic Sculpture” family look and coupé-like profile, like the Sonata and Elantra.

It’s bigger by 7 cm in the wheelbase than the previous car, which is felt directly in more space – Hyundai says the front leg room of 1 602 mm wouldn’t be out of place on a medium car. In fact, the only place that the dimensions have been reduced is in height – down by 13 mm – but there is apparently no sacrifice in headroom. The boot is said to be big enough for a golf bag.

A new-generation 91 kW 1,6 litre Gamma in-line four-cylinder with double overhead camshafts and Constant Variable Valve Timing (CVVT) replaces the Alpha engine of its predecessor. It is mated to a 4-speed automatic or a standard 5-speed manual gearbox. Economy is, on average, 6,0 litres/100 km for the manual version and 6,4 for the auto.

Besides substantial use of high-tensile steel for better crash performance with reduced weight, the Accent features ABS brakes and airbags for both front occupants.

In keeping with its upmarket progress, the Accent comes with a comprehensive package of comfort and convenience features, from iPod connectivity with Bluetooth (certain models) to trip computer and Eco-Drive indicator, heated power rear view mirrors and rear park assist warning.

Price: from R146 900.

Elantra

These are no longer budget cars. They may not be the most expensive, but they certainly have no need to stand back in the important areas of this compact sedan zone: quality, comfort and refinement. This Elantra takes a huge leap up from its predecessors. Its sleek, lowered look and sculpted lines not only catch the eye, but it’s also relaxing when driven slowly, sporty driven fast, and it feels well screwed together.

Even more importantly, its price is competitive.

Everything from power outputs to fuel efficiency, aerodynamics, space, refinement and safety have been upgraded. For instance, safety escort headlamps remain turned on for 30 seconds after the driver leaves the car, there’s an auto defogging system, and GLS versions get rear parking assistance sensors. Its six-airbag system includes curtain airbags in the 1,8 GLS derivatives.

Two engines are available. The all-new 110 kW 1,8, which delivers 178 N.m at 4 700 r/min, replaces the 2,0 litre Beta engine used in the previous Elantra. It is smaller, weighs 33,6 kg less and gets an 18 per cent better highway economy.

The improved Gamma 1,6 MPI D-CVVT engine develops 96 kW at 6 300 r/min and 157 N.m at 4 850 r/min. Mechanical improvements include mechanical lash adjustment to reduce friction and valve clatter, and a new design of intake/ exhaust manifold that improves engine performance while reducing chronic problems and enhancing durability, Hyundai says.

Competitive edge: smooth shift On the Elantra, both engines are mated to a 6-speed manual transmission. The optional (on the 1,8) 6-speed automatic transmission with SHIFTRONIC manual control was developed and manufactured inhouse, and is said to be the world’s first to be designed for engine applications in small to midsized passenger cars. With three planetary gears, two clutches and three brakes, it’s smaller, more compact and lighter than any other six-speed auto transmissions on the market today. Hyundai is one of only three global car manufacturers with its own unique six-speed automatic transmission layout.