Luxury Autos: Beijing Motor Show 2010: 2011 Hyundai Accent debuts as Verna across the Pacific

Hyundai has unveiled the 2011 Verna (aka Accent) at the Beijing Motor Show.

Looking like a miniature Sonata, the Verna features sweptback headlights, a bold grille, and rearview mirrors with integrated LED turn signals. Inside, the cabin boasts higher quality materials and an improved design.

Power comes from two new Gamma petrol engines with multiport fuel injection. The base 1.4-liter produces 79 kW (106 hp / 107 PS) and 135 Nm (100 lb-ft) of torque. When equipped with a five-speed manual, the Verna consumes 5.7 liters/100km (41.2 mpg US). If you choose the four-speed automatic and the Fuel Economy Package, the Verna consumes 6.2 liters/100km (37.9 mpg US).

If that doesn't float your boat, Hyundai also offers a 1.6-liter with 90 kW (121 hp / 122 PS) and 155 Nm (114 lb-ft) of torque. It will be available exclusively with a four-speed automatic.

The car rides on an all-new platform with a 2570mm wheelbase - the biggest in its class. It uses an increased amount of ultra-high tensile strength steel, so we can expect improved handling and better NVH (Noise, Vibration, and Harshness) levels.

According to Euisun Chung, Vice Chairman of Hyundai Motor, "Today is a really special day for us, not only because we're launching a new car, but because it's one of the very few times we've done a world-premiere outside of Korea: And we chose to do it right here in China because it's our way of recognizing how important our Chinese customers are to us."

Chinese production kicks off in July, while global production occurs shortly thereafter.

[Source: Hyundai]