The compact crossover SUV market is fiercely competitive, and two models that stand out are the 2025 Kia Seltos and the 2025 Mazda CX-30. These two vehicles offer practicality, style, and versatility, but which one is the better choice? Whether you’re in Ottawa, Canada, looking for a reliable SUV at Kia 417, or exploring Mazda options in San Rafael, California, this comparison will help you decide.
Overview: Kia Seltos vs. Mazda CX-30
The Kia Seltos and Mazda CX-30 both cater to compact SUV buyers who seek efficiency, technology, and performance. While Kia’s offering leans toward affordability and practicality, Mazda emphasizes performance and driving dynamics. Below is a direct comparison:
| Feature | 2025 Kia Seltos | 2025 Mazda CX-30 |
| Starting Price | CAD $27,395 / USD $21,990 | CAD $29,550 / USD $23,950 |
| Engine Options | 2.0L 4-Cyl (146 hp) / 1.6L Turbo (195 hp) | 2.5L 4-Cyl (191 hp) / Turbo (250 hp) |
| Fuel Economy | 7.9 L/100 km (30 mpg) | 8.1 L/100 km (29 mpg) |
| Cargo Space | 752 L (26.5 cu. ft.) | 572 L (20.2 cu. ft.) |
| Drivetrain | AWD Optional, FWD Standard | AWD Standard |
| Infotainment | 10.25″ Touchscreen w/ Kia Connect | 8.8″ Display w/ Mazda Connect |
| Warranty | 5 Years / 100,000 km | 3 Years / 60,000 km |
Pricing & Value
The 2025 Kia Seltos starts at CAD $27,395 / USD $21,990, making it slightly more affordable than the Mazda CX-30, which starts at CAD $29,550 / USD $23,950 (Mazda Canada, 2025: https://www.mazda.ca/). For buyers looking for budget-friendly options, Kia offers better value, with competitive pricing and more cargo space.
Interested in special offers on the Kia Seltos? Check out the latest Kia 417 deals.
Performance & Driving Experience
The Mazda CX-30 is known for its sportier drive. With a standard 2.5L 4-cylinder engine delivering 191 hp, it offers more power than the base 2.0L engine of the Seltos. However, Kia offers an available 1.6L Turbocharged engine with 195 hp, which provides competitive acceleration while maintaining better fuel efficiency.
For city driving and long commutes, the Kia Seltos offers a smoother ride, while the CX-30 delivers a sportier, more engaging drive thanks to Mazda’s signature Skyactiv-G technology (Mazda Global, 2025: https://www.mazda.com/).
Fuel Economy & Efficiency
Fuel efficiency is a crucial factor for many buyers. The Kia Seltos achieves up to 7.9 L/100 km (30 mpg) combined, slightly edging out the Mazda CX-30’s 8.1 L/100 km (29 mpg). This difference is marginal but noticeable over long distances, especially for those commuting in Ontario or California, where fuel prices fluctuate.
Interior, Cargo Space & Technology
| Feature | Kia Seltos | Mazda CX-30 |
| Cargo Space | 752 L (26.5 cu. ft.) | 572 L (20.2 cu. ft.) |
| Infotainment | 10.25″ Touchscreen | 8.8″ Display |
| Navigation | Standard | Optional |
| Apple CarPlay & Android Auto | Wireless | Wired |
The Kia Seltos is more spacious, offering 752 litres (26.5 cubic feet) of cargo space, significantly more than the CX-30’s 572 litres (20.2 cubic feet) (Kia Canada, 2025: https://www.kia.ca/). This makes the Seltos a better choice for families, road trips, or carrying extra gear.
Kia also leads with a larger 10.25-inch touchscreen, compared to Mazda’s 8.8-inch display, and includes wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto, which the CX-30 lacks.
Safety Features
Both SUVs excel in safety, featuring advanced driver-assistance systems, including:
- Forward Collision Warning & Avoidance
- Blind Spot Monitoring
- Lane Keep Assist
- Adaptive Cruise Control
The Mazda CX-30 comes with standard AWD, which is beneficial in snowy Canadian winters, whereas the Kia Seltos offers AWD as an option.
Reliability & Warranty
One of Kia’s biggest advantages is its industry-leading 5-year/100,000 km warranty, compared to Mazda’s 3-year/60,000 km warranty. If long-term reliability is a priority, the Seltos provides better peace of mind.
Which SUV is Right for You?
Choose the Kia Seltos if you:
- Want a more affordable compact SUV
- Need extra cargo space & practicality
- Prefer a longer warranty & better fuel efficiency
- Want a larger touchscreen & wireless connectivity
Choose the Mazda CX-30 if you:
- Prefer a sportier driving experience
- Want a more powerful turbocharged option
- Require standard AWD for all weather conditions
Final Verdict
For budget-conscious buyers, the 2025 Kia Seltos is the clear winner, offering more space, better fuel efficiency, and a longer warranty, all at a lower price. However, if driving dynamics and standard AWD are priorities, the Mazda CX-30 remains a solid choice.
If you’re in Ottawa, explore the latest Kia Seltos inventory at Kia 417, Ottawa’s #1 Kia dealership. For those in San Rafael, California, visit Marin Mazda for CX-30 deals.
Need expert advice? Contact Kia 417 for more information on financing, test drives, and availability.
