2026 Hyundai Sonata SE vs 2025 Toyota GR86 Base
This is not a spec comparison. It is a decision about whether you need a midsize sedan or a sports car. Key numbers: $4,050 price gap, 191 vs 228 hp, 32 vs 24 MPG.
The Sonata SE leads on $4,050 less, 8 MPG better. The GR86 Base leads on 37 more hp. 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 | 2026 Hyundai Sonata SE | 2025 Toyota GR86 Base |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $27,450 | $31,500 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L I4 | 2.4L flat 4 |
| Horsepower | 191 hp | 228 hp |
| Torque | 181 lb-ft | 184 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | FWD | RWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 28 | 21 |
| Highway MPG | 38 | 30 |
| Combined MPG | 32 | 24 |
| Fuel Tank | 15.9 gal | 13.2 gal |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,232 lbs | 2,851 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 111.8" | 101.4" |
| Length | 193.3" | 167.9" |
| Width | 73.2" | 69.9" |
| Height | 56.9" | 51.6" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | No published data |
| IIHS Award | TSP+ | No published data |
| 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 GR86 Base?
The 2026 Hyundai Sonata SE starts at $27,450, $4,050 less than the 2025 Toyota GR86 Base at $31,500. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $72/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 $4,050 in your pocket and the 2026 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.
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.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Hyundai Sonata SE or 2025 Toyota GR86 Base?
The 2026 Hyundai Sonata SE rates 32 combined MPG, 8 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Hyundai Sonata SE or 2025 Toyota GR86 Base?
The 2025 Toyota GR86 Base produces 228 hp, 37 more than the 2026 Hyundai Sonata SE at 191 hp. The 2025 Toyota GR86 Base also leads in torque at 184 lb-ft vs 181 lb-ft. The 2026 Hyundai Sonata SE runs a 2.5L I4; the 2025 Toyota GR86 Base uses a 2.4L flat 4. Drivetrains differ too: FWD on the 2026 Hyundai Sonata SE, RWD on the 2025 Toyota GR86 Base.
Is the 2026 Hyundai Sonata SE bigger than the 2025 Toyota GR86 Base?
The 2026 Hyundai Sonata SE is 25.4″ longer at 193.3″ vs 167.9″. The 2026 Hyundai Sonata SE has a 10.4″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom. Keep in mind these are different vehicle types (midsize sedan vs sports car), so interior layout and cargo access are fundamentally different.
Do the 2026 Hyundai Sonata SE and 2025 Toyota GR86 Base have the same drivetrain?
No. The 2026 Hyundai Sonata SE uses FWD and the 2025 Toyota GR86 Base uses RWD. The drivetrain affects traction, fuel economy, and how the vehicle handles in different conditions.
Can I cross-shop a midsize sedan against a sports car?
Yes, and many buyers do. A midsize sedan and a sports car 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 Hyundai Sonata comes with 5yr/60k bumper-to-bumper and 10yr/100k powertrain. The Toyota GR86 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 GR86 trims
- 2026 Hyundai Sonata SE Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
Sonata vs GR86: What This Matchup Is Really About
A midsize sedan against a sports car is not a typical matchup, but buyers with flexible needs compare them more often than you might think. The 2026 Hyundai Sonata SE ($27,450) and 2025 Toyota GR86 Base ($31,500) solve different problems at different price points. The $4,050 gap adds up to $72/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 2026 Hyundai Sonata SE runs a 2.5L I4; the 2025 Toyota GR86 Base uses a 2.4L flat 4. The 2025 Toyota GR86 Base has 37 more hp (228 vs 191), enough to notice on highway on-ramps and when passing. Drivetrains differ: FWD on the 2026 Hyundai Sonata SE, RWD on the 2025 Toyota GR86 Base.
Running Costs: Sonata vs GR86
The 2026 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. The 2026 Hyundai Sonata SE wins on both sticker price and running costs, making it the stronger value on paper.
How Each One Fits Your Daily Life
The 2026 Hyundai Sonata SE is optimized for a comfortable daily commute and a low center of gravity. The 2025 Toyota GR86 Base is tuned for driving engagement over practicality. These are fundamentally different vehicles, so the comparison comes down to what job you need done, not which one is objectively better. The 2026 Hyundai Sonata SE is 25.4″ longer, which translates to more room inside but a larger footprint in parking lots and garages. The 2026 Hyundai Sonata SE has a 10.4″ longer wheelbase, typically meaning a smoother ride and more rear-seat legroom. The 2026 Hyundai Sonata SE weighs 381 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 $4,050 in your pocket and the 2026 Hyundai Sonata SE covers your needs. Choose the 2025 Toyota GR86 Base when you want the 37 hp advantage on backroads and highway on-ramps. At $72/month more, the 2025 Toyota GR86 Base needs to earn that gap with something you use weekly.
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.