2025 Hyundai Kona vs 2024 Mazda CX-5

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 retained its familiar design from the second-generation model introduced in 2017, which continued to look modern and appealing. The U.S. version of the new-for-2024 Suna trim featured exclusive Zircon Sand paint and Terracotta leather seats with black artificial suede inserts, adding a touch of elegance. Mazda made subtle improvements, such as enhancing fuel economy for the base engine models and adding wireless charging and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto to several trims. The CX-5 lineup offered a base engine with 187 horsepower and a turbocharged version with up to 256 horsepower, both paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. In Canada, the CX-5 was available in various trims, with prices ranging from $35,476 to $48,276, including fees. The Suna trim, similar to the test unit, came with the Turbo engine as standard and was priced at $47,026. The CX-5's interior materials, seating, technology, and drivetrain upgrades over the years resulted in an upscale crossover SUV at a mainstream price.

The 2025 Hyundai Kona, while visually unchanged from the 2024 model, maintained a fresh and distinctive appearance in the crossover class. Its flush, single-piece grille and ultra-slim LED light bars gave it a futuristic look. The Kona's increased size, about 15 centimetres longer than its predecessor, improved interior space and provided a more assertive stance. The Kona N Line trim featured a sportier design with body-coloured bumpers and cladding. Other trims, Essential and Preferred, added visual enhancements like larger alloy wheels. The interior remained unchanged from 2024, offering a solid and airy feel with ample tech features. The Kona's trims included Essential, Preferred, and N Line, with options for a sunroof and powered liftgate. The Kona's design and features made it a compelling choice in the crossover market.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 Turbo delivered 256 horsepower on premium gas and 227 horsepower on regular gas, with torque figures of 320 lb-ft and 310 lb-ft, respectively. The powertrain was more rewarding with a gradual acceleration approach, allowing the turbocharged 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine to shine. However, its fuel efficiency was less impressive, with a combined rating of 9.8 litres per 100 kilometres, and observed figures of 10.3 L/100 km. The base engine offered better fuel economy at 9.3 L/100 km combined. The CX-5's driving experience was characterized by excellent outward visibility, a smooth ride, and responsive handling, thanks to Mazda's G-Vectoring Control Plus technology. It was quiet on highways and lively in city driving, with the ability to tackle off-road trails. The CX-5 could tow up to 900 kilograms.

The 2025 Hyundai Kona offered two gas-powered engine options. The Essential and Preferred trims featured a 2.0-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine with 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque, paired with Hyundai's Intelligent Variable Transmission. The Kona N Line boasted a more powerful turbocharged 1.6-litre four-cylinder engine with 190 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque, mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. The turbo engine provided a broader torque band, enhancing performance. All-wheel drive was available for an additional cost on Essential and Preferred trims and standard on the N Line. AWD models featured a multi-link rear suspension for improved ride and handling. The Kona's performance was competent, with a focus on practicality and value.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 offered standard heated front seats and a heated steering wheel, with redesigned seats providing comfort and support. The driver's seat had six-way power adjustment, while passengers could manually adjust seat height. Leather upholstery was standard on most trims, with premium Nappa leather on the Signature trim. The CX-5's interior was snug but comfortable for four adults, with rear air conditioning vents and a centre armrest enhancing passenger satisfaction. The cabin's design and quality elevated it above mass-market rivals. The CX-5 provided 871 litres of cargo space behind the rear seats, expanding to 1,680 litres with the seats folded.

The 2025 Hyundai Kona offered 723 litres of cargo capacity with the rear seats in place, expanding to 1,803 litres when folded. Rear legroom measured 970 millimetres, with 972 mm of headroom, providing ample space for passengers. The front seats offered a generous range of movement, and the steering wheel was adjustable for reach and height. The Kona's interior featured excellent storage options, with numerous shelves and compartments. Upholstery options included cloth, leatherette, and Alcantara sport seats, with heated front seats standard in Canada. The Kona's climate control system progressed from basic air conditioning to dual-zone automatic climate control with rear air vents.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 featured traditional switchgear for various controls, aligning with Mazda's philosophy against touchscreen infotainment systems. However, it offered touchscreen operation for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with wireless connectivity available on several trims. The 10.25-inch display was navigated using a large knob and surrounding buttons. Mazda Connected Services provided remote engine starting and other features. The Suna trim included a 10-speaker Bose premium sound system, enhancing the SUV's premium interior.

The 2025 Hyundai Kona featured a 12.3-inch central touchscreen infotainment display across all trims, with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay as standard. The N Line trim offered a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, providing customization options. The N Line with the Ultimate package included an eight-speaker Bose premium audio system and built-in navigation. Hyundai's Bluelink connectivity allowed for over-the-air software updates, ensuring features remained up to date.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 came equipped with advanced driving assistance systems, including adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and more. Higher trims offered additional safety features like adaptive headlights and a driver monitoring system. The CX-5 received five-star ratings from the NHTSA, except for a four-star rollover resistance rating.

The 2025 Hyundai Kona impressed with its standard safety features, including Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, Blind-Spot Collision Warning, and more. Higher trims added advanced features like Highway Driving Assist and Blind Spot View Monitor. The Kona included six airbags, electronic stability control, and a tire pressure monitoring system. It earned a Top Safety Pick+ designation from the IIHS.