2009 Nissan Frontier vs. 2012 Hyundai Sonata
To start off, 2012 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Nissan Frontier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Nissan Frontier would be higher. At 3,954 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Nissan Frontier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Nissan Frontier (261 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 2012 Hyundai Sonata. (206 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Frontier should accelerate faster than 2012 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 352 kg more than 2009 Nissan Frontier.
Because 2009 Nissan Frontier is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Hyundai Sonata. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Frontier 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. 2012 Hyundai Sonata has automatic transmission and 2009 Nissan Frontier has manual transmission. 2009 Nissan Frontier will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Hyundai Sonata will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Nissan Frontier | 2012 Hyundai Sonata | |
| Make | Nissan | Hyundai |
| Model | Frontier | Sonata |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3954 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 261 HP | 206 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1228 kg | 1580 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5230 mm | 4821 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1834 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1466 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3200 mm | 2794 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 12.4 L/100km | 5.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 15.7 L/100km | 6.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 65 L |
