Hyundai Sonata vs Tesla Model S
The Tesla Model S is the more efficient of the two: it reaches 124 mpg combined versus 52 mpg for the Hyundai Sonata, a 72 mpg advantage and costs about $600 less per year to fuel.
Across 4 measured categories, the Tesla Model S leads in 4. Figures are EPA test data, not manufacturer claims.
Head-to-head specifications
| Metric | Hyundai Sonata | Tesla Model S |
|---|---|---|
| Best combined MPG | 52 mpg | 124 mpg ✓ |
| Best city MPG | 50 mpg | 132 mpg ✓ |
| Best highway MPG | 56 mpg | 116 mpg ✓ |
| Lowest annual fuel costEPA estimate at 15,000 miles per year | $1,200 | $600 ✓ |
| Lowest CO2 output | 100 g/mi | Not available |
| Engines offered | SIDI; Hybrid, SIDI & PFI, SIDI & PFI; with Stop-Start, SIDI & PFI; Stop-Start | Not available |
| Transmissions | Automatic (AM-S6), Automatic (AM-S8), Automatic (S8) | Automatic (A1) |
| Drivetrains | Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive | All-Wheel Drive, Rear-Wheel Drive |
| Fuel types | Regular, Regular Gas and Electricity | Electricity |
| EPA class | Large Cars | Large Cars |
| Years covered | 2015–2027 | 2015–2026 |
| Configurations on record | 81 | 62 |
Source: EPA fuel economy records via fueleconomy.gov. Best-case values across all recorded configurations for each model.
Sonata vs Model S: common questions
Which is better on gas, the Hyundai Sonata or the Tesla Model S?
The Tesla Model S is the more efficient of the two: it reaches 124 mpg combined versus 52 mpg for the Hyundai Sonata, a 72 mpg advantage and costs about $600 less per year to fuel.
Which costs less to run per year?
By EPA estimates at 15,000 miles a year, the Tesla Model S runs about $600 a year in fuel at its most efficient configuration, versus about $1,200 for the Hyundai Sonata — a difference of roughly $600 per year.
What engines do the Sonata and Model S offer?
Hyundai Sonata: SIDI; Hybrid, SIDI & PFI, SIDI & PFI; with Stop-Start, SIDI & PFI; Stop-Start. Tesla Model S: no engine data on record.
Are they in the same vehicle class?
Yes — the EPA classifies both the Hyundai Sonata and the Tesla Model S as Large Cars, so they compete directly.
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