2023 Mazda CX-5 vs. 2022 Kia Seltos

The 2023 Mazda CX-5 has a beautifully sculpted exterior with lots of space and amenities within its cabin. But how does it compare to the 2022 Kia Seltos, a subcompact SUV with impressive infotainment and superb driving mechanics?

Design & Style

Though the Kia Seltos shares the same powertrain and platform as the Hyundai Kona, it still retains its own distinctive style. Buyers now have the option of the Plum cabin color and those that purchase Nightfall Edition will get eighteen inch wheels which are black painted and made with gleaming aluminum. All-wheel drive is also available, its seats are comfortable especially when covered in leather and it offers two engine options.

The Mazda CX-5 has ultra-smooth surfaces in the rear and front. The grille has been enhanced with a 3 dimensional style mesh texture with wings that stretch outward into the LED headlights.  Within the cabin its seats have been revised to provide even more support, and enhancements have also been made to the suspension which results in a more pleasant riding experience. All-wheel drive now comes standard on every variant.

Technology & Safety

The Mazda CX-5 has received a perfect five star NHTSA rating. This is because it is equipped with all the modern safety gear that buyers demand, such as pedestrian detection, automated emergency brakes, cruise control which is adaptive, lane management and multiple airbags. Comforts within its cabin include a ten inch touch display, voice commands, rotary controller, climate control, powered seats and the option of Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.

The Kia Seltos has received a four star rating from the NHTSA. It has many of the countermeasures found in the Mazda, including cyclist detection and cruise control which is adaptive, but to get them you'll have to upgrade to the highest trim, which is SX. Its other features include automated emergency brakes, lane management, multiple airbags and cruise control which are adaptive. Its cabin perks include a Bose sound system with eight speakers, 3 USB ports, speaker grilles with a fractal texture and ten inch displays.

Performance

Those that want maximum performance from the Kia Seltos must purchase the turbocharged, 1.6 liter engine which can generate 175 horsepower, enabling the SUV to cruise from zero to sixty in 6.6 seconds. The Mazda CX-5 comes with a standardized four cylinder engine that can generate 187 horsepower, but buyers can upgrade to a turbocharged version that generates 250 hp.

The Bottom Line

The Mazda outclasses the Kia across the board. The CX-5 has better safety credentials, vastly superior performance, and this combined with the Kia's stiff legged handling over bumpy surfaces and unrefined powertrain makes the Mazda CX-5 the winner.

Ready to Schedule a 2023 Mazda CX-5 Test Drive Today?

Do you want to discover more about this Mazda car model can do on the road? Come and visit us at Riley Mazda today! Our dedicated team of customer service representatives will assist you in meeting all your car purchasing, financing, and servicing needs. Call us today and book an appointment for your 2023 Mazda CX-5 test drive now!