2021 Mazda CX-30 vs 2021 Genesis GV80

The 2021 Genesis GV80, as a new entrant in the luxury SUV market, had the advantage of a fresh design approach, unburdened by a long legacy of design language. As Genesis' first SUV, it managed to blend innovation with the brand's emerging signature looks, such as the massive trapezoidal grille and the "Quad Lamp" LED headlight array. The GV80's design was characterized by its elegant two-box form, long hood, and distinctive styling cues that tied it to the Genesis sedan lineup. The interior was a testament to luxury, featuring a sleek, uncluttered dashboard with a 14.5-inch high-definition display, real wood, metal, and leather materials, and a focus on spaciousness and technology integration.

In contrast, the 2021 Mazda CX-30 2.5 Turbo presented a bold aesthetic with its shiny black 18-inch wheels, grille, and body cladding, giving it a distinctive and agile appearance. The CX-30's design set it apart from its Mazda3 hatchback roots, offering a higher stance and a unique style. Inside, the CX-30 Turbo shared similarities with the Mazda3, featuring quality materials and an upscale vibe. The cabin was designed with a driver-focused layout, providing comfort and ease of access to controls. However, the rear seat space was limited, and the cargo capacity was modest compared to larger SUVs.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 offered two engine options: a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 300 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque, and a more powerful twin-turbo 3.5-liter V6 with 375 horsepower and 391 pound-feet of torque. The GV80's performance was enhanced by an eight-speed automatic transmission and available all-wheel drive. The 2.5T models provided sufficient power for most driving situations, while the 3.5T models delivered a smoother and more robust driving experience, aided by active noise cancellation and advanced suspension systems. Fuel economy for the GV80 varied, with the 2.5T achieving up to 23 mpg combined and the 3.5T AWD rated at 20 mpg combined.

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 Turbo featured a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering between 227 and 250 horsepower depending on fuel octane, and up to 320 pound-feet of torque. The CX-30 Turbo's performance was characterized by effortless acceleration and a responsive driving experience, thanks to its six-speed automatic transmission and standard i-Activ all-wheel-drive system. The SUV's G-Vectoring Control Plus technology and revised suspension tuning contributed to its dynamic handling. However, the CX-30's fuel economy was less impressive, averaging 24.1 mpg, with a limited driving range due to its small fuel tank.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 boasted a sophisticated interior with advanced technology and luxury features. The center console and stack were designed with ergonomic controls, including a rotary gear selector and a multimedia controller with dual control capabilities. The GV80 offered comfortable seating for up to seven passengers in the 3.5T AWD Advanced+ models, with power-adjustable second-row seats and a power-folding third row. The interior space was generous, with luxury amenities such as three-row climate control and power rear-door closure.

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 Turbo provided a comfortable and driver-focused interior, with eight-way power-adjustable front seats and a heated steering wheel in higher trims. The cabin's minimalist design and high-quality materials created a sense of spaciousness, although rear-seat accommodations were cramped for adults. The CX-30 offered 20.2 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 45.2 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. However, the location of the optional wireless smartphone charger limited storage options in the center console.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 featured a state-of-the-art infotainment system with a 14.5-inch HD screen, supporting Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system offered user-configurable split-screen displays and cloud-connected profiles for personalized settings. The GV80 also included a digital key function for Android users, Genesis Connected Services, and a premium Lexicon audio system with 21 speakers. Advanced features like a head-up display and a 3D digital instrument cluster were available on higher trims.

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 Turbo's infotainment system was centered around an 8.8-inch display, operated via physical controls and voice commands. While the system required acclimation, it offered standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. The CX-30 Turbo included Mazda Connected Services with remote engine start and a vehicle finder function, as well as a Bose premium audio system in higher trims. The Active Driving Display provided useful data, enhancing safety and convenience.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 was equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including 10 airbags, advanced driver assistance systems, and adaptive cruise control with machine learning. While it had not yet been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA, Genesis aimed for top safety ratings. The GV80's Highway Driving Assist and Remote Smart Parking Assist added to its safety credentials.

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 Turbo earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and five-star ratings from the NHTSA, except for a four-star rollover resistance rating. The CX-30 Turbo came with a full suite of i-ActiveSense advanced driving assistance systems, including adaptive front lighting and Traffic Jam Assist. The SUV's mobile 9-1-1 automatic emergency notification system provided added peace of mind.