2025 Toyota GR86 Base vs 2025 Hyundai Sonata SE
This is not a spec comparison. It is a decision about whether you need a sports car or a midsize sedan. Key numbers: 228 vs 191 hp, 24 vs 32 MPG.
The GR86 Base leads on 37 more hp. The Sonata SE leads on $4,600 less, 8 MPG better. The spec table compares 5 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 5 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 Toyota GR86 Base | 2025 Hyundai Sonata SE |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $31,500 | $26,900 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.4L flat 4 | 2.5L I4 |
| Horsepower | 228 hp | 191 hp |
| Torque | 184 lb-ft | 181 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 6-speed shiftable automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | RWD | FWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 21 | 28 |
| Highway MPG | 30 | 38 |
| Combined MPG | 24 | 32 |
| Fuel Tank | 13.2 gal | No published data |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 2,851 lbs | No published data |
| Wheelbase | 101.4" | 111.8" |
| Length | 167.9" | 193.3" |
| Width | 69.9" | 73.2" |
| Height | 51.6" | 56.9" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | No published data | 5/5 stars |
| IIHS Award | No published data | TSP+ |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 3yr/36k | 5yr/60k |
| Powertrain | 5yr/60k | 10yr/100k |
| Corrosion | 5yr/unlimited | 7yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 2yr/25k | 5yr/unlimited |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2025 Toyota GR86 Base and 2025 Hyundai Sonata SE?
The 2025 Hyundai Sonata SE starts at $26,900, $4,600 less than the 2025 Toyota GR86 Base at $31,500. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $81/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2025 Toyota GR86 Base?
The 2025 Toyota GR86 Base is the stronger pick when you want the 37 hp advantage on backroads and highway on-ramps; your priority is driving engagement; you prefer a smaller vehicle that is easier to park and maneuver.
Who should choose the 2025 Hyundai Sonata SE?
The 2025 Hyundai Sonata SE is the stronger pick when you want to keep $4,600 in your pocket and the 2025 Hyundai Sonata SE covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $438/year less on fuel; your priority is a comfortable daily commute.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2025 Toyota GR86 Base or 2025 Hyundai Sonata SE?
The 2025 Hyundai Sonata SE rates 32 combined MPG, 8 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2025 Toyota GR86 Base or 2025 Hyundai Sonata SE?
The 2025 Toyota GR86 Base produces 228 hp, 37 more than the 2025 Hyundai Sonata SE at 191 hp. The 2025 Toyota GR86 Base also leads in torque at 184 lb-ft vs 181 lb-ft. The 2025 Toyota GR86 Base runs a 2.4L flat 4; the 2025 Hyundai Sonata SE uses a 2.5L I4. Drivetrains differ too: RWD on the 2025 Toyota GR86 Base, FWD on the 2025 Hyundai Sonata SE.
Is the 2025 Toyota GR86 Base bigger than the 2025 Hyundai Sonata SE?
The 2025 Hyundai Sonata SE is 25.4″ longer at 193.3″ vs 167.9″. The 2025 Hyundai Sonata SE has a 10.4″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom. Keep in mind these are different vehicle types (sports car vs midsize sedan), so interior layout and cargo access are fundamentally different.
Do the 2025 Toyota GR86 Base and 2025 Hyundai Sonata SE have the same drivetrain?
No. The 2025 Toyota GR86 Base uses RWD and the 2025 Hyundai Sonata SE uses FWD. The drivetrain affects traction, fuel economy, and how the vehicle handles in different conditions.
Can I cross-shop a sports car against a midsize sedan?
Yes, and many buyers do. A sports car and a midsize sedan solve different problems, so the comparison is less about specs and more about lifestyle. Think about what you need most: fuel efficiency and a smooth commute. The spec table above helps you compare the numbers, but a test drive is where you will feel the difference in daily use.
How do the warranties compare?
The Toyota GR86 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: Toyota trims, Toyota GR86 trims, Hyundai trims, Hyundai Sonata trims
- 2025 Hyundai Sonata SE Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
GR86 vs Sonata: What This Matchup Is Really About
A sports car against a midsize sedan is not a typical matchup, but buyers with flexible needs compare them more often than you might think. The 2025 Toyota GR86 Base ($31,500) and 2025 Hyundai Sonata SE ($26,900) solve different problems at similar price points. The $-4,600 gap adds up to $81/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 Toyota GR86 Base runs a 2.4L flat 4; the 2025 Hyundai Sonata SE uses a 2.5L I4. The 2025 Toyota GR86 Base has 37 more hp (228 vs 191), enough to notice on highway on-ramps and when passing. Drivetrains differ: RWD on the 2025 Toyota GR86 Base, FWD on the 2025 Hyundai Sonata SE.
Running Costs: GR86 vs Sonata
The 2025 Hyundai Sonata SE saves roughly $438/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $2,190.
How Each One Fits Your Daily Life
The 2025 Toyota GR86 Base is tuned for driving engagement over practicality. The 2025 Hyundai Sonata SE is optimized for a comfortable daily commute and a low center of gravity. These are fundamentally different vehicles, so the comparison comes down to what job you need done, not which one is objectively better. The 2025 Hyundai Sonata SE is 25.4″ longer, which translates to more room inside but a larger footprint in parking lots and garages. The 2025 Hyundai Sonata SE has a 10.4″ longer wheelbase, typically meaning a smoother ride and more rear-seat legroom.
Bottom Line
Choose the 2025 Toyota GR86 Base when you want the 37 hp advantage on backroads and highway on-ramps. Choose the 2025 Hyundai Sonata SE when you want to keep $4,600 in your pocket and the 2025 Hyundai Sonata SE 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 Toyota or Hyundai or any dealership.