- Comfortable and easygoing
- Stylish, high-tech interior
- Many standard features
- Over-the-top design
- Pokey standard engine
- Get the hybrid instead?
2026 Hyundai Sonata – Overview
It’s unfortunate that sedans have fallen out of favor as buyers flock to SUVs, because the 2026 Hyundai Sonata proves just how refined and capable a modern four-door can be. The Sonata delivers a more enjoyable drive, better fuel economy, and stronger value than many comparably priced crossovers. Its lineup offers something for nearly every type of shopper, with three distinct powertrains: a smooth naturally aspirated four-cylinder, an efficient hybrid, and—our top pick—a punchy 290-hp turbocharged four-cylinder that brings genuine performance.
While its ride and handling don’t quite surpass the best in the segment, the Sonata remains comfortable, composed, and loaded with advanced safety tech and convenience features that simplify daily driving.
Expert Tip: The Sonata is an excellent choice, but the Honda Accord still edges it out as the benchmark in this class.
When Is the 2026 Hyundai Sonata Coming Out?
Hyundai is expected to begin U.S. deliveries in late 2025, with wider dealership availability continuing into early 2026. Hybrid variants will roll out shortly after the gas models.
What’s New for 2026 Hyundai Sonata?
For 2026, the Sonata lineup sees a bit of reshuffling. The previous SEL and SEL Convenience models have been discontinued and replaced by a new SEL Sport trim. Hyundai is also introducing a new entry-level Blue Hybrid variant. While details are still limited, it’s expected to mirror other Hyundai “Blue” models by delivering improved fuel efficiency compared to the standard Sonata Hybrid trims.
Pricing and Which One to Buy
The 2026 Hyundai Sonata ranges from $28,545 for the base model to $39,345 for the top trims, depending on equipment and configuration.
| Trim | Starting MSRP (est.) |
|---|---|
| SE |
$28,545
|
| SEL Sport |
$30,245
|
| Blue |
$30,295
|
| SEL |
$33,545
|
| N Line |
$37,145
|
|
Limited
|
$39,345
|
If value is your priority, the Sonata SE is an excellent starting point. It includes a full suite of essential driver-assistance features, proximity keyless entry, a large 12.3-inch infotainment display, and wireless smartphone integration—everything most buyers need without stretching the budget.
However, our top choice would be the 290-hp N Line—no surprise there.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
Powertrain Options:
-
191-hp 2.5-liter four-cylinder (standard)
-
Hybrid setup: 2.0-liter four-cylinder paired with an electric motor for a combined 192 hp
-
290-hp turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder (N Line)
Transmissions:
-
8-speed automatic (standard)
-
6-speed automatic (hybrid)
-
8-speed dual-clutch automatic (N Line)
Drivetrain:
-
Front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive
The standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder delivers a respectable 191 horsepower—perfectly adequate for commuting—and while the Sonata isn’t as sharp or athletic as the Honda Accord, it remains stable, predictable, and responsive enough for daily use. Hyundai also earns points for sticking with a traditional 8-speed automatic rather than a CVT, avoiding the droning engine noise common in some competitors.
The 192-hp Sonata Hybrid combines a 2.0-liter engine with an electric motor. Its efficiency is impressive, but power delivery isn’t seamless, and the switch between electric and gas propulsion can feel abrupt.
The standout of the lineup is the 290-hp N Line. It brings real performance to the family-sedan space, providing quick acceleration and spirited driving without sacrificing efficiency. Recent model updates—specifically a refined 8-speed dual-clutch transmission and improved launch control—have made it smoother in traffic and more consistent when accelerating from a stop.
0–60 MPH Times
Test Results:
-
Sonata N Line: 0–60 mph in 5.4 seconds
-
Sonata Hybrid: 0–60 mph in 7.8 seconds
In Comparison:
The Sonata N Line is noticeably quicker than both the Honda Accord and the all-wheel-drive Toyota Camry. Its revised launch-control system also helps reduce wheelspin, delivering cleaner and more confident takeoffs.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
- C/D 75-mph Highway Test Results: 39–51 mpg
- EPA City Ratings: 23–44 mpg
- EPA Highway Ratings: 32–51 mpg
Official EPA figures for the 2026 Hyundai Sonata haven’t been published yet, but they’re expected to mirror the 2025 model. The standard nonhybrid Sonata is rated at up to 28 mpg city and 38 mpg highway, offering solid efficiency for a midsize sedan.
The most economical choice remains the Sonata Hybrid, returning 44 mpg city and 51 mpg highway according to EPA estimates. Our own 75-mph highway test confirmed those numbers, with the hybrid achieving an impressive 51 mpg.
The performance-focused Sonata N Line is the least fuel-efficient on paper, rated at 23 mpg city and 32 mpg highway, but real-world results proved more promising. During our testing, it delivered a surprising 39 mpg on the highway.
For official ratings and updates as they’re released, visit the EPA’s website.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
First Row:
There’s little to criticize about the Sonata’s cabin. The front seats are spacious—offering more room than both the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry—and provide excellent comfort and support. Materials also exceed expectations for a sedan priced under $30,000, giving the interior a premium feel.
Second Row:
Rear-seat space isn’t class-leading, but it’s perfectly adequate. Average-size adults will have no trouble settling in for longer rides of around an hour.
Cargo Capacity:
With 16 cubic feet of trunk space, the 2026 Hyundai Sonata offers solid practicality, easily accommodating up to seven carry-on bags. The wide trunk opening is another plus, making loading and unloading a breeze.
Infotainment and Connectivity
Infotainment: 12.3-inch touchscreen
Connectivity: Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
Audio Systems: Standard 6-speaker setup; optional 12-speaker Bose system
The 2026 Hyundai Sonata dashboard features a clean, integrated dual-screen layout, with one display serving as the digital gauge cluster and another handling infotainment duties. While the size of the instrument cluster varies by trim, every model includes a crisp 12.3-inch center touchscreen. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard, making smartphone integration quick and cable-free. Most trims use a six-speaker audio system, but upper models upgrade to a richer 12-speaker Bose setup for improved sound quality.
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
Hyundai equips the Sonata with an impressively robust suite of standard safety and driver-assistance technologies. Every model includes automatic high beams, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping and lane-centering assist, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and automatic emergency braking. More advanced camera-based systems and parking aids are available as upgrades.
Standard Safety Features:
-
Adaptive cruise control
-
Lane-keeping assist
-
Blind-spot monitoring
Optional Safety Features:
-
Blind-spot view monitor
-
360-degree surround-view camera
-
Remote smart parking
For full crash-test scores and safety evaluations, visit the (NHTSA) and (IIHS) websites.
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage
Hyundai continues to stand out with one of the best warranty packages in the industry. Its powertrain coverage remains a major selling point, and the brand also provides longer complimentary scheduled maintenance than Toyota and many other competitors.
Limited Warranty: 5 years or 60,000 miles
Powertrain Warranty: 10 years or 100,000 miles
Complimentary Maintenance: 3 years or 36,000 miles
2026 Hyundai Sonata Specifications (Estimated)
| Category | 2026 Hyundai Sonata |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.5L I4 / 2.5L Turbo / 2.0L Hybrid |
| Horsepower | 191 hp / 290 hp / 192 hp (hybrid) |
| Transmission | 8-speed auto / 8-speed DCT (N Line) |
| Drivetrain | FWD |
| 0–60 mph | 7.8s (base), 5.3s (N Line) |
| Fuel Economy | Up to 51–54 mpg (Hybrid Blue) |
| Length | 192.9 in |
| Width | 73.2 in |
| Height | 56.9 in |
| Wheelbase | 113.8 in |
| Cargo Capacity | 16.0 cu ft |
| Seating | 5 passengers |
Final Verdict
The 2026 Hyundai Sonata continues its reign as one of the best values in the midsize sedan segment. With its refined interior, impressive hybrid efficiency, strong N Line performance, and unbeatable warranty, it offers something for nearly every driver. Unless you need AWD, the Sonata remains one of the smartest non-SUV buys on the market.
2026 Hyundai Sonata Video
