Which is Better: The 2019 Volkswagen Passat or 2019 Hyundai Sonata?

Serving Capitol Heights, Washington D.C., and Arlington

Today's midsize sedan segment remains ultra-competitive. However, the 2019 Volkswagen Passat stands out from the crowd. Great passenger comfort and value-packed features make the Passat hard to beat. You'll also appreciate the Passat's powerful yet efficient performance. Let's see how the 2019 Volkswagen Passat measures up to the 2019 Toyota Camry.

Interior and Features

When shopping for a new family sedan, passenger room is always a big factor. Everyone will be able to spread out inside the 2019 Volkswagen Passat. While the 2019 Hyundai Sonata also seats up to five people, it's not as accommodating for passengers sitting in the backseat. The Passat provides an extra 3.5 inches of legroom for its rear-seat occupants. This is a major advantage for the drivers who have a growing family. While both cars come loaded with popular equipment, a greater number of premium features come standard on the Passat. Volkswagen's V-Tex leatherette upholstery is nicer than the Sonata's cloth upholstery. In order to get heated seats and satellite radio on the Sonata, you must step up to a more expensive trim. Some of the other standard goodies on the Passat include a leather-wrapped steering wheel, push-button start, and a power-adjustable driver's seat.

Safety

Safety should always be a top priority. Both of these sedans provide excellent impact protection. They received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA. While the 2019 Hyundai Sonata offers some confidence-inspiring technologies, only the Passat comes standard with automatic emergency braking. If you fail to notice a fast-approaching obstacle, this technology helps bring the sedan to a stop. Hyundai also equips the Sonata with some exclusive safety features not found on the Sonata. While Automatic Post Collision Braking helps prevent secondary impacts, Intelligent Crash Response activates your hazard lights and turns of the Passat's fuel pump. Furthermore, only the Passat's available Active Blind Spot Monitor can provide steering assistance.

Appearance

Most people agree that the 2019 Hyundai Sonata is an attractive ride. However, there's no overlooking the Passat's ageless design. Even years from now, the Passat will still turn heads with its sophisticated styling. While the base Wolfsburg Edition has an especially refined appearance, some drivers will prefer the SE R-Line trim's bolder look. It comes outfitted with a performance front fascia and a sportier rear bumper. Meanwhile, a set of 19-inch alloy wheels give the Passat SE R-Line a powerful stance. You'll have a total of seven beautiful colors to choose from, including Fortana Red Metallic and Tourmaline Blue Metallic.

While the 2019 Hyundai Sonata is a good car, it loses this head-to-head comparison. The 2019 Volkswagen Passat's roomier interior, more impressive list of standard features, and exclusive safety technologies give it the edge. To experience how the new Passat compares to the competition, stop by Pohanka Volkswagen of Capitol Heights to take a test drive.

All figures are EPA estimates. Actual mileage may vary.