Hyundai Elantra vs Sonata: Price, Performance & More

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elantra vs sonata

The decision between the Elantra vs Sonata isn’t just about specs, it’s about how you drive, what you value, and where you see yourself behind the wheel. In Pakistan, these two sedans often land on the same shortlist. Similar price brackets, and the same badge, but entirely different personalities. Moreover, that’s something that makes choosing one surprisingly difficult, especially with rising fuel costs, changing preferences, and Hyundai’s growing reputation in the local market.

For some, it’s the need for daily efficiency and compact ease that makes the Elantra stand out. For others, it’s the refined power and road presence of the Sonata that makes every drive feel like a statement. Both sedans come from the same Hyundai DNA, but they tell very different stories.

This comparison goes beyond numbers. It unpacks what these two cars represent, from fuel economy and design to driving dynamics and value for money in Pakistan. Whether you’re upgrading from a smaller ride or eyeing something that balances performance with comfort, this guide will help you choose the one that fits your lane.

Elantra vs Sonata: Performance Comparison

Engine Options and Power

Hyundai Elantra Hybrid

  1. Gasoline Engine: 1.6L GDI, Smart stream Atkinson Cycle, 4-cylinder
  2. Hybrid Electric Motor: 32 kW Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor
  3. Combined Output: 139 hp, 264 NM torque

The Elantra Hybrid delivers efficient and smooth power with its dual-source system. With regenerative braking and hybrid drive modes, it provides an economical yet responsive experience.

Hyundai Sonata N Line

  1. Engine: Smart stream G2.5 T-GDi, In-line 4-cylinder
  2. Power Output: 290 hp, 422 Nm torque
  3. Transmission: 8-speed Wet Dual-Clutch Transmission

The Sonata N Line brings out the enthusiast in any driver. It offers sharp throttle response, high-end torque, and effortless overtakes. With Sport and My Drive modes, it adapts to every kind of road.

Drive Modes

  1. Elantra Hybrid: Eco, Smart, Sport
  2. Sonata N Line: Eco, Normal, Sport, My Drive (Smart & Sport+)


Both sedans offer driving modes that adapt to road conditions and personal preferences.

Fuel Efficiency

Hyundai Elantra Hybrid

  1. Fuel Type: Petrol (Hybrid)
  2. Fuel Tank: 42 Litres
  3. EPA-est. MPG: Up to 36 MPG Combined

Hyundai Sonata N Line

  1. Fuel Type: Petrol
  2. Fuel Tank: 60 Litres
  3. EPA-est. MPG: Up to 32 MPG Combined

Elantra takes the lead for those prioritizing fuel savings. Sonata’s MPG is respectable but leans towards performance.

Compact vs Mid-Size

One thing people often confuse is the size of the Hyundai Elantra and Sonata. The Elantra is a compact sedan, so it is smaller in length, wheelbase, and trunk space compared to the Sonata. The Sonata is a mid-size sedan, which means it offers more room inside and feels a bit spacious on the road.

Although both cars have Hyundai’s signature look, they each have unique design features like different front grilles and body lines. This way, they don’t just look like a bigger or smaller version of the same car.

Exterior Design & Dimensions

Parametric Styling: Elantra

The Elantra Hybrid’s parametric jewel-pattern grille, LED headlamps, and sharp body lines create a futuristic look. The rear H-shaped LED tail lights enhance visibility and style.

Sporty Sophistication: Sonata N Line

The Sonata N Line is bold, muscular, and sleek. Its Horizon LED DRLs, black glossy grille, and aerodynamic lines with dual mufflers bring luxury with a bite.

Color Options

  1. Elantra Hybrid: Oxford Blue, Fiery Red, Magnetic Force, Phantom Black, Polar White, Silver Metallic
  2. Sonata N Line: Hampton Grey, Ultimate Red, Magnetic Force, Phantom Black, Polar White, Rain Forest, Silver Metallic, Oxford Blue

Dimensions

MeasurementElantra HybridSonata N Line
Length (mm)47104910
Width (mm)18251860
Height (mm)14301445
Wheelbase (mm)27202840
Luggage Space (Litres)402480

Interior Comfort & Convenience

The Elantra offers a smart, simple cabin with soft materials and user-friendly controls. It’s comfortable and modern, made for easy everyday driving.

The Sonata N Line, on the other hand, feels more spacious and luxurious. You get premium materials, ambient lighting, and a dapper dashboard that looks and feels high-end.

Cabin Experience

Elantra

  1. 10.25″ Digital Cluster
  2. Leather-wrapped steering wheel
  3. Ventilated & Heated Seats
  4. 8-Way Powered Driver Seat with Lumbar Support
  5. Parametric Speaker Grilles
  6. Smart Tailgate


Sonata

  1. 12.3″ Panoramic Curved Display
  2. Column-Type Shift-by-Wire Gear
  3. Ambient Lighting
  4. Memory Seats
  5. Heated Rear Seats
  6. Dual Rear A/C and 2x USB Type-C

 

Comfort for All Seasons

Both sedans come with Auto Dual-Zone Climate Control, but Sonata ups the game with heated rear seats and a rear-powered sunshade.

Technology & Infotainment

Both vehicles blend everyday functionality with advanced features, making your drive not only easier but also more enjoyable.

While the Elantra focuses on smart essentials like wireless connectivity and digital displays, the Sonata steps into the future with luxury tech like a panoramic curved screen and immersive sound systems. Here’s how they stack up.

Elantra Hybrid

  1. 8” Display AVN
  2. Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
  3. Rear View Camera
  4. 4 Speakers (Optional Bose 8 Speakers)

 

Sonata N Line

  1. 12.3” Curved LED Display
  2. Bose 12-Speaker Premium Audio
  3. Head-Up Display
  4. Smart Trunk Opener

 

Connectivity

Both sedans offer USB-C ports, Bluetooth with voice recognition and smartphone compatibility.

Safety & Reliability

When it comes to staying safe on the road, both the Elantra Hybrid and Sonata N Line come packed with features that protect you and your passengers. Hyundai has added smart systems to help avoid accidents and give you peace of mind.

Shared Safety Features

  1. Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA)
  2. Lane Keeping Assist (LKA)
  3. Blind Spot Collision Warning
  4. Rear Cross-Traffic Collision Avoidance
  5. ISOFIX child seat anchors

 

Sonata Extras

  1. 360-Degree Surround View Monitor
  2. Blind-Spot View Monitor
  3. 6 SRS Airbags
  4. Rear Occupant Alert

 

JD Power Ratings

Elantra: 86/100 (Quality & Reliability)
Sonata: 81/100 (Quality & Reliability)

Suspension, Braking & Handling

Elantra Hybrid

  1. Front: MacPherson Strut
  2. Rear: Multi-Link Suspension
  3. ABS, EBD, ESC, HAC, TCS
  4. 15” Front / 14” Rear Disc Brakes

 

Sonata N Line

  1. Front: MacPherson Strut
  2. Rear: Multi-Link Suspension
  3. Larger disc brakes
  4. Electronic Parking Brake with Auto Hold
  5. Active Noise Control

Pricing in Pakistan

Hyundai Elantra Price in Pakistan

The Elantra Hybrid is competitively priced, falling within a mid-range segment, ideal for fuel-conscious buyers.

Sonata Car Price in Pakistan

Sonata’s pricing is on the premium end, especially for the N Line variant. But with high-end features, sporty looks, and advanced performance, it justifies the investment.

Elantra vs Sonata: Which One Is Right For You?

Choose the Elantra if:

  1. You want excellent fuel efficiency
  2. You prefer a compact, smartly-designed sedan
  3. You value high reliability and eco-friendliness

 

Choose the Sonata if:

  1. You love powerful performance and sporty driving
  2. You want a larger cabin and trunk
  3. You prefer premium features and bold styling

Elantra vs Sonata: Comparison Table

 

FeatureHyundai Elantra HybridHyundai Sonata N Line
Engine1.6L GDi + Hybrid Motor2.5L Turbo GDi
Max Power139 hp290 hp
Max Torque109/147 lb/Nm422 Nm
Transmission6-speed DCT8-speed Wet DCT
Drive ModesEco, Smart, SportEco, Normal, Sport, My Drive
Fuel EfficiencyHigh (Hybrid)Moderate
Display10.25” Digital Cluster12.3” Panoramic Curved
Sound System4 Speakers / Optional BoseBose 12 Speakers w/ Amplifier
Climate ControlAuto Dual-ZoneAuto Dual-Zone + Rear Heated Seats
Safety SystemsBasic Hyundai Smart SenseFull ADAS + 360 Camera
Comfort & ConvenienceHeated/Ventilated Front SeatsHeated/Ventilated + Rear Heated
Boot Space402 Ltr480 Ltr
JD Power Reliability Score86/10081/100
Price in PakistanMid-RangePremium

Conclusion

Both the Hyundai Elantra and Sonata offer standout features in their respective segments. While Elantra appeals to eco-conscious, city-focused drivers, Sonata grabs attention with performance and tech-packed luxury. No matter your choice, both are stellar options from Hyundai.