2026 Hyundai Sonata SEL vs 2024 Honda Civic EX
Full side-by-side comparison — pricing, performance, fuel economy, features, and safety. Updated 2026.
Full Spec Comparison
Civic EX starts at $28,300, $3,200 less. Civic EX leads with 35 MPG. Same 180 hp.
| Spec | 2026 Hyundai Sonata SEL | 2024 Honda Civic EX |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $31,500 +$3,200 | $28,300 Save $3,200 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 1.6L Turbo | 1.5L Turbo |
| Horsepower | 180 hp | 180 hp |
| Torque | 195 lb-ft | 177 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-Spd AT | CVT |
| Drivetrain | FWD | FWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 28 3 less | 31 +3 |
| Hwy MPG | 38 2 less | 40 +2 |
| Combined MPG | 32 3 less | 35 +3 |
| Interior & Tech | ||
| Seats | 5 | 5 |
| Cargo | 16.3 cu ft | 14.8 cu ft |
| Screen | 12.3" | 9.0" |
| Wireless CarPlay | Yes | Yes |
| Heated Seats | Yes | Yes |
| Moonroof | Yes | Yes |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,360 lbs | 2,950 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 111.8" | 107.7" |
| Length | 192.9" | 184.0" |
| Wheels | 17" Alloy | 18" Alloy |
| Safety | ||
| Safety Suite | SmartSense | Honda Sensing |
Sonata SEL or Civic EX?
Both are competitive. Civic EX has a lower entry price, Civic EX leads on efficiency.Test drive both.
FAQ
What is the price difference between the 2026 Hyundai Sonata SEL and 2024 Honda Civic EX?
Which gets better gas mileage, the Sonata SEL or Civic EX?
Should I buy a 2026 Hyundai Sonata or Honda Civic?
Which is more reliable, the Hyundai Sonata or Honda Civic?
Is the Hyundai Sonata bigger than the Honda Civic?
What is the cost of insurance for the Sonata SEL vs Civic EX?
What is the total cost of ownership for the 2026 Hyundai Sonata SEL?
Who Should Choose the Sonata SEL
The 2026 Hyundai Sonata SEL appeals to buyers who prioritize what Hyundai does best: refinement and reliability. At $31,500, it positions itself as the more feature-rich option.
Hyundai ownership comes with excellent warranty coverage and competitive technology. Compare more: Sonata SE vs Sonata SEL, Sonata SE vs Sonata Limited, Sonata SEL vs Sonata Limited.
Who Should Choose the Civic EX
The 2024 Honda Civic EX is the better fit for buyers who want a lower entry price. Superior fuel economy at 35 combined MPG is a genuine running-cost advantage.
Honda's approach to this sedan emphasizes driving engagement and interior space efficiency. If that aligns with your priorities, the Civic EX deserves serious consideration.
Why the Price Difference Exists
The $3,200 price gap reflects different brand strategies and equipment levels. The Sonata SEL is positioned higher, which is driven by relatively modest equipment differences between the two.
Feature differences like a larger touchscreen, larger wheels also contribute. Both are competitive within the sedan market, and neither represents a poor value at their respective price points.
What Kind of Buyer Notices the Difference
Enthusiast drivers will feel the differences immediately if there's a powertrain gap. The horsepower difference here is modest enough that most commuters won't notice it. Interior differences become apparent on longer trips where seat comfort, noise levels, and tech features matter more.
For buyers who primarily drive in urban and suburban settings under 40 mph, both of these sedans will feel remarkably similar in daily use. The differences surface on road trips, in extreme weather (where heated seats and AWD matter), and during technology-heavy interactions like navigation and phone integration.
When Both Sedans Feel the Same
In a parking lot, at a stoplight, or cruising in light traffic, these two vehicles deliver very similar experiences. Both are modern, safe sedans with contemporary safety suites, decent infotainment, and comfortable cabins. Neither will leave you feeling shortchanged in everyday scenarios.
The choice between Hyundai and Honda often comes down to brand loyalty, dealer experience, and which vehicle simply feels right during a test drive. We recommend driving both back-to-back on the same day — the subtle differences in steering feel, seat position, and visibility are more informative than any spec sheet.