2026 Honda Accord LX vs 2026 Hyundai Sonata SE
On paper, the 2026 Hyundai Sonata SE wins on $945 less. The 2026 Honda Accord LX has to win you at the dealer. Key numbers: 192 vs 191 hp, 33 vs 32 MPG.
The Sonata SE leads on $945 less. The spec table compares 6 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 6 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 | 2026 Honda Accord LX | 2026 Hyundai Sonata SE |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $28,395 | $27,450 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 1.5L I4 Turbo | 2.5L I4 |
| Horsepower | 192 hp | 191 hp |
| Torque | 192 lb-ft | 181 lb-ft |
| Transmission | continuously variable-speed automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | FWD | FWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 30 | 28 |
| Highway MPG | 38 | 38 |
| Combined MPG | 33 | 32 |
| Fuel Tank | 14.8 gal | 15.9 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $1,350/yr | No published data |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,239 lbs | 3,232 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 2026 Honda Accord LX and 2026 Hyundai Sonata SE?
The 2026 Hyundai Sonata SE starts at $27,450, $945 less than the 2026 Honda Accord LX at $28,395. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $17/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Honda Accord LX?
The 2026 Honda Accord LX is the stronger pick when the 2026 Honda Accord LX is more fuel-efficient for a lower-cost commute.
Who should choose the 2026 Hyundai Sonata SE?
The 2026 Hyundai Sonata SE is the stronger pick when you want to keep $945 in your pocket and the 2026 Hyundai Sonata SE covers your needs.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Honda Accord LX or 2026 Hyundai Sonata SE?
The 2026 Honda Accord LX rates 33 combined MPG, 1 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Honda Accord LX or 2026 Hyundai Sonata SE?
The 2026 Honda Accord LX produces 192 hp, 1 more than the 2026 Hyundai Sonata SE at 191 hp. The 2026 Honda Accord LX also leads in torque at 192 lb-ft vs 181 lb-ft. The 2026 Honda Accord LX runs a 1.5L I4 Turbo; the 2026 Hyundai Sonata SE uses a 2.5L I4.
Is the 2026 Honda Accord LX bigger than the 2026 Hyundai Sonata SE?
The 2026 Honda Accord LX is 2.4″ longer at 195.7″ vs 193.3″. The 2026 Hyundai Sonata SE has a 0.4″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
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
- 2026 Honda Accord LX Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- 2026 Hyundai Sonata SE Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
Accord vs Sonata: What This Matchup Is Really About
The 2026 Honda Accord LX and 2026 Hyundai Sonata SE are both midsize sedans competing for the same buyer. Price, fuel economy, and daily comfort are the tie-breakers. The $-945 gap is about $17/month on a 60-month loan. Noticeable but not dramatic enough to be the deciding factor on its own.
Under the Hood
The 2026 Honda Accord LX runs a 1.5L I4 Turbo; the 2026 Hyundai Sonata SE uses a 2.5L I4. The 1 hp difference (192 vs 191) is marginal in daily driving. Both use FWD.
Running Costs: Accord vs Sonata
Annual fuel costs are nearly identical, so running costs will not separate these two.
Bottom Line
Choose the 2026 Honda Accord LX when the 2026 Honda Accord LX is more fuel-efficient for a lower-cost commute. Choose the 2026 Hyundai Sonata SE when you want to keep $945 in your pocket and the 2026 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 Honda or Hyundai or any dealership.