2026 Hyundai Sonata
This page covers the 2026 Hyundai Sonata, a Sedan available in 7 trims from $27,450 to $38,250. Below you will find crash test ratings, fuel cost data, reliability scores, recall history, ownership costs, and manufacturer specifications, each sourced and linked to the original publisher.
The 2026 Hyundai Sonata carries a 5-star NHTSA safety rating, a fuel cost grade of A among value Sedans, and a RepairPal reliability score of 4.0/5. NHTSA has 1 recall campaign on file for this vehicle.
What the published data indicates
Compared with similar sedans in our dataset, the clearest positive signals for the 2026 Hyundai Sonata are high published crash-test results and lower estimated fuel cost, with an above-average RepairPal reliability rating. The main caution is that the efficiency story changes a lot by trim.
- safety
- fuel cost
- reliability
Strongest published signals
- Safety: 5-star NHTSA + IIHS TSP+. Safest Sedans 2026 →
- Fuel: Top 20% cheapest to fuel among hybrid Sedans. Best-case annual fuel cost is $850. Cheapest Sedans to fuel 2026 →
- Reliability: RepairPal 4.0/5 from RepairPal. Most reliable Sedans 2026 →
Limits and cautions
- Efficiency swings by about 24 MPG across the lineup, so trim choice materially changes the fuel story.
Comparable models
- Starting MSRP
- $27,450 - $38,250
- EPA Combined MPG
- 27-51 MPG
- NHTSA Safety Rating
- 5-Star (Highest)
- IIHS Award
- Top Safety Pick+
- Est. Annual Fuel Cost
- $850 - $1,600/yr
- Recalls on File
- 1 recall on file
- EPA: vs Avg Vehicle
- Save $3,500 over 5 yrs
- Brand Origin
- South Korea
How Safe Is the 2026 Hyundai Sonata?
The 2026 Hyundai Sonata earned NHTSA's highest 5-star safety rating and TSP+ recognition from IIHS, placing it among the most thoroughly tested Sedans for crash protection. 99% of Sedans share this top NHTSA rating. Source: NHTSA.
Overall Safety
99% of Sedans share this top rating
| Category | Rating |
|---|---|
| Frontal Crash | |
| Side Crash | |
| Rollover |
Rollover Risk: 9.7%
NHTSA and IIHS test vehicles independently using different crash scenarios. Together, they provide the most complete picture of a vehicle's crashworthiness.
How Did the 2026 Hyundai Sonata Perform in IIHS Crash Tests?
IIHS awarded the 2026 Hyundai Sonata a TSP+ designation, which requires good or acceptable ratings in all crashworthiness categories plus effective front crash prevention. IIHS tests are independent of NHTSA and use different crash configurations. Source: IIHS.
| Test | Rating |
|---|---|
| Small Overlap Front | G Good |
| Moderate Overlap Front | G Good |
| Side | G Good |
| Headlights | G Good |
| Front Crash Prevention (Vehicle) | A Acceptable |
| Front Crash Prevention (Pedestrian) | G Good |
| Seat Belt Reminders | G Good |
| Child Seat Anchors (LATCH) | A Acceptable |
IIHS vehicle class: Midsize cars
Beyond crash test performance, the recall record shows whether the manufacturer has identified and addressed any safety-related defects after the vehicle went on sale.
Does the 2026 Hyundai Sonata Have Any Recalls?
NHTSA has 1 recall campaign on file for the 2026 Hyundai Sonata, affecting ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT CLUSTER/PANEL. This is typical for Sedans, which average 1.2 recall campaign. Recall repairs are provided free at authorized dealers. Source: NHTSA.
1 recall campaign on file with NHTSA.
Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT CLUSTER/PANEL
Most recent: January 2026
Units affected: 666,416
Owner-Reported Problems
NHTSA complaint data is not available for the 2026 Hyundai Sonata. This does not mean there are no complaints. The model may not yet be tracked in the NHTSA database.
Source: NHTSA Vehicle Complaints Database. Data last refreshed 2026-03-07.
With the safety picture established, the next question is cost. Fuel is typically the largest variable expense for most drivers.
What Is the 2026 Hyundai Sonata Fuel Economy?
The most fuel-efficient 2026 Hyundai Sonata trim achieves 51 combined MPG, with an estimated annual fuel cost of $850. That is $553 less per year than the $1,403 average for value Sedans. Actual fuel economy depends on driving conditions and habits. Source: EPA (fueleconomy.gov).
Ranges from 27 to 51 combined MPG/MPGe depending on trim and drivetrain.
| Trim | Combined | City | Highway | Annual Fuel Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SE FWD GAS | 32 MPG | 28 | 38 | $1,350/yr |
| SEL Sport FWD GAS | 29 MPG | 25 | 36 | $1,500/yr |
| Blue Hybrid FWD HEV | 51 MPG | 47 | 56 | $850/yr |
| SEL Sport AWD GAS | 27 MPG | 24 | 33 | $1,600/yr |
| SEL Hybrid FWD HEV | 47 MPG | 44 | 51 | $950/yr |
| N Line FWD GAS | 27 MPG | 24 | 33 | $1,600/yr |
| Limited Hybrid FWD HEV | 47 MPG | 44 | 51 | $950/yr |
Fuel is only one part of the ownership cost equation. AAA estimates the full picture: insurance, maintenance, depreciation, and financing.
What Does the 2026 Hyundai Sonata Cost to Own?
Estimated 5-year total ownership cost for the 2026 Hyundai Sonata ranges from $72,750 to $90,395 depending on trim, based on AAA's Your Driving Costs study for the Medium Sedan class. This includes insurance, maintenance, depreciation, registration, and financing. These are class averages, not specific to this model. Source: AAA.
| Maintenance | $1,786/yr |
|---|---|
| Insurance | $1,572/yr |
| Depreciation | $3,462/yr |
| Registration & Taxes | $613/yr |
| Financing | $854/yr |
| Total (excluding fuel) | $9,956/yr |
| Cost per mile | $0.66/mi |
Total cost varies significantly by trim. The table below breaks down each trim so you can see exactly where your money goes.
How Do the 2026 Hyundai Sonata Trims Compare?
The 2026 Hyundai Sonata is available in 7 trims, with base prices ranging from $27,450 to $38,250. Trims are available with Gasoline and Hybrid powertrains, which affects fuel economy and pricing. The table below compares key specifications and costs across all available trims. Prices shown are manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) and do not include destination charges, dealer fees, taxes, or incentives.
| Trim | Base MSRP | Combined MPG | Est. Annual Fuel Cost | Drive Type | Horsepower | Curb Weight | Est. 5-Year Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SE FWD GAS | $27,450 | 32 MPG | $1,350/yr | FWD | 191 hp | 3,232 lbs | $83,980 |
| SEL Sport FWD GAS | $29,150 | 29 MPG | $1,500/yr | FWD | 191 hp | 3,305 lbs | $86,430 |
| Blue Hybrid FWD HEV | $29,200 | 51 MPG | $850/yr | FWD | 192 hp | 3,439 lbs | $80,845 |
| SEL Sport AWD GAS | $30,650 | 27 MPG | $1,600/yr | AWD | 191 hp | 3,466 lbs | $72,750 |
| SEL Hybrid FWD HEV | $32,450 | 47 MPG | $950/yr | FWD | 192 hp | 3,439 lbs | $84,595 |
| N Line FWD GAS | $36,050 | 27 MPG | $1,600/yr | FWD | 290 hp | 3,534 lbs | $78,150 |
| Limited Hybrid FWD HEV | $38,250 | 47 MPG | $950/yr | FWD | 192 hp | 3,687 lbs | $90,395 |
The Hyundai Sonata lineup has expanded from 5 trims in 2024 to 7 trims in 2026. Hybrid trims now represent 43% of the lineup, up from 40% in 2024. The entry price has decreased $50 since 2024.
New trims since 2024
- SE FWD GAS (added 2025)
- SEL Sport FWD GAS (added 2026)
- Blue Hybrid FWD HEV (added 2026)
- SEL Sport AWD GAS (added 2026)
Trims no longer available
- SEL FWD GAS (last available 2025)
- SEL AWD GAS (last available 2025)
Price changes since 2024
- SEL Hybrid FWD HEV $30,800 (2024) → $32,450 (2026) +$1,650
- N Line FWD GAS $34,950 (2024) → $36,050 (2026) +$1,100
- Limited Hybrid FWD HEV $37,200 (2024) → $38,250 (2026) +$1,050
View full trim timeline (2024–2026)
| Trim | 2024 | 2025 | 2026 |
|---|---|---|---|
| SEL FWD GAS | $27,500 29 MPG | $28,000 29 MPG | — |
| SEL AWD GAS | $29,000 28 MPG | $29,500 28 MPG | — |
| SEL Hybrid FWD HEV | $30,800 47 MPG | $31,250 47 MPG | $32,450 47 MPG |
| N Line FWD GAS | $34,950 27 MPG | $35,500 27 MPG | $36,050 27 MPG |
| Limited Hybrid FWD HEV | $37,200 47 MPG | $37,700 47 MPG | $38,250 47 MPG |
| SE FWD GAS | — | $26,900 32 MPG | $27,450 32 MPG |
| SEL Sport FWD GAS | — | — | $29,150 29 MPG |
| Blue Hybrid FWD HEV | — | — | $29,200 51 MPG |
| SEL Sport AWD GAS | — | — | $30,650 27 MPG |
Compare Trim Costs
Select two trims and adjust your driving and financing to see how monthly costs compare. Only costs we can compute from EPA data and your inputs are shown. No estimates, no guesses.
Your driving & financing
Choosing a trim is also about long-term dependability. The section below shows the third-party reliability rating available for this model.
How Reliable Is the 2026 Hyundai Sonata?
RepairPal rates the 2026 Hyundai Sonata at 4.0 out of 5.0 for reliability, above average for value Sedans. This means lower expected repair frequency and cost compared to similar vehicles. Source: RepairPal.
The manufacturer's warranty provides a baseline of coverage. Here is what Hyundai includes.
What Warranty Does the 2026 Hyundai Sonata Come With?
Hyundai provides the following warranty coverage for the 2026 Sonata. Warranty terms are published by the manufacturer and apply to all trims. Coverage begins from the date of original purchase. Warranty terms shown here reflect the most recently published manufacturer data.
| Basic Warranty | 5yr/60k |
|---|---|
| Powertrain Warranty | 10yr/100k |
| Corrosion Warranty | 7yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 5yr/unlimited |
What Are the 2026 Hyundai Sonata Specs?
Detailed specifications for the 2026 Hyundai Sonata as reported by the manufacturer. Specifications may vary by trim, market, and production date. Source: manufacturer-reported data.
| Engine | 2.5L I4, 2L I4 |
|---|---|
| Horsepower | 191 - 290 hp |
| Torque | 181 - 311 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic, 6-speed shiftable automatic, 8-speed automated manual |
| Drive Type | Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive |
| Fuel Type | regular unleaded |
| Fuel Tank | 13.2 - 15.9 gal |
| Length | 193.3 in |
|---|---|
| Width | 73.2 in |
| Height | 56.9 in |
| Wheelbase | 111.8 in |
| Curb Weight | 3,232 - 3,687 lbs |
What Changed for the 2026 Hyundai Sonata?
- Pricing changed across one or more trims
- EPA fuel economy ratings changed
- Recall status changed
All data shown for the 2026 Hyundai Sonata comes from EPA, NHTSA, IIHS, AAA, manufacturers, and selected third-party references. This page updates automatically when source agencies publish new information. See our methodology page for details on data collection and verification.
2026 Hyundai Sonata FAQ
How does the 2026 Hyundai Sonata compare to other sedans?
Based on published data, the 2026 Hyundai Sonata has a safety grade of A, a fuel cost grade of A, a RepairPal reliability score of 4.0/5, and only 1 recall on file. These grades compare it against similar sedans in its price range. No single metric tells the whole story, so we recommend reviewing each section on this page. See our Safest Sedans 2026 list.
Which 2026 Hyundai Sonata trim has the lowest ownership cost?
Among 7 available trims, the SEL Sport AWD GAS has the lowest estimated five-year ownership cost at $72,750, starting at $30,650 MSRP. The most expensive trim to own is about $90,395. See the full trim comparison table above for a side-by-side breakdown.
How much does 2026 Hyundai Sonata insurance cost?
AAA estimates the annual insurance cost for the Medium Sedan class at $1,572 per year, or about $131 per month. This is a class-level average, not specific to the 2026 Hyundai Sonata. Your actual premium will depend on your driving history, location, and coverage choices. Source: AAA Your Driving Costs study.
How much does 2026 Hyundai Sonata maintenance cost per year?
AAA estimates average annual maintenance for the Medium Sedan class at $1,786 per year. This covers routine services, wear items, and unscheduled repairs. Combined with insurance ($1,572/yr) and depreciation ($3,462/yr), total non-fuel ownership costs run about $9,956 per year. These are class averages from the AAA Your Driving Costs study.
How fast does a 2026 Hyundai Sonata depreciate?
AAA estimates the Medium Sedan class depreciates about $3,462 per year, or roughly $17,310 over five years. On a base MSRP of $27,450, that represents about 63% of the purchase price. These are class averages and actual depreciation varies by trim, condition, mileage, and market demand. Source: AAA.
How much will I spend on gas with a 2026 Hyundai Sonata?
The most efficient 2026 Hyundai Sonata trim costs an estimated $850 per year in fuel, or about $71 per month, based on EPA ratings and national average fuel prices. That is about $553 less than the average for similar sedans. See our Cheapest Sedans to fuel 2026 list.
What vehicles compete with the 2026 Hyundai Sonata?
Based on price range, body type, and segment positioning, the closest competitors to the 2026 Hyundai Sonata include 2026 Kia K5, 2026 Nissan Altima, and 2026 Honda Accord. Each of those pages includes the same safety, fuel cost, reliability, and recall data so you can compare directly. Browse all 2026 Sedans.
What changed on the 2026 Hyundai Sonata from last year?
Compared to the previous model year, 4 new trims were added, 2 trims were dropped, and the entry price decreased by $50 for the Hyundai Sonata lineup. See the trim evolution timeline above for full year-by-year pricing and availability details.
How much does a 2026 Hyundai Sonata cost per month to own?
Excluding your car payment, estimated monthly costs for the 2026 Hyundai Sonata include about $830 for insurance, maintenance, depreciation, and fees, plus roughly $71 for fuel. That puts non-payment running costs around $901 per month. These are estimates based on AAA class averages and EPA fuel data. Actual costs depend on your driving, location, and coverage.
Is the 2026 Hyundai Sonata available as a hybrid?
Yes, the 2026 Hyundai Sonata is available with a hybrid powertrain option alongside conventional powertrains. Hybrid trims typically offer better fuel economy at a higher starting price compared to conventional gas trims. See our Hybrid Sedans 2026 list.
Compare to Similar Vehicles
Other Model Years
Data on this page is compiled from government agencies and independent research organizations. It is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, purchasing, or safety advice. Verify all data with the original source before making decisions.