2021 Mazda CX-30 vs. 2021 Hyundai Kona: When Fun and Comfort Are Required

The CX-30 is a fun-to-drive SUV that pushes the boundaries of power, agility, technology, and more. With three powertrain options and plenty of versatility, it's right at home with your lifestyle.

Here, we compare it to the 2021 Hyundai Kona. 

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 races far ahead in power and performance

The CX-30 offers three powertrains. The first is a 2.0-litre four-cylinder that delivers 155 horsepower and 150 lb-ft of torque. It is available in the GX trim. The GS includes a 2.5-litre four-cylinder that generates 186 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque. New for 2021, the GT models offer one of the most powerful engines in its class—a turbocharged 2.5-litre that is capable of 250 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque. 

Compared to the CX-30, the Kona is underpowered. Three out of its five trims have a 2.0-litre four cylinder that outputs 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque. This falls short of the CX-30's base engine, and the response provided by this powerplant is insufficient. The two remaining trims have a 1.6-litre turbocharged four-cylinder that produces 175 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque. Although these numbers balance out with the CX-30's naturally aspirated 2.5-litre, the CX-30 still edges out the Kona in highway gas mileage. 

All CX-30 models feature a drive selection switch and manual shift mode. Turbo-equipped models also include paddle shifters. This gives the CX-30 an edge in terms of driving dynamics, for which all Mazdas are known for.

The CX-30's turbo powertrain also leads the pack (by far) in performance, and the CX-30 has better overall power throughout its lineup than the Kona. 

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 lets you and your cargo stretch out

The CX-30 features more front and rear legroom, front shoulder room, and rear headroom than the Kona. These key advantages provide occupants a better opportunity to stretch out and feel less fatigued than in the Kona on longer drives. 

Cargo room is also important in subcompact crossovers. When all seats are occupied, the CX-30 still has 572 litres of storage volume behind the rear seats. That's more than what the Kona can handle with only 544 litres, and it gives you more options to take along what's important to you on any trip. 

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