2026 Honda Civic LX vs 2025 Hyundai Sonata SE
$2,205 less and 4 mpg better vs 41 more hp and 48 more lb-ft torque. That is the real fork. Key numbers: $2,205 price gap, 150 vs 191 hp, 36 vs 32 MPG.
The Civic LX leads on $2,205 less, 4 MPG better. The Sonata SE leads on 41 more hp, 48 more lb-ft torque. The spec table compares 4 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 4 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 Civic LX | 2025 Hyundai Sonata SE |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $24,695 | $26,900 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.0L I4 | 2.5L I4 |
| Horsepower | 150 hp | 191 hp |
| Torque | 133 lb-ft | 181 lb-ft |
| Transmission | continuously variable-speed automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | FWD | FWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 32 | 28 |
| Highway MPG | 41 | 38 |
| Combined MPG | 36 | 32 |
| Fuel Tank | 12.4 gal | No published data |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 2,875 lbs | No published data |
| Wheelbase | 107.7" | 111.8" |
| Length | 184.8" | 193.3" |
| Width | 70.9" | 73.2" |
| Height | 55.7" | 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 Civic LX and 2025 Hyundai Sonata SE?
The 2026 Honda Civic LX starts at $24,695, $2,205 less than the 2025 Hyundai Sonata SE at $26,900. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $39/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Honda Civic LX?
The 2026 Honda Civic LX is the stronger pick when you want to keep $2,205 in your pocket and the 2026 Honda Civic LX covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $145/year less on fuel.
Who should choose the 2025 Hyundai Sonata SE?
The 2025 Hyundai Sonata SE is the stronger pick when the extra 41 hp matters for your commute or driving style.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Honda Civic LX or 2025 Hyundai Sonata SE?
The 2026 Honda Civic LX rates 36 combined MPG, 4 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Honda Civic LX or 2025 Hyundai Sonata SE?
The 2025 Hyundai Sonata SE produces 191 hp, 41 more than the 2026 Honda Civic LX at 150 hp. The 2025 Hyundai Sonata SE also leads in torque at 181 lb-ft vs 133 lb-ft. The 2026 Honda Civic LX runs a 2.0L I4; the 2025 Hyundai Sonata SE uses a 2.5L I4.
Is the 2026 Honda Civic LX bigger than the 2025 Hyundai Sonata SE?
The 2025 Hyundai Sonata SE is 8.5″ longer at 193.3″ vs 184.8″. The 2025 Hyundai Sonata SE has a 4.1″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
How do the warranties compare?
The Honda Civic 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 Civic trims, Hyundai trims, Hyundai Sonata trims
- 2026 Honda Civic LX Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- 2025 Hyundai Sonata SE Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
The Civic–Sonata Decision
Shopping compact cars means the Civic and Sonata will likely end up on the same test-drive day. Here is what the numbers say before you get behind the wheel. The $2,205 gap is about $39/month on a 60-month loan. Noticeable but not dramatic enough to be the deciding factor on its own.
What Powers Each Vehicle
The 2026 Honda Civic LX runs a 2.0L I4; the 2025 Hyundai Sonata SE uses a 2.5L I4. The 2025 Hyundai Sonata SE has 41 more hp (191 vs 150), enough to notice on highway on-ramps and when passing. The 2025 Hyundai Sonata SE adds 48 more lb-ft of torque (181 vs 133), giving it stronger low-end pull off the line. Both use FWD.
The Ownership Math
The 2026 Honda Civic LX saves roughly $145/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $725. The 2026 Honda Civic LX wins on both sticker price and running costs, making it the stronger value on paper.
The Decision
Choose the 2026 Honda Civic LX when you want to keep $2,205 in your pocket and the 2026 Honda Civic LX covers your needs. Choose the 2025 Hyundai Sonata SE when the extra 41 hp matters for your commute or driving style. At $39/month apart, the price difference alone will not decide this.
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.