ALM Cars

2024 Hyundai Elantra Vs. Sonata Sedan Comparison

2024 Hyundai Elantra Vs. Sonata Sedan Comparison

Curious about the Elantra vs. Sonata? Customers frequently come to us wondering which of these popular sedans best suits their lifestyle. The great news is that both models are efficient and refined. While they have their differences, they also share many strengths, ensuring you get a reliable and stellar car with either choice. Dive into a detailed comparison of the Sonata and Elantra below, then contact or visit one of our ALM dealerships to tour and test drive your top pick.

Hyundai Elantra vs. Sonata Performance Comparison

When comparing the Hyundai Sonata and Hyundai Elantra specs, both sedans excel in power and efficiency.

Let’s start with the Hyundai Elantra, which offers two non-hybrid engine choices: a 2.0-liter four-cylinder delivering 147 horsepower and 132 pound-feet of torque, and a 1.6-liter four-cylinder in the N Line trim boasting 201 horsepower and 195 pound-feet of torque. These engines make driving the 2024 Hyundai Elantra smooth and enjoyable.

On the other hand, the 2024 Hyundai Sonata also has two gasoline-only engines, both more powerful than the Elantra’s. The standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine offers 191 horsepower and 181 pound-feet of torque. The turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder in the N Line trim delivers a robust 290 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque, ensuring a speedy yet composed ride.

Given its smaller size, the Elantra is more efficient than the Sonata, achieving an EPA-estimated 32/41/36 MPG (City/Highway/Combined) with its standard 2.0-liter engine. The Sonata’s standard 2.5-liter engine provides an EPA-estimated 25/36/29 MPG (City/Highway/Combined). Both sedans come with FWD, but the Sonata’s base SEL trim also offers an HTRAC AWD system.

The Elantra features a standard Intelligent Variable Transmission and an available seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. Meanwhile, the Sonata offers a standard eight-speed automatic and an available N eight-speed wet dual-clutch automatic transmission. Both vehicles cater to a wide range of driver preferences and needs.

Hyundai Elantra vs. Sonata Dimensions Comparison

When choosing between the Hyundai Elantra and Sonata, size is a crucial factor. The Sonata is a midsize sedan, while the Elantra is a compact sedan, making the Sonata inherently larger. The 2024 Elantra is 185.4 inches long, 71.9 inches wide, and up to 55.9 inches tall, with a 107.1-inch wheelbase. It offers a generous 14.2 cubic feet of trunk space, ideal for anything from suitcases to golf clubs. Check out the Elantra’s interior dimensions below:

  • Front headroom: 40.6 inches
  • Front legroom: 42.3 inches
  • Rear headroom: 37.3 inches
  • Rear legroom: 38 inches


Moving to the 2024 Sonata, this sedan is 193.3 inches long, 73.2 inches wide, and 56.9 inches tall. It has a 111.8-inch wheelbase and a cargo capacity of 15.6 cubic feet in its trunk. Check out the Sonata interior dimensions below:

  • Front headroom: 40 inches
  • Front legroom: 46.1 inches
  • Rear headroom: 37.8 inches
  • Rear legroom: 34.8 inches


The headroom measurements for both sedans are without a sunroof equipped. Visit one of our Hyundai dealerships today to tour the Elantra and Sonata and see which suits your needs and preferences best.

Hyundai Elantra vs. Sonata Technology Comparison

Both the Elantra and Sonata from Hyundai are loaded with impressive technology. They come standard with wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ integration, HD Radio™, USB-C charging ports, and Bluetooth®.

When comparing the two, there are a few differences in technology. The Hyundai Sonata features a 12.3-inch display in both trims, while the Hyundai Elantra comes with a standard 8-inch touch screen and an optional 10.25-inch display. Both sedans offer wireless charging as an available feature. Additional amenities include Hyundai Digital Key 2 and a hands-free smart trunk release.

For audio enthusiasts, the Sonata offers an available 12-speaker Bose® sound system, while the Elantra has an eight-speaker Bose® sound system. Despite these differences, both cars deliver outstanding cabin technology that’s sure to impress.


Hyundai Elantra vs. Sonata Safety & Reliability Comparison

When comparing the Elantra and Sonata, Hyundai has clearly prioritized ensuring a safe and confident ride with both vehicles. Both models come standard with these driver assist systems:

  • Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist
  • Blind-Spot Collision Warning
  • Lane Keeping Assist
  • Lane Following Assist
  • Driver Attention Warning
  • Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist
  • Safe Exit Warning
  • High Beam Assist


Various upgrades are available as you move up trim levels, including Highway Driving Assist and the Surround View Monitor. Each vehicle also offers unique safety technology: the Elantra includes standard Intelligent Speed Limit Assist, while the Sonata features standard Rear Occupant Alert.

According to J.D. Power, both models perform well in safety, and their reliability ratings are identical. Each received a “Great” score of 81 out of 100 for Quality and Reliability.