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Mazda CX-30 vs SEAT Arona comparison

Compare performance (186 HP vs 150 HP), boot space and price (25,200 £ vs 20,700 £ ) at a glance. Find out which car is the better choice for you – Mazda CX-30 or SEAT Arona?

Mazda CX-30 vs SEAT Arona: Key differences

Mazda CX-30

4.5 (6 Reviews)
rate
  • moderately more power
  • barely more trunk space
details

SEAT Arona

4.9 (3 Reviews)
rate
  • markedly cheaper
  • marginally more efficient
  • markedly lighter
details

All details on performance, efficiency, range and trunk space can be found in the technical comparison below – including user reviews for both models.

By Achim Sedelmaier

CX-30

The automotive segment is constantly evolving, and in the compact SUV segment, two standout contenders are the Mazda CX-30 and the SEAT Arona. Both vehicles cater to a growing audience that values versatility, advanced technology, and dynamic driving experiences. In this article, we'll dive deep into the specifications, features, and innovations that define these two remarkable SUVs.

Arona

Design and Dimensions

The Mazda CX-30 presents a striking design that embodies Mazda's Kodo philosophy, which emphasizes elegance and a sense of motion. Measuring 4395 mm in length, 1795 mm in width, and 1540 mm in height, the CX-30 offers a robust and modern silhouette that appeals to many buyers.

On the other hand, the SEAT Arona, while smaller at 4153 mm in length, 1780 mm in width, and 1537 mm in height, still boasts an athletic stance and an eye-catching design. The Arona targets urban drivers who appreciate a compact vehicle but do not want to sacrifice style and functionality.

CX-30

Performance and Powertrains

Looking under the hood, the Mazda CX-30 is equipped with a range of petrol hybrid engines, offering two power outputs: 140 HP and 186 HP. Its 1998 cm³ engine provides sufficient torque (up to 240 Nm), allowing it to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in as little as 8.3 seconds. The CX-30 also features both a manual and automatic gearbox, catering to different driving preferences.

The SEAT Arona offers three petrol engine options, ranging from 95 HP to a potent 150 HP. The standout performance version can reach 0 to 100 km/h in a competitive 8.4 seconds. The Arona’s engine lineup is complemented by a manual gearbox and a dual-clutch automatic option for seamless gear shifts, making it a solid choice for performance-oriented drivers.

Arona

Fuel Efficiency and Environmental Impact

Fuel efficiency is a crucial aspect for many buyers. The Mazda CX-30 records a consumption figure between 5.7 and 6.6 L/100 km, which is commendable for its class, given its performance capabilities. The vehicle also emits CO2 levels ranging from 129 to 148 g/km, placing it in an efficiency class of D to E.

On the contrary, the SEAT Arona excels slightly in this category, offering a remarkable consumption between 5.4 and 5.6 L/100 km and CO2 emissions ranging from 122 to 128 g/km, solidifying its position in the D efficiency class. This makes the Arona a more environmentally friendly option for those concerned about emissions.

CX-30

Interior Comfort and Technology

Inside, the Mazda CX-30 emphasizes a premium feel, incorporating high-quality materials and an ergonomic layout. The spacious cabin comfortably seats five adults, with a trunk capacity of 430 liters, making it practical for daily use. The CX-30 also integrates a suite of modern technology, including a user-friendly infotainment system with smartphone connectivity, advanced safety features, and driver-assist technologies.

The SEAT Arona, on the other hand, offers a youthful and tech-savvy interior. Its trunk capacity of 400 liters is slightly less than that of the CX-30, but it still provides ample storage for everyday needs. The Arona focuses heavily on connectivity, featuring an advanced infotainment system with accessibility to various apps, making it a favorite among younger drivers.

Arona

Conclusion: The Right Choice for You

In conclusion, both the Mazda CX-30 and the SEAT Arona bring unique strengths to the compact SUV segment. The CX-30 impresses with its performance, upscale interior, and advanced safety technologies, while the Arona stands out with its fuel efficiency, compact dimensions for urban driving, and youthful flair.

Your choice ultimately depends on your personal priorities: whether you lean towards performance and comfort or prefer efficiency and style. Test driving both vehicles will surely help in making the right decision tailored to your needs.

Here’s where it gets real: The technical differences in detail

CX-30

Costs and Efficiency:

Price and efficiency are key factors when choosing a car – and this is often where the real differences emerge.

SEAT Arona is markedly cheaper – starting at 20,700 £ , while the Mazda CX-30 costs 25,200 £ . That’s a price difference of around 4,534 £.

Fuel consumption also shows a difference: the SEAT Arona uses 5.3 L/100km and is marginally more efficient than the Mazda CX-30 with 5.7 L/100km. The difference is about 0.4 L/100km.

Arona

Engine and Performance:

Power, torque and acceleration say a lot about how a car feels on the road. This is where you see which model delivers more driving dynamics.

When it comes to engine power, the Mazda CX-30 offers moderately more power – delivering 186 HP compared to 150 HP. That’s roughly 36 HP more horsepower.

Both models accelerate almost equally fast – 8.3 s from 0 to 100 km/h.

There’s also a difference in torque: the SEAT Arona delivers only slightly more torque with 250 Nm compared to 240 Nm. That’s about 10 Nm more.

CX-30

Space and Everyday Use:

Beyond pure performance, interior space and usability matter most in daily life. This is where you see which car is more practical and versatile.

Both vehicles offer seating for 5 people.

In terms of curb weight, SEAT Arona is markedly lighter – 1,188 kg compared to 1,455 kg. The difference is around 267 kg.

Looking at boot space, the Mazda CX-30 offers barely more boot space – 430 L compared to 400 L. That’s a difference of about 30 L.

When it comes to payload, the SEAT Arona carries only slightly more – 522 kg compared to 496 kg. That’s a difference of about 26 kg.

Who wins the race in the data check?

The Mazda CX-30 sits just ahead overall in the objective data comparison.
This result only shows which model scores more points on paper – not which of the two cars feels right for you.

from £25,200
CX-30

Mazda CX-30

  • Engine Type : Petrol MHEV
  • Transmission : Manuel, Automatic
  • Drive Type : Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP : 140 - 186 HP
  • Consumption L/100km : 5.7 - 6.6 L/100km
Mazda CX-30
SEAT Arona

Costs and Consumption

View detailed analysis

Engine and Performance

View detailed analysis

Dimensions and Body

View detailed analysis

Mazda CX-30

The Mazda CX-30 blends Mazda’s upscale styling with a compact crossover body, offering a refined interior and engaging driving dynamics. It’s a practical choice for buyers who want a premium feel and agile handling in a city-friendly package.

details

SEAT Arona

The SEAT Arona is a compact crossover that blends practical, city-friendly packaging with a sporty, youthful design. It delivers a comfortable ride, an intuitive cabin and economical running costs, making it a sensible pick for daily drives and weekend getaways.

details
Mazda CX-30
SEAT Arona

Costs and Consumption

Price
25,200 - 36,800 £
Price
20,700 - 30,500 £
Consumption L/100km
5.7 - 6.6 L/100km
Consumption L/100km
5.3 - 5.8 L/100km
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Electric Range
-
Electric Range
-
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
-
co2
129 - 148 g/km
co2
120 - 132 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
-
Fuel tank capacity
-

Dimensions and Body

Body Type
SUV
Body Type
SUV
Seats
5
Seats
5
Doors
-
Doors
-
Curb weight
1,455 - 1,587 kg
Curb weight
1,188 - 1,268 kg
Trunk capacity
422 - 430 L
Trunk capacity
400 L
Length
-
Length
-
Width
1,795 mm
Width
1,780 mm
Height
-
Height
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Payload
458 - 496 kg
Payload
502 - 522 kg

Engine and Performance

Engine Type
Petrol MHEV
Engine Type
Petrol
Transmission
Manuel, Automatic
Transmission
Manuel, Automatic
Transmission Detail
Manual Gearbox, Automatic Gearbox
Transmission Detail
Manual Gearbox, Dual-Clutch Automatic
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
Power HP
140 - 186 HP
Power HP
95 - 150 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
8.3 - 10.3 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
8.3 - 11.1 s
Max Speed
-
Max Speed
-
Torque
238 - 240 Nm
Torque
175 - 250 Nm
Number of Cylinders
4
Number of Cylinders
3 - 4
Power kW
103 - 137 kW
Power kW
70 - 110 kW
Engine capacity
1,998 - 2,488 cm3
Engine capacity
999 - 1,498 cm3

General

Model Year
2025
Model Year
2025
CO2 Efficiency Class
D, E
CO2 Efficiency Class
D
Brand
Mazda
Brand
SEAT
DriveDuel uses data analysis and artificial intelligence to evaluate vehicle data and create content. Content is regularly reviewed and improved. The displayed prices are estimates based on German list prices, adjusted to the respective country’s VAT. Country-specific registration taxes are not included. This information is not legally binding.