2026 Mazda CX-30 vs Hyundai Kona: Comparing Two Popular Subcompact SUVs

The subcompact SUV segment is crowded, but two names come up again and again on Canadian shopping lists: the Mazda CX-30 and the Hyundai Kona. Both promise an easy-to-park footprint with room for weekend gear, but the way they deliver that promise is different in ways that matter once you are behind the wheel.

This guide breaks down power, all-wheel drive availability, technology, and interior craftsmanship so you can see how the 2026 CX-30 stacks up against the Kona.

At a Glance: 2026 CX-30 vs Hyundai Kona

More Power, Standard On Every Trim

The 2026 CX-30 GX comes with Mazda's Skyactiv-G 2.5-liter, four-cylinder engine, producing 186 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque on regular 87 octane fuel. That is a meaningful step up from the Kona's 2.0-litre engine, which produces 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque. Every CX-30 also comes standard with i-Activ AWD, while all-wheel drive on the Kona is only available on select trims.

For drivers who want more muscle, the CX-30 GT can also be equipped with a Skyactiv-G 2.5 Turbo engine that delivers up to 250 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque on premium fuel, or 227 horsepower and 310 lb-ft on regular fuel. The Kona lineup tops out with a smaller 1.6-litre turbocharged engine on its N Line trims.

• 186 hp and 186 lb-ft standard on every CX-30, with up to 250 hp available on GT Turbo models
• i-Activ AWD standard across the whole CX-30 lineup, not limited to upper trims
• G-Vectoring Control Plus and Off-Road Traction Assist standard on every CX-30 for extra grip in rain, snow, and gravel
• New for 2026, all CX-30 models gain updated dampers and a brake Limited Slip Differential for sharper handling

A Cabin Focused On Craftsmanship

Step inside the CX-30 GX and you are greeted with a black cloth interior, three-level heated front seats, and rear heater ducts built for Canadian winters. The Mazda Connect infotainment system uses an 8.8-inch display controlled by a multi-function commander knob, paired with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Move up the CX-30 lineup and the materials get noticeably richer. The GT trim adds black leather seats, a piano black front grille, and LED signature illumination headlights and taillights, while the new GT Kuro Turbo Edition brings a Bose 12-speaker premium audio system, SiriusXM Satellite Radio, and Amazon Alexa integration. Mazda's approach favours a quieter, more refined cabin experience that many drivers notice the moment they close the door.

Standard Safety, Built In From The Base Trim

Every CX-30 comes with a full suite of i-Activsense safety features as standard equipment, including Mazda Radar Cruise Control with Stop and Go, Smart Brake Support, High Beam Control, Lane Departure Warning with Lane Keep Assist, Driver Attention Alert, and Blind Spot Monitoring with Rear Cross Traffic Alert. Mazda Connected Services is also included complementary for one year, giving owners the ability to monitor and control the vehicle remotely through the MyMazda app.

Which Model Is Right For You

If horsepower, standard all-wheel drive, and cabin quality top your list, the CX-30 has the stronger case in this comparison. Drivers cross-shopping the Kona often find that the CX-30's naturally aspirated engine, standard AWD, and available turbo power give them more flexibility without stepping up to a larger vehicle. Those who want a subcompact SUV that still feels composed and refined on a road trip tend to gravitate toward the CX-30 once they compare the two side by side.

Book Your Test Drive At Metrotown Mazda

The best way to feel the difference between these two SUVs is to get behind the wheel. Book your test drive at Metrotown Mazda in Burnaby and compare the CX-30's power and standard AWD for yourself.