2026 Hyundai Sonata: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2026 Hyundai Sonata’s biggest change is an expanded trim lineup, led by the new efficiency-focused Blue Hybrid and SEL Sport. It is otherwise a light update with no redesign or broad mechanical change.
About the 2026 Hyundai Sonata
8th generation (2020-present), third model year after the major 2024 U.S. mid-cycle refresh
Hyundai presents the Sonata as a style-forward midsize sedan that combines a roomy, practical cabin with large-screen technology and a broad set of standard driver aids. The range covers efficient daily transportation, high-mileage hybrid driving, premium comfort, and genuine sport-sedan performance. Its key distinctions are dramatic exterior design, strong standard technology, a dedicated 290-hp N Line, and an AWD configuration on the gas SEL Sport.
The range spans the straightforward SE with a 12.3-inch touchscreen, the 51-mpg-combined Blue Hybrid, and the more comfort-focused SEL Hybrid. Limited Hybrid emphasizes leather seating, ventilated front seats, premium audio, and parking cameras, while N Line remains the performance model with a 290-hp turbo engine and sport-tuned suspension. SEL Sport sits below N Line with the standard 191-hp engine, heated front seats, wireless phone charging, and larger wheels.
What changed, by category
2026 Hyundai Sonata specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl, GDI, 2.5 Liter | 4-Cyl, Hybrid, GDI, 2.0 Liter | 4-Cyl, Hybrid, GDI, 2.0 Liter | 4-Cyl, Turbo, GDI, 2.5 Liter | 4-Cyl, Hybrid, GDI, 2.0 Liter | 4-Cyl, GDI, 2.5 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 8-Spd w/Shiftronic | Automatic, 6-Spd w/Shiftronic | Automatic, 6-Spd w/Shiftronic | Automatic, 8-Spd Dual-Clutch | Automatic, 6-Spd w/Shiftronic | Automatic, 8-Spd w/Shiftronic |
| Drivetrain | FWD | FWD | FWD | FWD | FWD | AWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Hybrid | Hybrid | Gas | Hybrid | Gas |
| MPG City | 28 mpg | 44 mpg | 47 mpg | 23 mpg | 44 mpg | 25 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 38 mpg | 51 mpg | 56 mpg | 32 mpg | 51 mpg | 36 mpg |
| Horsepower | 191 hp | 192 hp | 192 hp | 290 hp | 192 hp | 191 hp |
| Torque | 181 lb-ft | 139 lb-ft | 139 lb-ft | 311 lb-ft | 139 lb-ft | 181 lb-ft |
| Trunk/Cargo | 15.6 cu-ft | 15.6 cu-ft | 15.6 cu-ft | 15.6 cu-ft | 15.6 cu-ft | 15.6 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 34.8 in | 34.8 in | 34.8 in | 34.8 in | 34.8 in | 34.8 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | ||||||
| Alarm System | ||||||
| Blindspot Sensors | ||||||
| Lane Departure Warning | ||||||
| Park Assist | ||||||
| Rain Sensing Windshield Wipers | ||||||
| Rear View Camera | ||||||
| 360 Camera | ||||||
| Alloy Wheels | ||||||
| Heated Mirrors | ||||||
| Memory Exterior Mirrors | ||||||
| Panorama Moon Roof | ||||||
| Power Close Liftgate/Trunk | ||||||
| Rear Spoiler | ||||||
| Head-Up Display | ||||||
| LCD Instrument Cluster | ||||||
| Navigation System | ||||||
| Premium Audio | ||||||
| Satellite Radio | ||||||
| Smartphone Interface | ||||||
| Subwoofer | ||||||
| Auto-Dimming Interior Mirror | ||||||
| Dual Power Front Seats | ||||||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | ||||||
| Rear Air Conditioning | ||||||
| Heated Front Seats | ||||||
| Heated Steering Wheel | ||||||
| Interior Ambient Lighting | ||||||
| Leather Seats | ||||||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | ||||||
| Memory Driver's Seat | ||||||
| Power Driver Seat | ||||||
| Power Steering | ||||||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | ||||||
| Push-Button Engine Start | ||||||
| Rear Window Shades | ||||||
| Ventilated Front Seats | ||||||
Frequently asked questions
Is the 2026 Hyundai Sonata redesigned?
No. The 2026 Sonata is a light trim update rather than a redesign, with no broad changes to its engines, safety systems, body structure, or cabin technology.
Which trims are new for the 2026 Hyundai Sonata?
The Blue Hybrid and SEL Sport are new for 2026. Blue is the efficiency-focused hybrid, while SEL Sport is a gas model offered in front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive forms.
Which 2025 Sonata trims are gone for 2026?
The SEL Convenience trim is gone for 2026, and the gas powertrain is no longer offered on the SEL trim. SEL continues as a hybrid.
What changed on the 2026 Sonata Hybrid?
The hybrid lineup gains the Blue trim, which is rated at 51 mpg combined, and the SEL Hybrid gains a panoramic sunroof. The 192-hp gas-electric system carries over.
Does the 2026 Hyundai Sonata have AWD?
Yes. The new SEL Sport is offered with AWD as well as front-wheel drive. Both versions use the 191-hp 2.5-liter engine and share the same core cabin, technology, and safety equipment.