2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz vs 2026 Mazda CX-30
Comparison Overview
The most significant numerical difference between the 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz (Car 1) and the 2026 Mazda CX-30 (Car 2) is the MSRP, with the Santa Cruz commanding a $3,525 premium at $29,500 versus the CX-30's $25,975. This price gap reflects differences in size and utility; the Santa Cruz measures 195.7 inches long, significantly eclipsing the CX-30's 173.0-inch length. Performance metrics show the Santa Cruz delivering 191 hp and 181 lb-ft of torque, slightly outpacing the CX-30's 186 hp and 186 lb-ft of torque. However, the smaller CX-30 is more efficient, achieving a 27 MPG combined rating compared to the Santa Cruz's 25 MPG combined. The Santa Cruz offers a larger platform with standard Front Wheel Drive (FWD), while the CX-30 includes All-Wheel Drive (AWD) standard.
Size Comparison
Performance
Fuel Efficiency
Full Specifications
Our Verdicts
2026 Mazda CX-30
The Mazda CX-30 wins for commuting due to its superior 27 MPG combined fuel economy and standard All-Wheel Drive system.
2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz
The 2026 Santa Cruz is the better choice for families based on its substantially larger exterior dimensions, including 6.7 inches more length for potential interior space.
2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz
The Santa Cruz offers slightly higher peak power with 191 hp, appealing more to drivers seeking maximum output from the base engines.
2026 Mazda CX-30
The Mazda CX-30 offers better documented value by providing AWD standard for a $3,525 lower starting MSRP.
Choose the Hyundai Santa Cruz if...
- You require a vehicle with greater overall exterior length (195.7 inches) for potential utility or passenger room.
- You prioritize the slightly higher base horsepower rating of 191 hp over fuel efficiency.
- You prefer the inherent stability of the standard Front Wheel Drive layout combined with an 8-speed automatic transmission.
Choose the Mazda CX-30 if...
- Budget is paramount, as the $25,975 MSRP is $3,525 less than the competitor.
- Optimal fuel efficiency is necessary, evidenced by the 27 MPG combined rating versus Car 1's 25 MPG.
- Standard All-Wheel Drive capability is a non-negotiable feature for regular use.
Key Dimensions
| Dimension | Hyundai Santa Cruz | Mazda CX-30 |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 195.7" | 173.0" |
| Width | 75.0" | 70.7" |
| Height | 66.7" | 61.4" |
| Wheelbase | 118.3" | 104.4" |
Features Comparison
Safety
| Feature | Hyundai | Mazda |
|---|---|---|
| Blind Spot Monitor | ✓ | ✓ |
| Lane Departure Warning | ✓ | ✓ |
| Lane Keeping Assist System | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Cross Traffic Alert | ✓ | ✓ |
| Driver Attention Alert | ✓ | ✓ |
| Pre-Collision Safety System | ✓ | ✓ |
| Post-Collision Safety System | ✓ | ✓ |
| Dual Front Side-Mounted Airbags | ✓ | ✓ |
| Dual Rear Side-Mounted Airbags | ✓ | ✓ |
| Front Head Airbags | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Head Airbags | ✓ | ✓ |
| Passenger Airbag Occupant Sensing Deactivation | ✓ | ✓ |
| Electronic Stability Control | ✓ | ✓ |
| Traction Control System | ✓ | ✓ |
| LATCH System | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Door Child Safety Locks | ✓ | ✓ |
| Anti-lock Brakes (ABS) | 4-Wheel | 4-Wheel |
| Front Ventilated Disc Brakes | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Solid Disc Brakes | ✓ | ✓ |
| Brake Assist | ✓ | ✓ |
| Tire Pressure Monitoring System | ✓ | ✓ |
| Automatic Headlights | ✓ | ✓ |
| LED Headlights | ✓ | ✓ |
| Daytime Running Lights | ✓ | ✓ |
| Front Headrests | 2 | 2 |
| Front Height Adjustable Headrests | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Headrests | 3 | 3 |
| Rear Height Adjustable Headrests | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Center 3-Point Seatbelt | ✓ | ✓ |
| Anti-Theft Alarm System (Remote) | ✓ | — |
| Engine Immobilizer | ✓ | ✓ |
| Headlight Delay-Off | — | ✓ |
| Integrated Turn Signal Mirrors | — | ✓ |
Engine
| Feature | Hyundai | Mazda |
|---|---|---|
| Base Engine Displacement | 2.5 L | 2.5 L |
| Number of Cylinders | inline 4 | inline 4 |
| Base Engine Type | gas | gas |
| Horsepower | 191 hp @ 6100 rpm | 186 hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Torque | 181 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm | 186 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm |
| Number of Valves | 16 | 16 |
| Camshaft Type | Double overhead cam (DOHC) | Double overhead cam (DOHC) |
| Variable Valve Timing | Variable | Variable |
| Fuel Injection Type | ✓ | ✓ |
Drive Train
| Feature | Hyundai | Mazda |
|---|---|---|
| Transmission Type | 8-speed shiftable automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain Type | front wheel drive | all wheel drive |
| Hill Descent Control | ✓ | — |
Fuel
| Feature | Hyundai | Mazda |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel Type | regular unleaded | regular unleaded |
| EPA Fuel Economy (City/Highway) | 22/30 MPG | 24/31 MPG |
| EPA Fuel Economy (Combined) | 25 MPG | 27 MPG |
| EPA Driving Range (City/Highway) | 389.4/531.0 mi. | 304.8/393.7 mi. |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 17.7 gal. | 12.7 gal. |
Comfort & Convenience
| Feature | Hyundai | Mazda |
|---|---|---|
| Push Button Start | ✓ | ✓ |
| Tilt and Telescopic Steering Wheel | ✓ | ✓ |
| Audio Controls on Steering Wheel | ✓ | ✓ |
| Cruise Control on Steering Wheel | ✓ | ✓ |
| Electric Power Steering | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear View Camera | ✓ | ✓ |
| Cruise Control | ✓ | — |
| Front Cupholders | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rear Cupholders | ✓ | ✓ |
| Front Door Pockets | ✓ | ✓ |
| Front Seatback Storage | ✓ | — |
| Single Zone Climate Control | ✓ | ✓ |
| Interior Air Filtration | ✓ | — |
| Extended Cabin Heating/Cooling | ✓ | — |
| Dual Vanity Mirrors | ✓ | ✓ |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | — | ✓ |
| Rear Door Pockets | — | ✓ |
| Turn Signal Indicators in Mirrors | — | ✓ |
In Car Entertainment
| Feature | Hyundai | Mazda |
|---|---|---|
| Infotainment Display | 12.3 in | 8.8 in |
| AM/FM Stereo | ✓ | ✓ |
| Speaker System | 6 | 8 |
| Android Auto (Wireless) | ✓ | — |
| Apple CarPlay (Wireless) | ✓ | — |
| USB Port | ✓ | ✓ |
| USB Port with External Media Control | ✓ | ✓ |
| Satellite Radio | ✓ | — |
| Satellite Radio Trial Period | 3 months | — |
| Android Auto (Wired) | — | ✓ |
| Apple CarPlay (Wired) | — | ✓ |
Power Feature
| Feature | Hyundai | Mazda |
|---|---|---|
| One-Touch Power Windows | 1 | 4 |
| Keyless Entry | ✓ | — |
| Heated Mirrors | ✓ | ✓ |
| Remote Keyless Entry | — | ✓ |
Frontseats
| Feature | Hyundai | Mazda |
|---|---|---|
| Front Head Room | 40.2 in. | 38.1 in. |
| Front Leg Room | 41.4 in. | 41.7 in. |
| Front Shoulder Room | 57.7 in. | 55.6 in. |
| Front Hip Room | 54.5 in. | 54.6 in. |
| Seat Material: Cloth | ✓ | ✓ |
| Front Seat Type: Bucket | ✓ | ✓ |
| Driver Seat Manual Adjustments | 6-way | 6-way |
| Driver Seat Height Adjustment | ✓ | ✓ |
| Passenger Seat Manual Adjustments | — | 4-way |
Rearseats
| Feature | Hyundai | Mazda |
|---|---|---|
| Rear Head Room | 39.6 in. | 38.3 in. |
| Rear Leg Room | 36.5 in. | 36.3 in. |
| Rear Shoulder Room | 56.1 in. | 53.6 in. |
| Rear Hip Room | 53.5 in. | 53.2 in. |
| Split-Folding Rear Seatback | ✓ | ✓ |
| Reclining Rear Seats | — | ✓ |
Tires and Wheels
| Feature | Hyundai | Mazda |
|---|---|---|
| Wheel Finish | Painted Alloy | Painted Alloy |
| Wheel Size | 18 x 7.5 in | 16 x 6.5 in |
| Tire Type | All Season | All Season |
| Tire Size | 245/60R18 | 215/65R16 |
| Spare Tire Type | Temporary | Temporary |
| Spare Tire Location | Underbody Mounted | Inside Mounted |
Suspension
| Feature | Hyundai | Mazda |
|---|---|---|
| Four-Wheel Independent Suspension | ✓ | — |
| Front Suspension Type | — | Independent |
| Stabilizer Bar | — | ✓ |
Warranty
| Feature | Hyundai | Mazda |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Warranty | 5 yr./ 60000 mi. | 3 yr./ 36000 mi. |
| Drivetrain Warranty | 10 yr./ 100000 mi. | 5 yr./ 60000 mi. |
| Corrosion/Rust Warranty | 7 yr./ unlimited mi. | 5 yr./ unlimited mi. |
| Roadside Assistance | 5 yr./ unlimited mi. | 3 yr./ 36000 mi. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about comparing the 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz and 2026 Mazda CX-30.
Which vehicle is physically larger, and by how much?
The 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz (Car 1) is significantly larger, measuring 195.7 inches in length compared to the Mazda CX-30's 173.0 inches. This difference of 22.7 inches in length impacts exterior presence and potential interior volume.
What is the powertrain advantage of the standard CX-30 over the Santa Cruz?
The Mazda CX-30 (Car 2) includes All-Wheel Drive (AWD) as standard equipment, whereas the Hyundai Santa Cruz (Car 1) utilizes Front Wheel Drive (FWD) in its base configuration. Furthermore, the CX-30 has slightly better efficiency at 27 MPG combined.
How do the base engine outputs compare between the two crossovers?
The Santa Cruz produces 191 hp and 181 lb-ft of torque, slightly exceeding the CX-30's 186 hp and 186 lb-ft of torque. While the Santa Cruz has more horsepower, the CX-30 manages to generate 5 lb-ft more torque.
Is the higher price of the Santa Cruz justified by standard features?
The Santa Cruz commands a $3,525 higher MSRP. While it is longer, the CX-30 includes AWD standard, suggesting the premium for the Santa Cruz is largely for its truck-like crossover body structure and slightly greater horsepower.
Which vehicle offers better highway cruising economy?
The Mazda CX-30 offers better highway economy, achieving 31 MPG Highway compared to the Santa Cruz’s 30 MPG Highway rating. Both vehicles use regular unleaded fuel.
How do the transmissions differ between the base models?
The Hyundai Santa Cruz is equipped with a more advanced 8-speed shiftable automatic transmission. Conversely, the Mazda CX-30 utilizes a 6-speed shiftable automatic transmission.
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