VS

Hyundai Sonata vs Toyota Highlander - Differences and prices compared

Compare performance (290 HP vs 265 HP), trunk space and price (26,900 $ vs 39,300 $ ) at a glance. See which model fits your needs and budget better – Hyundai Sonata or Toyota Highlander?

Hyundai Sonata vs Toyota Highlander: Key differences

Hyundai Sonata

  • significantly cheaper
  • only slightly more power
  • markedly lighter

Toyota Highlander

  • clearly more efficient

Here’s where it gets real: The technical differences in detail

Sonata

Costs and Efficiency:

Looking at overall running costs, both models reveal some interesting differences in everyday economy.

Hyundai Sonata is significantly cheaper – starting at 26,900 $ , while the Toyota Highlander costs 39,300 $ . That’s a price difference of around 12,370 $.

When it comes to city fuel economy, the Toyota Highlander performs clearly better – achieving 36 mpg, compared to 25 mpg for the Hyundai Sonata. That’s a difference of about 11 mpg.

Highlander

Engine and Performance:

Power, torque and acceleration say a lot about how a car feels on the road. This is where you see which model delivers more driving dynamics.

When it comes to engine power, the Hyundai Sonata offers only slightly more power – delivering 290 HP compared to 265 HP. That’s roughly 25 HP more horsepower.

There’s also a difference in torque: the Hyundai Sonata delivers marginally more torque with 311 lb-ft compared to 310 lb-ft. That’s about 1 lb-ft more.

Space and Everyday Use:

Beyond pure performance, interior space and usability matter most in daily life. This is where you see which car is more practical and versatile.

Seats: Toyota Highlander offers more seats – 8 vs 5.

In terms of curb weight, Hyundai Sonata is markedly lighter – 3,305 lbs compared to 4,155 lbs. The difference is around 850 lbs.

Who wins the race in the data check?

The Hyundai Sonata holds a slight edge in the objective data comparison.
This result only shows which model scores more points on paper – not which of the two cars feels right for you.

from $26,900
Sonata

Hyundai Sonata

  • Engine Type : Gasoline
  • Transmission : Automatic
  • Drive Type : Front Wheel, All Wheel
  • Power HP : 191 - 290 HP
details

Frequently compared as well

Toyota Crown Signia
Toyota Highlander
VS
The Toyota Crown Signia is the sleek, two-row, hybrid-only newcomer with near-Lexus polish and a commuter-friendly ride, while the Highlander sticks to its roots as a proven three-row family hauler with bigger cargo space and more ways to spec it. Choose the Signia for premium comfort and better …
Hyundai Sonata
Kia Telluride
VS
Unsure whether the Hyundai Sonata or the Kia Telluride is the better match? Compare both models directly and discover differences in power, efficiency, comfort and value for money — all summarized in one easy view to support your decision.
Hyundai Sonata
Toyota Highlander

Costs and Consumption
View detailed analysis

Engine and Performance
View detailed analysis

Dimensions and Body
View detailed analysis

General
View detailed analysis

Hyundai Sonata

The Hyundai Sonata continues to make a strong impression with its sleek design and innovative technology features. Known for its spacious interior and comfortable ride, the Sonata consistently ranks high for those seeking reliability and style in a midsize sedan. With advanced safety options and user-friendly infotainment systems, it appeals to both tech-savvy drivers and those prioritizing practicality.

details
serpimg_Lz3aXg

Reviews Hyundai Sonata

No reviews yet. Share your experience and help others decide.

Toyota Highlander

The Toyota Highlander is a trusty family hauler that blends calm road manners with a thoughtfully finished cabin and a bonus row for occasional adults. It won’t set your hair on fire, but with a refined hybrid option, easy-to-use tech, and resale strength that makes rivals sweat, it’s the sensible choice that still feels a bit special.

details
70355-2021highlanderdpldynamic046-web-lr
70370-2021highlanderdplstatic014-web-lr
70366-2021highlanderdplstatic002-web-lr
70388-2021highlanderdpldetail018-web-lr
70394-2021highlanderdpldetail027-web-lr

Reviews Toyota Highlander

No reviews yet. Share your experience and help others decide.

Frequently compared as well

Hyundai Sonata
Hyundai Venue
VS
The Hyundai Sonata and Hyundai Venue compete for the top spot in your garage. See how both models differ in key areas like performance, running costs, interior space and technology. A fast, clear comparison helps you pick the one that fits your needs best.
Hyundai Sonata
Mazda CX-50
VS
Unsure whether the Hyundai Sonata or the Mazda CX-50 is the better match? Compare both models directly and discover differences in power, efficiency, comfort and value for money — all summarized in one easy view to support your decision.
Hyundai Sonata
Chevrolet Equinox EV
VS
The Hyundai Sonata and Chevrolet Equinox EV compete for the top spot in your garage. See how both models differ in key areas like performance, running costs, interior space and technology. A fast, clear comparison helps you pick the one that fits your needs best.
Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV
Toyota Highlander
VS
The Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV and Toyota Highlander compete for the top spot in your garage. See how both models differ in key areas like performance, running costs, interior space and technology. A fast, clear comparison helps you pick the one that fits your needs best.
Toyota Camry
Toyota Highlander
VS
Unsure whether the Toyota Camry or the Toyota Highlander is the better match? Compare both models directly and discover differences in power, efficiency, comfort and value for money — all summarized in one easy view to support your decision.
Tesla Cybertruck
Toyota Highlander
VS
Tesla Cybertruck and Toyota Highlander go head-to-head: compare performance, space, features and price in one quick overview to see which model suits your daily driving, budget and lifestyle better. A clear, side-by-side look helps you make the smarter choice.
Ford Maverick
Toyota Highlander
VS
Ford Maverick brings city-size pickup charm with hybrid-friendly efficiency and a versatile bed that loves weekend projects as much as weekday commutes. Toyota Highlander counters with three-row comfort, polished manners, and family-first versatility—grab the Maverick if you haul mulch, the …
Ford Edge
Toyota Highlander
VS
Unsure whether the Ford Edge or the Toyota Highlander is the better match? Compare both models directly and discover differences in power, efficiency, comfort and value for money — all summarized in one easy view to support your decision.
Hyundai Sonata
Toyota Highlander

Costs and Consumption
Price
26,900 - 35,500 $
Price
39,300 - 53,400 $
FuelEconomy City
23 - 25 mpg
FuelEconomy City
21 - 36 mpg
FuelEconomy Hwy
32 - 36 MPG
FuelEconomy Hwy
28 - 35 MPG
Electric Range
-
Electric Range
-
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
-
Fuel tank capacity
14.8 - 15.9 gal
Fuel tank capacity
17.1 - 17.9 gal

Dimensions and Body
Body Type
Sedan
Body Type
SUV
Seats
5
Seats
7 - 8
Doors
-
Doors
-
Curb weight
3,305 - 3,534 lbs
Curb weight
4,155 - 4,595 lbs
Trunk Volume
16 cu. ft.
Trunk Volume
-
Length
193.3 in.
Length
194.9 - 197.4 in.
Width
73.2 in.
Width
76 in.
Height
56 in.
Height
68 in.

Engine and Performance
Engine Type
Gasoline
Engine Type
Gasoline, Hybrid
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission
Automatic
Drive Type
Front Wheel, All Wheel
Drive Type
Front Wheel, All Wheel
Power HP
191 - 290 HP
Power HP
243 - 265 HP
Torque
181 - 311 lb-ft
Torque
175 - 310 lb-ft
Number of Cylinders
-
Number of Cylinders
-
Engine Displacement
2.5 L
Engine Displacement
2.4 - 2.5 L
Gears
-
Gears
-

General
Model Year
2,025
Model Year
2,024
Brand
Hyundai
Brand
Toyota
How much does the Hyundai Sonata cost?

Starting from 26,900 $.

DriveDuel uses data analysis and artificial intelligence to evaluate vehicle data and create content. Content is regularly reviewed and improved. Prices shown are manufacturer suggested retail prices (MSRP). Taxes, registration fees and dealer charges are not included.