2024 Hyundai Kona vs 2023 Mazda CX-5

The 2023 Mazda CX-5, despite its age, continued to be a strong contender in the compact crossover SUV market. It was praised for its stylish design and high-quality materials, giving it the feel of a small luxury SUV. The available turbocharged engine provided impressive power, and the model boasted a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS. Mazda's decision to transition the CX-5 to the CX-50 was part of a broader marketing strategy, similar to Infiniti's renaming of its G37 models. The CX-5 was available in eight versions, with prices ranging from $26,700 to $39,650, offering a range of options for consumers.

In contrast, the 2024 Hyundai Kona was designed with an electric vehicle (EV) focus, evident in its modern styling. The new Kona featured a "seamless horizon" design with a single LED headlight and a grille reminiscent of the Ioniq 5. Despite its increased size, the Kona maintained a recognizable silhouette, with new design elements like the "parametric surface" doors and substantial black body cladding. The Kona lineup included standard LED lighting and a range of wheel sizes, enhancing its visual appeal. Inside, the Kona's cabin was updated with a driver-oriented center stack, a relocated gear shift, and a curved display housing both driver-information and infotainment screens.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5 offered two engine options: a standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder with 187 hp and 186 lb-ft of torque, and a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder delivering up to 256 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque on premium fuel. Both engines were paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive (AWD). The turbocharged engine provided a thrilling driving experience, with responsive acceleration and a pleasant engine note. The CX-5's structural and suspension updates improved its ride quality, making it feel more like an entry-level luxury vehicle. However, fuel economy was a concern, with the turbo model achieving 21.4 mpg in testing, below the EPA estimate.

The 2024 Hyundai Kona retained its predecessor's engine lineup, with a naturally aspirated 2.0-liter four-cylinder producing 147 hp and 132 lb-ft of torque, and a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder generating 190 hp and 195 lb-ft of torque. The new eight-speed automatic transmission replaced the previous seven-speed DCT. The Kona's handling was nimble, with intuitive steering, though acceleration was somewhat sluggish even with the turbo engine. Front-wheel drive was standard, with AWD available for an additional cost. The Kona's fuel economy varied depending on the drivetrain, with AWD models achieving 26 mpg combined.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5 featured improved front seats for enhanced comfort and support, with power adjustments and heated options available on higher trims. The Signature trim offered luxurious Nappa leather upholstery. However, the CX-5's interior space was limited, with a cramped back seat and modest cargo capacity of 30.9 cubic feet, expanding to 59.3 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The infotainment system lacked a touchscreen and voice recognition, relying on physical controls that were often frustrating to use.

The 2024 Hyundai Kona benefited from increased rear-seat legroom, measuring 38.2 inches, and improved headroom. Cargo capacity expanded significantly to 25.5 cubic feet with the rear seats up and 63.7 cubic feet with them folded. The Kona Limited featured a power hands-free liftgate for easy access. Interior storage was enhanced with a dash shelf and a guardrail on the wireless charging pad. The Kona offered a range of seating materials, with ventilated front seats and a heated steering wheel standard on the Limited trim.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5's Mazda Connect infotainment system featured a 10.25-inch display but was criticized for its lack of user-friendly controls and voice recognition. The system required memorization and focus to operate, detracting from the driving experience. However, it included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a three-year trial of Mazda Connected Services. Upper trims offered a Bose audio system and advanced camera features for parking assistance.

The 2024 Hyundai Kona introduced a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen as standard, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto promised via an OTA update. The Kona included wireless device charging, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and a Bose stereo system. Dual 12.3-inch screens were available on higher trims, providing a panoramic view. Hyundai's Bluelink connected services were standard, with a lifetime subscription included.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5 excelled in safety, with standard i-Activsense driver assistance features. The 2.5 Turbo Signature trim added exclusive features like a surround-view camera and Traffic Jam Assist. The CX-5 received five-star ratings from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS. However, a lack of a warning for driving without headlights was noted as a concern.

The 2024 Hyundai Kona offered a comprehensive suite of safety features, with standard Safe Exit Warning, blind-spot collision avoidance, and rear cross-traffic collision avoidance. The Limited trim included advanced features like Surround View Monitor and blind-spot view monitor. Hyundai's Highway Driving Assist provided smooth lane-keeping and adaptive cruise control, enhancing the driving experience.