2026 Hyundai Kona Limited vs 2026 Mazda CX-30 2.5 Turbo Aire Edition
On paper, the 2026 Mazda CX-30 2.5 Turbo Aire Edition wins on 37 more hp, 115 more lb-ft torque. The 2026 Hyundai Kona Limited has to win you at the dealer. Key numbers: $260 price gap, 190 vs 227 hp, 26 vs 25 MPG.
The CX-30 2.5 Turbo Aire Edition leads on 37 more hp, 115 more lb-ft torque. The spec table compares 5 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 5 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 | 2026 Hyundai Kona Limited | 2026 Mazda CX-30 2.5 Turbo Aire Edition |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $34,150 | $34,410 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 1.6L I4 Turbo | 2.5L I4 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 190 hp | 227 hp |
| Torque | 195 lb-ft | 310 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 25 | 22 |
| Highway MPG | 28 | 30 |
| Combined MPG | 26 | 25 |
| Fuel Tank | 13.2 gal | 12.7 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $1,700/yr | No published data |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | No published data | 3,527 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 104.7" | 104.4" |
| Length | 171.3" | 173.0" |
| Width | 71.9" | 70.7" |
| Height | 63.6" | 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 2026 Hyundai Kona Limited and 2026 Mazda CX-30 2.5 Turbo Aire Edition?
The 2026 Hyundai Kona Limited starts at $34,150, $260 less than the 2026 Mazda CX-30 2.5 Turbo Aire Edition at $34,410. 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 2026 Hyundai Kona Limited?
The 2026 Hyundai Kona Limited is the stronger pick when you want to keep $260 in your pocket and the 2026 Hyundai Kona Limited covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $65/year less on fuel.
Who should choose the 2026 Mazda CX-30 2.5 Turbo Aire Edition?
The 2026 Mazda CX-30 2.5 Turbo Aire Edition is the stronger pick when the extra 37 hp matters for your commute or driving style.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Hyundai Kona Limited or 2026 Mazda CX-30 2.5 Turbo Aire Edition?
The 2026 Hyundai Kona Limited rates 26 combined MPG, 1 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Hyundai Kona Limited or 2026 Mazda CX-30 2.5 Turbo Aire Edition?
The 2026 Mazda CX-30 2.5 Turbo Aire Edition produces 227 hp, 37 more than the 2026 Hyundai Kona Limited at 190 hp. The 2026 Mazda CX-30 2.5 Turbo Aire Edition also leads in torque at 310 lb-ft vs 195 lb-ft. The 2026 Hyundai Kona Limited runs a 1.6L I4 Turbo; the 2026 Mazda CX-30 2.5 Turbo Aire Edition uses a 2.5L I4 Turbo.
Is the 2026 Hyundai Kona Limited bigger than the 2026 Mazda CX-30 2.5 Turbo Aire Edition?
The 2026 Mazda CX-30 2.5 Turbo Aire Edition is 1.7″ longer at 173.0″ vs 171.3″. The 2026 Hyundai Kona Limited 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
Kona vs CX-30: What This Matchup Is Really About
The 2026 Hyundai Kona Limited and 2026 Mazda CX-30 2.5 Turbo Aire Edition sit in the subcompact SUV class, where cargo room, ride comfort, and family-friendly features define the competitive landscape. The $260 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.
Under the Hood
The 2026 Hyundai Kona Limited runs a 1.6L I4 Turbo; the 2026 Mazda CX-30 2.5 Turbo Aire Edition uses a 2.5L I4 Turbo. The 2026 Mazda CX-30 2.5 Turbo Aire Edition has 37 more hp (227 vs 190), enough to notice on highway on-ramps and when passing. The 2026 Mazda CX-30 2.5 Turbo Aire Edition adds 115 more lb-ft of torque (310 vs 195), giving it stronger low-end pull off the line. Both use AWD.
Running Costs: Kona vs CX-30
The 2026 Hyundai Kona Limited saves roughly $65/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $325.
Bottom Line
Choose the 2026 Hyundai Kona Limited when you want to keep $260 in your pocket and the 2026 Hyundai Kona Limited covers your needs. Choose the 2026 Mazda CX-30 2.5 Turbo Aire Edition when the extra 37 hp matters for your commute or driving style.
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.