2022 Genesis GV70 vs 2021 Mazda CX-5

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 was a departure from the aggressive styling trends seen in many modern SUVs. It featured a sleek and smooth design that exuded a sense of motion even when stationary. While not overly flashy, the CX-5 took Mazda's familiar design language in a more refined direction. The exterior differences among the various trim levels were subtle, with the base Sport model offering practical features like automatic LED headlights and rain-sensing wipers. As buyers moved up the trim ladder, they found enhancements such as leatherette seats, dual-zone climate control, and advanced lighting systems that improved nighttime visibility. The top-tier Signature model offered a premium feel with Nappa leather seats and genuine wood trim, rivaling luxury brands in terms of interior quality and design.

The 2022 Genesis GV70, on the other hand, combined elements from other Genesis models with its own unique flair. It featured quad LED headlights and a large shield-shaped grille, complemented by a sloping roofline that gave it a sporty, fastback appearance. The GV70's profile was muscular, with ribbed detailing adding to its rugged yet sleek look. The Sport Prestige model stood out with its distinctive front fascia, 21-inch wheels, and dark chrome trim. Inside, the GV70's design was inspired by an airplane wing's cross-section, with a minimalist approach that hid air vents and housed controls in an elliptical pod. The interior offered a range of color options and luxurious materials, with the Sport Prestige model featuring Nappa leather and suede inserts.

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 offered two engine options, both paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. The base engine was a 2.5-liter four-cylinder producing 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque, available with either front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD). The turbocharged 2.5-liter engine, available on higher trims, delivered 250 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque, with AWD as standard. The CX-5's fuel efficiency varied, with the FWD non-turbo model achieving 25 mpg city and 31 mpg highway, while the turbocharged AWD version managed 22 mpg city and 27 mpg highway. The CX-5 was known for its engaging driving dynamics, though its stiff suspension could be a drawback for some.

The 2022 Genesis GV70 came with two powerful engine options: a 2.5-liter turbo-four producing 300 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 generating 375 horsepower and 391 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission with standard AWD. The GV70 featured a rear electronic limited-slip differential and launch control, emphasizing its sporty intentions. The Sport+ drive mode enhanced throttle response and transmission behavior, though the GV70's chassis and steering didn't quite match the sharpness of some competitors. The GV70 excelled in highway cruising, but its firm ride and lack of solid luxury feel were noted.

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 offered a comfortable and stylish interior, though rear legroom was limited for taller passengers. It featured two full LATCH connections in the rear and straightforward climate controls. The CX-5's cargo space was below average for the segment, with 30.9 cubic feet behind the second row and 59.6 cubic feet with the seats folded. The larger shifter and infotainment controls took up space, and the cargo area was less spacious than competitors like the Subaru Forester and Toyota RAV4.

The 2022 Genesis GV70 provided mid-pack interior space, with adequate legroom and good rear-seat visibility. Cargo space was 28.9 cubic feet with the seats up and 56.9 cubic feet with them folded, placing it in the middle of the segment. The interior design compromised storage space, with limited room for small items. The Sport Prestige model's heavily bolstered seats offered heating, ventilation, massage, and posture-assist functions, though some controls were less intuitive.

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 featured a 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen, but its operating system was criticized for being outdated and difficult to use. While Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, the screen's positioning made it hard to reach, and the lack of tuning knobs was a drawback.

The 2022 Genesis GV70 boasted a 14.5-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, praised for its tile-based layout and crisp graphics. The infotainment system's rotary controller was functional, and higher trims offered a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and 12-inch head-up display. The GV70 included a digital-key feature, fingerprint scanner, and advanced rear-seat monitors, with Genesis Connected Services providing additional features.

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 came with a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and forward collision warning. It earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA. Optional features included a head-up display and surround-view camera system.

The 2022 Genesis GV70's safety ratings were not yet available, but it offered standard features like lane-keep assist, forward-collision warning, and Highway Driving Assist. Optional features included Highway Driving Assist 2 and navigation-based adaptive cruise control. The GV70's Highway Driving Assist impressed with smooth control inputs, though its lane-centering function had limitations.