Hyundai Sonata vs Subaru Outback
What's the difference?

Hyundai Sonata

$41,950 - $50,490

2024 price

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Subaru Outback

$48,990 - $62,690

2026 price

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Summary

2024 Hyundai Sonata

2026 Subaru Outback

By Laura Berry

By Byron Mathioudakis

Safety Rating

Engine Type

Turbo 4, 2.5L

Flat 4, 2.5L

Fuel Type

Unleaded Petrol

Fuel Efficiency

8.1L/100km (combined)

Seating

Likes

Update brings modern exterior
Double 12.3-inch cabin displays
Great performance and dynamics for the class

Brilliant packaging
Dynamic sophistication
Ease, comfort and fun

Dislikes

No Sonata station wagon
Only one version - the N Line
No hybrid or EV variant

Average warranty
Divisive design
No manual option

2024 Hyundai Sonata Summary

The Hyundai Sonata N Line is a sedan. Not a hatchback, not a fastback, nor a coupe and definitely not an SUV.

And even though only a handful of people in Australia buy the Sonata N Line each year it’s been updated with a completely different look and new technology, making it an outstanding car in many ways.

The thing is, because we’re obsessed with SUVs in Australia most people will never know how good this sedan is - unlike you.

So, let me congratulate you for making it this far. There’s probably so few of you I could possibly congratulate all of you in person. In an afternoon.

The big question is, though, is the Sonata N Line fit for Aussie families? Well, it scores well, but maybe not where it counts…

Let’s see what’s new and what the Sonata N Line can do.

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2026 Subaru Outback Summary

It’s 2026 and over 30 years and through six generations the Subaru Outback as we knew it… is gone.

Gone is the defiantly wagon-esque crossover style that was one of the first, as well as likely the most-successful, for the boxy beast you see here.

RIP, original Subaru Outback.

But, don’t worry, folks, because, except for a couple of issues, things only get better by and large, with the big new seventh-gen model.

And, in the most important ways, the 2026 Outback is a true Subaru at heart, so let’s dive straight in!

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Deep dive comparison

2024 Hyundai Sonata 2026 Subaru Outback

Verdict

The updated Sonata N Line looks beautifully modern from its new face to the refreshed cockpit, while remaining a ‘driver’s car’ with good dynamics, and a sporty engine.

The Sonata isn’t an ideal family car, however. This is down to a lack of practicality. Although the cabin is fairly roomy, if that roofline wasn’t so coupe-like and cabin storage was better, and the boot had a large hatch opening, and the ride height was more elevated then it would be a great family car. Oh, I’ve just described an SUV.

Note: CarsGuide attended this event as a guest of the manufacturer, with meals provided.

Verdict

Over 30 years and seven generations of Outback in Australia, the latest might just be the best.

It's great to drive, even better to sit in, very easy to live and willing to go further than most equivalent large SUVs at its price point.

The styling is definitely divisive, with purists unhappy that the long, crossover wagon silhouette is now gone, but what we have instead is a family-friendly vehicle that pleases on so many fronts.

We’d go as far as saying the latest Outback might be the most-rounded Subaru currently available, and great value to boot. And the base AWD is all the SUV most people will ever need.

That’s not bad for something this square!

Note: CarsGuide attended this event as a guest of the manufacturer, with travel, accommodation and meals provided.

Hyundai Sonata vs Subaru Outback What's the difference?

Summary

Deep dive comparison

Verdict

Verdict

Hyundai Sonata vs Subaru Outback
What's the difference?