2026 Hyundai Kona vs. 2025 Mazda CX-5 Review

Picture of the 2026 Hyundai Kona

2026 Hyundai
Kona

MSRP*: $25,350 to $34,150
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Picture of the 2025 Mazda CX-5

2025 Mazda
CX-5

MSRP*: $28,770 to $40,800
See details & photos

Find Your Best Price Today!

MPG - City 25 - 29 MPG 22 - 26 MPG
MPG - Hwy 28 - 35 MPG 27 - 30 MPG
Seating Capacity 5 seats 5 seats
Cargo Space 63.7 ft3 58.1 ft3
Engine
  • 147-hp, 2.0-liter, 4 Cylinder Engine (Gasoline Fuel)
  • 190-hp, 1.6-liter, 4 Cylinder Engine (Gasoline Fuel)
  • 187-hp, 2.5-liter, 4 Cylinder Engine (Gasoline Fuel)
  • 227-hp, 2.5-liter, 4 Cylinder Engine (Gasoline Fuel)
Transmission Automatic, Continuously Variable Automatic
Drivetrain All Wheel Drive, Front Wheel Drive All Wheel Drive
Horsepower 147 - 190 hp 187 - 227 hp
Towing Capacity Info not available 2,000 lbs
Exterior Length 171.3 in 180.1 in
Exterior Width 71.9 in 72.6 in
Leg Room Front 41.7 in
Rear 38.2 in
Front 41.0 in
Rear 39.6 in
Head Room Front 38.3 - 39.9 in
Rear 38.3 in
Front 39.3 - 39.7 in
Rear 39.0 in

*MSRP and Invoice prices displayed are for educational purposes only, do not reflect the actual selling price of a particular vehicle, and do not include applicable gas taxes or destination charges.

Comparison Review

Comfort
Passengers in the backseat will be able to stretch out a lot more in the Mazda CX-5 than in the Hyundai Kona, due to its greater head- and legroom. The Hyundai Kona offers just a little more front head- and legroom than the Mazda CX-5, making it a little more comfortable for the driver and front passenger.

Convenience
With the Mazda CX-5, you will definitely be making fewer stops at the gas station than with the Hyundai Kona, due to its tank size and fuel economy.

Cost
There are a lot of factors to consider when calculating the overall cost of a vehicle. The main consideration is Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP). When looking only at MSRP, the Hyundai Kona will have less of an impact on your bank account than the Mazda CX-5.

Dimensions
The Hyundai Kona is about the same width as the Mazda CX-5. If you go with the Hyundai Kona, you'll have a much easier time finding a large enough space to park than you will with the Mazda CX-5.

Handling
The Hyundai Kona has a smaller turning radius than the Mazda CX-5, allowing you to more easily maneuver in and out of tight spots.

Performance
When it comes to horsepower, the Hyundai Kona has a lot less horsepower than the Mazda CX-5.

Powertrain
The Hyundai Kona has much lower torque than the Mazda CX-5, which generally means that it won't feel as fast or powerful.

Utility
In terms of seating, you'll be able to fit about the same number of people in both the Hyundai Kona and the Mazda CX-5. The Hyundai Kona has a roomier cargo area for putting your bags or other items than the Mazda CX-5.