2025 Hyundai
Sonata
Starting MSRP
$27,400
Combined MPG
38
Horsepower
191
Your Comparison
2025 Nissan
Altima
Starting MSRP
$26,890
Combined MPG
36
Horsepower
188
Quick Category Winners
Value
Sonata
Performance
Sonata
Comfort
Sonata
Fuel Economy
Sonata
Reliability
Altima
Interior
Sonata
Technology
Sonata
Overall
Sonata
Scorecard Comparison
8.0
Performance
7.8
8.2
Comfort
8.1
8.7
Value
8.6
8.0
Ownership Cost
8.2
8.7
Technology
7.8
8.4
Safety
8.1
7.8
Reliability
7.9
8.4
Interior Quality
7.9
Sonata
Altima
CHOOSE THE SONATA IF YOU:
- Want the most tech for the money
- Like bold, modern styling inside and out
- Want a long warranty included
CHOOSE THE ALTIMA IF YOU:
- Want comfortable, easygoing daily driving
- Prefer available all-wheel drive
- Value a quiet, relaxed cabin
5-Year Ownership Cost
| Category | Sonata | Altima | Diff |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fuel | $5,600 | $5,900 | -$300 |
| Insurance | $6,400 | $6,500 | -$100 |
| Maintenance | $3,800 | $3,900 | -$100 |
| Repairs | $1,500 | $1,700 | -$200 |
| Depreciation | $13,500 | $14,200 | -$700 |
| 5-Year Total | $30,800 | $32,200 | -$1,400 |
$
The Sonata costs an estimated $1,400 less to own over 5 years.
Size Comparison
Sonata
Altima
Sonata
Altima
Diff
Length
192.9
192.9
0
Width
73.2
72.9
+0.3
Height
56.9
56.8
+0.1
Wheelbase
111.8
111.2
+0.6
Cargo Volumecu ft
16.0
15.4
+0.6
Trim-to-Trim Comparison
- Sonata SEvsAltima S
- Sonata SELvsAltima SR
- Sonata N LinevsAltima Platinum
Final Verdict
The Hyundai Sonata is the smarter overall pick across our scoring categories, especially in the areas it leads. The Nissan Altima remains a strong alternative if its standout strengths better match your priorities. Either way, both are credible choices in this segment.
Winner
Hyundai Sonata
Best For…
- CommutersAltima
- FamiliesSonata
- Resale ValueTie
- Driving EnjoymentSonata
- TechnologySonata
- Best OverallSonata
Frequently Asked Questions
The Hyundai Sonata is better for shoppers who weight want the most tech for the money, while the Nissan Altima is better if you want comfortable, easygoing daily driving. Both compete closely overall.
Our scoring gives the edge to the Nissan Altima, though the Hyundai Sonata also performs well in long-term reliability data.
The Hyundai Sonata leads with up to 38 combined MPG versus 36 for the Nissan Altima.
The Hyundai Sonata is the better family pick thanks to its higher comfort scoring, slightly more usable cabin space, and a more relaxed ride.
Over a five-year ownership window, the Hyundai Sonata costs an estimated $1,400 less to own once you factor in fuel, insurance, maintenance, repairs, and depreciation.
The Hyundai Sonata tends to hold its value better in the used market, helped by stronger demand and a higher overall value score.