2025 Honda Accord EX-L Hybrid vs 2025 Hyundai Sonata SEL
20 mpg better vs $5,440 less and AWD. That is the real fork. Key numbers: 204 vs 191 hp, 48 vs 28 MPG.
The Accord EX-L Hybrid leads on 20 MPG better. The Sonata SEL leads on $5,440 less, AWD. The spec table compares 7 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 7 specifications.
Full Specification Comparison
Specifications and pricing reflect available data as of early 2026 and may not match current manufacturer figures. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision.
| Spec | 2025 Honda Accord EX-L Hybrid | 2025 Hyundai Sonata SEL |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $34,940 | $29,500 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.0L I4 hybrid | 2.5L I4 |
| Horsepower | 204 hp | 191 hp |
| Torque | No published data | 181 lb-ft |
| Transmission | electrically variable-speed automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | FWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 51 | 25 |
| Highway MPG | 44 | 34 |
| Combined MPG | 48 | 28 |
| Fuel Tank | 12.8 gal | 15.9 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $900/yr | $1,550/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,468 lbs | 3,466 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 111.4" | 111.8" |
| Length | 195.7" | 193.3" |
| Width | 73.3" | 73.2" |
| Height | 57.1" | 56.9" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | 5/5 stars |
| IIHS Award | TSP+ | TSP+ |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 3yr/36k | 5yr/60k |
| Powertrain | 5yr/60k | 10yr/100k |
| Corrosion | 5yr/unlimited | 7yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 3yr/36k | 5yr/unlimited |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2025 Honda Accord EX-L Hybrid and 2025 Hyundai Sonata SEL?
The 2025 Hyundai Sonata SEL starts at $29,500, $5,440 less than the 2025 Honda Accord EX-L Hybrid at $34,940. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $96/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2025 Honda Accord EX-L Hybrid?
The 2025 Honda Accord EX-L Hybrid is the stronger pick when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $625/year less on fuel.
Who should choose the 2025 Hyundai Sonata SEL?
The 2025 Hyundai Sonata SEL is the stronger pick when you want to keep $5,440 in your pocket and the 2025 Hyundai Sonata SEL covers your needs; you drive in snow, rain, or unpaved roads where AWD keeps you planted.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2025 Honda Accord EX-L Hybrid or 2025 Hyundai Sonata SEL?
The 2025 Honda Accord EX-L Hybrid rates 48 combined MPG, 20 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2025 Honda Accord EX-L Hybrid or 2025 Hyundai Sonata SEL?
The 2025 Honda Accord EX-L Hybrid produces 204 hp, 13 more than the 2025 Hyundai Sonata SEL at 191 hp. The 2025 Honda Accord EX-L Hybrid runs a 2.0L I4 hybrid; the 2025 Hyundai Sonata SEL uses a 2.5L I4. Drivetrains differ too: FWD on the 2025 Honda Accord EX-L Hybrid, AWD on the 2025 Hyundai Sonata SEL.
Is the 2025 Honda Accord EX-L Hybrid bigger than the 2025 Hyundai Sonata SEL?
The 2025 Honda Accord EX-L Hybrid is 2.4″ longer at 195.7″ vs 193.3″. The 2025 Hyundai Sonata SEL has a 0.4″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
Do the 2025 Honda Accord EX-L Hybrid and 2025 Hyundai Sonata SEL have the same drivetrain?
No. The 2025 Hyundai Sonata SEL comes with AWD, while the 2025 Honda Accord EX-L Hybrid uses FWD. If you drive in snow, heavy rain, or on unpaved roads, the all-wheel or four-wheel drive option provides better traction. If you mostly drive on dry pavement, the two-wheel drive option saves fuel.
How do the warranties compare?
The Honda Accord comes with 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain. The Hyundai Sonata offers 5yr/60k bumper-to-bumper and 10yr/100k powertrain. Longer warranty coverage can offset higher maintenance costs over time.
Explore more: Honda trims, Honda Accord trims, Hyundai trims, Hyundai Sonata trims
Accord vs Sonata: What This Matchup Is Really About
The 2025 Honda Accord EX-L Hybrid and 2025 Hyundai Sonata SEL are both midsize sedans competing for the same buyer. Price, fuel economy, and daily comfort are the tie-breakers. The $-5,440 gap adds up to $96/month on a 60-month loan. That is real money, so the pricier option needs to earn it with capabilities you will actually use.
Under the Hood
The 2025 Honda Accord EX-L Hybrid runs a 2.0L I4 hybrid; the 2025 Hyundai Sonata SEL uses a 2.5L I4. The 13 hp difference (204 vs 191) is marginal in daily driving. The 2025 Hyundai Sonata SEL comes with AWD; the 2025 Honda Accord EX-L Hybrid uses FWD. If you deal with snow, rain, or gravel roads, that traction advantage matters.
Running Costs: Accord vs Sonata
The 2025 Honda Accord EX-L Hybrid saves roughly $625/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $3,125.
Bottom Line
Choose the 2025 Honda Accord EX-L Hybrid when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $625/year less on fuel. Choose the 2025 Hyundai Sonata SEL when you want to keep $5,440 in your pocket and the 2025 Hyundai Sonata SEL covers your needs.
Specifications shown combine licensed third-party automotive data with official manufacturer, EPA, and NHTSA source material. Actual pricing, features, and availability may vary by region and dealer. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision. TrimAtlas is not affiliated with Honda or Hyundai or any dealership.