Hyundai Sonata vs Polestar 2
A detailed look at how two of Australia's most popular Sedans compare on price, running costs, safety, and everyday livability.
Specifications and pricing correct at time of publishing. Prices are RRP before on-road costs unless stated otherwise. Always confirm with the manufacturer or dealer before purchasing.
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Price Breakdown
The Hyundai Sonata starts from $55,500 before on-road costs, while the Polestar 2 opens at $66,400. That makes the Hyundai Sonata the more affordable entry point by $10,900.
Once you factor in stamp duty, registration, CTP insurance, and dealer delivery, expect to add roughly 8-12% on top of the RRP depending on your state. That puts estimated driveaway prices in the ballpark of $61,050 and $73,040 respectively.
The Polestar 2 qualifies for FBT exemption as an electric vehicle, which can dramatically reduce the effective cost for novated lease buyers. The Hyundai Sonata, as a petrol model, does not qualify.
Safety Rundown
ANCAP safety ratings have not been published for both models yet. We will update this section when crash test results are available.
Charging Times
How long each takes to charge, from a household power point to ultra-rapid DC, estimated from battery size and max charge rates.
How long to charge
82kWh usablePublic DC
50kW charger · 0–80%
Ultra-rapid DC
up to 205kW · 0–80%
Estimates from usable battery size and the car's max charge rates (11kW AC, 205kW DC). Real times vary with temperature, starting charge, charger output and the charging curve.
Feature Showdown
The Hyundai Sonata features a 12.3-inch touchscreen paired with a 12.3-inch digital dash, while the Polestar 2 gets a 11.2-inch display and 12.3-inch instruments. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The Hyundai Sonata stands out with head-up display, ventilated seats and Bose audio that you will not find on the Polestar 2. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Interior trim differs: the Hyundai Sonata gets suede & nappa leather upholstery while the Polestar 2 offers synthetic leather.
Drivetrain
The Hyundai Sonata uses a Petrol producing 213kW and 422Nm of torque, sent through a 8-speed wet dual-clutch (dct) to a FWD layout.
The Polestar 2 responds with a Electric Motor making 220kW and 490Nm, paired to a single-speed fixed gear driving the rear wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 6.2 seconds.
The Polestar 2 has the clear power advantage at 220kW vs 213kW. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The Hyundai Sonata measures 4,910mm long on a 2,840mm wheelbase, 304mm longer than the Polestar 2 at 4,606mm (2,735mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Hyundai Sonata generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 480L in the Hyundai Sonata and 407L in the Polestar 2, giving the Hyundai Sonata a 73L advantage.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
11.0m to 11.5m
Based on 11.0m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Based on 11.5m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Turning circle ratings
Compare U-turns side by side
Turning Circle · U-turn compare
kerb-to-kerb, 2 cars0 of 2 clear a 7.0 m street in one sweep
Green cars complete the U-turn; amber need a 3-point turn. Drag the slider to test tighter streets.
Standard widths: AU local streets ~5.5–7 m; main roads ~9–12 m.
True Cost to Own
Running cost data is not yet available for both models. We will update when figures are confirmed.
Warranty: 7 years / 999,999km (Hyundai Sonata) vs 5 years / 999,999km (Polestar 2). The Hyundai Sonata has longer coverage.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Hyundai Sonata if: You want the lower entry price, need more boot space, value a longer warranty, or prefer Hyundai's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Polestar 2 if: You prioritise performance, or prefer Polestar's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Hyundai Sonata takes 3 of 4 key spec categories and comes in at a lower price. If boot space matters, the Hyundai Sonata has a clear edge. The Hyundai Sonata adds peace of mind with a longer 7-year warranty. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Common questions
Which is cheapest, Hyundai Sonata and Polestar 2?
The Hyundai Sonata is the cheapest at $55,500 before on-road costs. That undercuts the Polestar 2 by $10,900.
Which is the most fuel-efficient?
The Hyundai Sonata uses the least fuel at 8.1L/100km on the combined cycle.
Which is safest?
They are evenly matched — Polestar 2 all hold a 5-star ANCAP rating. Compare the active-safety features above to separate them.
Which has the most boot space?
The Hyundai Sonata has the largest boot at 480L.
Which can tow the most?
The Polestar 2 has the highest braked towing capacity at 1,500kg.
Which has the best warranty?
The Hyundai Sonata has the longest warranty at 7 years / Unlimited.
Which is the most powerful?
The Polestar 2 makes the most power at 220kW.
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Disclaimer: All information in this comparison was believed to be correct at the time of publishing (20 April 2026). Prices are manufacturer recommended retail prices (RRP) and may vary by state, dealer, and options. Driveaway costs include estimated on-road costs for Victoria. Fuel economy figures are WLTP/ADR combined cycle. Specifications can change without notice. Always verify with the manufacturer before making a purchase decision. CarSorted does not accept payment for recommendations.
Auto-generated from CarSorted's specification data · 20 April 2026
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