2026 Genesis GV70 vs 2026 Mazda CX-30

There are some subtle alterations to the GV70’s exterior, most notably to the grille and lighting clusters. To find the biggest changes for 2026, though, you’ll have to look inside to see the very wide OLED display that dominates the view from the driver’s seat. In addition to the massive infotainment panel, the software that powers the GV70’s abundant technology and safety packages has gone through a comprehensive upgrade.

Verdict: While we’d love to see Genesis push the styling envelope a little further—recent concepts like the X Gran Coupe and Equator show what the Korean brand’s stylists are capable of—the 2026 GV70 remains near the head of its class of compact luxury crossovers. The GV70 is Genesis’ most popular model and represented 35% of total Genesis sales in the United States last year. Expect that trend to continue for the foreseeable future.

If rear seat room and an accommodating cargo area are high on your wish list, skip the Mazda CX-30. If those things don’t matter as much as good looks, an upscale interior, rewarding driving dynamics, promising reliability, and top-notch safety ratings, then this Mazda delivers. This year, new Aire Edition trim levels, drivetrain and suspension enhancements, and a larger infotainment screen make the CX-30 even more appealing.

Verdict: We like the 2026 Mazda CX-30, but it’s not the right choice for everybody. The back seat and cargo area are cramped, and the infotainment controls are fussy. Otherwise, the CX-30 looks and feels like entry-luxury instead of entry-level.