SONATA or ELANTRA: Comparing Hyundai's Sedans for Woodstock Drivers
October 28 2025,
Choosing between the 2025 Hyundai SONATA and ELANTRA comes down to how you drive and what you value most. Both sedans deliver modern technology, safety features, and proven reliability, but they serve different priorities. The SONATA offers more interior room and available all-wheel drive for New Brunswick winters, while the ELANTRA focuses on fuel efficiency and a lower entry price for daily transportation. Here's how these two sedans compare for drivers in Woodstock and across the province.
Both models feature wireless smartphone integration, heated seats, and comprehensive safety systems. The decision often hinges on cabin space, powertrain options, and how you plan to use your vehicle throughout the year.
At a Glance: SONATA vs. ELANTRA
|
Feature |
2025 SONATA |
2025 ELANTRA |
|---|---|---|
|
Engine |
2.5 L 4-cylinder, 191 hp |
2.0 L 4-cylinder, 147 hp |
|
Fuel Economy (Combined) |
8.2 L/100 km (FWD) / 8.6 L/100 km (AWD) |
6.5–6.9 L/100 km |
|
Hybrid Option |
Not available |
1.6 L hybrid, 139 hp, 4.7 L/100 km |
|
Drive Configuration |
FWD or AWD |
FWD only |
|
Panoramic Sunroof |
Standard |
Available on select trims |
|
Interior Space |
Larger cabin, more rear legroom |
Compact, efficient layout |
|
Best For |
Families, highway driving, winter capability |
Commuters, fuel savings, urban driving |
Performance and Powertrain
The SONATA equips a 2.5 L 4-cylinder engine producing 191 horsepower, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. This powertrain delivers smooth acceleration for highway merging and passing, with fuel economy rated at 8.2 L/100 km combined in front-wheel drive. The available HTRAC all-wheel drive increases combined consumption to 8.6 L/100 km while adding confidence on winter roads throughout New Brunswick.
The ELANTRA uses a 2.0 L 4-cylinder engine generating 147 horsepower, matched to an Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT). Fuel economy ranges from 6.5 L/100 km combined on the Essential trim to 6.9 L/100 km on Preferred models. For maximum efficiency, the ELANTRA Hybrid pairs a 1.6 L engine with an electric motor for a combined 139 horsepower and 4.7 L/100 km combined—ideal for daily commuting between Woodstock, Fredericton, and Saint John.
Interior Space and Comfort
The SONATA provides a larger cabin with noticeably more rear legroom, making it the better choice for families or drivers who regularly carry passengers. The panoramic sunroof comes standard on all trims, flooding the interior with natural light. Dual-zone automatic climate control and available ventilated front seats add comfort for longer trips across the province.
The ELANTRA offers a well-designed interior that maximizes space efficiently. While rear legroom is more modest, the sedan still accommodates four adults comfortably for most drives. Available features include a power sunroof, leatherette seating surfaces, and dual-zone climate control on upper trims. Both sedans include heated front seats as standard equipment.
Quick Comparison: Interior Highlights
- SONATA: Panoramic sunroof (standard), leather seating, 8-way power driver's seat, larger rear legroom
- ELANTRA: Power sunroof (available), leatherette or cloth seating, 6- or 8-way adjustable front seats, compact efficiency
Technology and Connectivity
Both sedans feature Hyundai's modern infotainment systems with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The SONATA includes a 12.3-inch touchscreen display as standard, paired with a 4.2-inch instrument cluster on base trims or an available 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster on higher trims. The ELANTRA offers an 8-inch touchscreen on Essential models, upgrading to a 10.25-inch display with navigation on Preferred and Luxury trims.
The SONATA integrates Bluelink connected vehicle services, proximity key entry, and available wireless device charging. The ELANTRA provides similar connectivity on upper trims, with available Digital Key functionality for smartphone-based vehicle access. Both sedans include multiple USB-C ports for front and rear passengers.
Safety and Driver Assistance
Both vehicles include Hyundai's comprehensive SmartSense safety suite as standard. Features shared across both models include:
- Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with Pedestrian, Cyclist, and Junction Turning Detection
- Lane Keeping Assist and Lane Following Assist
- Driver Attention Warning
- High Beam Assist
- Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist
- Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist
The SONATA adds Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go, Intelligent Speed Limit Assist, and available Highway Driving Assist. The ELANTRA includes these features on Luxury and N Line Ultimate trims, making advanced driver assistance accessible across both model lines.
Fuel Economy and Operating Costs
Fuel efficiency favours the ELANTRA, particularly the hybrid variant. Daily commuters covering significant distances will appreciate the ELANTRA's lower fuel consumption. The standard 2.0 L engine achieves 6.5 L/100 km combined on Essential trims, while the 1.6 L hybrid reaches 4.7 L/100 km combined—translating to fewer fill-ups during weekly drives.
The SONATA's 2.5 L engine balances efficiency with power, consuming 8.2 L/100 km combined in front-wheel drive. The optional all-wheel drive adds capability for Maritime winters while increasing combined fuel economy to 8.6 L/100 km. Drivers prioritizing winter traction over maximum efficiency will find the SONATA's AWD option valuable.
Which Sedan Suits Your Needs?
The SONATA works well for drivers who value interior space, available all-wheel drive, and a more powerful engine. Families, frequent highway drivers, and those facing winter conditions throughout New Brunswick will appreciate the larger cabin and AWD capability. The standard panoramic sunroof and upscale features make it a strong choice for buyers seeking a more premium sedan experience.
The ELANTRA appeals to commuters, budget-conscious buyers, and drivers prioritizing fuel efficiency. The hybrid option delivers outstanding economy for daily transportation, while the compact dimensions make urban parking easier. Lower operating costs and a competitive entry price make the ELANTRA practical for everyday driving in Woodstock and surrounding areas.
Compare Both Sedans at Thomas Hyundai
Both the 2025 SONATA and ELANTRA deliver dependable transportation with modern features and proven safety technology. The right choice depends on your space requirements, driving patterns, and whether all-wheel drive capability matters for your New Brunswick lifestyle. Visit Thomas Hyundai in Woodstock to compare both sedans and find the model that fits your priorities.
