Toyota Camry Vs. Hyundai Sonata: Compare Cars

The mid-size mainstream sedan segment isn't one to get hearts racing, but these pragmatic vehicles are what most of us need to get our daily business done. And for that, it's hard to beat either the Toyota Camry or the Hyundai Sonata.

The Toyota Camry got a full redesign for 2012, though it stays close to its proven principles—so much so that you might not notice the completely new exterior at first. The Sonata was all-new in 2011, but it carries its futuristic look well into 2013. Crests and curves blend in balance and harmony, producing one of the best-looking sedans in the segment.

Inside, the Camry's design is simple and functional, but a significant upgrade in looks and finish from the last version; a multi-layered dash, stitched-look instrument panel, and chunky multi-function controls are the most noticeable elements. The Sonata's cabin is as adventurous as its exterior, with a dramatically sculpted dash, a large LCD screen, and wood-grain trim. Some might find the Sonata's look a bit "out there," however.

Behind the wheel, both cars are responsive and refined, with very good ride comfort, though the Sonata errs a bit on the firm end of the spectrum. The Camry offers both four-cylinder and V-6 engines, either choice being relatively efficient and quick enough for typical street use. A hybrid option boosts the Camry's gas mileage to 43 mpg city and 39 mpg highway in LE trim, making it a very efficient option. Sonata's powertrains range from fuel-sipper to sporty, with a 274-horsepower 2.0-liter turbocharged version available. A Sonata Hybrid is also offered, rating 34 mpg city and 39 mpg highway (EPA-adjusted down 1 mpg from the original 35/40-mpg rating), falling short of the Camry's marks, but still quite good on gas.

Safety scores for these two models were updated in December 2012, when the 2013 Toyota Camry and 2013 Hyundai Sonata both received less-than-ideal scores from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) in its new small overlap frontal impact test. For the Camry, it earned a particularly worrisome 'poor' result, while the Sonata earned a 'marginal' rating. While the Camry still qualifies as a Top Safety Pick, the Sonata now earns the new Top Safety Pick+ award—placing it a notch above the Toyota.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) scores the Sonata at five stars overall, though just four stars in frontal crash tests. The Camry earns the same ratings--five overall, four in frontal crash tests--but also just four of five stars in rollover resistance, where the Sonata scores five.

Features and specifications can vary widely, from base-spec models with just the minimum of modern conveniences to fully-loaded models packing navigation, infotainment, advanced safety systems and more. Both Camry and Sonata offer a range of upgrade packages and standalone options that will likely satisfy most buyers.

2013 Toyota Camry	2013 Hyundai Sonata
TCC Rating
7.6 The 2013 Toyota Camry is no standout for design, but it's more than ever the sensible pick for those who value comfort, value, and frugality above all else.	8.6 With a standout design; perky performance; great gas mileage; and exceptional value for the money, the 2013 Hyundai Sonata is one of the best buys among mid-size sedans.
Styling
6A ubiquitous shape and conservative styling make the Camry no standout, but up close it's crisper, neater, and a little more upscale. Read more	8The 2013 Hyundai Sonata has a handsome and smooth but adventurous look, and remains a standout among staid mid-size sedans. Read more
Performance
7The 2013 Toyota Camry won't delight driving enthusiasts, but it handles well enough and accelerates responsively. Read more	8The Sonata has strong, refined, and economical powertrains, but driving enthusiasts won't love the steering. Read more
Quality
9The 2013 Camry is quiet, spacious, and smooth-riding—and the SE is worth the upgrade for its better-bolstered seats. Read more	8With comfortable seating and plenty of storage spaces, along with impressive materials, it's hard to find fault with the cabin appointments. Read more
Safety
8There are more airbags than most cars in this class, and great crash-test results--although at least one 'poor' results keeps it from being a true top pick. Read more	10This is about as good as it gets; the Sonata has earned excellent safety and crash-test ratings. Read more
Features
8Upper trims of the Camry, like the XLE and SE offer long lists of features, while the base models offer lots of value for the money. Read more	9Hyundai adds even more standard-feature content to the Sonata for 2013. Read more
Green
9V-6 versions of the 2013 Camry are no standout, while four-cylinder models are quite fuel-efficient—and the 43-mpg Camry Hybrid might as well be an honorary Prius. Read more	9The 2013 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid is a fuel-efficiency standout—and that's on top of the base Sonata's 35-mpg highway rating. Read more
MSRP
from $22,235	from $20,895
Invoice
from $20,345	from $20,010
Fuel Economy - Combined City and Highway
28	28
Front Leg Room (in)
41.6	45.5
Second Leg Room (in)
38.9 Read Full Specs	34.6 Read Full Specs