2026 Hyundai Sonata SEL Hybrid vs 2025 Honda Accord EX-L Hybrid
On paper, the 2026 Hyundai Sonata SEL Hybrid wins on $2,490 less. The 2025 Honda Accord EX-L Hybrid has to win you at the dealer. Key numbers: $2,490 price gap, 192 vs 204 hp, 47 vs 48 MPG.
The Sonata SEL Hybrid leads on $2,490 less. The spec table compares 5 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 5 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 SEL Hybrid | 2025 Honda Accord EX-L Hybrid |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $32,450 | $34,940 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.0L I4 hybrid | 2.0L I4 hybrid |
| Horsepower | 192 hp | 204 hp |
| Transmission | 6-speed shiftable automatic | electrically variable-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | FWD | FWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 44 | 51 |
| Highway MPG | 51 | 44 |
| Combined MPG | 47 | 48 |
| Fuel Tank | 13.2 gal | 12.8 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $950/yr | $900/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,439 lbs | 3,468 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 111.8" | 111.4" |
| Length | 193.3" | 195.7" |
| Width | 73.2" | 73.3" |
| Height | 56.9" | 57.1" |
| 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 | 3yr/36k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2026 Hyundai Sonata SEL Hybrid and 2025 Honda Accord EX-L Hybrid?
The 2026 Hyundai Sonata SEL Hybrid starts at $32,450, $2,490 less than the 2025 Honda Accord EX-L Hybrid at $34,940. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $44/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Hyundai Sonata SEL Hybrid?
The 2026 Hyundai Sonata SEL Hybrid is the stronger pick when you want to keep $2,490 in your pocket and the 2026 Hyundai Sonata SEL Hybrid covers your needs.
Who should choose the 2025 Honda Accord EX-L Hybrid?
The 2025 Honda Accord EX-L Hybrid is the stronger pick when the 2025 Honda Accord EX-L Hybrid is more fuel-efficient for a lower-cost commute.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Hyundai Sonata SEL Hybrid or 2025 Honda Accord EX-L Hybrid?
The 2025 Honda Accord EX-L Hybrid rates 48 combined MPG, 1 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Hyundai Sonata SEL Hybrid or 2025 Honda Accord EX-L Hybrid?
The 2025 Honda Accord EX-L Hybrid produces 204 hp, 12 more than the 2026 Hyundai Sonata SEL Hybrid at 192 hp.
Is the 2026 Hyundai Sonata SEL Hybrid bigger than the 2025 Honda Accord EX-L Hybrid?
The 2025 Honda Accord EX-L Hybrid is 2.4″ longer at 195.7″ vs 193.3″. The 2026 Hyundai Sonata SEL Hybrid has a 0.4″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
How do the warranties compare?
The Hyundai Sonata comes with 5yr/60k bumper-to-bumper and 10yr/100k powertrain. The Honda Accord 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, Honda trims, Honda Accord trims
The Sonata–Accord Decision
Shopping midsize sedans means the Sonata and Accord will likely end up on the same test-drive day. Here is what the numbers say before you get behind the wheel. The $2,490 gap is about $44/month on a 60-month loan. Noticeable but not dramatic enough to be the deciding factor on its own.
What Powers Each Vehicle
Both run the same 2.0L I4 hybrid engine. The 12 hp difference (204 vs 192) is marginal in daily driving. Both use FWD.
The Ownership Math
Annual fuel costs are nearly identical, so running costs will not separate these two.
The Decision
Choose the 2026 Hyundai Sonata SEL Hybrid when you want to keep $2,490 in your pocket and the 2026 Hyundai Sonata SEL Hybrid covers your needs. Choose the 2025 Honda Accord EX-L Hybrid when the 2025 Honda Accord EX-L Hybrid is more fuel-efficient for a lower-cost commute. At $44/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 Honda or any dealership.