2026 Hyundai Sonata SEL Hybrid vs 2026 Nissan Altima 2.5 SV
19 mpg better vs $3,370 less and AWD. That is the real fork. Key numbers: 192 vs 182 hp, 47 vs 28 MPG.
The Sonata SEL Hybrid leads on 19 MPG better. The Altima 2.5 SV leads on $3,370 less, AWD. 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 SEL Hybrid | 2026 Nissan Altima 2.5 SV |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $32,450 | $29,080 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.0L I4 hybrid | 2.5L I4 |
| Horsepower | 192 hp | 182 hp |
| Torque | No published data | 178 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 6-speed shiftable automatic | continuously variable-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | FWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 44 | 25 |
| Highway MPG | 51 | 33 |
| Combined MPG | 47 | 28 |
| Fuel Tank | 13.2 gal | 16.0 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $950/yr | $1,550/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,439 lbs | 3,401 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 111.8" | 111.2" |
| Length | 193.3" | 192.9" |
| Width | 73.2" | 72.9" |
| Height | 56.9" | 57.3" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | 5/5 stars |
| 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 | 3yr/36k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2026 Hyundai Sonata SEL Hybrid and 2026 Nissan Altima 2.5 SV?
The 2026 Nissan Altima 2.5 SV starts at $29,080, $3,370 less than the 2026 Hyundai Sonata SEL Hybrid at $32,450. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $59/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 lower running costs matter to you, roughly $606/year less on fuel.
Who should choose the 2026 Nissan Altima 2.5 SV?
The 2026 Nissan Altima 2.5 SV is the stronger pick when you want to keep $3,370 in your pocket and the 2026 Nissan Altima 2.5 SV covers your needs; you drive in snow, rain, or unpaved roads where AWD keeps you planted.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Hyundai Sonata SEL Hybrid or 2026 Nissan Altima 2.5 SV?
The 2026 Hyundai Sonata SEL Hybrid rates 47 combined MPG, 19 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Hyundai Sonata SEL Hybrid or 2026 Nissan Altima 2.5 SV?
The 2026 Hyundai Sonata SEL Hybrid produces 192 hp, 10 more than the 2026 Nissan Altima 2.5 SV at 182 hp. The 2026 Hyundai Sonata SEL Hybrid runs a 2.0L I4 hybrid; the 2026 Nissan Altima 2.5 SV uses a 2.5L I4. Drivetrains differ too: FWD on the 2026 Hyundai Sonata SEL Hybrid, AWD on the 2026 Nissan Altima 2.5 SV.
Is the 2026 Hyundai Sonata SEL Hybrid bigger than the 2026 Nissan Altima 2.5 SV?
The 2026 Hyundai Sonata SEL Hybrid is 0.4″ longer at 193.3″ vs 192.9″. The 2026 Hyundai Sonata SEL Hybrid has a 0.6″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
Do the 2026 Hyundai Sonata SEL Hybrid and 2026 Nissan Altima 2.5 SV have the same drivetrain?
No. The 2026 Nissan Altima 2.5 SV comes with AWD, while the 2026 Hyundai Sonata SEL Hybrid 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 Nissan Altima 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, Nissan trims, Nissan Altima trims
How the Sonata and Altima Stack Up
Two midsize sedans, two brands, and a decision that comes down to which one fits your commute and budget. The 2026 Hyundai Sonata SEL Hybrid starts at $32,450; the 2026 Nissan Altima 2.5 SV at $29,080. The $-3,370 gap adds up to $59/month on a 60-month loan. That is real money, so the pricier option needs to earn it with capabilities you will actually use.
Powertrain: Sonata vs Altima
The 2026 Hyundai Sonata SEL Hybrid runs a 2.0L I4 hybrid; the 2026 Nissan Altima 2.5 SV uses a 2.5L I4. The 10 hp difference (192 vs 182) is marginal in daily driving. The 2026 Nissan Altima 2.5 SV comes with AWD; the 2026 Hyundai Sonata SEL Hybrid uses FWD. If you deal with snow, rain, or gravel roads, that traction advantage matters.
What It Actually Costs to Own
The 2026 Hyundai Sonata SEL Hybrid saves roughly $606/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $3,030.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the 2026 Hyundai Sonata SEL Hybrid when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $606/year less on fuel. Choose the 2026 Nissan Altima 2.5 SV when you want to keep $3,370 in your pocket and the 2026 Nissan Altima 2.5 SV covers your needs.
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 Nissan or any dealership.