A new generation of Honda Accord Hybrid is here, earning high praise early in the running. However, when comparing the 2023 Honda Accord Hybrid to the Hyundai Sonata Hybrid, it is hard to tell if the Honda model has truly pulled into the lead. Here, we’ll compare both of these midsize hybrid sedans.

The 2023 Honda Accord Hybrid Beats the Hyundai Sonata Hybrid On Performance, Sort Of

Despite the 2023 Honda Accord Hybrid offering less power than its predecessor, the Honda Hybrid still outperforms the Hyundai hybrid. While the Sonata Hybrid makes 192 horsepower, the electrified Accord delivers 204 horsepower from its hybrid drivetrain. However, torque tips in the Hyundai’s favor at 271 pound-feet versus just 247 pound-feet in the Honda, giving it better acceleration.

Efficiency is Nearly a Draw

Much like performance, efficiency is difficult to decide between the new Honda Accord Hybrid and Hyundai Sonata Hybrid. The Honda is the clear winner in the city at 51 mpg versus 50 mpg for the Hyundai. That said, open road efficiency gives the Sonata an advantage at 54 mpg highway versus just 44 mpg in the Accord, according to MotorTrend.

The 2023 Honda Accord Hybrid Beats the Sonata Hybrid on Cargo Space

Open the trunk of both models, and it becomes much easier to decide which one pulls ahead. Here, the 2023 Honda Accord Hybrid is a clear winner. At 16.7 cubic feet of interior space, it handily beats the 16 cubic-foot cargo area of the Sonata Hybrid. That may not seem like much, but the Honda makes room for an extra backpack that the Hyundai can’t fit.

Taller Drivers May Like the Korean Hybrid, But Passengers Will Appreciate the Honda

Regarding passenger space, there is once again a split decision. The Hyundai Sonata Hybrid is the clear winner for headroom, offering 40 inches versus just 37.5 markers in the Honda.

However, there is considerably more rear legroom in the Accord Hybrid. Backseat riders in the Honda will have 40.8 inches of rear legroom, while the Hyundai has just 34.8 inches behind the front seat.

Tech Tips Toward the Honda Accord Hybrid Over the Hyundai

Considering the recent Honda Accord Hybrid update, it’s no surprise that it carries more tech than its Korean competition. The 12.3-inch infotainment system dwarfs the 10.5-inch screen in the Hyundai. Moreover, the new Honda hybrid also includes a digital instrument cluster as standard, while the Sonata Hybrid requires a jump to the top trim.

Hyundai Offers a Considerably Better Warranty

Peace of mind is never in doubt with the 10-year, 100,000-mile powertrain warranty in the Hyundai Sonata Hybrid. Those hybrid powertrain components are pricey, so the added coverage is worth weighing when considering these two hybrid contenders. That said, the Accord Hybrid does have a respectable warranty at five years and 60,000 miles.

The Verdict

Despite the recent overhaul of the Honda Accord Hybrid, it is a surprisingly close debate when compared to the Hyundai Sonata Hybrid. Power and efficiency are similar, though the Hyundai does handily beat the Honda on the highway. However, technophiles will appreciate the standard kit in the Honda model. 

When considering all the factors, choosing between these two hybrids is a tall order. They both offer positives and negatives, so deciding will largely depend on driver preference over statistics.