2024 Genesis GV70 vs 2024 Mazda CX-30

The 2024 Genesis GV70 distinguished itself with a sleek design that balanced luxury and SUV presence. Its split headlights and large grille were signature Genesis elements, while the hatchback-like rear window profile and large exhaust outlets on the Sport Prestige trim added unique flair. The GV70's styling was more refined compared to competitors like the Audi Q5 and BMW X3, which appeared bulkier. The interior was equally impressive, featuring quilted Nappa leather and a panoramic sunroof, with innovative details like an elliptical pod for climate controls and a rotary infotainment controller that added a futuristic touch.

In contrast, the 2024 Mazda CX-30 had a more rugged appearance, with excessive charcoal-colored plastic on the lower body. Despite this, it maintained an appealing design with short overhangs, a long hood, and a rakish roofline. Inside, the CX-30 felt upscale, with a refined interior that rivaled entry-level luxury SUVs. The gauges were clear, and the infotainment screen was integrated into the dashboard, complemented by dual-zone climate controls. The CX-30 offered a variety of trims, with the 2.5 Turbo models providing up to 250 hp, and prices ranging from $24,995 to $36,800.

The 2024 Genesis GV70 offered two gasoline engine options: a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with 300 hp and a 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 with 375 hp, both paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard AWD. The Electrified GV70 featured front and rear electric motors producing 429 hp, with a Boost Mode increasing output to 483 hp. While the GV70 delivered strong acceleration, its handling was less agile compared to sportier rivals like the BMW X3. The ride was comfortable but not exceptional, with the suspension tending to crash over bumps. The Electrified GV70 maintained similar driving dynamics despite its additional weight, offering adjustable regenerative braking for a customizable driving experience.

The 2024 Mazda CX-30, equipped with a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, delivered 250 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque. The powertrain provided a smooth build-up of power, making it feel like the sports car of its class. A six-speed automatic transmission and standard AWD ensured seamless power delivery. However, fuel economy was a downside, with observed mileage of 21.3 mpg. The CX-30 excelled in driving dynamics, offering a nimble and connected ride. It handled back roads with enthusiasm, and its AWD system, Off-Road traction assist, and ground clearance made it capable on challenging trails.

The 2024 Genesis GV70 offered competitive interior space, with slightly less headroom than some rivals but more front-seat legroom than the BMW X3 and Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class. Cargo space was 28.9 cubic feet with rear seats up, expanding to 56.9 cubic feet when folded. The Electrified GV70 had minimal impact on interior space, with slight reductions in legroom and headroom. The stylish interior design, however, limited small-item storage, though features like automatic side bolsters in Sport mode added to the luxury experience.

The 2024 Mazda CX-30 featured a well-designed interior with quality materials and logical controls. The cabin included gloss black trim, metallic accents, and Terracotta leather seats with Black suede inserts. While front-seat comfort was excellent, rear-seat space was cramped. Cargo volume was 20.2 cubic feet, expandable to 45.2 cubic feet with the rear seats down. The CX-30's interior was practical, with flexible storage options, though not overly generous.

The 2024 Genesis GV70 came with a 14.5-inch touchscreen and wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Higher trims offered a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 12-inch head-up display. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with a rotary controller for added convenience. Genesis included a fingerprint scanner for driver profiles and a digital key feature for smartphone access.

The 2024 Mazda CX-30 Turbo models featured a new 10.25-inch infotainment display with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The screen's placement was less convenient, but it marked an improvement over previous static displays. Mazda Connected Services offered a three-year subscription, and new USB-C ports provided modern connectivity. Higher trims included a wireless smartphone charger and a Bose premium audio system.

The 2024 Genesis GV70 received the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ award for both gasoline and Electrified models. NHTSA ratings included four-star frontal and rollover crash-test ratings for gasoline models, with a five-star overall rating for the 2023 model. Standard safety features included lane-keep assist, forward-collision warning, and Highway Driving Assist. The Highway Driving Assist 2 system added lane-change capability and blind-spot monitoring.

The 2024 Mazda CX-30 emphasized safety with new standard features like blind-spot monitoring and rear-seat alert. It included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. Higher trims offered adaptive headlights and a surround-view camera system. The CX-30 earned a five-star NHTSA rating in most assessments and was an IIHS Top Safety Pick+.