Episode Details

A drag race between three mainstream hybrid sedans doesn’t immediately sound like a recipe for excitement. But, as much as we all like to see exotics from the likes of Ferrari and Koenigsegg battling it out on the drag strip, the Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, and Hyundai Sonata hybrid sedans represent the cars the average consumer will end up buying. Performance isn’t the main motivation for buying one of these sedans, but nobody wants a slow car. So, which of these hybrid sedans is the quickest in a straight line?

Camry Vs. Accord Vs. Sonata Specifications

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Before we get into the Camry Hybrid vs Accord Hybrid vs Sonata Hybrid drag race, we must compare these vehicles’ specs. All have four-cylinder hybrid powertrains, but only the Toyota is available with all-wheel drive. That gives it an immediate traction advantage, although none of these cars are so powerful that traction should be a major factor—at least, in drier conditions. The Camry’s AWD system also adds weight, so here’s a look at how they compare.

These are all U.S. specifications, besides the curb weights, which were Canadian-spec figures as these sedans were tested by Sam CarLegion in Canada. However, they’re nearly identical to models sold here.

Although it’s the least powerful, the Sonata is almost 100 lbs lighter than the Camry, but is that enough to make up for its power deficit?

The Drag Race

The three cars were lined up on what appeared to be a slightly damp track, but conditions were sunny and clear. In the video above—the action begins at the 8:56 mark—the Camry and Accord both get off to a fast start, immediately pulling ahead of the Sonata. Roughly four seconds after settin