Corolla vs sonata: uncover the secrets of the best-selling sedans

When it comes to compact sedans, the Toyota Corolla and Hyundai Sonata are two highly regarded options. Both vehicles offer a combination of practicality, efficiency, and value. However, each model has its own unique strengths and weaknesses. In this comprehensive comparison, we will delve into the key differences between the Toyota Corolla and Hyundai Sonata to help you make an informed decision about which one is right for you.

Exterior Design

The Toyota Corolla presents a sleek and sporty exterior, with sharp lines and a low-slung stance. Its aggressive grille and angular headlights give it a bold and dynamic appearance. The Hyundai Sonata, on the other hand, exudes a more elegant and sophisticated aesthetic. Its flowing curves, chrome accents, and wide stance create a luxurious and refined look.

Interior Space and Comfort

Inside, the Toyota Corolla offers a spacious and comfortable cabin for its size. The front seats provide ample legroom and headroom, while the rear seats can accommodate three adults comfortably. The Hyundai Sonata, however, boasts even more interior space, particularly in the backseat. Its wider cabin and generous legroom make it a great choice for families or those who frequently have passengers.

Engine Performance and Fuel Economy

The Toyota Corolla comes standard with a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 139 horsepower and 126 lb-ft of torque. It is paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). The Hyundai Sonata offers a wider range of engine options, including a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, and a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. The 2.5-liter engine produces 191 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque, while the 1.6-liter turbocharged engine generates 180 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque. The 2.0-liter turbocharged engine is the most powerful, producing 245 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. All Sonata engines are paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission.

In terms of fuel economy, the Toyota Corolla has a slight advantage over the Hyundai Sonata. The Corolla with the 1.8-liter engine achieves an EPA-estimated 30 mpg in the city and 40 mpg on the highway. The Sonata with the 2.5-liter engine gets an EPA-estimated 27 mpg in the city and 37 mpg on the highway. However, the Sonata with the 1.6-liter turbocharged engine has the best fuel economy of the bunch, achieving an EPA-estimated 31 mpg in the city and 43 mpg on the highway.

Features and Technology

Both the Toyota Corolla and Hyundai Sonata come well-equipped with a variety of features and technologies. The Corolla includes a 7-inch touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, Bluetooth connectivity, and a six-speaker sound system. The Sonata offers a larger 8-inch touchscreen display, a more advanced infotainment system with navigation and voice recognition, and a premium Bose sound system. Additionally, the Sonata offers a wider range of safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning, and forward collision warning.

Safety and Reliability

Both the Toyota Corolla and Hyundai Sonata have earned excellent safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The Corolla received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ designation from the IIHS. The Sonata also received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ designation from the IIHS.

In terms of reliability, the Toyota Corolla has a slight edge over the Hyundai Sonata. Consumer Reports gave the Corolla a reliability rating of 4 out of 5, while the Sonata received a reliability rating of 3 out of 5.

Price and Value

The Toyota Corolla starts at a lower price point than the Hyundai Sonata. The Corolla L trim has a starting price of $20,025, while the Sonata SE trim starts at $24,350. However, the Sonata offers more standard features and a more powerful engine than the Corolla. Additionally, the Sonata has a longer warranty, which covers the powertrain for 10 years or 100,000 miles, compared to the Corolla’s 5-year or 60,000-mile powertrain warranty.

Which One is Right for You?

Ultimately, the best choice between the Toyota Corolla and Hyundai Sonata depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize fuel economy, reliability, and a lower price point, the Toyota Corolla is a great option. If you desire more interior space, a more powerful engine, and a wider range of features, the Hyundai Sonata is a better choice.

In a nutshell: The Verdict

Both the Toyota Corolla and Hyundai Sonata are excellent compact sedans that offer a combination of practicality, efficiency, and value. The Corolla is a great choice for those who prioritize fuel economy, reliability, and a lower price point. The Sonata, on the other hand, is a better option for those who desire more interior space, a more powerful engine, and a wider range of features.

Top Questions Asked

1. Which car has a better fuel economy?
The Toyota Corolla has a slight edge over the Hyundai Sonata in terms of fuel economy.

2. Which car has more interior space?
The Hyundai Sonata has more interior space than the Toyota Corolla, particularly in the backseat.

3. Which car has a more powerful engine?
The Hyundai Sonata offers a wider range of engine options, including a more powerful 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine.

4. Which car has a better safety rating?
Both the Toyota Corolla and Hyundai Sonata have earned excellent safety ratings from the NHTSA and IIHS.

5. Which car has a longer warranty?
The Hyundai Sonata has a longer warranty than the Toyota Corolla, covering the powertrain for 10 years or 100,000 miles.