Mazda is one of Hyundai’s biggest competitors for sporty, lower-end luxury cars on the market. This year the went head-to-head with many models and the growing popularity of midsized sedans means that these two were bound to create competing cars. The Mazda6 and Hyundai Sonata are both midsized sedans that have a lot to offer, but the Sonata’s styling and updates might just make it a little bit better than the Mazda6, and it has one feature that Mazda doesn’t even offer for its car that might turn buyers off altogether.

What makes the Sonata stand out?

The Mazda6 is by no means a bad looking sedan, in fact, it is a favorite among many Mazda enthusiasts. The Sonata, on the other hand, has a slouchy and aggressive front end and smoother body lines that make it look more modern than the Mazda6 in several ways.

The detailing of the front grille, bumper, and daytime running lights combine for a car that is almost unrecognizable as a Sonata – all in very good ways. It has the most aggressively styling and body lines of almost any Hyundai model before it, and it stands out from the competition.

The Mazda6 is a more modestly designed car, and while it isn’t ugly by any means, it just doesn’t have the striking looks of the Sonata, and it doesn’t look nearly as modern.

If the chrome detailing doesn’t catch your eye the Limited trim level has an all-black grille and even sportier front bumper that makes the Sonata look like a more expensive, higher-end model.

The Sonata just stands out

The appearances of the Sonata make it stand out above the Mazda6, but that isn’t the only way that makes the Sonata stand out. Even better, you can buy the standard base model for as little as $23,600 and among the different trim variations can get as high in price as $33,500 which still makes it more affordable than some entry-level luxury cars.

The new Hyundai Sonata has several trim levels options that allow you to pick as many or as few features as you’d prefer. There is even the option for a hybrid engine which improves fuel efficiency dramatically.

The hybrid Sonata gets as much as a shocking 50mpg in the city and a reported 54mpg on the highway. The Mazda6, on the other hand, does not come with a hybrid or electric option whatsoever, which is a major turnoff for some potential buyers.

Both the Mazda6 and Hyundai Sonata are great options if you’re looking to buy a new sedan, but the Hyundai Sonata has a leg up that makes it just a little bit more worth the price.