Sonata IV (EF) vs 626 V (GF): which is better?
Hyundai Sonata IV (EF) (1998–2012) vs Mazda 626 V (GF) (1997–2002): specs, fuel economy, tax and common problems.
Hyundai Sonata IV (EF)
Mazda 626 V (GF)Specifications
| Hyundai Sonata IV (EF) | Mazda 626 V (GF) | |
|---|---|---|
| Production years | 1998–2012 | 1997–2002 |
| Body | sedan | sedan |
| Fuel | petrol | petrol |
| Engines | 2.0 | 2.0 |
| Power, up to | 131 hp | 115 hp |
| Torque, up to | — | 170 Nm |
| Gearbox | automatic | manual |
| Drive | front-wheel drive | front-wheel drive |
| Length | 4 747 mm | 4 575 mm |
| Width | 1 820 mm | 1 710 mm |
| Height | 1 420 mm | 1 400 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2 700 mm | 2 610 mm |
| Fuel tank | 65 L | 64 L |
| KZ tax 2026 (car under 10 years) | ≈ 16 475 ₸ | ≈ 16 475 ₸ |
The better value is highlighted in green.
Pros, cons and common problems
Hyundai Sonata IV (EF)
Pros
- Conventional automatic, no robotized gearbox or CVT
- Sold in all major markets of the region — parts and mechanics available
Cons
- No data
Mazda 626 V (GF)
Pros
- Sold in all major markets of the region — parts and mechanics available
Cons
- Mazda Z6 / LF / FS engine: oil consumption at high mileage
- Age: the last cars were built in 2002, condition is everything
Engine (Mazda Z6 / LF / FS): oil consumption at higher mileage; carbon buildup and ring coking.
Which one to choose
- Sonata IV (EF) — if you care more about: power, wheelbase, fuel tank.
The condition of a specific car matters more than the model: check the service history and get the engine and gearbox inspected before buying.
FAQ
Which is more powerful: Sonata IV (EF) or 626 V (GF)?
Sonata IV (EF): up to 131 hp, 626 V (GF): up to 115 hp.
What is the vehicle tax in Kazakhstan?
For 2026, for a car under 10 years old: Sonata IV (EF) — about 16 475 ₸, 626 V (GF) — about 16 475 ₸ (base engine). A 0.7 factor applies to cars aged 10–20 years and 0.5 to cars over 20.
Other comparisons
Sonata vs GalantHyundai Sonata IV (EF) / Mitsubishi Galant VIII (EA)Sonata vs ImprezaHyundai Sonata IV (EF) / Subaru Impreza II (GD/GG)Sonata vs 3 SeriesHyundai Sonata IV (EF) / BMW 3 Series E46626 vs VectraMazda 626 V (GF) / Opel Vectra B626 vs CorollaMazda 626 V (GF) / Toyota Corolla E110626 vs PrimeraMazda 626 V (GF) / Nissan Primera P11626 vs VolgaMazda 626 V (GF) / GAZ Volga 3110