Hyundai Tucson Vs Mazda Cx-30
In the competitive compact SUV market, the Hyundai Tucson and the Mazda CX-30 are two standout choices for drivers looking for a combination of practicality, modern design, and driving dynamics. Both models have carved their space among consumers, with each offering a unique set of strengths. Whether you’re after comfort and technology or performance and style, understanding how the Hyundai Tucson stacks up against the Mazda CX-30 is essential before making a decision. This comparison covers key aspects such as design, interior features, performance, safety, fuel efficiency, and overall value.
Exterior Design and Styling
Hyundai Tucson: Bold and Futuristic
The Hyundai Tucson sports a daring design language with sharp angles, dramatic lighting elements, and a distinct grille pattern that sets it apart. The latest model has grown in size, giving it a more SUV-like stance with sculpted lines and geometric shapes.
Mazda CX-30: Sleek and Refined
On the other hand, the Mazda CX-30 carries the signature Kodo design philosophy. It features smooth curves, a minimalistic front fascia, and an elegant profile. It feels more like a luxury crossover, with an emphasis on simplicity and form.
Interior and Comfort
Hyundai Tucson: Spacious and Tech-Forward
Inside the Hyundai Tucson, you’ll find a clean and modern cabin layout. The dashboard integrates a digital instrument cluster and a large touchscreen interface. Materials feel upscale for the class, and the rear seat legroom is among the best in its segment.
Mazda CX-30: Upscale and Driver-Centric
The Mazda CX-30 offers a premium feel with its well-crafted interior, soft-touch materials, and intuitive design. While the space in the rear isn’t as generous as the Tucson, the front seats are supportive and comfortable for long drives. Mazda’s infotainment system is controlled via a rotary dial, which some may find more tactile than touchscreens.
Performance and Driving Experience
Hyundai Tucson: Smooth and Balanced
The Tucson is available with several engine options, including a 2.5L naturally aspirated engine and hybrid variants. It’s designed for daily comfort rather than excitement, offering a quiet ride and composed handling. All-wheel drive is optional and improves traction in rough conditions.
Mazda CX-30: Engaging and Athletic
If driving dynamics are a top priority, the Mazda CX-30 excels. It comes with a responsive 2.5L engine, and higher trims offer a turbocharged version with significantly more power. The steering is sharp and the chassis is tuned for agility, giving the CX-30 an edge in terms of fun-to-drive appeal.
Technology and Infotainment
Hyundai Tucson: Advanced and Intuitive
Technology is one of Tucson’s strong suits. It comes with a standard 8-inch touchscreen or an optional 10.25-inch display, both with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Higher trims include features like a Bose premium audio system, wireless charging, and navigation.
Mazda CX-30: Clean and Functional
The CX-30’s infotainment system may seem minimalistic, but it’s thoughtfully designed. The screen is mounted high on the dashboard for easy viewing, though it isn’t a touchscreen. Mazda focuses on keeping the driver’s attention on the road by minimizing distractions.
Safety and Driver Assistance
Hyundai Tucson: Feature-Packed
Hyundai equips the Tucson with a wide array of safety technologies, including forward collision avoidance, lane keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control. It consistently earns high safety ratings in crash tests.
Mazda CX-30: Solid Safety Credentials
Likewise, the Mazda CX-30 comes standard with many safety features under the i-Activsense suite. This includes lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and driver attention alert. It also performs well in crash tests and earns top safety awards.
Fuel Economy and Efficiency
Hyundai Tucson: Hybrid Advantage
The Tucson’s hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants offer excellent fuel efficiency, appealing to eco-conscious drivers. The regular gasoline version offers decent mileage, typically around 26 mpg city and 33 mpg highway, depending on configuration.
Mazda CX-30: Efficient but Thirsty When Turbocharged
The non-turbo Mazda CX-30 offers competitive fuel economy at about 24 mpg city and 31 mpg highway. However, the turbocharged variant sacrifices a bit of efficiency for extra performance, making it less ideal for those prioritizing gas mileage.
Cargo Space and Practicality
Hyundai Tucson: Class-Leading Utility
One of Tucson’s biggest advantages is its spacious cargo area. It offers over 38 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats, and even more with the seats folded flat. This makes it a practical choice for families or frequent travelers.
Mazda CX-30: Compact and Urban-Friendly
While stylish and nimble, the CX-30’s cargo capacity is limited compared to the Tucson. With about 20 cubic feet behind the rear seats, it’s more suitable for light-duty hauling or city-based lifestyles where storage needs are minimal.
Pricing and Value
Hyundai Tucson: More for Your Money
The Tucson starts at a slightly higher base price than the CX-30, but it offers more standard features, interior space, and powertrain options. Hyundai’s industry-leading warranty also adds long-term value.
Mazda CX-30: Premium Feel at Lower Price
While the CX-30 may not offer as much room or equipment as the Tucson, it provides a more engaging drive and upscale interior at a competitive price. It’s a solid choice for those who prioritize design and driving enjoyment.
Warranty and Reliability
Hyundai Tucson: Exceptional Coverage
- 5-year/60,000-mile basic warranty
- 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty
Mazda CX-30: Respectable but Standard
- 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty
- 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty
Hyundai’s extended warranty coverage can provide peace of mind and reduce long-term ownership costs, especially for buyers planning to keep their SUV for many years.
Choosing between the Hyundai Tucson and Mazda CX-30 ultimately comes down to priorities. If you value interior space, practicality, hybrid options, and long-term warranty coverage, the Hyundai Tucson is a strong candidate. It’s a smart, family-friendly vehicle that balances comfort and features well.
On the other hand, the Mazda CX-30 appeals to those who enjoy driving and want a vehicle that feels refined and premium. While it may not offer as much space, it delivers excellent handling and a polished cabin experience at a reasonable price.
Both vehicles are excellent in their own right, but your lifestyle and preferences will determine the better fit. Be sure to test drive both models, compare trims, and consider long-term needs to make an informed decision in this highly competitive SUV segment.