There has been a difference in the powertrains offered by Kia and Hyundai even though the two companies share much of their technology and qualities.
The Kia Forte received a CVT automatic a few years ago and the Hyundai Elantra continues to use a traditional torque converter and automatic transmission. Now, it appears the Elantra will receive the CVT for the 2020 model year to give you the drive you’re looking for and a boost in what you want when you choose a vehicle at this level of the market for your drive.