Mazda CX-30 vs Kia Seltos: A Comprehensive Comparison

Compare Mazda CX-30 vs Kia Seltos – Compact SUVs have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their versatility, practicality, and attractive design.

The 2023 Mazda CX-30 and 2023 Kia Seltos are two prominent contenders in this competitive segment, offering a combination of style, performance, and features.

In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll delve into various aspects of both vehicles to help you make an informed decision when choosing between the Mazda CX-30 and Kia Seltos.

What is the Difference Between Mazda CX-30 and Kia Seltos?

The Mazda CX-30 and the Kia Seltos are both popular compact SUVs that offer unique features and characteristics.

Let’s explore the key differences between these two models to help potential buyers make informed decisions.

Pricing

The 2023 Mazda CX-30 and the 2023 Kia Seltos offer competitive pricing options to cater to a range of budgets. Let’s take a closer look at the pricing details for each model.

– 2023 Mazda CX-30 Price:

The Mazda CX-30 starts at an attractive price of $22,950 for the base 2.5 S trim. This base model offers a good balance of features and affordability, making it an excellent entry point for budget-conscious buyers.

However, what sets the CX-30 apart is its generous range of trim levels. With a total of seven trim options, Mazda provides a variety of choices to suit different preferences and needs.

For those seeking an optimal balance between features and price, the 2.5 S Select trim is highly recommended. Priced around $25,000, this trim level adds several standard features, making it a solid value proposition.

The 2.5 S Select offers a compelling package for buyers looking to get the most out of their money without compromising on essential amenities.

– 2023 Kia Seltos Price:

The 2023 Kia Seltos also offers a competitive starting price. The base model, Kia Seltos LX with AWD, begins at $23,340, providing customers with a well-equipped compact SUV at an affordable entry point.

For those who prefer front-wheel drive, the S FWD model starts at $23,390, offering an option for buyers in regions with milder weather conditions or less need for AWD capabilities.

For buyers looking for top-tier features and amenities, the Seltos SX is the ultimate option. Priced at $28,340, the Seltos SX brings a host of premium features, making it a luxurious and feature-rich choice within the Seltos lineup.

In comparison, the 2023 Mazda CX-30 and the 2023 Kia Seltos present competitive pricing structures. The CX-30 boasts a slightly lower starting price, making it a slightly more budget-friendly choice for those seeking an affordable compact SUV.

On the other hand, the Kia Seltos offers a variety of trim levels, allowing buyers to choose from a broader range of options, including front-wheel drive models.

Ultimately, the choice between the Mazda CX-30 and the Kia Seltos in terms of pricing will depend on individual preferences, desired features, and budget constraints.

Prospective buyers are encouraged to compare the standard features and amenities offered at each trim level to find the best value that aligns with their needs and lifestyle.

Both models provide competitive pricing and an excellent array of features, making them solid contenders in the compact SUV segment.

Read also: Mazda CX-30 vs Mazda CX 5

Fuel Economy

Fuel efficiency is a critical consideration for many car buyers, as it directly impacts operating costs and environmental impact.

Let’s explore the fuel economy figures for the 2023 Mazda CX-30 and the 2023 Kia Seltos to see how they compare.

– 2023 Mazda CX-30 Fuel Economy:

The non-turbocharged Mazda CX-30 offers impressive fuel-economy estimates, with the EPA rating it at 26 mpg in the city, 33 mpg on the highway, and 29 mpg combined.

These figures highlight the CX-30’s efficiency, making it an economical choice for daily commutes and long journeys alike.

For those opting for the turbocharged engine, the fuel economy estimates are slightly lower. The turbocharged CX-30 achieves 22 mpg in the city, 30 mpg on the highway, and 25 mpg combined.

While these numbers are slightly reduced compared to the non-turbo version, the turbocharged engine still provides a decent balance of performance and efficiency.

During real-world testing on a 75-mph highway fuel-economy route, the CX-30 Premium test vehicle managed to match its EPA rating precisely, achieving an impressive 31 mpg. This result reflects the CX-30’s reliability in delivering the efficiency it promises.

– 2023 Kia Seltos Fuel Economy:

The 2023 Kia Seltos also boasts commendable fuel economy figures, making it a practical choice for drivers seeking efficient performance.

The EPA estimates indicate that front-wheel-drive models equipped with the 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine achieve as high as 35 mpg on the highway.

This indicates that the Seltos excels in long-distance driving scenarios, offering exceptional fuel efficiency.

During real-world testing on a 75-mph highway fuel-economy route, an all-wheel-drive Seltos with a turbocharged 1.6-liter engine managed to achieve a respectable 30 mpg.

This result highlights the Seltos’ ability to maintain fuel efficiency even with the added power of the turbocharged engine.

In terms of fuel economy, both the 2023 Mazda CX-30 and the 2023 Kia Seltos deliver competitive figures.

The non-turbo CX-30 offers slightly better fuel efficiency in both city and highway driving, while the turbocharged version takes a slight hit in terms of MPG figures.

On the other hand, the Kia Seltos impresses with its highway fuel economy, especially with the front-wheel-drive models equipped with the 2.0-liter engine, which achieves up to 35 mpg.

Ultimately, both models provide efficient performance, and the choice between the two will depend on individual driving habits and preferences.

Whether opting for the Mazda CX-30’s slightly better city MPG or the Kia Seltos’ impressive highway MPG, buyers can be confident that both vehicles offer excellent fuel efficiency for their class.

For more detailed information on each model’s fuel economy, buyers are encouraged to visit the EPA’s website and consider real-world testing results.

Dimensions

The dimensions of a vehicle play a significant role in determining its practicality, interior space, and maneuverability.

Let’s compare the dimensions of the 2023 Mazda CX-30 and the 2023 Kia Seltos to understand how they differ in size.

– 2023 Mazda CX-30 Dimensions:

Front Seat Dimensions:

Rear Seat Dimensions:

– 2023 Kia Seltos Dimensions:

Front Seat Dimensions:

Rear Seat Dimensions:

In comparison, the 2023 Mazda CX-30 and the 2023 Kia Seltos have notable differences in their dimensions.

The CX-30 is slightly longer and lower, measuring 173.0 inches in length and 62.2 inches in height, whereas the Seltos is shorter but taller, with dimensions of 172.0 inches in length and 64.2 inches in height.

In terms of interior space, the Kia Seltos offers a more significant advantage, boasting a higher EPA interior volume of 126.2 cubic feet, compared to the CX-30’s 114.0 cubic feet.

This difference translates to a more spacious cabin and potentially more comfortable seating for passengers in the Seltos.

As for cargo capacity, the Kia Seltos also takes the lead with 26.6 cubic feet of space with all seats in place, expandable to an impressive 62.8 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down.

The Mazda CX-30, while still practical, offers slightly less cargo space, with 20.2 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 45.2 cubic feet at its maximum capacity.

Ultimately, the choice between the Mazda CX-30 and the Kia Seltos in terms of dimensions will depend on individual preferences and priorities.

The CX-30 may appeal to those seeking a sleeker profile and more nimble handling, while the Seltos provides greater interior space and cargo-carrying capacity for those with more extensive storage needs.

Prospective buyers should consider their lifestyle and specific requirements to determine which compact SUV better suits their needs.

Read also: Mazda CX-30 vs Kia Niro

Color Options

The exterior and interior color choices are essential elements that allow car buyers to customize their vehicles according to their personal preferences and style.

Let’s explore the color options available for the 2023 Mazda CX-30 and the 2023 Kia Seltos.

2023 Mazda CX-30 Colors

Exterior Colors:

• Machine Gray Metallic
• Platinum Quartz Metallic
• Snowflake White Pearl Mica
• Soul Red Crystal Metallic
• Deep Crystal Blue Mica
• Jet Black Mica

These color options offer a diverse range, from classic neutrals to eye-catching and vibrant hues. The Machine Gray Metallic and Jet Black Mica present a sleek and sophisticated look, while the Platinum Quartz Metallic and Snowflake White Pearl Mica offer a more refined and elegant appearance.

For those seeking a bolder statement, the Soul Red Crystal Metallic and Deep Crystal Blue Mica provide a touch of vibrancy to the CX-30’s exterior.

Interior Colors:

• White, Leather
• Black, Leather

The interior color options for the Mazda CX-30 include White leather and Black leather. These choices allow buyers to create a contrasting and stylish interior, with the White leather adding a sense of brightness and sophistication, while the Black leather exudes a timeless and classic appeal.

– 2023 Kia Seltos Colors

Exterior Colors:

• Clear White/Black Cherry Roof
• Gravity Gray
• Neptune Blue
• Snow White Pearl
• Cherry Black
• Steel Gray
• Starbright Yellow/Black Cherry Roof
• Mars Orange
• Dark Ocean Blue/Clear White Roof

The Kia Seltos offers a wide array of exterior colors, catering to different tastes and preferences. From the bold and playful Starbright Yellow/Black Cherry Roof and Mars Orange to the more understated Gravity Gray and Steel Gray, the Seltos provides options for various style preferences.

For those looking for a luxurious touch, the Snow White Pearl and Cherry Black options exude elegance and sophistication.

Interior Colors:

• Black, Leatherette/Cloth

The interior color option for the Kia Seltos is Black leatherette/cloth, which offers a sleek and modern appearance.

The Black interior complements the exterior color choices and provides a versatile and sophisticated cabin ambiance.

In comparison, both the 2023 Mazda CX-30 and the 2023 Kia Seltos offer appealing color options to suit different tastes and styles.

The Mazda CX-30 presents a more straightforward range of exterior and interior colors, while the Kia Seltos offers a broader selection of bold and expressive exterior colors.

Ultimately, the choice of color for each vehicle will depend on individual preferences and desired aesthetics.

Whether opting for the timeless elegance of the Mazda CX-30’s color palette or the vibrant and daring hues of the Kia Seltos, buyers can select a color combination that reflects their personality and makes a statement on the road.

Safety Features

Safety is a top priority for car buyers, and both the 2023 Mazda CX-30 and the 2023 Kia Seltos offer a range of advanced driver-assistance technologies to enhance safety on the road. Let’s explore the key safety features available in each vehicle.

– 2023 Mazda CX-30 Safety Features:

The Mazda CX-30 comes equipped with an impressive suite of standard driver-assistance features, providing added peace of mind for drivers and passengers. The standard safety features include:

• Automated Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection: This system helps prevent or mitigate collisions by automatically applying the brakes if it detects a potential collision with a vehicle or pedestrian in front of the CX-30.

• Lane-Departure Warning with Lane-Keeping Assist: The CX-30 alerts the driver if the vehicle unintentionally drifts out of its lane and can provide gentle steering assistance to help keep the vehicle centered within the lane.

• Adaptive Cruise Control: This feature automatically adjusts the CX-30’s speed to maintain a safe following distance from the vehicle ahead, offering a more relaxed and convenient driving experience during highway cruising.

Optional safety features available in higher trim levels include:

• Head-Up Display: This feature projects essential driving information, such as speed and navigation directions, onto the windshield, allowing the driver to stay informed without taking their eyes off the road.

• Blind-Spot Monitoring: This system uses sensors to monitor the CX-30’s blind spots and provides visual and audible alerts if there is a vehicle detected in the blind-spot area, enhancing safety during lane changes.

– 2023 Kia Seltos Safety Features:

The Kia Seltos also prioritizes safety with a standard suite of driver-assistance technologies across all trim levels. The standard safety features include:

• Automated Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection: Similar to the CX-30, this system helps prevent or reduce the severity of collisions by automatically applying the brakes if it detects potential hazards in the vehicle’s path.

• Lane-Departure Warning with Lane-Keeping Assist: The Seltos alerts the driver if the vehicle veers out of its lane without using a turn signal and can provide corrective steering assistance to keep the vehicle in its lane.

The higher-end SX trim offers additional advanced safety features such as:

• Adaptive Cruise Control: The SX trim includes adaptive cruise control, which adjusts the Seltos’ speed based on traffic conditions, maintaining a safe following distance from the vehicle ahead.

• Cyclist Detection: This feature adds an extra layer of safety by detecting cyclists in the Seltos’ path and alerting the driver to potential collisions.

In terms of safety features, both the Mazda CX-30 and the Kia Seltos provide standard automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection and lane-departure warning with lane-keeping assist.

However, the CX-30 takes a slight advantage with its standard adaptive cruise control, which is not available in all trims of the Seltos.

For buyers seeking additional safety features like blind-spot monitoring or cyclist detection, the optional safety features in the higher trim levels of the CX-30 and the Seltos provide attractive options.

To gain more comprehensive insights into the safety performance of each vehicle, prospective buyers are encouraged to refer to the crash-test results provided by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

These test results offer valuable information on the overall safety ratings and performance of each model in various crash scenarios.

Warranty

A comprehensive warranty provides peace of mind to car buyers, ensuring that they are protected against unexpected repairs and issues.

Let’s compare the warranty offerings for the 2023 Mazda CX-30 and the 2023 Kia Seltos to understand the coverage provided by each manufacturer.

– 2023 Mazda CX-30 Warranty:

Specific warranty information for the 2023 Mazda CX-30 hasn’t been released yet. However, based on Mazda’s past practices, we can anticipate that the warranty coverage for the CX-30 will be similar to other Mazda vehicles.

The typical Mazda warranty includes the following:

• Limited Warranty: This covers the vehicle for three years or 36,000 miles, whichever comes first. It covers defects in materials or workmanship during the specified period.

• Powertrain Warranty: The powertrain warranty provides coverage for five years or 60,000 miles, whichever occurs first. It protects essential components such as the engine, transmission, and drivetrain.

Unlike some of its competitors, Mazda does not offer complimentary scheduled maintenance as part of its warranty package.

– 2023 Kia Seltos Warranty:

Kia is known for its industry-leading warranty coverage, and the 2023 Kia Seltos upholds this reputation by offering a robust warranty package.

The warranty coverage for the 2023 Kia Seltos includes:

• Limited Warranty: Kia provides coverage for the Seltos under its limited warranty for five years or 60,000 miles, whichever comes first. This warranty covers defects and repairs due to faulty materials or workmanship.

• Powertrain Warranty: The powertrain warranty for the Seltos is an impressive 10 years or 100,000 miles, whichever occurs first. This extensive coverage protects critical components like the engine, transmission, and drivetrain.

Similar to Mazda, Kia does not offer complimentary scheduled maintenance as part of its warranty package.

In terms of warranty coverage, the 2023 Kia Seltos has a significant advantage over the 2023 Mazda CX-30.

The Seltos provides a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, surpassing Mazda’s 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty.

Kia’s extended powertrain coverage offers buyers added reassurance and confidence in the long-term reliability of their vehicle.

Both manufacturers offer similar limited warranty coverage for three years or 36,000 miles. However, the Kia Seltos stands out with its impressive powertrain warranty, matching the industry-leading coverage offered by its sister company, Hyundai.

Ultimately, the warranty coverage can be a crucial factor for buyers when making a decision between the Mazda CX-30 and the Kia Seltos.

The Seltos’ longer powertrain warranty may be particularly appealing to those seeking extra protection and peace of mind for their investment in a new compact SUV.

Read also: Kia Sportage vs Mazda CX-30

Specifications

The specifications of a vehicle’s engine and drivetrain are crucial factors that influence its performance and capabilities.

Let’s compare the specifications of the 2023 Mazda CX-30 and the 2023 Kia Seltos to understand the differences in their powertrains.

– 2023 Mazda CX-30 Specs:

The 2023 Mazda CX-30 is equipped with a 2.5-liter inline 4-cylinder gasoline engine. It generates a substantial output of 191 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and a peak torque of 186 lb-ft at 4,000 rpm.

The CX-30 comes with a 6-speed shiftable automatic transmission that allows for manual gear selection when desired.

All-wheel drive (AWD) is standard, providing enhanced traction and stability on various road conditions.

– 2023 Kia Seltos Specs:

The 2023 Kia Seltos is powered by a 2.0-liter inline 4-cylinder gasoline engine. It produces 146 horsepower at 6,200 rpm and a maximum torque of 132 lb-ft at 4,500 rpm.

The Seltos features a continuously variable-speed automatic transmission (CVT) that offers smooth and efficient power delivery.

Front-wheel drive (FWD) is standard, providing excellent fuel efficiency for urban and highway driving.

In terms of engine specifications, the 2023 Mazda CX-30 outperforms the 2023 Kia Seltos in both horsepower and torque.

The CX-30’s 2.5-liter engine delivers a higher power output of 191 horsepower and a greater torque of 186 lb-ft compared to the Seltos’ 2.0-liter engine with 146 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque.

Additionally, the CX-30 offers the advantage of all-wheel drive (AWD) as standard, which enhances its traction and handling capabilities, especially in adverse weather conditions or off-road driving scenarios.

On the other hand, the Seltos comes with front-wheel drive (FWD) as standard, making it well-suited for urban driving and fuel efficiency.

Ultimately, the choice between the Mazda CX-30 and the Kia Seltos in terms of specifications will depend on individual preferences and driving needs.

The CX-30’s more potent engine and AWD capability may appeal to those seeking a more spirited and versatile driving experience.

While the Seltos offers a balanced and fuel-efficient option for daily commuting and city driving.

Pros and Cons

Both the 2023 Mazda CX-30 and the 2023 Kia Seltos offer their unique set of advantages and disadvantages. Let’s take a closer look at the pros and cons of each model to help potential buyers make an informed decision.

2023 Mazda CX-30 Pros:

• Upscale Interior Design and Build Quality: The CX-30 impresses with its premium interior materials and thoughtful design, creating a luxurious and comfortable cabin environment for both driver and passengers.

• Advanced Safety Features Come Standard: Mazda prioritizes safety by equipping the CX-30 with a comprehensive suite of standard driver-assistance technologies, providing added peace of mind for occupants.

• Poised Handling and Refined Ride Quality: The CX-30 offers a well-balanced driving experience with responsive handling and a comfortable ride, making it enjoyable to drive on various road conditions.

• Powerful Optional Turbocharged Engine: The CX-30’s available turbocharged engine delivers a boost in performance, providing more power for drivers who desire a more spirited driving experience.

Cons:

• Transmission Can Be Slow to Downshift: Some drivers may find the CX-30’s automatic transmission to be slow in downshifting, affecting responsiveness during certain driving situations.

• Significant Rear Blind Spots: The CX-30’s design may result in substantial blind spots at the rear, requiring extra caution during lane changes and parking maneuvers.

2023 Kia Seltos Pros:

• Plenty of Cargo Space: The Seltos boasts ample cargo space, making it a practical choice for those needing to carry various items and luggage.

• Upscale Interior Design and Materials: Kia elevates the Seltos’ interior with high-quality materials, enhancing its overall appeal and providing a comfortable cabin for occupants.

• Distinctive Styling and Paint Choices Add Personality: The Seltos stands out with its distinctive styling and a wide range of paint choices, allowing buyers to personalize their SUV to reflect their taste.

Cons:

• Front Seats Aren’t Very Comfortable for Long Drives: Some drivers may find the Seltos’ front seats lacking in comfort and support, potentially affecting long-distance driving comfort.

• Less Than Athletic Handling: While the Seltos offers a smooth ride, it may not match the sporty handling characteristics of some of its competitors, which could be a drawback for driving enthusiasts.

Conclusion

The 2023 Mazda CX-30 shines with its upscale interior, advanced safety features, and poised handling.

The availability of a powerful turbocharged engine adds to its appeal for those seeking a more dynamic driving experience.

However, potential buyers should be aware of the transmission’s slower downshifting and significant rear blind spots.

On the other hand, the 2023 Kia Seltos impresses with its generous cargo space, upscale interior, and distinctive styling.

However, it may not offer the same level of comfort for front-seat occupants during long drives, and its handling may not be as sporty as some of its competitors.

Ultimately, the choice between the Mazda CX-30 and the Kia Seltos will depend on individual preferences and priorities.

Prospective buyers are encouraged to consider their specific needs, driving preferences, and desired features to select the compact SUV that best aligns with their lifestyle.

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