Tesla Model S vs Hyundai Sonata
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 | Tesla Model S | Hyundai Sonata |
|---|---|---|
| Best combined MPG | 124 mpg ✓ | 52 mpg |
| Best city MPG | 132 mpg ✓ | 50 mpg |
| Best highway MPG | 116 mpg ✓ | 56 mpg |
| Lowest annual fuel costEPA estimate at 15,000 miles per year | $600 ✓ | $1,200 |
| Lowest CO2 output | Not available | 100 g/mi |
| Engines offered | Not available | SIDI; Hybrid, SIDI & PFI, SIDI & PFI; with Stop-Start, SIDI & PFI; Stop-Start |
| Transmissions | Automatic (A1) | Automatic (AM-S6), Automatic (AM-S8), Automatic (S8) |
| Drivetrains | All-Wheel Drive, Rear-Wheel Drive | Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive |
| Fuel types | Electricity | Regular, Regular Gas and Electricity |
| EPA class | Large Cars | Large Cars |
| Years covered | 2015–2026 | 2015–2027 |
| Configurations on record | 62 | 81 |
Source: EPA fuel economy records via fueleconomy.gov. Best-case values across all recorded configurations for each model.
Model S vs Sonata: common questions
Which is better on gas, the Tesla Model S or the Hyundai Sonata?
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 Model S and Sonata offer?
Tesla Model S: no engine data on record. Hyundai Sonata: SIDI; Hybrid, SIDI & PFI, SIDI & PFI; with Stop-Start, SIDI & PFI; Stop-Start.
Are they in the same vehicle class?
Yes — the EPA classifies both the Tesla Model S and the Hyundai Sonata as Large Cars, so they compete directly.
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