2022 Mazda CX-30 vs 2023 Genesis GV80

The 2022 Mazda CX-30 had a design reminiscent of a smaller CX-5, featuring an upright grille and smooth, flowing fenders. It shared its platform with the Mazda3, essentially serving as a raised version of the Mazda3 hatchback. The CX-30's raked windshield acted like a greenhouse on sunny days, potentially causing distractions for taller drivers due to its slight curve. Inside, the cabin was both comfortable and quiet, with a solid feel to all components. The interior design was one of the best among affordable cars, blending conventional and digital displays artfully. However, the infotainment system, while attractive, had a steep learning curve, prioritizing form over function.

In contrast, the 2023 Genesis GV80 exuded sophistication with its quad-lamp headlights and bold grille, presenting a stately appearance at over 16 feet long. The Prestige trim featured 22-inch alloy wheels, enhancing its elegant look, especially with the matte Brunswick Green paint. Inside, the dark green quilted leather seats and a dash split by thin air vents added to the luxury feel. The center console housed three large dials for infotainment, transmission, and drive modes, while the two-spoke steering wheel stood out from other luxury brands. The 14.5-inch infotainment screen, though slightly awkwardly placed, was part of a spacious and luxurious interior.

The 2022 Mazda CX-30 came with a base 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 186 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque. Our test model featured the upgraded 2.5-liter turbocharged engine, delivering 227 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque on 87 octane fuel, and 250 hp and 320 lb-ft on 93 octane. Power was routed through a six-speed automatic transmission to all four wheels. The turbocharged engine provided decent acceleration, especially in Sport mode, which enhanced throttle response and shift mapping. The CX-30's sporty ride was complemented by well-weighted steering and quick turn-in, though it resulted in a rough ride over potholes.

The 2023 Genesis GV80 offered a choice between a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 300 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque, or a turbo 3.5-liter V6 producing 375 hp and 391 lb-ft. Our tester had the larger engine, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. While not particularly quick, taking about five and a half seconds to reach sixty, the GV80 excelled in highway driving. Its smooth power delivery and electronically controlled suspension, which adjusted for road conditions, provided a quiet and comfortable ride, enhanced by active noise cancellation.

The 2022 Mazda CX-30 offered up to 45.2 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded, and 20.2 cubic feet with them in use, average for its segment. The Turbo Premium Plus model featured a power rear liftgate, adding convenience. The front seats had a sliding center console cover, which could get stuck when the rear seats were folded. Despite this design flaw, the console provided ample space for personal items, and the front doors had deep pockets for large water bottles. Rear seats offered solid headroom, suitable for short-to-medium trips, though longer drives might be cramped.

The 2023 Genesis GV80 compensated for its lack of driving excitement with luxury features. Heated front seats and a heated steering wheel were standard, with our tester boasting ventilated front and rear seats and an Ergo Motion driver’s seat. The Nappa leather seats were sumptuous, and a third row was available, though with limited legroom. The GV80 featured Genesis puddle lamps, a proximity key, and a digital key option. The tri-zone climate control and optional 21-speaker stereo system added to the comfort. Cargo space was generous, with 34.9 cubic feet behind the second row, expanding to 84 cubic feet with seats folded, and a towing capacity of 6,000 pounds.

The 2022 Mazda CX-30 featured an elegant dash design with an infotainment screen nestled into the dash, controlled by a rotary dial/joystick and toggle buttons. This setup, inspired by luxury-car systems like BMW’s iDrive, lacked touch functionality, making it cumbersome to use, especially with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system was challenging to navigate, even after setting up presets, and could be distracting for new users.

The 2023 Genesis GV80 came with a 14.5-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch 3D digital gauge cluster. While the infotainment screen was slightly out of reach, the dial offered a "clicky" feel and could detect handwriting. The menu structure was inconsistent, with a steep learning curve. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were available, though not wirelessly. The GV80 featured wireless charging, multiple USB ports, and a remote smart parking assist, allowing the car to park itself without the driver inside.

The 2022 Mazda CX-30 was equipped with standard driver-assistance features, including forward collision avoidance, pedestrian detection, and adaptive cruise control. The Turbo Premium Plus model added blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a 360-degree parking camera. The CX-30 earned five stars from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ award from the IIHS, with top marks in crash tests and driver-assistance technology.

The 2023 Genesis GV80 offered advanced driver’s aids, such as forward collision warning, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. It featured a video feed of the blind spot in the digital gauge cluster and Highway Drive Assist for approved highways. The GV80 received five stars from the NHTSA and a Good rating from the IIHS for crashworthiness, though the headlights and LATCH system were rated Acceptable.