2025 Hyundai Kona vs Mazda CX-3

Published December 2025

2025 Hyundai Kona vs Mazda CX-3 Close

A Comprehensive Cars Comparison by Cars4us

The Hyundai Kona and Mazda CX-3 are two of Australia’s most popular compact SUVs, offering strong performance, sleek design, and plenty of value for drivers looking for comfort and convenience in a smaller package. At Cars4Us, we’re comparing the Hyundai Kona and Mazda CX-3 across the areas that matter most — performance, interior, and value — to help you choose the right second-hand SUV for your needs.

Performance & Handling

Hyundai Kona

9.5/10

Powertrain: The Kona is offered with several engine options, including a 2.0L petrol (110kW/180Nm) and a 1.6L turbocharged petrol (146kW/265Nm), the latter paired with all-wheel drive for more confident handling.
Driving Dynamics: Smooth, composed ride on highways with responsive steering. The turbocharged variant adds real punch for overtaking and hilly terrain.
Transmission: 6-speed auto (2.0L) or 7-speed dual-clutch auto (1.6L turbo).
Fuel Efficiency: 6.2–7.2L/100km depending on engine choice.

Mazda CX-3

9/10

Powertrain: The CX-3 comes with a 2.0L naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine producing 110kW and 195Nm. Available in FWD or AWD.
Driving Dynamics: Sharp steering and well-tuned suspension make it feel more like a hatch than an SUV.
Transmission: 6-speed automatic.
Fuel Efficiency: Around 6.3L/100km combined.

Interior & Technology

Hyundai Kona

9.5/10

Display: 10.25-inch touchscreen (in higher trims) with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Comfort: Well-designed cabin with supportive seats and practical layout. Higher trims offer leather seats, climate control, and ambient lighting.
Technology: Smart key, wireless charging, digital instrument cluster (depending on variant).
Boot Space: 374L (expandable with rear seats down).

Mazda CX-3

9/10

Display: 8.0-inch infotainment screen with rotary controller, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Comfort: Premium-feeling interior with quality materials even in base models. Slightly more compact in the rear.
Comfort: Premium-feeling interior with quality materials even in base models. Slightly more compact in the rear.
Boot Space: 264L — smaller than most in its class.

Safety Features

Hyundai Kona

9.5/10

Safety tech includes Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, Blind Spot Monitoring, and Rear Cross Traffic Alert. ANCAP Rating: 5 stars (2017-onward).

Mazda CX-3

9.5/10

Includes Advanced Smart City Brake Support, Lane Departure Warning, Blind Spot Monitoring, and Traffic Sign Recognition in higher trims. ANCAP Rating: 5 stars (2015-onward).

Cost & Overall Value

Hyundai Kona

9.5/10

Price Range (used): $21,000 – $35,000 depending on year, trim, and condition.
Ownership Costs: Reasonable servicing costs, capped-price service plans for newer models, and good fuel economy.
Resale Value: Strong resale across all variants.

Mazda CX-3

9.5/10

Price Range (used): $18,000 – $30,000 depending on model year and spec.
Ownership Costs: Very affordable to service and maintain, with strong dealer network support.
Resale Value: Excellent resale due to brand reliability and popularity.

Our Verdict

Hyundai Kona 9.5/10

Mazda CX-3 9.3/10

Both the Hyundai Kona and Mazda CX-3 offer great value as second-hand compact SUVs. The Mazda CX-3 is ideal if you want sharp handling, premium interior finishes, and reliability on a budget. The Hyundai Kona, meanwhile, stands out for its variety of engine options, modern infotainment, and interior practicality.

Choose the Hyundai Kona if you want:

Turbocharged performance with AWD availability
More rear space and better boot capacity
Newer infotainment tech and cabin features

Choose the Mazda CX-3 if you want:

Sporty handling with a hatchback feel
A refined, premium-feeling cabin
A lower entry price and excellent resale value

Ready to find your next SUV?
At Cars4Us, we stock a range of quality second-hand** Hyundai Kona** and used Mazda CX-3 vehicles at competitive prices. Browse our listings today and drive away with confidence.