Hyundai Kona vs. Mazda CX-5: Which SUV Fits Your Lifestyle Best?

October 23rd, 2024 by

A red hyundai driving down a street next to a buildingThe Hyundai Kona and Mazda CX-5 are two top contenders in the competitive compact SUV market. The Hyundai Kona boasts a sportier exterior, while the Mazda CX-5 exudes a more premium feel. Our team at Allen Turner Hyundai has compiled a car feature comparison of the performance, safety, and value of these two vehicles to help you decide which one is ideal for your lifestyle.

 

New Hyundai Kona For Sale

 

Design and Aesthetics

The Hyundai Kona’s exterior commands attention on the road with a bold, sporty look highlighting its distinctive front grille and angular lines. The Mazda CX-5 impresses with its elegant appearance, characterized by smooth curves and a sophisticated design.

The Hyundai Kona features a modern, tech-forward interior design with a digital instrument cluster and contemporary materials. The Mazda CX-5 features a comfortable cabin with luxurious materials, especially in higher trims.

The Kona is classified as a subcompact SUV, which is agile and ideal for urban navigation. The CX-5 is a compact SUV, providing additional passenger space and a commanding presence on the road.

 

Performance and Handling

The Hyundai Kona and Mazda CX-5 offer distinct engine options catering to different driving preferences.

 

Model Engine Horsepower
Hyundai Kona 2.0L four-cylinder 147 hp
Hyundai Kona 1.6L turbocharged 190 hp
Mazda CX-5 2.5L four-cylinder 187 hp
Mazda CX-5 2.5L turbocharged 227 hp

 

Both the Kona and CX-5 offer multiple transmission and drivetrain options, providing choices between front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive. The Hyundai KONA offers fuel-efficiency ratings of 29 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway, while the Mazda CX-5 provides 23 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway.

Both vehicles offer excellent driving dynamics. While the Mazda CX-5 is renowned for its responsive handling and engaging driving experience, the Hyundai Kona, especially the N Line trim, offers a spirited drive that stands out in the subcompact SUV segment.

 

Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

Both vehicles come equipped with several standard safety features and driver-assistance systems, ensuring peace of mind on the road for you and your passengers. Here’s a Hyundai Kona vs. Mazda CX-5 safety comparison:

  • Hyundai SmartSense: This system includes features such as forward collision avoidance assist, lane-keep assist, and highway driving assist.
  • Mazda i-ACTIVSENSE: This system offers advanced features such as adaptive cruise control and blind-spot monitoring.

Both these vehicles have received excellent safety ratings. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety has named the Hyundai Kona a Top Safety Pick+, while the Mazda CX-5 has also consistently shown strong safety performance.

 

Technology and Connectivity

Although both vehicles offer intuitive touch-screen infotainment systems, Hyundai’s interface is generally considered more user-friendly. Smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is standard on both models. The Hyundai Kona offers an available 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a head-up display, and a premium audio system. The Mazda CX-5 features a similarly advanced setup with slightly smaller screen sizes but a high-quality sound system. Both models include various connectivity options, including in-car Wi-Fi capability, ensuring that you and your passengers stay connected on the go.

 

Cargo Space, Seating Comfort, and Utility

The larger Mazda CX-5 provides more passenger space than the Hyundai Kona, particularly in the rear seats. Despite its smaller size, the Kona offers a surprising 63.7 cubic feet of cargo space, compared to the CX-5’s 59.3 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.

Although both vehicles offer comfortable seating with quality materials, the CX-5 offers a more luxurious feel. The Hyundai Kona prioritizes flexibility with several clever storage solutions, while the CX-5 emphasizes a more traditional, sophisticated approach.

 

Pricing and Value for Money

The Hyundai Kona starts at an MSRP of $24,250, while the Mazda CX-5 starts at $29,300. Both models offer a variety of trim levels, allowing you to select the one that best suits your preferences and budget.

Considering the cost of ownership, The Kona’s lower starting price and higher fuel efficiency make it a more affordable choice, while the CX-5’s premium features justify its higher cost. Hyundai offers a longer warranty period, which can be a significant factor if you’re focusing on long-term ownership. Although Mazda provides a standard industry warranty, its vehicles are known for reliability and good resale value.

 

Reliability and Maintenance

Both Hyundai and Mazda are known for producing reliable vehicles, with slight differences depending on the specific model and trim. Although the routine maintenance schedules and costs are similar for both vehicles, Hyundai’s extended warranty may cover a broader range of repairs over the vehicle’s life span. According to compact SUV reviews, both the Hyundai Kona and Mazda CX-5 have displayed high levels of satisfaction, with strengths in different areas such as performance, comfort, and fuel economy.

 

Schedule a Test-Drive With Allen Turner Hyundai Today

while both the Hyundai Kona and the Mazda CX-5 are excellent choices in the compact SUV category, the Hyundai Kona takes the edge with its bold design, advanced technology, superior fuel efficiency, and overall value. The Kona’s sporty aesthetics, user-friendly infotainment system, and impressive safety features make it a standout option for drivers who seek both style and substance.

Its agile performance is perfect for urban settings, and with the added fuel savings, the Kona proves to be a more cost-effective choice in the long run. If you’re looking for a vehicle that combines modern design, advanced tech, and a dynamic driving experience, the Hyundai Kona is the winner. Visit Allen Turner Hyundai, contact us, or give us a call at 850-479-9667  today to test drive the Kona and see why it’s the ideal SUV for you.

 

New 2025 Hyundai Vehicles For Sale

 

 

A red car driving down a street next to a building by Hyundai Motor Group is licensed with Unsplash License