2026 Toyota Camry SE vs 2026 Hyundai Sonata SEL Hybrid
40 more hp and awd vs $675 less. That is the real fork. Key numbers: 232 vs 192 hp, 46 vs 47 MPG.
The Camry SE leads on 40 more hp, AWD. The Sonata SEL Hybrid leads on $675 less. 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 Toyota Camry SE | 2026 Hyundai Sonata SEL Hybrid |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $33,125 | $32,450 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L I4 hybrid | 2.0L I4 hybrid |
| Horsepower | 232 hp | 192 hp |
| Transmission | continuously variable-speed automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | FWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 46 | 44 |
| Highway MPG | 46 | 51 |
| Combined MPG | 46 | 47 |
| Fuel Tank | 13.0 gal | 13.2 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | No published data | $950/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,627 lbs | 3,439 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 111.2" | 111.8" |
| Length | 193.5" | 193.3" |
| Width | 72.4" | 73.2" |
| Height | 56.9" | 56.9" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | 5/5 stars |
| IIHS Award | TSP+ | TSP+ |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 3yr/36k | 5yr/60k |
| Powertrain | 5yr/60k | 10yr/100k |
| Corrosion | 5yr/unlimited | 7yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 2yr/25k | 5yr/unlimited |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2026 Toyota Camry SE and 2026 Hyundai Sonata SEL Hybrid?
The 2026 Hyundai Sonata SEL Hybrid starts at $32,450, $675 less than the 2026 Toyota Camry SE at $33,125. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $12/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Toyota Camry SE?
The 2026 Toyota Camry SE is the stronger pick when the extra 40 hp matters for your commute or driving style; you drive in snow, rain, or unpaved roads where AWD keeps you planted.
Who should choose the 2026 Hyundai Sonata SEL Hybrid?
The 2026 Hyundai Sonata SEL Hybrid is the stronger pick when you want to keep $675 in your pocket and the 2026 Hyundai Sonata SEL Hybrid covers your needs.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Toyota Camry SE or 2026 Hyundai Sonata SEL Hybrid?
The 2026 Hyundai Sonata SEL Hybrid rates 47 combined MPG, 1 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Toyota Camry SE or 2026 Hyundai Sonata SEL Hybrid?
The 2026 Toyota Camry SE produces 232 hp, 40 more than the 2026 Hyundai Sonata SEL Hybrid at 192 hp. The 2026 Toyota Camry SE runs a 2.5L I4 hybrid; the 2026 Hyundai Sonata SEL Hybrid uses a 2.0L I4 hybrid. Drivetrains differ too: AWD on the 2026 Toyota Camry SE, FWD on the 2026 Hyundai Sonata SEL Hybrid.
Is the 2026 Toyota Camry SE bigger than the 2026 Hyundai Sonata SEL Hybrid?
The 2026 Toyota Camry SE is 0.2″ longer at 193.5″ vs 193.3″. The 2026 Hyundai Sonata SEL Hybrid has a 0.6″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
Do the 2026 Toyota Camry SE and 2026 Hyundai Sonata SEL Hybrid have the same drivetrain?
No. The 2026 Toyota Camry SE 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 Toyota Camry comes with 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain. The Hyundai Sonata offers 5yr/60k bumper-to-bumper and 10yr/100k powertrain. Longer warranty coverage can offset higher maintenance costs over time.
Explore more: Toyota trims, Toyota Camry trims, Hyundai trims, Hyundai Sonata trims
How the Camry and Sonata Stack Up
Two midsize sedans, two brands, and a decision that comes down to which one fits your commute and budget. The 2026 Toyota Camry SE starts at $33,125; the 2026 Hyundai Sonata SEL Hybrid at $32,450. The $-675 gap is about $12/month on a 60-month loan. Noticeable but not dramatic enough to be the deciding factor on its own.
Powertrain: Camry vs Sonata
The 2026 Toyota Camry SE runs a 2.5L I4 hybrid; the 2026 Hyundai Sonata SEL Hybrid uses a 2.0L I4 hybrid. The 2026 Toyota Camry SE has 40 more hp (232 vs 192), enough to notice on highway on-ramps and when passing. The 2026 Toyota Camry SE 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
Annual fuel costs are nearly identical, so running costs will not separate these two.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the 2026 Toyota Camry SE when the extra 40 hp matters for your commute or driving style. Choose the 2026 Hyundai Sonata SEL Hybrid when you want to keep $675 in your pocket and the 2026 Hyundai Sonata SEL Hybrid 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 Toyota or Hyundai or any dealership.