2023 Genesis GV70 vs 2024 Mazda CX-5

The 2023 Genesis GV70 was a testament to the brand's commitment to luxury and style. Its design drew inspiration from the G70 compact luxury sedan, with split-bar headlights and a distinctive chrome line that suggested a coupe-like SUV without sacrificing versatility. Inside, the GV70's cabin was a blend of contemporary and classic aesthetics, featuring top-notch materials and excellent fit and finish. The dashboard was equipped with a full touchscreen, complemented by a rotary dial and button controls, offering a user-friendly interface. The GV70's interior was a luxurious space, with options for genuine leather upholstery, ambient lighting, and a premium stereo system, enhancing the overall driving experience.

In contrast, the 2024 Mazda CX-5 maintained its traditional styling cues, which had aged gracefully since the second-generation model debuted in 2017. The new Carbon Turbo trim added a fresh touch with Zircon Sand paint and Terracotta leather seats. Mazda's focus on interior quality was evident, with comfortable and supportive seats, padded center console sides, and a design that rivaled luxury brands. The CX-5's cabin was snug but comfortable for four adults, with thoughtful features like rear air conditioning vents and a center armrest with cupholders. Despite its smaller size, the CX-5 offered a premium feel at a mainstream price.

The 2023 Genesis GV70 offered a choice between two gas-powered engines and an electrified version. The 2.5T model featured a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 300 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque, while the 3.5T variant boasted a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 with 375 horsepower and 391 pound-feet of torque. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive, delivering a refined and well-rounded driving experience. The GV70 Electrified, with its 77.4-kWh battery and dual electric motors, generated 429 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque, with a Boost Mode increasing output to 483 horsepower. It offered a range of 236 miles and featured DC fast charging capabilities.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 Carbon Turbo, when fueled with premium gas, delivered 256 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque, while regular gas provided 227 horsepower and 310 lb-ft. The turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine was paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. The CX-5's powertrain was more rewarding with a gradual acceleration approach, and its fuel economy was rated at 24 mpg combined. Mazda's re-tuned suspension and G-Vectoring Control Plus technology enhanced the CX-5's handling, providing a smooth and connected driving experience. The CX-5 was versatile, with modes for Normal, Sport, and Off-Road driving, and it could tow up to 2,000 pounds.

The 2023 Genesis GV70 offered 56.9 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded and 28.9 cubic feet with them in use, making it competitive in the compact luxury SUV segment. The GV70 featured a hands-free power liftgate and a well-designed center console with large cupholders and a retractable tray. While the front seats were comfortable and adjustable, rear legroom was tighter, requiring front-row occupants to adjust their seats for rear passenger comfort.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5, though smaller in interior space, provided a comfortable environment for four adults. The standard heated front seats were redesigned for comfort and support, with the driver's seat offering six-way power adjustment. The CX-5's cabin featured leather upholstery on most trims, with premium Nappa leather on the top-tier model. Rear passengers enjoyed good support and amenities like air conditioning vents and a center armrest. The CX-5 offered 30 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats and 59.3 cubic feet with them folded, which was less than some competitors.

The 2023 Genesis GV70 came equipped with a 14.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system, featuring navigation, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The system was user-friendly, with large icons and logical menus, complemented by a rotary dial and helpful buttons. The GV70 also offered four USB ports, wireless device charging, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and a nine-speaker stereo system. Additional features included ambient lighting, a digital instrument panel, and the Genesis digital key.

Mazda's approach to technology in the 2024 CX-5 focused on minimizing driver distraction. The CX-5 featured traditional switchgear for essential controls and a 10.25-inch display for infotainment. While Mazda resisted touchscreens, it allowed touchscreen operation for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which were available wirelessly on several trims. The CX-5's infotainment system was navigated using a large knob and surrounding buttons, offering a straightforward user experience. Mazda Connected Services provided remote engine starting, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and more, while a 10-speaker Bose premium sound system enhanced the audio experience.

The 2023 Genesis GV70 was equipped with a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance technologies, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, driver attention monitoring, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Additional features like a blind-spot camera system and a 360-degree parking camera were available in higher trims. The Electrified GV70 included most of these features as standard, with the head-up display reserved for the Prestige trim.

Every 2024 Mazda CX-5 came with advanced driving assistance systems, such as adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assist. Higher trims offered upgrades like adaptive headlights, traffic sign recognition, and Traffic Jam Assist. The CX-5 2.5 Turbo Signature included a driver monitoring system, surround-view camera, and automatic reverse braking. The CX-5 received five-star ratings from the NHTSA, though it did not earn the IIHS Top Safety Pick designation for 2024.