Mazda CX 30 vs Kia Sorento: A Comprehensive Comparison

Compare Mazda CX 30 vs Kia Sorento – When it comes to choosing a reliable and stylish SUV, the 2023 Mazda CX-30 and the 2023 Kia Sorento are two top contenders worth considering.

In this comprehensive comparison, we will delve into the various aspects of both SUVs to help you make an informed decision.

From pricing and fuel economy to safety features and dimensions, we’ll explore every detail to determine which vehicle best suits your needs.

What is the Difference Between Mazda CX 30 and KIA Sorento?

The 2023 Mazda CX-30 and the 2023 Kia Sorento are indeed two different SUVs, each designed to cater to specific segments of the market.

Let’s delve into the key differences between the Mazda CX-30 and the Kia Sorento to better understand their unique characteristics and offerings.

Pricing

The price is often one of the most significant factors when choosing between two vehicles. Let’s take a closer look at the pricing of the Mazda CX-30 vs Kia Sorento.

– 2023 Mazda CX-30 Price:

The 2023 Mazda CX-30 offers a competitive starting price of $22,950 for the base 2.5 S trim. This makes it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers looking for a stylish and well-equipped compact SUV.

Despite being a smaller vehicle, the CX-30 offers an impressive array of trim levels, providing customers with various choices to suit their preferences and needs.

One trim that stands out as an excellent value is the 2.5 S Select. Priced around $25,000, it offers a host of standard features that elevate the driving experience.

The 2.5 S Select trim strikes a balance between affordability and a comprehensive set of amenities, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a well-rounded SUV without breaking the bank.

– 2023 KIA Sorento Price:

The 2023 Kia Sorento has a slightly higher starting price compared to the Mazda CX-30. The base LX model starts at $30,090, positioning it as a midsize SUV with a more spacious and versatile interior.

The Sorento offers a diverse model range, providing customers with multiple options to fit their preferences and budget.

For buyers seeking a more feature-rich and upscale experience, the SX trim is a popular choice. Starting at $38,890, the SX trim enhances the Sorento’s overall driving experience with advanced technology, premium materials, and additional comfort features.

At the top of the Sorento lineup is the X-Line SX Prestige model, which starts at $43,690. This top-tier trim offers the most luxurious and advanced features, catering to those who prioritize an elevated driving experience with premium amenities.

Read also: Kia Sorento vs Mitsubishi Outlander

Fuel Economy

The fuel efficiency of a vehicle is an essential consideration for many buyers, as it directly impacts long-term costs and environmental impact. Let’s compare the fuel economy of the Kia Sorento vs Mazda CX-30.

The non-turbocharged Mazda CX-30 offers impressive fuel-economy estimates of 26 mpg in the city, 33 mpg on the highway, and a combined 29 mpg.

These figures make the non-turbo CX-30 an excellent choice for those seeking a fuel-efficient and eco-friendly compact SUV.

With these estimates, drivers can enjoy more miles on each tank, reducing the frequency of visits to the gas station.

For those opting for the turbocharged engine in the CX-30, the fuel-economy estimates change slightly. The turbocharged version offers 22 mpg in the city, 30 mpg on the highway, and a combined 25 mpg.

While these numbers are slightly lower than the non-turbo model, the CX-30 with a turbocharged engine still maintains respectable fuel efficiency for its class.

On a 75-mph highway fuel-economy test route, a CX-30 Premium test vehicle managed to achieve exactly its EPA rating of 31 mpg.

This result further validates Mazda’s commitment to providing accurate and reliable fuel-economy estimates for its vehicles.

While the 2023 Kia Sorento, equipped with a turbocharged engine and all-wheel drive, receives an EPA-estimated 24 mpg combined (22 mpg city and 27 mpg highway). During a 115-mile mixed-driving evaluation, the Sorento achieved an average of 25.2 mpg.

These figures position the Sorento as a reasonably fuel-efficient midsize SUV, offering a good balance between power and fuel economy.

One notable advantage of the turbocharged Sorento is that it doesn’t require premium gasoline, which can help save on fuel costs compared to some other vehicles in its class.

While the Sorento may not match the fuel efficiency of some smaller compact SUVs like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4, it outperformed similarly powerful midsize SUVs like the Honda Passport and Subaru Ascent during an evaluation route.

This indicates that the Kia Sorento strikes a favorable balance between performance and fuel economy in its segment.

When comparing the fuel economy of the Mazda CX-30 vs Kia Sorento, both vehicles offer respectable efficiency in their respective classes.

The CX-30 stands out as a fuel-efficient choice for a compact SUV, especially with its non-turbocharged engine.

On the other hand, the Sorento delivers competitive fuel economy for a midsize SUV with its turbocharged engine and all-wheel-drive system.

Dimensions

The size and dimensions of an SUV play a crucial role in determining its practicality and suitability for various purposes.

Let’s compare the dimensions of the 2023 Mazda CX-30 vs Kia Sorento to understand their respective sizes.

2023 Mazda CX-30 Dimensions:

Front Seat Dimensions:

Rear Seat Dimensions:

2023 Kia Sorento Dimensions:

Front Seat Dimensions:

Rear Seat Dimensions:

In conclusion, the 2023 Mazda CX-30 and the 2023 Kia Sorento differ significantly in size and dimensions, catering to different preferences and needs of buyers.

The CX-30 is a compact SUV with a smaller footprint, making it more maneuverable in urban settings and providing better fuel efficiency.

On the other hand, the Sorento is a midsize SUV, offering a more spacious interior and greater cargo capacity, making it a suitable choice for families and those who require more passenger and storage space.

The choice between the two SUVs will depend on individual priorities and requirements. If you prioritize a compact and agile SUV with good fuel efficiency, the CX-30 may be the preferred option.

However, if you need more interior space and cargo capacity, the Sorento’s larger dimensions and additional seating options might be more appealing.

Read also: Mazda CX 5 vs KIA Sportage

Color Options

The color of a vehicle can greatly influence its overall appearance and style. Let’s explore the available color options for both the 2023 Mazda CX-30 and the 2023 Kia Sorento.

– 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

The Mazda CX-30 offers a diverse range of exterior colors, catering to various tastes and preferences.

From classic shades like Machine Gray Metallic and Jet Black Mica to more vibrant options like Soul Red Crystal Metallic, the CX-30 allows buyers to personalize their SUV’s appearance.

Interior Colors:

• Black, leatherette

The interior of the Mazda CX-30 is available in a sleek and sophisticated black leatherette finish.

The black interior complements the CX-30’s modern design and creates an upscale and luxurious ambiance inside the vehicle.

– Kia Sorento Colors:

Exterior Colors:

• Ebony Black
• Passion Red
• Everlasting Silver
• Gravity Gray
• Glacial White Pearl

The Kia Sorento offers a selection of exterior colors, providing buyers with several attractive options to choose from.

From the bold Passion Red to the classic Ebony Black and the elegant Glacial White Pearl, the Kia Sorento’s color palette allows for various style expressions.

Interior Colors:

• Black, cloth

Inside the Kia Sorento, the interior is available in a comfortable and stylish black cloth finish. The black cloth interior exudes a sense of sophistication while providing a cozy and inviting atmosphere for passengers.

Safety Features

Safety is a paramount consideration when choosing a vehicle, and both the 2023 Mazda CX-30 and the 2023 Kia Sorento come equipped with a range of advanced safety features to protect occupants and prevent accidents.

The Mazda CX-30 is equipped with several impressive standard driver-assistance features that enhance safety and provide peace of mind while driving. These standard features include:

• Standard Automated Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection: This system uses sensors to detect potential collisions with vehicles or pedestrians in the CX-30’s path. It can automatically apply the brakes to mitigate or prevent accidents.

• Standard Lane-Departure Warning with Lane-Keeping Assist: This feature alerts the driver if the CX-30 starts to drift out of its lane without using turn signals. Additionally, Lane-Keeping Assist can provide gentle steering inputs to help the driver stay centered in the lane.

• Standard Adaptive Cruise Control: This advanced cruise control system allows the CX-30 to maintain a set speed while automatically adjusting to the traffic flow. It can also adjust the vehicle’s speed to maintain a safe following distance from the vehicle ahead.

In addition to the standard safety features, the CX-30 offers optional safety enhancements, such as a head-up display and blind-spot monitoring, to further enhance driver awareness and safety.

For detailed crash-test results and safety ratings, potential buyers can refer to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites.

The 2023 Kia Sorento is equipped with an array of standard safety features designed to protect occupants and enhance overall vehicle stability. These safety features include:

• Anti-lock Brakes (ABS): ABS automatically senses when a tire has stopped rotating under extreme braking and modulates the brake pressure to allow the tire to rotate. This improves the vehicle’s ability to turn while braking.

• Stability Control: This system detects when the vehicle’s handling limits have been exceeded and automatically reduces engine power and/or applies select brakes to help the driver regain control.

• Front-Impact Airbags: Front-impact airbags for the driver and front passenger are designed to protect the head during a frontal crash.

• Side Impact Airbags: Side impact airbags for the front seats protect the torso during a side impact collision.

• Overhead Airbags: Overhead airbags protect the occupant’s head in the event of a side collision or rollover.

• Knee Airbags: Knee airbags help protect the occupants’ lower extremities from serious injury in the event of an accident.

• Seatbelt Pretensioners: Seatbelt pretensioners automatically tighten seatbelts to place the occupant in the optimal seating position during a collision.

• Security System: The Sorento is equipped with a security system that anticipates and/or detects unwanted vehicle intrusion. It also features an ignition disable device that prevents the engine from starting without the correct original manufacturer key.

Warranty

The warranty coverage of a vehicle provides peace of mind to drivers, ensuring that they are protected against potential defects and issues.

Specific warranty information for the 2023 Mazda CX-30 has not been released at the time of this comparison.

However, it is anticipated that the coverage will be similar to other Mazda vehicles. Mazda’s warranty offerings are generally competitive, though they may not match the extended coverage provided by some other brands.

The standard warranty coverage for the Mazda CX-30 is as follows:

• Limited Warranty: Covers three years or 36,000 miles, whichever comes first.
• Powertrain Warranty: Covers five years or 60,000 miles, whichever comes first.

Notably, Mazda does not provide complimentary scheduled maintenance, which means routine service costs will be the responsibility of the owner.

The 2023 Kia Sorento comes with an impressive warranty package, providing extensive coverage to give drivers added confidence on the road.

Kia is well-known for its comprehensive warranty offerings, making it an appealing choice for those seeking long-term coverage.

The warranty coverage for the Kia Sorento includes:

• Kia Bumper-to-Bumper Warranty: Covers five years or 60,000 miles, whichever comes first. This warranty covers most components of the vehicle, ensuring comprehensive protection against defects.

• Kia Powertrain Warranty: Provides coverage for ten years or 100,000 miles, whichever comes first. This powertrain warranty includes major engine and transmission components, offering an extended period of protection.

In addition to the bumper-to-bumper and powertrain warranties, Kia also provides the following benefits:

• Kia Corrosion Protection: Covers five years or 100,000 miles, protecting against rust and corrosion on the vehicle’s body panels.

• Kia Roadside Assistance: Covers five years or 60,000 miles, providing assistance in the event of roadside emergencies.

When it comes to warranty coverage, the 2023 Kia Sorento offers more extensive and longer-lasting protection compared to the 2023 Mazda CX-30.

Kia’s warranty package, including the 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, 5-year/60,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty, and additional benefits, provides drivers with extended peace of mind.

Read also: Hyundai Tucson vs Mazda CX 5

Specifications

The specifications of a vehicle’s engine and transmission play a crucial role in determining its performance and capabilities. Let’s compare the specifications of the 2023 Mazda CX-30 vs 2023 Kia Sorento.

– 2023 Mazda CX-30 Specs:

The 2023 Mazda CX-30 is powered by a 2.5-liter inline 4-cylinder gasoline engine. This engine generates 191 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 186 lb-ft of torque at 4,000 rpm.

The CX-30 comes equipped with a 6-speed shiftable automatic transmission, offering smooth gear changes and responsive performance.

Additionally, the CX-30 features all-wheel drive (AWD) for enhanced traction and stability in various driving conditions.

– 2023 Kia Sorento Specs:

The 2023 Kia Sorento is also equipped with a 2.5-liter inline 4-cylinder gasoline engine. This engine produces 191 horsepower at 6,100 rpm and 181 lb-ft of torque at 4,000 rpm.

The Sorento comes with an 8-speed automatic transmission, providing efficient gear shifts and optimizing fuel economy. The Sorento features front-wheel drive (FWD) for a balance of efficiency and performance.

In conclusion, the 2023 Mazda CX-30 and the 2023 Kia Sorento share similarities in their engine specifications, both featuring a 2.5-liter inline 4-cylinder gasoline engine.

Both vehicles deliver 191 horsepower and offer variable valve timing, enhancing efficiency and power delivery.

The CX-30 comes with a 6-speed shiftable automatic transmission and all-wheel drive (AWD), while the Sorento is equipped with an 8-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive (FWD).

Pros and Cons

Both the 2023 Mazda CX-30 and the 2023 Kia Sorento have their strengths and weaknesses. Let’s explore the pros and cons of each SUV to provide a comprehensive comparison.

Mazda CX-30 Pros:

• Upscale Interior Design and Build Quality: The CX-30 boasts a stylish and well-crafted interior with premium materials, providing a luxurious ambiance for occupants.

• Advanced Safety Features Come Standard: Mazda equips the CX-30 with a suite of standard advanced safety features, such as adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist, enhancing driver confidence and safety.

• Poised Handling and Refined Ride Quality: The CX-30 offers excellent handling dynamics, making it enjoyable to drive on twisty roads. Additionally, it provides a comfortable and smooth ride for daily commutes and longer journeys.

• Powerful Optional Turbocharged Engine: For those seeking more performance, the CX-30 offers an optional turbocharged engine that delivers robust power and acceleration.

Cons:

• Transmission Can Be Slow to Downshift: Some drivers may find that the CX-30’s transmission is not as quick to downshift during certain driving situations, impacting responsiveness.

• Significant Rear Blind Spots: The design of the CX-30 may result in noticeable blind spots in the rear, necessitating extra caution during lane changes and parking maneuvers.

Kia Sorento Pros:

• Abundance of Standard and Optional Features: The Sorento comes generously equipped with a wide range of standard and available features, offering excellent value for money.

• Ample Second- and Third-Row Legroom for the Class: The Sorento provides a spacious interior with comfortable seating for passengers, making it ideal for families and long journeys.

• Sharp-Looking and Easy-to-Use Infotainment System: Kia’s infotainment system is user-friendly and comes with modern features, enhancing convenience and connectivity for occupants.

• Powerful Available Turbocharged Engine: The Sorento offers an optional turbocharged engine that delivers strong performance and responsive acceleration.

Cons:

• Base Engine’s Lackluster Acceleration: Some drivers may find the base engine’s acceleration to be underwhelming, especially when compared to the available turbocharged engine.

Conclusion

The 2023 Mazda CX-30 and the 2023 Kia Sorento each have their advantages and drawbacks. The CX-30 stands out for its upscale interior, standard advanced safety features, and poised handling.

On the other hand, the Sorento impresses with its abundance of features, spacious interior, and powerful turbocharged engine.

When choosing between the two SUVs, consider your priorities and preferences. If an upscale interior and a refined driving experience are essential, the CX-30 may be the preferred choice.

However, if ample features and passenger space, as well as a powerful engine, are higher on your list, the Sorento could be a better fit.

Test-driving both vehicles and evaluating them based on your specific needs will help you make an informed decision.

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