2008 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2013 Toyota Highlander
To start off, 2013 Toyota Highlander is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Hyundai Sonata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Hyundai Sonata would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2013 Toyota Highlander is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Hyundai Sonata (232 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 2013 Toyota Highlander. (228 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 2013 Toyota Highlander. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Toyota Highlander weights approximately 463 kg more than 2008 Hyundai Sonata.
Because 2013 Toyota Highlander is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Hyundai Sonata. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 Toyota Highlander will offer significantly more control. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2008 Hyundai Sonata (304 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 Toyota Highlander. (292 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2008 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 Toyota Highlander.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Hyundai Sonata | 2013 Toyota Highlander | |
| Make | Hyundai | Toyota |
| Model | Sonata | Highlander |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3342 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 232 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 292 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92.1 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.8 mm | 83 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1646 kg | 2109 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4795 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2790 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 65 L |
