Compare 2018 Hyundai Elantra vs 2018 Hyundai Sonata

Performance

Two mid-size sedans with a lot of personality, the 2018 Elantra and 2018 Sonata will appeal to a wide range of car buyers. As a daily driver, they both excel in reliable economic transportation. Conservative but attractive styling help both these cars look great without seeming audacious in their presentations. Ample performance and an abundance of trim and customization options ensure that there's a Hyundai sedan to fit almost any budget and driving need. As a bonus, the base models in each lineup come well equipped, even without dipping into the long list of optional extras.

Balanced driving performance and a smooth ride highlight the 2018 Sonata driving characteristics, making it a stand out commuter car. Three engine options are available within the range of trim levels. The base model gets a 2.4L inline-4 that makes up to 185-hp and is paired with a 6-speed automatic. This transmission performs well and is a major contributor to the Sonata smooth driving experience. Higher trim levels, like the Sonata Sport, can opt to swap out the 2.4L for a 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder creating 245-hp that's paired with a new 8-speed automatic. The 8-speed transmission is configured to provide more aggressive shifts and fits the perky little turbo engine well. Lastly, the Sonata Eco goes all out on fuel economy with a small turbocharged 1.6L engine and a special dual-clutch 7-speed transmission. In the Elantra, it's a similar story, with a 2.0L inline-4 fitting in the base model. It makes slightly less power than the Sonata's, cranking out 147-hp that will most commonly be paired with a 6-speed automatic. The manual transmission is standard on the base engine, but likely won't be seen very often. Sports trims in the Elantra offer a 1.6L turbocharged engine that makes 201-hp and has the new 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. Finally, the same Eco trim is available on the Elantra, this time with an even smaller 1.4L turbo engine. While the Elantra is slightly slower than the Sonata, it still performs well as a daily driver. Those buyers who want a bit more get up and go will want to take a close look at the Sonata.

Appearance

Featuring good looks without all the extra fluff seen on some vehicles, both the Sonata and the Elantra stand out from the crowded mid-size sedan crowd without needing to scream and shout for attention. Looking at the outside of the Sonata, it's clear Hyundai knows they have a beautiful vehicle. A low profile typical of the Sonata line starts at the vehicles front grille, which is bold in its stylized design without being overt. The Elantra gets the same treatment, and both vehicles have strong lines that arch over their frames, leading back to the vehicle's rear-end. From the rear, if these were not branded as Hyundai vehicles, you'd be forgiven for thinking you're looking at a luxury sedan from Lexus. They have a quiet look that is aesthetically pleasing and alludes to the smart design found inside.

Features

Hyundai is giving its customers value for their money, and that philosophy is clear when looking at the standard features present on the Elantra and Sonata. Even the most sparsely equipped Elantra gets a 3.5-inch touchscreen and six-speaker stereo system. Most people interested in the Elantra will opt for the SEL trim; it gets a much larger 7.0-inch infotainment system that's Apple CarPlay and Android Auto ready. Higher trims start adding additional features like a sunroof, leather steering wheel, heated seats, dual-zone climate control and navigation. For the Sonata, even the base model gets the 7.0-inch infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It's a similar story here, with higher trims adding in heated seats, dual-zone climate control, navigation, and a long list of interior and exterior tweaks. It is hard to find a Sonata that does not come well-equipped even without a ton of customization.

The only way to truly experience the wealth of value both of these cars possess is to contact us or come down to our dealership for more information today!