2025 Hyundai Kona vs 2024 Mazda CX-50

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 presented itself as a more rugged alternative to the CX-5, with dimensions that were 1.4 inches lower, 3 inches wider, and 5.7 inches longer, along with a 4.6-inch wheelbase stretch. Its broad-shouldered proportions were accentuated by square wheel arches and faux air vents, giving it a fresh design compared to the older CX-5. Available in eight trim levels, the CX-50 offered a range of wheel sizes and styling options, with the 2.5 Turbo Meridian Edition standing out for its active-lifestyle image, featuring all-terrain tires and a black hood graphic. Despite its rugged appearance, the CX-50 did not enhance off-road capabilities beyond other trims, but it did offer an earthy color palette and a well-designed interior with impressive material quality.

The 2025 Hyundai Kona, while visually unchanged from its 2024 predecessor, maintained a fresh and distinctive appearance with its flush grille and ultra-slim LED light bars. The newer model was six inches longer, providing more interior space and a more assertive road presence. The Kona offered trims like the N Line S and N Line, which featured sportier designs with body-colored bumpers. The interior remained unchanged, offering a solid and airy feel with tech features like a 64-color ambient lighting standard on higher trims. The Kona's practicality was enhanced by a sunroof and powered liftgate available on select trims, making it a versatile choice for buyers.

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 was equipped with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, with turbocharging available on higher trims. The base engine produced 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque, while the turbocharged version delivered 256 hp and 320 lb-ft on 93-octane fuel, or 227 hp and 310 lb-ft on 87-octane. All models featured a six-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive, with driving modes including Normal, Sport, and Off-road, plus a Towing mode on turbo models. The CX-50's towing capacity ranged from 2,000 to 3,500 pounds. While it shared powertrains with the CX-5, the CX-50 offered a different driving experience, focusing more on daily driving comfort than sporty dynamics. The Meridian Edition's all-terrain tires added noise and limited grip, making it less ideal for those not needing off-road capabilities.

The 2025 Hyundai Kona offered two gas-powered engine options. The SE, SEL, and SEL Convenience trims featured a 2.0-liter naturally aspirated engine with 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque, paired with an Intelligent Variable Transmission. The N Line S, N Line, and Limited trims boasted a turbocharged 1.6-liter engine with 190 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque, coupled with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The turbo engine provided a broader torque band, though it felt slightly flat at low revs. All-wheel drive was available across the lineup for an additional cost, offering a more sophisticated suspension setup on AWD models. The Kona's ride and handling prioritized competence over excitement, making it a practical choice for everyday driving.

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 offered similar passenger space to the CX-5, with slightly less headroom but more legroom in both rows. It provided 31.4 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats up and 56.3 cubic feet with them folded, slightly trailing the CX-5 and other competitors in cargo capacity. The available power liftgate improved cargo access, but the area wasn't ideal for bulky items. The interior featured a sensible layout with adequate storage, maintaining a substantial shifter and rotary infotainment controller on the center console.

The 2025 Hyundai Kona impressed with its cargo capacity, offering 25.5 cubic feet with the rear seats up and 63.7 cubic feet when folded. Rear legroom measured 38.2 inches, with 38.3 inches of headroom, providing ample space for passengers. The front seats offered a generous range of movement, and the relocated drive selector created a sense of space. In-car storage was excellent, with numerous compartments for personal items. Upholstery options varied by trim, with heated and ventilated seats available on higher trims. The climate control system featured physical controls, enhancing usability.

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 came with a 10.25-inch infotainment screen operated via a rotary controller, offering wireless Apple CarPlay but requiring a cable for Android Auto. Higher trims included wireless phone charging, SiriusXM, and a 12-speaker Bose audio system. The interface, while unconventional, was easy to use once acclimated, though it lacked excitement for tech-savvy buyers.

The 2025 Hyundai Kona featured a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment display with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Higher trims offered wireless charging and a digital key. The SEL Convenience trim and above included a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, enhancing customization. Audiophiles could opt for the Bose audio system on N Line or Limited trims. Hyundai's Bluelink connectivity allowed for over-the-air updates, keeping features current.

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 earned a 2023 Top Safety Pick from the IIHS, with top scores in crash tests and front-crash prevention. However, it received lower scores for nighttime pedestrian detection and standard headlights. Standard safety features included automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control, with optional features like rear automatic braking and a 360-degree camera system.

The 2025 Hyundai Kona impressed with its standard safety features, including Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, and Blind-Spot Collision Warning. Higher trims added features like Highway Driving Assist and enhanced collision avoidance. Limited trim offered parking assistance technologies. The Kona was named a Top Safety Pick+ by the IIHS, reflecting its comprehensive safety offerings.