VS
At a Glance
Power
290hp @ 5800
271hp
Torque
311lb-ft @ 1650
310lb-ft
Engine
2.5 L/152cc
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Choosing between the Hyundai Sonata and the Tesla Model 3 is one of the most common decisions car buyers in the United States face. The Hyundai Sonata delivers 290hp @ 5800 while the Tesla Model 3 produces 271hp. Pricing starts at $35,900 for the Sonata and $36,990 for the Model 3. Both vehicles have their merits. The right choice depends on your priorities: fuel economy, performance, towing ability, safety features or total cost of ownership. This comparison covers every specification available so you can make an informed decision.
Performance
Power Output (hp)
290hp @ 5800
271hp
Torque (lb-ft)
311lb-ft @ 1650
310lb-ft
Engine & Drivetrain
Engine Capacity
2.5 L/152cc
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Cylinders
4
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Fuel Type
Gasoline
Electric
Forced Induction Device
Turbocharged
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Transmission
Auto-Shift Manual w/OD
Automatic
Number of Gears
8
1
Drive Wheels
Front Wheel Drive
Rear Wheel Drive
Fuel Economy
Fuel Economy - City (mpg)
23 (2025)mpg
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Fuel Economy - Highway (mpg)
32 (2025)mpg
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Fuel Tank Capacity (gal)
15.9gal
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Dimensions
Length (in)
193.3in
185.8in
Width (in)
73.2in
72.8in
Height (in)
56.9in
56.7in
Wheelbase (in)
111.8in
113.2in
Curb Weight (lbs)
3534lbs
3759lbs
Safety
ABS
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Brake Assist
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Stability Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Traction Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Driver Airbag
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Passenger Airbag
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Side Airbags Front
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Curtain Airbags
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Features & Tech
Air Conditioning
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Climate Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Cruise Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Adaptive Cruise Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Bluetooth
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Backup Camera
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Rear Parking Aid
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✓ Standard
Sunroof
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Heated Seats
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Power Seat Adjustment
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Keyless Entry
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Alloy Wheels
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
The Verdict
Which Wins?
Overall Winner
Tie
1 / 4 categories
Performance
Model 3
Fuel Economy
Tied
Value
Sonata
Practicality
Tied
Pros & Cons
Hyundai Sonata
Lower starting price ($35,900)
Few notable weaknesses
Tesla Model 3
Well-rounded specification
Higher starting price
Frequently Asked Questions
Which has more power, the Sonata or Model 3?
The Sonata produces 290hp @ 5800 and 311lb-ft @ 1650 of torque while the Model 3 delivers 271hp and 310lb-ft of torque. They produce similar power outputs.
What is the price difference between the Sonata and Model 3?
The Sonata starts from $35,900 and the Model 3 from $36,990. The Sonata is cheaper by $1,090 at this variant level. Final on-the-road pricing varies by dealer and specification.
Should I buy the Sonata or the Model 3?
It depends on your priorities. If fuel economy matters most, check the mpg figures above. If you need towing capacity, compare the towing ratings. For day-to-day driving - commutes, school runs and highway trips - consider ground clearance, service network coverage, and total cost of ownership including insurance and maintenance. Use the spec tables above to compare every detail before making your decision.
Also Consider