2026 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S vs 2026 Kia Sportage LX
$4,615 less vs 11.4″ longer. That is the real fork. Key numbers: $4,615 price gap, 186 vs 187 hp, 27 vs 26 MPG.
The CX-30 2.5 S leads on $4,615 less. The Sportage LX leads on 11.4″ longer. 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 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S | 2026 Kia Sportage LX |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $25,975 | $30,590 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L I4 | 2.5L I4 |
| Horsepower | 186 hp | 187 hp |
| Torque | 186 lb-ft | 178 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 6-speed shiftable automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 24 | 24 |
| Highway MPG | 31 | 30 |
| Combined MPG | 27 | 26 |
| Fuel Tank | 12.7 gal | 14.3 gal |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,395 lbs | 3,827 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 104.4" | 108.5" |
| Length | 173.0" | 184.4" |
| Width | 70.7" | 73.4" |
| Height | 61.4" | 66.1" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | 5/5 stars |
| IIHS Award | TSP+ | TSP+ |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 3yr/36k | 5yr/60k |
| Powertrain | 5yr/60k | 10yr/100k |
| Corrosion | 5yr/unlimited | 5yr/100k |
| Roadside Assistance | 3yr/36k | 5yr/60k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2026 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S and 2026 Kia Sportage LX?
The 2026 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S starts at $25,975, $4,615 less than the 2026 Kia Sportage LX at $30,590. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $82/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
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 $4,615 in your pocket and the 2026 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $59/year less on fuel; you prefer a smaller vehicle that is easier to park and maneuver.
Who should choose the 2026 Kia Sportage LX?
The 2026 Kia Sportage LX is the stronger pick when you want the larger footprint for passengers or cargo.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S or 2026 Kia Sportage LX?
The 2026 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S rates 27 combined MPG, 1 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S or 2026 Kia Sportage LX?
The 2026 Kia Sportage LX produces 187 hp, 1 more than the 2026 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S at 186 hp. The 2026 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S also leads in torque at 186 lb-ft vs 178 lb-ft.
Is the 2026 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S bigger than the 2026 Kia Sportage LX?
The 2026 Kia Sportage LX is 11.4″ longer at 184.4″ vs 173.0″. The 2026 Kia Sportage LX has a 4.1″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
How do the warranties compare?
The Mazda CX-30 comes with 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain. The Kia Sportage offers 5yr/60k bumper-to-bumper and 10yr/100k powertrain. Longer warranty coverage can offset higher maintenance costs over time.
Explore more: Mazda trims, Mazda CX-30 trims, Kia trims, Kia Sportage trims
- 2026 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- 2026 Kia Sportage LX Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
The CX-30–Sportage Decision
Cross-shopping compact SUVs means weighing interior space, ride quality, and ownership costs. Here is how the CX-30 and Sportage compare. The $4,615 gap adds up to $82/month on a 60-month loan. That is real money, so the pricier option needs to earn it with capabilities you will actually use.
What Powers Each Vehicle
Both run the same 2.5L I4 engine. The 1 hp difference (187 vs 186) is marginal in daily driving. Both use AWD.
The Ownership Math
The 2026 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S saves roughly $59/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $295.
Living With the CX-30 vs the Sportage
The 2026 Kia Sportage LX is 11.4″ longer, which translates to more room inside but a larger footprint in parking lots and garages. The 2026 Kia Sportage LX weighs 432 lbs more. Heavier vehicles tend to feel more planted at highway speed but use more fuel and are harder to stop quickly.
The Decision
Choose the 2026 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S when you want to keep $4,615 in your pocket and the 2026 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S covers your needs. Choose the 2026 Kia Sportage LX when you want the larger footprint for passengers or cargo. At $82/month more, the 2026 Kia Sportage LX needs to earn that gap with something you use weekly.
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 Mazda or Kia or any dealership.