The $30,000 Question: 2025 Mazda CX-30 vs. 2025 Kia Seltos – Who Rules the Compact SUV Game?
September 02 2025,

When it comes to small SUVs in Canada, two names stand out for 2025: the Mazda CX-30 and the Kia Seltos. Both bring fresh styling, modern features, and strong value. The question is, how do they stack up side by side? Let’s take a closer look at their performance, design, and everyday convenience to help you decide which one speaks to you.
Power and Performance for Every Drive
The Mazda CX-30 offers a 2.5-litre engine with 191 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque, while its turbo option delivers up to 227 horsepower with 310 lb-ft of torque for extra punch. On the other side, the Kia Seltos starts with a 2.0-litre engine producing 146 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque, while its turbo upgrade kicks in at 195 horsepower with 195 lb-ft of torque. Both vehicles give you options that cater to city driving or more spirited adventures.
Build & Price your own 2025 Mazda CX-30
Transmission and Drive Feel
With the CX-30, you get a six-speed SKYACTIV-Drive automatic with manual-shift mode and available paddle shifters, paired with all-wheel drive for confident handling. The Seltos brings a choice of an Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT) on its base engine or an eight-speed automatic with the turbo, along with all-wheel drive or front-wheel drive options. Each SUV provides flexibility depending on what kind of driving experience you prefer.
Fuel Efficiency That Fits Your Routine
In city driving, the CX-30 averages 9.0 – 10.5 L/100 km with 7.1 – 7.9 L/100 km on the highway, while the Seltos edges slightly lower at 8.3 – 8.8 L/100 km in the city and 6.8 – 7.5 L/100 km on the highway. Both models keep fuel efficiency front and centre, ensuring your daily commute or road trip stays budget-friendly.
Safety and Driver Confidence
Mazda ensures the CX-30 is packed with standard safety features like blind spot monitoring, lane departure warning, lane keeping assist, rear cross-traffic alert, and a back-up camera. Kia keeps pace with the Seltos, also offering driver-assist systems including adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, blind spot monitoring, and a standard back-up camera. Both SUVs put your peace of mind first with a suite of advanced protections.
Comfort and Everyday Practicality
Step inside the CX-30 and you’ll find heated front seats, climate control, rain-sensing wipers, and an available heads-up display for a premium touch. The Seltos matches with heated front and rear seats, climate control, a heated steering wheel, and available cooled front seats for added comfort. Cargo space gives the Seltos a slight edge at 753 litres with the second row up, compared to the CX-30’s 572 litres, though both maximize passenger room with smart layouts.
Tech and Connectivity You’ll Love
In the CX-30, you get Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, HD radio, navigation, and steering-wheel audio controls as standard. The Seltos follows closely with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, satellite radio, navigation, and remote engine start available. Whether you prioritize simple smartphone connectivity or a complete infotainment setup, both models are ready to keep you connected on the go.
Find Your Next Ride at 401 Dixie Mazda
When you’re ready to experience the confidence, style, and performance of the Mazda CX-30, the team at 401 Dixie Mazda is here to help. Our dealership proudly serves drivers across Ontario with expert guidance, flexible financing, and a wide selection of new Mazda models. Book your test drive today and see firsthand why so many Canadians are choosing Mazda for their next SUV.