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Volkswagen Passat vs Hyundai Sonata

What's the difference?

VS
Volkswagen Passat
Volkswagen Passat

$42,880 - $73,990

2023 price

Hyundai Sonata
Hyundai Sonata

$55,500 - $55,500

2024 price

Summary

2023 Volkswagen Passat
2024 Hyundai Sonata
Safety Rating

Engine Type
Turbo 4, 2.0L

Turbo 4, 2.5L
Fuel Type
Premium Unleaded Petrol

-
Fuel Efficiency
8.1L/100km (combined)

8.1L/100km (combined)
Seating
5

5
Dislikes
  • Classic Euro seats ... aka hard on the backside
  • Missing some charging ports in rear
  • Expensive servicing costs

  • No Sonata station wagon
  • Only one version - the N Line
  • No hybrid or EV variant
2023 Volkswagen Passat Summary

I'm calling it - the Volkswagen Passat is the forgotten hero of station wagons.

It's surprisingly large while retaining the creature comforts and understated styling of old-world glamour.

Then enters the R-Line. A badge that diehard Volkswagen enthusiasts know is synonymous with sporty performance and handling.

However, it can be overlooked for its more affordable rivals, the Mazda6 and Skoda Octavia wagons.

But does affordability take it out of the running for the family market? Or is this the answer for the drivers who don't want to compromise on performance but still have a kid (or three) to throw in the back?

I've been hauling my little family of three around town this week to see what the big blue wagon could do.

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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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Deep dive comparison

2023 Volkswagen Passat 2024 Hyundai Sonata

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