- Power vs Efficiency: How Do the Two Perform?
- Interior Space and Comfort: Does Size Enhance the Experience?
- Smart Driving Tech: Does Sonata Outclass Azera in Features?
- Interior Features: Premium Touches with Slight Differences
- Final Price: Does the Difference Justify the Choice?
Hyundai offers two of the most appealing sedans in the Saudi market, the Sonata and the Azera. While the Sonata leans more toward practicality and balance, the Azera embraces luxury and a commanding road presence. With both models priced around the same range, specifically the fully loaded Sonata and the base trim of the Azera, this comparison becomes essential to help buyers decide which sedan fits their needs best.
Power vs Efficiency: How Do the Two Perform?
The Azera clearly outperforms the Sonata when it comes to raw power. It is equipped with a 3.5 liter V6 engine that delivers 294 horsepower and 359 Nm of torque, offering smooth and strong performance on highways and long distance routes.
On the other hand, the Sonata uses a 2.5 liter four cylinder engine that produces 194 horsepower and 246 Nm of torque. It operates on natural aspiration with no turbo, focusing instead on efficiency. Fuel economy is where the Sonata shines, achieving 16.3 kilometers per liter compared to Azera’s 12.6 kilometers per liter, making it a more economical option for daily city driving.
Both sedans feature an 8 speed automatic transmission and front wheel drive, ensuring a smooth start and responsive handling in both urban and highway settings.
Interior Space and Comfort: Does Size Enhance the Experience?
Azera clearly takes the lead when it comes to exterior dimensions. It stretches to 5,035 mm in length and 1,880 mm in width, compared to the Sonata’s 4,910 mm length and 1,860 mm width. Azera is also taller and has a longer wheelbase, which translates into a roomier cabin, especially noticeable in the rear passenger space.
Weighing in at 1,700 kg, Azera is significantly heavier than the 1,465 kg Sonata. While this added weight may slightly affect fuel efficiency, it contributes to greater stability at higher speeds and on long distance drives.
Smart Driving Tech: Does Sonata Outclass Azera in Features?
Despite Azera being positioned as the more premium and larger model, the fully loaded Sonata comes out ahead in terms of advanced driver assistance systems. Both cars share essential safety features like electronic stability control, hill start assist, front and rear parking sensors, and a rearview camera.
However, the Sonata adds a comprehensive suite of ADAS features including 360 degree surround view cameras, adaptive cruise control, lane following and lane keeping systems, blind spot monitoring, forward and rear collision warnings, and autonomous emergency braking. These features are not available in the standard Azera trim, giving Sonata a clear edge in smart safety technology.
Interior Features: Premium Touches with Slight Differences
Both the Sonata and Azera share a wide range of upscale features, including leather seats, ventilated front seats, and a power adjustable driver’s seat. However, the passenger seat in the Sonata is manually adjustable, while the Azera offers power adjustment for added convenience.
Inside, both models are equipped with dual panoramic 12.3 inch screens, one for the driver display and the other for the infotainment system. A panoramic sunroof, wireless smartphone charger, and dual zone automatic climate control with rear air vents all contribute to a refined and comfortable cabin experience.
When it comes to passive safety, Azera pulls ahead with eight airbags, including second row side airbags, compared to only six in the Sonata.
Final Price: Does the Difference Justify the Choice?
One of the most notable aspects of this comparison is how close the two trims are in price. The 2025 Azera Standard (Classic) is officially priced at 150,350 SAR, while the fully loaded 2025 Sonata Premium comes in at 142,085 SAR. Both prices are inclusive of VAT and registration fees, according to Hyundai’s official distributor, Al Walan.
This makes the Sonata a smart choice for buyers seeking advanced safety tech and high end features without exceeding budget limits. On the other hand, the Azera appeals to those prioritizing a more luxurious ride, stronger performance, and a larger on road presence.
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