Mazda CX-30 Vs. Hyundai Kona: Which Small SUV Reigns Supreme?

Mazda CX-30 vs. Hyundai Kona: Which Small SUV Reigns Supreme?

The small SUV segment is a battlefield. Every automaker is vying for your attention (and your hard-earned dollars) with promises of practicality, fuel efficiency, and a dash of style. Two contenders consistently rise to the top of the list: the Mazda CX-30 and the Hyundai Kona. Both offer a compelling blend of features, but cater to slightly different tastes. So, which one should you park in your driveway?

This article dives deep into the Mazda CX-30 and Hyundai Kona, examining their strengths and weaknesses across various categories to help you make an informed decision. We’ll explore everything from performance and handling to interior comfort, technology, safety, and, of course, price. Whether you’re a seasoned car enthusiast or simply looking for a reliable and stylish daily driver, this comparison will equip you with the knowledge you need to choose the perfect small SUV for your needs.

Why the Small SUV Segment is Booming

Before we get into the nitty-gritty, let’s quickly understand why small SUVs are so popular. They offer a sweet spot: the practicality of a hatchback with the elevated driving position and perceived safety of an SUV. They’re easier to maneuver in city traffic than larger SUVs, generally more fuel-efficient, and often come with a more accessible price tag. Plus, manufacturers are packing them with features that were once reserved for luxury vehicles, making them incredibly attractive to a broad range of buyers.

First Impressions: Styling and Design

The first thing you’ll notice about any car is its styling. Both the CX-30 and the Kona sport distinctive designs, but they cater to different aesthetics.

• Mazda CX-30: The CX-30 embodies Mazda’s "Kodo" design philosophy, which emphasizes flowing lines, elegant curves, and a generally sophisticated appearance. It’s undeniably attractive, with a premium feel that punches above its weight class. The long hood, sloping roofline, and muscular fenders give it a sporty and upscale vibe. Even the plastic cladding around the wheel arches is more tastefully integrated than on many competitors.



• Hyundai Kona: The Kona, on the other hand, embraces a more playful and adventurous design. Its split headlight design, bold body cladding, and available vibrant color options make it stand out from the crowd. It’s a car that doesn’t take itself too seriously, and that’s part of its appeal. The Kona N Line, in particular, amps up the sportiness with unique bumpers, a rear spoiler, and other aggressive styling cues.

Interior Comfort and Practicality: Where You’ll Spend Your Time

While exterior styling is important, the interior is where you’ll actually spend your time. Let’s see how the CX-30 and Kona stack up in terms of comfort, space, and overall quality.

• Mazda CX-30: The CX-30 boasts a truly impressive interior for its price point. The materials are high-quality, the design is clean and minimalist, and the overall ambiance is decidedly upscale. The seats are comfortable and supportive, even on longer drives. However, rear passenger space is a bit tight, especially for taller adults. Cargo space is adequate but not class-leading, offering around 20.2 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 45.2 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down. Think of it as more of a stylish hatchback with a slightly elevated ride height.

• Hyundai Kona: The Kona’s interior is more functional than luxurious. The materials are decent, but not as premium as those found in the CX-30. The design is straightforward and user-friendly, with logically placed controls. The front seats are comfortable, but the rear seats are even tighter than in the CX-30. Cargo space is also limited, offering around 19.2 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 45.8 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The Kona prioritizes a compact footprint over outright cargo capacity.

Performance and Handling: How They Drive

The driving experience is a crucial factor when choosing a car. Let’s examine the performance and handling characteristics of the CX-30 and Kona.

• Mazda CX-30: The CX-30 shines in this department. It offers a surprisingly engaging driving experience, thanks to its responsive steering, well-tuned suspension, and available turbocharged engine. The standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine provides adequate power, but the optional turbocharged 2.5-liter engine transforms the CX-30 into a genuinely fun-to-drive machine. The handling is precise and confident, making it feel more like a sporty hatchback than a traditional SUV.

  • Engine Options:
    • 2.5-liter four-cylinder (191 horsepower, 186 lb-ft of torque)
    • Turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder (250 horsepower, 320 lb-ft of torque on premium fuel)

• Hyundai Kona: The Kona offers a more varied range of engine options, from a fuel-efficient base engine to a surprisingly potent turbocharged option. The handling is generally good, with a comfortable ride quality. The Kona N Line, with its sport-tuned suspension and more powerful engine, provides a more engaging driving experience.

  • Engine Options:
    • 2.0-liter four-cylinder (147 horsepower, 132 lb-ft of torque)
    • 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder (195 horsepower, 195 lb-ft of torque) (Kona N Line)
    • Electric (Kona Electric) – Not directly comparable, but worth mentioning for those considering an EV.

Technology and Features: Staying Connected and Entertained

Modern cars are packed with technology, and the CX-30 and Kona are no exception. Let’s see how they compare in terms of infotainment, connectivity, and driver-assistance features.

• Mazda CX-30: The CX-30 features a user-friendly infotainment system with an 8.8-inch display screen (larger in some trims) controlled by a rotary dial on the center console. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard. Higher trims offer features like a premium Bose sound system and a head-up display. In terms of driver-assistance features, the CX-30 comes standard with Mazda’s i-Activsense suite, which includes features like adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and automatic emergency braking.

• Hyundai Kona: The Kona offers a more traditional touchscreen infotainment system, with screen sizes ranging from 8 to 10.25 inches depending on the trim level. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard. Higher trims offer features like a wireless charging pad and a premium Harman Kardon sound system. The Kona also comes standard with a suite of driver-assistance features, including forward collision avoidance assist, lane keeping assist, and driver attention warning.

Safety: Protecting You and Your Passengers

Safety is paramount, and both the CX-30 and Kona prioritize occupant protection.

• Mazda CX-30: The CX-30 has consistently earned top safety ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Its standard safety features and robust construction contribute to its excellent safety performance.

• Hyundai Kona: The Kona has also performed well in safety tests, earning good ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA. Its comprehensive suite of standard safety features helps to keep occupants safe in the event of a collision.

Pricing and Value: Getting the Most for Your Money

Price is always a key consideration. Here’s a general overview of the pricing for the CX-30 and Kona (note that prices can vary based on location and specific trim levels):

• Mazda CX-30: Typically starts slightly higher than the Kona, reflecting its more premium interior and driving experience. Expect a starting price in the mid-$20,000s and climbing into the low-$30,000s for higher trims with the turbocharged engine.

• Hyundai Kona: Generally more affordable, with a starting price in the low-$20,000s. The Kona N Line and higher trims can reach the mid-$20,000s.

Comparison Table: At a Glance

Feature	Mazda CX-30	Hyundai Kona
Styling	Sophisticated, Elegant, Premium	Playful, Adventurous, Bold
Interior	High-quality materials, Upscale design, Tight rear space	Functional, User-friendly, Tight rear space
Performance	Engaging, Sporty handling, Optional Turbo	Varied engine options, Comfortable ride
Technology	Rotary dial infotainment, Standard i-Activsense	Touchscreen infotainment, Standard safety suite
Safety	Top safety ratings	Good safety ratings
Pricing	Slightly higher	Generally more affordable
Cargo Space	20.2 / 45.2 cu ft	19.2 / 45.8 cu ft

The Verdict: Which One Should You Buy?

The choice between the Mazda CX-30 and the Hyundai Kona ultimately depends on your individual priorities and preferences.

• Choose the Mazda CX-30 if:

  • You prioritize a premium interior and a more upscale driving experience.
  • You value sporty handling and responsive performance, especially with the turbocharged engine.
  • You appreciate a sophisticated and elegant design.
  • You’re willing to pay a bit more for a more refined overall package.

• Choose the Hyundai Kona if:

  • You prioritize affordability and value for money.
  • You prefer a bolder and more playful design.
  • You need a compact and maneuverable car for city driving.
  • You want a wider range of engine options, including an electric version (Kona Electric).

Final Thoughts:

Both the Mazda CX-30 and the Hyundai Kona are excellent choices in the small SUV segment. Test drive both vehicles, compare their features and pricing, and consider your personal needs and preferences. Ultimately, the best small SUV for you is the one that best fits your lifestyle and budget. Don’t be afraid to explore other options in the segment as well – competition is fierce, and there’s a small SUV out there for everyone! Happy car shopping!