The Mazda CX-30 and Hyundai Kona represent two unique and exciting approaches to the subcompact SUV segment. Each has striking design, a choice of powertrains, and more practicality than you might first think given their small footprint. They are also easy on fuel and start under $25,000 — that’s roughly half the cost of today’s typical new car transaction price.

Let’s see how the CX-30 and Kona stack up against each other.

2024 Hyundai Kona

For 2024, the Hyundai Kona has been completely revamped. It is bigger than its predecessor, making it roomier on the inside and giving it greater presence on the road. Speaking of presence, its design makes the new Kona look like something out of 2034, not 2024. In addition to offering two engine choices, including a 190-hp turbo, the Kona is available as an electric vehicle (EV) with up to 260 miles of range on a charge. Pricing starts at $24,250.

Hyundai Kona highlights

Tech-laden interior: Even the least-expensive Kona includes features like a 12.3-inch touchscreen and wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto. Even some luxury SUVs don’t have these as standard, yet here they are on a base Kona.

Driving assists: The top-line Limited trim ups the ante on safety and driver tech with features like Hyundai’s Blind-Spot View Monitor that presents a real-time digital image in the instrument display, and Highway Driving Assist, a semi-autonomous driving system that we’ve found works great.

Class-leading warranty: Like every other new Hyundai, the Kona comes with one of the best warranties in the business, one that covers 10 years/100,000 miles for the powertrain.

Check this week’s Fair Purchase Price or see Kona models for sale near you. 

2024 Mazda CX-30

The CX-30 is the least-expensive SUV in Mazda’s lineup, starting at $24,995. Yet it packs a lot of features into that price — both tangible and intangible. First off, it is among the rare SUV in its class that comes standard with all-wheel drive. It also offers an upgrade turbo engine that makes up 250 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque. Those are significant numbers in such a small SUV. But even the standard 191-hp engine is far stronger than what others offer in this segment. Finally, we can’t forget about its design; to our eyes, the CX-30 is among the most svelte SUVs around.

Mazda CX-30 Highlights

The way it drives: Perhaps the biggest distinguisher between this Mazda and its competitors is road manners. It is among the most athletic vehicles in its class, and a joy to drive. If you’ve ever been behind the wheel of a Mazda, you know this.

Premium cabin: Step inside the CX-30 and you’re bound to be surprised in the best way. This is one nice-looking cabin with premium materials and stylish looks. If you didn’t see the Mazda badge, you might think this came from a luxury marque.

Standard safety tech: Every trim of the 2024 Mazda CX-30 comes with active safety and driver assistance features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring.

Check this week’s Fair Purchase Price or see the CX-30 models for sale near you.

Similarities

Both the Mazda CX-30 and Hyundai Kona are two subcompact SUVs that offer seating for five, optional turbo engines, and svelte design. They also both carry appealing starting prices under $25,000.

Conclusion

Spoiler alert: You can’t go wrong with either of these SUVs. If you’re the type of driver who, well, loves to drive, you’ll probably gravitate toward the Mazda and its inherent athleticism. The Kona, meanwhile, is all new for the 2024 model year, with better back seat room and some sweet tech. It’s also one of the few subcompact SUVs in its class offered with an all-electric powertrain.