Hyundai Kona vs. Mazda CX-5
Which Compact SUV Fits Your Needs?
The matchup between the Hyundai Kona vs. Mazda CX-5 features two competitive compact SUVs with long lists of useful features and striking exterior style. Our team at Ray Skillman Hyundai West is here to break down key differences to help you decide.
Bold and Commanding Design
The Hyundai Kona features a bold and commanding design with distinctive sporty aesthetics. The Mazda CX-5 also stands out with elegant lines and smooth curves. The interior of the Kona is tech-forward with a modern layout and comfortable materials. The CX-5 tends to lean toward luxury in its higher trims. Although both SUVs are part of the smaller class, the Kona is a subcompact with a smaller footprint and more agility, while the CX-5 is a bit bigger, slotting into the compact category. It offers more passenger space.
Agile Handling and Energetic Performance
In a performance comparison, the Hyundai Kona vs. Mazda CX-5 shows two different driving preferences. The Kona offers two powertrains, both four-cylinder engines, and one is turbocharged for more horsepower. The CX-5 does the same, but its four-cylinder is a bit bigger than the Kona’s. The light and agile Kona feels plenty energetic with both engines, and it also delivers better fuel economy ratings with up to 34 mpg on the highway. The Hyundai Kona offers an N Line trim with sporty performance dynamics that stand out in the subcompact segment.

Breaking Down Interior Features and Tech
Both models have touchscreen infotainment systems, but the one in the Hyundai Kona is more user-friendly. Standard Apple/Android integration comes with both models, but the Kona’s display screens are larger than the CX-5’s. Both models also offer premium sound systems and more connectivity options.
As the larger model, the Mazda CX-5 naturally has more space than the Kona, but the Kona is quite roomy for its size, with 63.7 cubic feet of cargo space with its rear seats folded. This number is actually more than the CX-5 with the rear seats folded. The Kona emphasizes flexibility with clever storage solutions throughout the cabin.
Comparing the Value of the Hyundai Kona vs. Mazda CX-5
It’s hard to discuss any Hyundai vehicle without bringing up the outstanding warranty protection. You can’t get a better warranty in most cases. The Hyundai Kona starts at a price range closer to $20,000, while the CX-5’s starting price is around $30,000, making the Kona the more affordable SUV. When you consider value and the cost of ownership, the Kona’s better fuel efficiency and lower starting price make it much more budget-friendly than the CX-5.
Test Drive the Kona Today at Ray Skillman Hyundai West
While both the Hyundai Kona vs. Mazda CX-5 represent good choices in the compact SUV category, we think the Kona edges out the CX-5 with its stylish design, lower price range, and better fuel efficiency. The Hyundai Kona for sale is a great choice for those who want the most value in a small SUV. Visit Ray Skillman Hyundai West today to test drive the Kona and find out what makes it the ideal SUV for your needs.
