2023 Mazda CX-30 vs 2024 Kia EV9

The 2023 Mazda CX-30 was available in Canada in four trim levels: GX, GS, GT, and GT Turbo, each offering a distinct powertrain. All models featured a six-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive (AWD), with prices ranging from $26,700 for the base GX trim to $38,600 for the top GT Turbo, excluding a $2,095 destination charge. The design of the CX-30 was characterized by a long hood, dramatic flanks, and a stubby rear end, giving it a nose-heavy appearance. Despite its appealing design, the excessive gray body cladding detracted from its overall aesthetic. Inside, the CX-30's cabin was upscale and elegant, with quality materials and a tasteful combination of off-white leather, chocolate brown, and black accents in the GT Turbo model.

In contrast, the 2024 Kia EV9 introduced a new design direction for Kia EVs, with a blockier exterior reminiscent of digital clock numbers. The EV9's body lines followed octagonal wheel arches, and the rear window angled sharply upward. The lighting signature was a standout feature, with the "Star Map" daytime running lights outlining the "Digital Tiger Face" grille. The top Land trim offered a Digital Pattern Lighting Grille with additional light points. The EV9's design was distinctly Kia, yet modernized with cutting-edge elements.

The 2023 Mazda CX-30 offered a range of powertrains, starting with the base GX trim's 2.0-litre inline four-cylinder engine producing 155 horsepower and 150 lb-ft of torque. The GS and GT models featured a 2.5-litre engine with 191 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque, while the GT Turbo boasted a turbocharged 2.5-litre engine delivering up to 250 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque on premium fuel. The CX-30's six-speed automatic transmission and AWD provided a smooth driving experience, with a ground clearance of 20 centimetres and an Off-Road traction assist function. However, the suspension struggled with speed bumps, and the small 48-litre fuel tank limited its range.

The 2024 Kia EV9 offered a variety of powertrains, starting with the Light trim's single motor RWD setup producing 215 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, with an electric range of 370 kilometres. The Wind model featured a larger battery for a range of 489 kilometres, while the top Land trim offered AWD with dual motors producing 379 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque. The EV9's power delivery was smooth and refined, with good handling and minimal body roll. The regenerative braking system was adjustable, and the EV9 featured fast charging capability, allowing it to charge from 10 to 80 percent in 25 minutes on a high-speed DC fast charger.

The 2023 Mazda CX-30 offered standard dual-zone automatic climate control, an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat, and a power moonroof. Heated front seats and rain-sensing wipers were standard in Canada, with a heated steering wheel available on the GS trim. The CX-30's interior was comfortable for the driver but less so for the front passenger due to limited seat adjustments. Rear legroom was tight, but storage space was reasonable, with a 572-litre cargo capacity that expanded to 1,280 litres with the rear seats folded.

The 2024 Kia EV9 stood out with its spacious third row, offering ample headroom and legroom. The EV9 could seat up to seven passengers, with second-row captain's chairs available on higher trims. Cargo space was competitive, with 572 litres behind the third row, expanding to 2,313 litres with only the front-row seats in place. The EV9's interior featured a "floating" centre console with limited flat surfaces but offered practical storage solutions for passengers.

The 2023 Mazda CX-30's Mazda Connect infotainment system had three significant flaws: the lack of a touchscreen display, non-conversational voice recognition, and the absence of a tuning knob. Despite these shortcomings, the system featured an 8.8-inch display with pleasing graphics and a logical menu structure. All CX-30s included Bluetooth, HD Radio, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and two USB ports, with Turbos adding SiriusXM, navigation, and a 14-speaker Bose sound system.

The 2024 Kia EV9 featured a three-screen curved display, including a 12.3-inch driver information display, a 5-inch Climate Display, and a 12.3-inch infotainment screen. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, with a wireless charging pad and an eight-speaker sound system on lower trims. The EV9's connectedness was noteworthy, with over-the-air updates and the Kia Connect store offering additional features and upgrades. The GT-Line package included a head-up display and a 14-speaker Meridian sound system.

The 2023 Mazda CX-30 was a safety highlight, earning a "Top Safety Pick" rating from the IIHS. Mazda improved side-impact crash protection with standard rear side airbags and seatbelt tensioners. The CX-30 offered a range of safety features, including blind spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. The GT and GT Turbo trims added advanced features like a surround-view camera and traffic jam assist.

The 2024 Kia EV9 featured a comprehensive suite of advanced driver-assistance systems, including adaptive cruise control with navigation-based capabilities, blind-spot collision avoidance, and forward collision avoidance. The EV9 had not yet been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA but received the highest rating from Euro NCAP. The EV9's safety features were extensive, with additional options available on higher trims.