2026 Hyundai Kona SE vs 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S
On paper, the 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S wins on $1,805 less, 44 more hp, 54 more lb-ft torque. The 2026 Hyundai Kona SE has to win you at the dealer. Key numbers: 147 vs 191 hp, 28 vs 29 MPG.
The CX-30 2.5 S leads on $1,805 less, 44 more hp, 54 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 SE | 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $27,000 | $25,195 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.0L I4 | 2.5L I4 |
| Horsepower | 147 hp | 191 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 | 26 |
| Highway MPG | 29 | 33 |
| Combined MPG | 28 | 29 |
| Fuel Tank | 12.4 gal | 12.7 gal |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | No published data | 3,419 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 104.7" | 104.4" |
| Length | 171.3" | 173.0" |
| Width | 71.9" | 70.7" |
| Height | 63.2" | 61.7" |
| 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 SE and 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S?
The 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S starts at $25,195, $1,805 less than the 2026 Hyundai Kona SE at $27,000. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $31/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Hyundai Kona SE?
The 2026 Hyundai Kona SE is the stronger pick when you prefer the Hyundai approach to the subcompact SUV segment.
Who should choose the 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S?
The 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S is the stronger pick when you want to keep $1,805 in your pocket and the 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $52/year less on fuel; the extra 44 hp matters for your commute or driving style.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Hyundai Kona SE or 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S?
The 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S rates 29 combined MPG, 1 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Hyundai Kona SE or 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S?
The 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S produces 191 hp, 44 more than the 2026 Hyundai Kona SE at 147 hp. The 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S also leads in torque at 186 lb-ft vs 132 lb-ft. The 2026 Hyundai Kona SE runs a 2.0L I4; the 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S uses a 2.5L I4.
Is the 2026 Hyundai Kona SE bigger than the 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S?
The 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S is 1.7″ longer at 173.0″ vs 171.3″. The 2026 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
- 2026 Hyundai Kona SE Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- 2025 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 $-1,805 gap is about $31/month on a 60-month loan. Noticeable but not dramatic enough to be the deciding factor on its own.
What Powers Each Vehicle
The 2026 Hyundai Kona SE runs a 2.0L I4; the 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S uses a 2.5L I4. The 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S has 44 more hp (191 vs 147), enough to notice on highway on-ramps and when passing. The 2025 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 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S saves roughly $52/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $260.
The Decision
Choose the 2026 Hyundai Kona SE when you prefer the Hyundai approach to the subcompact SUV segment. Choose the 2025 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S when you want to keep $1,805 in your pocket and the 2025 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.