2026 Hyundai Sonata: MPG, NHTSA & IIHS Safety Ratings
— NHTSA, IIHS, EPA, AAA, RepairPal
Among 29 value Sedans, the 2026 Hyundai Sonata scores well across safety, fuel cost, and reliability, with NHTSA's 5-star rating and IIHS Top Safety Pick+ designation. NHTSA has 1 recall campaign on file for this vehicle.
- Starting MSRP
- $27,450 - $38,250
- EPA Combined MPG
- 27-47 MPG
- NHTSA Safety Rating
- 5-Star (Highest)
- IIHS Award
- Top Safety Pick+
- Est. Annual Fuel Cost
- $1,250 - $2,200 per year
- EPA GHG Score
- 8 / 10 (Low Emissions)
- Recalls on File
- 1 recall on file
- EPA: vs Avg Vehicle
- Save $4,500 over 5 yrs
- Est. Monthly Cost (with fuel)
- $934 per month
- Est. Cost per Mile (with fuel)
- $0.66
- Brand Origin
- South Korea
The 2026 Hyundai Sonata is a Sedan priced from $27,450 to $38,250 with 7 trims. For a daily driver, fuel cost and reliability matter most. Both are covered below.
- Fuel cost $595 per year below value Sedans average
- Avg repair cost $286 per year below Sedan average
- IIHS Top Safety Pick+
2026 Hyundai Sonata at a Glance
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
Strengths in the data
- Safety: 5-star NHTSA + IIHS TSP+. Safest Sedans 2026 →
- Fuel: Top 20% cheapest to fuel among hybrid Sedans. Best-case annual fuel cost is $1,250. Cheapest Sedans to fuel 2026 →
- Reliability: RepairPal 4.0/5 from RepairPal. Most reliable Sedans 2026 →
Cautions in the data
- Efficiency swings by about 20 MPG/MPGe across the lineup, so trim choice materially changes the fuel story.
Similar vehicles to compare
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%
The five-star NHTSA scale gives you the broad picture. The IIHS breakdown below shows how the 2026 Hyundai Sonata performed in specific test categories, which can highlight strengths or gaps the star rating does not capture.
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. 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
Strong crash test scores are reassuring, but they do not cover every component. The recall section below shows whether NHTSA or Hyundai has identified any issues worth correcting on vehicles already sold.
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 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
What Do 2026 Hyundai Sonata Owners Report to NHTSA?
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 2026-04-16.
For a vehicle driven daily, fuel cost compounds fast. The difference between 30 and 40 MPG is roughly $400 per year at average gas prices and 15,000 miles.
What Is the 2026 Hyundai Sonata Fuel Economy?
The most fuel-efficient 2026 Hyundai Sonata trim achieves 47 combined MPG, with an estimated annual fuel cost of $1,250. That is $595 less per year than the $1,845 average for value Sedans. Actual fuel economy depends on driving conditions and habits. Source: EPA (fueleconomy.gov).
Ranges from 27 to 47 combined MPG/MPGe depending on trim and drivetrain.
| Trim | Combined | City | Highway | Annual Fuel Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SE FWD GAS | 27 MPG | 23 | 32 | $2,200 per year |
| SEL Sport FWD GAS | 27 MPG | 23 | 32 | $2,200 per year |
| Blue Hybrid FWD HEV | 47 MPG | 44 | 51 | $1,250 per year |
| SEL Sport AWD GAS | 27 MPG | 24 | 33 | $2,200 per year |
| SEL Hybrid FWD HEV | 47 MPG | 44 | 51 | $1,250 per year |
| N Line FWD GAS | 27 MPG | 23 | 32 | $2,200 per year |
| Limited Hybrid FWD HEV | 47 MPG | 44 | 51 | $1,250 per year |
Estimated 5-year fuel costs range from $6,250 to $11,000 depending on trim.
EPA smog rating ranges from 5 to 8 out of 10 across trims.
For a daily driver, fuel is the cost you see. Insurance, depreciation, and maintenance are the costs you feel at tax time. AAA estimates all of them for the Medium Sedan class.
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 per year |
|---|---|
| Insurance | $1,572 per year |
| Depreciation | $3,462 per year |
| Registration & Taxes | $613 per year |
| Financing | $854 per year |
| Total (excluding fuel) | $9,956 per year |
| Cost per mile | $0.66 per mile |
For a daily commute, the most fuel-efficient trim often delivers the best long-term value. The comparison below shows fuel economy, price, and estimated cost for all 7 options.
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 | 27 MPG | $2,200 per year | FWD | 191 hp | 3,232 lbs | $83,980 |
| SEL Sport FWD GAS | $29,150 | 27 MPG | $2,200 per year | FWD | 191 hp | 3,305 lbs | $86,430 |
| Blue Hybrid FWD HEV | $29,200 | 47 MPG | $1,250 per year | FWD | 192 hp | 3,439 lbs | $80,845 |
| SEL Sport AWD GAS | $30,650 | 27 MPG | $2,200 per year | AWD | 191 hp | 3,466 lbs | $72,750 |
| SEL Hybrid FWD HEV | $32,450 | 47 MPG | $1,250 per year | FWD | 192 hp | 3,439 lbs | $84,595 |
| N Line FWD GAS | $36,050 | 27 MPG | $2,200 per year | FWD | 290 hp | 3,534 lbs | $78,150 |
| Limited Hybrid FWD HEV | $38,250 | 47 MPG | $1,250 per year | 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) (added 2025)
- SEL Sport (FWD, AWD) (added 2026)
- Blue (FWD) (added 2026)
Trims no longer available
last available 2025
- SEL (FWD, AWD)
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 27 MPG | $28,000 27 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 27 MPG | $27,450 27 MPG |
| SEL Sport FWD GAS | — | — | $29,150 27 MPG |
| Blue Hybrid FWD HEV | — | — | $29,200 47 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
You have seen what each trim costs. Now, how often does it break? RepairPal aggregates repair data from thousands of shops to answer that question.
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.
Reliability ratings come from repair shops. Warranty terms come from Hyundai. Together, they give you both the historical track record and the manufacturer's commitment.
What Warranty Does the 2026 Hyundai Sonata Come With?
Here is what Hyundai covers at no cost for the 2026 Sonata. Basic coverage handles most defects. Powertrain coverage protects the engine and transmission for a longer period. Both start from the original purchase date.
| Basic Warranty | 5yr/60k |
|---|---|
| Powertrain Warranty | 10yr/100k |
| Corrosion Warranty | 7yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 5yr/unlimited |
What Are the 2026 Hyundai Sonata Specs?
Dimensions, weight, and powertrain details for the 2026 Hyundai Sonata. These figures are published by Hyundai and apply to the base configuration unless noted. Specific trims may differ.
EPA vehicle class: Mid-size car
| Engine | 2.5L I4, 2L I4 |
|---|---|
| Horsepower | 191 - 290 hp |
| Power-to-Weight | 104.2 - 164.1 hp per ton |
| Price per HP | $124 - $199 |
| 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 |
| Est. Range per Tank | 429 - 620 miles per tank (EPA combined) |
| 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
That is the complete data picture for the 2026 Hyundai Sonata. For a daily commuter, fuel cost and reliability are usually the deciding factors, and both are covered above. Data is refreshed periodically.
Source links
Verify this data
2026 Hyundai Sonata FAQ
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.
What vehicles compete with the 2026 Hyundai Sonata?
Vehicles similar to the 2026 Hyundai Sonata in price and segment include 2026 Kia K5, 2026 Nissan Altima, and 2026 Honda Accord. The Kia K5 is the closest in price (starting at $27,490, 5-star NHTSA, 27 MPG). Each has its own fact sheet with EPA, NHTSA, IIHS, and cost data for comparison. 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 $104 for fuel. That puts non-payment running costs around $934 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.
Where is Hyundai based?
Hyundai's headquarters are in South Korea. Assembly location varies by model and sometimes by trim. The "Brand Origin" label on this site refers to corporate headquarters, not the factory where your specific vehicle was built. See our South Korea-brand cars 2026 list.
What other Hyundai models are available for 2026?
Each 2026 Hyundai model on this site has its own fact sheet covering available safety, fuel, reliability, cost, and recall data. Visit our Hyundai models page for the full lineup.
What does the 2026 Hyundai Sonata cost per mile to drive?
Based on AAA ownership cost estimates and EPA fuel data, the 2026 Hyundai Sonata costs approximately 66.4 cents per mile to operate, including fuel, insurance, maintenance, depreciation, and financing. Actual cost per mile depends on your annual mileage, driving habits, and location.
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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.