2021 Hyundai Kona vs. 2021 Mazda CX-30: Which Is Better?

The 2021 Hyundai Kona and the 2021 Mazda CX30 are two examples of the best the subcompact SUV/Crossovers segment has to offer. Both accomplish the same goal. Which is better?

Quick Facts

• Hyundai Kona: Good looks and pleasant driving capabilities make it a standout.
• Mazda CX-30: Semi-premium CUV with refined drive dynamics and raised height.

2021 Hyundai Kona

Base Price:  $21,540 / Rear our 2021 Hyundai Kona Review

What we like: Great features-for-dollars ratio; available turbocharged engine and AWD; All-electric Kona EV

What we would change: Increase cargo capacity; non-adjustable front passenger seat; upgrade quality of interior hard plastics

Overview: The Kona continues with its practicality, efficiency, value, engaging nature and excellent warranty, making it one of the top choices in its class. It has all the features the buying public wants, including a choice of powertrains and Apple and Android smartphone integration. The Kona was recently crash-tested and received top marks from both the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

What’s new for 2021: The most noticeable change is the addition of the Kona “Night Edition” trim which includes a turbocharged engine. 2019’s wild Lime Twist and Sunset Orange color schemes have been discontinued.

Features and Technology: The Hyundai Kona is one of the first of Hyundai’s new generation of vehicles. It offers a 2.0-liter inline-4 engine with 147 hp and 132 lb-ft of torque. A six-speed automatic and front-wheel-drive get the power to the pavement. For those wanting more, an optional 1.6-liter turbocharged inline-4 with 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission is here. FWD is standard but AWD is a $1,400 optional throughout the product line. Even the base Kona SE includes forward-collision warning, lane-keeping-assistance, driver-attention warning, and a full complement of airbags.

The front-drive Hyundai Kona Electric is also available with a motor-generator capable of 201 hp and 290 lb-ft of torque from its lithium-ion power system. Maximum range is 258 miles and a level-3 charger can deliver 80-percent capacity in under 55 minutes. 

What does the future hold: Still relatively new, we expect just mild upgrades for the next few years. Those upgrades could possibly include a hybrid version. Find a 2021 Hyundai Kona for sale near you

2021 Mazda CX-30

Base Price:  $21,900 / Read our 2021 Mazda CX-30 Review

What we like: Upscale exterior design; luxurious interior trim; great handling and ride; quiet cabin

What we would change: Body cladding appears to be played out; no Skyactiv engine option; not totally unlike the CX-3

Overview: Attractive, modern and upscale, and destined to become one of Mazda’s best-sellers, the Mazda CX-30 offers an interesting bridge vehicle between the CX-3 and CX-5 crossovers. In most cases, it offers perfect dimensions for an urban dweller. Based on the Mazda’s excellent Mazda3, it offers all-wheel-drive, a raised height, and a luxury appearance that looks rich beyond its current sticker price.

What’s new for 2021: Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone connectivity become standard throughout the line, while the Preferred model gains a power moonroof. New top-line Premium model offers upgrades including a Bose 12-speaker audio system and more.

The new 2021 Mazda CX-30 2.5 Turbo offers 250 horsepower when used with 93 octane fuel. The new Turbo model will also include i-Activ all-wheel-drive, and 12-speaker Bose system. Exterior flourishes will add 18-inch black aluminum-alloy wheels, larger exhaust pipes, and gloss black outside mirrors.

Features and Technology: All-wheel-drive, available on all trim levels will now cost $1,400 on non-turbo models, but is standard on the CX-30 2.5 Turbo. Blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, dual-zone climate control, included on CX-30 Select. Top-tier CX-30 model now includes LED head- and taillights, adaptive front lighting, power liftgate, head-up display, a Bose premium audio system and Sirius XM satellite radio.

What does the future hold: The Mazda CX-30 was brand new for the 2020 model year; going forward, expect minor updates on all trim levels, standard equipment groupings and slight price increases. Find a 2021 Mazda CX-30 for sale near you

Kona vs. CX-30: Strengths comparison

Hyundai Kona: Great feature list for less money; sized-right for easy parking and maneuverability around town; available turbo engine and AWD are reasonably-priced; 10-year/100,000 mile powertrain warranty

Mazda CX-30: Fun-to-drive factor built into each Mazda, including the CX-30; base engine is fun; new 2.5-liter turbo Inline-4 will be even more fun, especially with AWD

2021 Hyundai Kona vs. 2021 Mazda CX-30:  Which is better?

Hyundai is on a tear, building great new vehicles at every turn. Mazda continues to build engaging, fun-to-drive rides. Both are similarly-sized with similar capabilities. It comes down to which vehicle would we like to drive more? For that reason, we recommend the Mazda CX-30.

Find a 2021 Hyundai Kona for sale or Find a 2021 Mazda CX-30 for sale