2025 Hyundai Sonata SEL vs 2025 Honda Civic Sport
On paper, the 2025 Hyundai Sonata SEL wins on 41 more hp, 48 more lb-ft torque, 8.5″ longer. The 2025 Honda Civic Sport has to win you at the dealer. Key numbers: 191 vs 150 hp, 28 vs 34 MPG.
The Sonata SEL leads on 41 more hp, 48 more lb-ft torque. The Civic Sport leads on $3,250 less, 6 MPG better. 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 Hyundai Sonata SEL | 2025 Honda Civic Sport |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $29,500 | $26,250 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L I4 | 2.0L I4 |
| Horsepower | 191 hp | 150 hp |
| Torque | 181 lb-ft | 133 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic | continuously variable-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | FWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 25 | 31 |
| Highway MPG | 34 | 39 |
| Combined MPG | 28 | 34 |
| Fuel Tank | 15.9 gal | 12.4 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $1,550/yr | No published data |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,466 lbs | 2,935 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 111.8" | 107.7" |
| Length | 193.3" | 184.8" |
| Width | 73.2" | 70.9" |
| Height | 56.9" | 55.7" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | 5/5 stars |
| IIHS Award | TSP+ | TSP+ |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 5yr/60k | 3yr/36k |
| Powertrain | 10yr/100k | 5yr/60k |
| Corrosion | 7yr/unlimited | 5yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 5yr/unlimited | 3yr/36k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2025 Hyundai Sonata SEL and 2025 Honda Civic Sport?
The 2025 Honda Civic Sport starts at $26,250, $3,250 less than the 2025 Hyundai Sonata SEL at $29,500. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $57/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2025 Hyundai Sonata SEL?
The 2025 Hyundai Sonata SEL is the stronger pick when the extra 41 hp matters for your commute or driving style; you drive in snow, rain, or unpaved roads where AWD keeps you planted.
Who should choose the 2025 Honda Civic Sport?
The 2025 Honda Civic Sport is the stronger pick when you want to keep $3,250 in your pocket and the 2025 Honda Civic Sport covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $265/year less on fuel.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2025 Hyundai Sonata SEL or 2025 Honda Civic Sport?
The 2025 Honda Civic Sport rates 34 combined MPG, 6 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2025 Hyundai Sonata SEL or 2025 Honda Civic Sport?
The 2025 Hyundai Sonata SEL produces 191 hp, 41 more than the 2025 Honda Civic Sport at 150 hp. The 2025 Hyundai Sonata SEL also leads in torque at 181 lb-ft vs 133 lb-ft. The 2025 Hyundai Sonata SEL runs a 2.5L I4; the 2025 Honda Civic Sport uses a 2.0L I4. Drivetrains differ too: AWD on the 2025 Hyundai Sonata SEL, FWD on the 2025 Honda Civic Sport.
Is the 2025 Hyundai Sonata SEL bigger than the 2025 Honda Civic Sport?
The 2025 Hyundai Sonata SEL is 8.5″ longer at 193.3″ vs 184.8″. The 2025 Hyundai Sonata SEL has a 4.1″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
Do the 2025 Hyundai Sonata SEL and 2025 Honda Civic Sport have the same drivetrain?
No. The 2025 Hyundai Sonata SEL comes with AWD, while the 2025 Honda Civic Sport 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 Hyundai Sonata comes with 5yr/60k bumper-to-bumper and 10yr/100k powertrain. The Honda Civic offers 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain. Longer warranty coverage can offset higher maintenance costs over time.
Explore more: Hyundai trims, Hyundai Sonata trims, Honda trims, Honda Civic trims
- 2025 Hyundai Sonata SEL Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- 2025 Honda Civic Sport Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
How the Sonata and Civic Stack Up
Two midsize sedans, two brands, and a decision that comes down to which one fits your commute and budget. The 2025 Hyundai Sonata SEL starts at $29,500; the 2025 Honda Civic Sport at $26,250. The $-3,250 gap adds up to $57/month on a 60-month loan. That is real money, so the pricier option needs to earn it with capabilities you will actually use.
Powertrain: Sonata vs Civic
The 2025 Hyundai Sonata SEL runs a 2.5L I4; the 2025 Honda Civic Sport uses a 2.0L I4. The 2025 Hyundai Sonata SEL has 41 more hp (191 vs 150), enough to notice on highway on-ramps and when passing. The 2025 Hyundai Sonata SEL adds 48 more lb-ft of torque (181 vs 133), giving it stronger low-end pull off the line. The 2025 Hyundai Sonata SEL comes with AWD; the 2025 Honda Civic Sport uses FWD. If you deal with snow, rain, or gravel roads, that traction advantage matters.
What It Actually Costs to Own
The 2025 Honda Civic Sport saves roughly $265/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $1,325.
Size, Space, and Daily Reality
The 2025 Hyundai Sonata SEL weighs 531 lbs more. Heavier vehicles tend to feel more planted at highway speed but use more fuel and are harder to stop quickly.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the 2025 Hyundai Sonata SEL when the extra 41 hp matters for your commute or driving style. Choose the 2025 Honda Civic Sport when you want to keep $3,250 in your pocket and the 2025 Honda Civic Sport 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 Hyundai or Honda or any dealership.