powayroger,
There is no question that Hyundai has come a long way and with each model change, they get even better. It would be hard to say if the '10 would be a better "buy" than an '11. If the '11 Elantra and the Kia Forte' are on the same chassis, then the bugs should have been worked out in the Forte' first before using the chassis/drivetrain etc. in the Elantra, which may have been Hyundai's whole idea.
I think that Hyundai, as all car company's, have worked out most of the bugs in their vehicles prior to putting them on the market. It's called FMEA!
If I am going to buy a new vehicle, I really like buying a vehicle during it's 3rd model year on the market and even that doesn't gaurantee anything. The first two model years on the market is really the introduction of the vehilce or redesign. On the 3rd model year, the company has made modifications and updates while keeping all of the good things intact. In the case of the new redesigned 2011 Elantra, - 2013 might be a better year to buy or trade up.
It's a tough choice between the model years. Buying a 2010 in 2011, you have to take a depreciation hit anyway but, it may be worst, IDK! There is much homework still needed to be done here trying to figure out the depreciation and MPG differences(gains/losses) between the '10 & '11 models.
Look into insurance costs as well, between the two model years. This alone could help in your decision making. Also, look at cost of ownership over time. Which will cost more to own over a 3-5 or 5-7 year period of time. First, initial cost and then insurance, regular maintenance, fuel(MPG), depreciation etc.
Good Luck and keep us posted!
CB
