2022 Kia Sportage vs 2021 Mazda CX-30

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 2.5 Turbo was a striking vehicle, especially for those with a penchant for black accents. Its shiny black 18-inch wheels, grille, and side mirror housings, combined with matte black body cladding, gave it a bold and distinctive appearance. Mazda's design philosophy aimed to create a light and agile look, as if the body floated over the wheels, which was achieved through its elevated stance compared to the Mazda3 hatchback. Inside, the CX-30 offered a refined cabin with quality materials, chocolate brown stitched surfaces, and a few chrome accents, providing an upscale vibe.

In contrast, the 2022 Kia Sportage had a more polarizing design, with its tiger-nose grille and oversized headlights creating a unique front-end appearance. Despite this, Kia nailed other design elements, such as the four-dot running light signature and the symmetrical rear fascia. The Sportage's 19-inch alloy wheels and planted stance added to its stylish appeal. Inside, the Sportage featured a Germanic design with a black dashboard, metallic accents, and user-friendly buttons and knobs, creating an upscale and quality feel.

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 Turbo was equipped with a turbocharged Skyactiv 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, producing between 227 and 250 horsepower, depending on the fuel's octane rating. It delivered 310 to 320 lb-ft of torque, ensuring effortless acceleration. The CX-30's six-speed automatic transmission, i-Activ AWD, and G-Vectoring Control Plus technology contributed to its dynamic performance. However, its added height and weight compared to the Mazda3 made it less agile on the road. The CX-30's fuel efficiency was rated at 9.3 L/100 km, with a driving range of approximately 500 km.

The 2022 Kia Sportage offered two engine options, with the SX trim featuring a 2.0-litre turbocharged engine producing 237 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. This engine provided quick acceleration, especially in Sport mode, where the SUV felt eager and responsive. The Sportage's six-speed automatic transmission and Dynamax AWD system, with a locking centre differential, ensured power distribution to all wheels. The Sportage's suspension provided a smooth and compliant ride, though it exhibited some body roll and lateral rocking over uneven surfaces.

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 Turbo offered a comfortable and driver-focused interior with eight-way manual adjustment for the driver's seat and heated front seats. However, the lack of ventilated seats and limited front passenger seat adjustment were drawbacks. The cabin's design created a sense of spaciousness, but rear-seat space was cramped for adults. The CX-30 provided 572 litres of cargo space, expandable to 1,280 litres with the rear seats folded.

The 2022 Kia Sportage, despite its compact size, offered a roomy passenger compartment. The SX trim featured perforated leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and a heated steering wheel. Rear passengers enjoyed generous legroom, heated seats, and air conditioning vents. The Sportage's cargo space was 868 litres behind the rear seats, expandable to 1,703 litres with the seats folded. Kia's smart liftgate technology added convenience for loading and unloading.

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 Turbo featured an 8.8-inch infotainment display operated via physical controls and voice commands. While Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, the system's complexity and lack of a touchscreen were drawbacks. The GT trim added SiriusXM, navigation, a Bose audio system, and a head-up display, enhancing the driving experience.

The 2022 Kia Sportage came with an 8-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth, and smartphone connectivity. The SX trim included UVO Intelligence, satellite radio, wireless charging, and a Harman Kardon audio system. While the infotainment system was user-friendly, the UVO Intelligence system lacked advanced features like a WiFi hotspot and wireless smartphone mirroring.

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 Turbo earned top safety ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA, with a full suite of safety features and ADAS. The GT trim added adaptive front lighting, parking sensors, and rear automatic emergency braking.

The 2022 Kia Sportage, particularly the SX trim, offered a comprehensive set of safety features, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. It received favourable safety ratings, though only the SX trim had an Acceptable headlight rating for an IIHS Top Safety Pick.