2026 Hyundai Sonata SE vs 2025 Toyota Camry LE
On paper, the 2025 Toyota Camry LE wins on 18 MPG better, 41 more hp, AWD. The 2026 Hyundai Sonata SE has to win you at the dealer. Key numbers: $2,775 price gap, 191 vs 232 hp, 32 vs 50 MPG.
The Sonata SE leads on $2,775 less. The Camry LE leads on 18 MPG better, 41 more hp. 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 Hyundai Sonata SE | 2025 Toyota Camry LE |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $27,450 | $30,225 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L I4 | 2.5L I4 hybrid |
| Horsepower | 191 hp | 232 hp |
| Torque | 181 lb-ft | No published data |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic | continuously variable-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | FWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 28 | 51 |
| Highway MPG | 38 | 49 |
| Combined MPG | 32 | 50 |
| Fuel Tank | 15.9 gal | 13.0 gal |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,232 lbs | 3,594 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 111.8" | 111.2" |
| Length | 193.3" | 193.5" |
| Width | 73.2" | 72.4" |
| Height | 56.9" | 56.9" |
| 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 | 2yr/25k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2026 Hyundai Sonata SE and 2025 Toyota Camry LE?
The 2026 Hyundai Sonata SE starts at $27,450, $2,775 less than the 2025 Toyota Camry LE at $30,225. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $49/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Hyundai Sonata SE?
The 2026 Hyundai Sonata SE is the stronger pick when you want to keep $2,775 in your pocket and the 2026 Hyundai Sonata SE covers your needs.
Who should choose the 2025 Toyota Camry LE?
The 2025 Toyota Camry LE is the stronger pick when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $472/year less on fuel; the extra 41 hp matters for your commute or driving style; you drive in snow, rain, or unpaved roads where AWD keeps you planted.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Hyundai Sonata SE or 2025 Toyota Camry LE?
The 2025 Toyota Camry LE rates 50 combined MPG, 18 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Hyundai Sonata SE or 2025 Toyota Camry LE?
The 2025 Toyota Camry LE produces 232 hp, 41 more than the 2026 Hyundai Sonata SE at 191 hp. The 2026 Hyundai Sonata SE runs a 2.5L I4; the 2025 Toyota Camry LE uses a 2.5L I4 hybrid. Drivetrains differ too: FWD on the 2026 Hyundai Sonata SE, AWD on the 2025 Toyota Camry LE.
Is the 2026 Hyundai Sonata SE bigger than the 2025 Toyota Camry LE?
The 2025 Toyota Camry LE is 0.2″ longer at 193.5″ vs 193.3″. The 2026 Hyundai Sonata SE has a 0.6″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
Do the 2026 Hyundai Sonata SE and 2025 Toyota Camry LE have the same drivetrain?
No. The 2025 Toyota Camry LE comes with AWD, while the 2026 Hyundai Sonata SE 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 Toyota Camry 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, Toyota trims, Toyota Camry trims
- 2026 Hyundai Sonata SE Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- 2025 Toyota Camry LE Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
Sonata vs Camry: What This Matchup Is Really About
The 2026 Hyundai Sonata SE and 2025 Toyota Camry LE are both midsize sedans competing for the same buyer. Price, fuel economy, and daily comfort are the tie-breakers. The $2,775 gap is about $49/month on a 60-month loan. Noticeable but not dramatic enough to be the deciding factor on its own.
Under the Hood
The 2026 Hyundai Sonata SE runs a 2.5L I4; the 2025 Toyota Camry LE uses a 2.5L I4 hybrid. The 2025 Toyota Camry LE has 41 more hp (232 vs 191), enough to notice on highway on-ramps and when passing. The 2025 Toyota Camry LE comes with AWD; the 2026 Hyundai Sonata SE uses FWD. If you deal with snow, rain, or gravel roads, that traction advantage matters.
Running Costs: Sonata vs Camry
The 2025 Toyota Camry LE saves roughly $472/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $2,360. The fuel savings help offset the higher sticker price, but it takes roughly 5.9 years to break even. Most buyers will not hold the vehicle that long.
How Each One Fits Your Daily Life
The 2025 Toyota Camry LE weighs 362 lbs more. Heavier vehicles tend to feel more planted at highway speed but use more fuel and are harder to stop quickly.
Bottom Line
Choose the 2026 Hyundai Sonata SE when you want to keep $2,775 in your pocket and the 2026 Hyundai Sonata SE covers your needs. Choose the 2025 Toyota Camry LE when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $472/year less on fuel. At $49/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 Hyundai or Toyota or any dealership.