The Mazda CX-30 and Hyundai Kona are two of the best subcompact SUV models on the market. How does the Mazda CX-30 Select compare to the Hyundai Kona SEL? Time for 2021 Mazda CX-30 Select vs. 2022 Hyundai Kona SEL.

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 Select brings the luxury and comfort

The Mazda CX-30 is known for having a refined cabin. Like other Mazda SUVs, the CX-30 resembles a luxury vehicle in many ways. It also comes standard with lots of safety and tech features. The 2021 Mazda CX-30 Select is the next trim level above the base model CX-30.

The Mazda CX-30 Select starts at $24,050. It costs just $2,000 more than the base model CX-30. The CX-30 Select uses a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine to make 186 horsepower. It achieves 25 miles per gallon in the city and 33 miles per gallon on the highway.

The CX-30 Select comes standard with Mazda’s advanced keyless entry system. It also includes push-button start. The subcompact SUV features a 12-volt power outlet, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and leatherette-trimmed sport seats. It comes with an 8.8-inch infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The CX-30 Select also includes rain-sensing windshield wipers, power side mirrors with integrated turn signals, and rear privacy glass.

The 2022 Hyundai Kona SEL is tons of fun to drive

The Hyundai Kona brings the fun thanks to its peppy powertrain and engaging driving dynamics. According to Car and Driver, the Kona “is as fun to drive as it is to look at”. The publication gave the 2022 model year a 9/10 overall rating and an Editor’s Choice Award.

The 2022 Hyundai Kona SEL starts at $22,950. It costs $1,800 more than the base model Kona. The Kona SEL uses a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine to make 147 horsepower. It gets 30 miles per gallon in the city and 35 miles per gallon on the highway.

The Kona SEL includes a proximity key with push-button start. It also features heated side mirrors with turn-signal indicators. The subcompact SUV comes with dual front USB outlets. It features an 8.0-inch infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

2021 Mazda CX-30 Select vs. 2022 Hyundai Kona SEL

While both subcompact SUVs provide amazing value for their prices, one model stands out. The 2021 Mazda CX-30 Select produces more horsepower and includes more standard features for its price. The CX-30 Select has a classier, more refined interior and exterior than the Hyundai Kona SEL. Features like a leather-wrapped steering wheel and leatherette-trimmed sport seats make the CX-30 Select the better buy.

The 2022 Hyundai Kona may be a fun subcompact SUV to drive, but luxury and comfort also play a huge role in the overall ownership experience over time. Mazda has been crushing the compact SUV game with the Mazda CX-9, CX-5, and CX-30. The CX-30 Select is value-packed, and that gives it a serious edge over the competition.