2025 Hyundai Kona SE vs 2026 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S
On paper, the 2026 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S wins on 39 more hp, 54 more lb-ft torque. The 2025 Hyundai Kona SE has to win you at the dealer. Key numbers: 147 vs 186 hp, 28 vs 27 MPG.
The CX-30 2.5 S leads on 39 more hp, 54 more lb-ft torque. The spec table compares 6 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 6 specifications.
Full Specification Comparison
Specifications and pricing reflect available data as of early 2026 and may not match current manufacturer figures. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision.
| Spec | 2025 Hyundai Kona SE | 2026 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $26,050 | $25,975 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.0L I4 | 2.5L I4 |
| Horsepower | 147 hp | 186 hp |
| Torque | 132 lb-ft | 186 lb-ft |
| Transmission | continuously variable-speed automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 27 | 24 |
| Highway MPG | 29 | 31 |
| Combined MPG | 28 | 27 |
| Fuel Tank | 12.4 gal | 12.7 gal |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,203 lbs | 3,395 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 104.7" | 104.4" |
| Length | 171.3" | 173.0" |
| Width | 71.9" | 70.7" |
| Height | 63.2" | 61.4" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 4/5 stars | 5/5 stars |
| IIHS Award | TSP+ | TSP+ |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 5yr/60k | 3yr/36k |
| Powertrain | 10yr/100k | 5yr/60k |
| Corrosion | 7yr/unlimited | 5yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 5yr/unlimited | 3yr/36k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2025 Hyundai Kona SE and 2026 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S?
The 2026 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S starts at $25,975, $75 less than the 2025 Hyundai Kona SE at $26,050. That gap is small enough that monthly payments are nearly identical. Focus on which vehicle fits your life, not the sticker.
Who should choose the 2025 Hyundai Kona SE?
The 2025 Hyundai Kona SE is the stronger pick when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $56/year less on fuel.
Who should choose the 2026 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S?
The 2026 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S is the stronger pick when you want to keep $75 in your pocket and the 2026 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S covers your needs; the extra 39 hp matters for your commute or driving style.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2025 Hyundai Kona SE or 2026 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S?
The 2025 Hyundai Kona SE rates 28 combined MPG, 1 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2025 Hyundai Kona SE or 2026 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S?
The 2026 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S produces 186 hp, 39 more than the 2025 Hyundai Kona SE at 147 hp. The 2026 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S also leads in torque at 186 lb-ft vs 132 lb-ft. The 2025 Hyundai Kona SE runs a 2.0L I4; the 2026 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S uses a 2.5L I4.
Is the 2025 Hyundai Kona SE bigger than the 2026 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S?
The 2026 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S is 1.7″ longer at 173.0″ vs 171.3″. The 2025 Hyundai Kona SE has a 0.3″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
How do the warranties compare?
The Hyundai Kona comes with 5yr/60k bumper-to-bumper and 10yr/100k powertrain. The Mazda CX-30 offers 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain. Longer warranty coverage can offset higher maintenance costs over time.
Explore more: Hyundai trims, Hyundai Kona trims, Mazda trims, Mazda CX-30 trims
- 2025 Hyundai Kona SE Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- 2026 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
The Kona–CX-30 Decision
Cross-shopping subcompact SUVs means weighing interior space, ride quality, and ownership costs. Here is how the Kona and CX-30 compare. The $-75 price gap works out to less than $10/month on a typical loan, so the cost difference is negligible. Pick on fit, not on price.
What Powers Each Vehicle
The 2025 Hyundai Kona SE runs a 2.0L I4; the 2026 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S uses a 2.5L I4. The 2026 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S has 39 more hp (186 vs 147), enough to notice on highway on-ramps and when passing. The 2026 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S adds 54 more lb-ft of torque (186 vs 132), giving it stronger low-end pull off the line. Both use AWD.
The Ownership Math
The 2025 Hyundai Kona SE saves roughly $56/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $280.
The Decision
Choose the 2025 Hyundai Kona SE when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $56/year less on fuel. Choose the 2026 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S when you want to keep $75 in your pocket and the 2026 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S covers your needs.
Specifications shown combine licensed third-party automotive data with official manufacturer, EPA, and NHTSA source material. Actual pricing, features, and availability may vary by region and dealer. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision. TrimAtlas is not affiliated with Hyundai or Mazda or any dealership.