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Hyundai Sonata vs Volkswagen Golf R - Differences and prices compared

Compare performance (290 HP vs 315 HP), trunk space and price (26,900 $ vs 45,700 $ ) at a glance. See which model fits your needs and budget better – Hyundai Sonata or Volkswagen Golf R?

Hyundai Sonata vs Volkswagen Golf R: Key differences

Hyundai Sonata

  • considerably cheaper
  • slightly more efficient
  • only slightly lighter
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Volkswagen Golf R

  • barely more power
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Here’s where it gets real: The technical differences in detail

Sonata

Costs and Efficiency:

Price and efficiency are key factors when choosing a car – and this is often where the real differences emerge.

Hyundai Sonata is considerably cheaper – starting at 26,900 $ , while the Volkswagen Golf R costs 45,700 $ . That’s a price difference of around 18,765 $.

When it comes to city fuel economy, the Hyundai Sonata performs slightly better – achieving 25 mpg, compared to 22 mpg for the Volkswagen Golf R. That’s a difference of about 3 mpg.

Golf R

Engine and Performance:

Under the bonnet, it becomes clear which model is tuned for sportiness and which one takes the lead when you hit the accelerator.

When it comes to engine power, the Volkswagen Golf R offers barely more power – delivering 315 HP compared to 290 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 295 lb-ft. That’s about 16 lb-ft more.

Space and Everyday Use:

Cabin size, boot volume and payload all play a role in everyday practicality. Here, comfort and flexibility make the difference.

Both vehicles offer seating for 5 people.

In terms of curb weight, Hyundai Sonata is only slightly lighter – 3,305 lbs compared to 3,397 lbs. The difference is around 92 lbs.

Who wins the race in the data check?

The Hyundai Sonata is far ahead overall 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
Hyundai Sonata
Volkswagen Golf R

Costs and Consumption

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Engine and Performance

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Dimensions and Body

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General

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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.

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Volkswagen Golf R

The Golf R is the hot hatch that blends everyday civility with a mischievous streak, gripping hard and slingshotting out of corners while still cruising to the grocery store like a champ. Inside it’s practical and polished, and with the right drive mode it flips from calm commuter to cheeky back-road assassin without breaking a sweat.

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Hyundai Sonata
Volkswagen Golf R

Costs and Consumption

Price
26,900 - 35,500 $
Price
45,700 - 46,500 $
FuelEconomy City
23 - 25 mpg
FuelEconomy City
20 - 22 mpg
FuelEconomy Hwy
32 - 36 MPG
FuelEconomy Hwy
28 - 31 MPG
Electric Range
-
Electric Range
-
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
-
Fuel tank capacity
14.8 - 15.9 gal
Fuel tank capacity
14.5 gal

Dimensions and Body

Body Type
Sedan
Body Type
4MOTION Hatchback
Seats
5
Seats
5
Doors
-
Doors
-
Curb weight
3,305 - 3,534 lbs
Curb weight
3,397 - 3,474 lbs
Trunk Volume
16 cu. ft.
Trunk Volume
-
Length
193.3 in.
Length
168.9 in.
Width
73.2 in.
Width
70.4 in.
Height
56 in.
Height
57 in.

Engine and Performance

Engine Type
Gasoline
Engine Type
Gasoline
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission
Manual, Automatic
Drive Type
Front Wheel, All Wheel
Drive Type
All Wheel
Power HP
191 - 290 HP
Power HP
315 HP
Torque
181 - 311 lb-ft
Torque
280 - 295 lb-ft
Number of Cylinders
-
Number of Cylinders
-
Engine Displacement
2.5 L
Engine Displacement
2 L
Gears
-
Gears
-

General

Model Year
2025
Model Year
2024
Brand
Hyundai
Brand
Volkswagen
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.