2021 Genesis GV80 vs 2022 Mazda CX-5

The 2021 Genesis GV80, as Genesis's first SUV, was a fresh design that managed to balance innovation with the brand's emerging signature style. It featured a long hood, short front overhang, and a distinctive grille with a diamond mesh and the Genesis flying "G" badge. The SUV's design was further enhanced by the "Quad Lamp" LED headlight array and large aluminum-alloy wheels, which varied in size depending on the trim level. The rear design echoed the front with Quad Lamp taillights and twin trapezoidal tailpipes. Inside, the GV80 offered a luxurious experience with a sleek, uncluttered dashboard, real wood, metal, and leather materials, and a 14.5-inch high-definition display, creating a sophisticated and spacious environment.

In contrast, the 2022 Mazda CX-5 maintained its familiar design with subtle updates, including new LED headlights and taillights, revised bumpers, and a redesigned grille. The top Signature trim featured body-colour lower exterior trim, emphasizing Mazda's premium aspirations. Inside, the CX-5 retained its upscale feel with Nappa leather upholstery, real wood trim, and polished metallic accents. The new seats provided improved comfort and support, enhancing the driving experience. Despite the lack of significant interior changes, the CX-5's design updates and premium materials contributed to its appeal as a stylish and comfortable compact SUV.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 offered two engine options: a 2.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 300 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque, and a 3.5-litre twin-turbo V6 with 375 hp and 391 lb-ft of torque. Both engines came with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive in Canada. The GV80's suspension system, particularly in the 3.5T models, featured electronically controlled suspension with road preview, enhancing ride comfort. The 2.5T engine provided sufficient power for most driving situations, while the 3.5T offered a smoother and more powerful experience, aided by active noise cancellation. Fuel consumption for the 2.5T was rated at 11.3 L/100 km city and 9.5 highway, while the 3.5T consumed 12.9 L/100 km city and 10.4 highway.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 came with a standard Skyactiv-G 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, delivering 187 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque. All models featured a revised six-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. For those seeking more power, the turbocharged engine option provided 256 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque on premium gas. The CX-5's fuel consumption was rated at 9.3 L/100 km combined for the base engine and 9.8 L/100 km for the turbocharged version. The new Mazda Intelligent Drive Select (Mi-Drive) offered different driving modes, enhancing the driving experience. The 2022 CX-5's improved structural rigidity and suspension tuning resulted in a quieter, smoother, and sportier ride, making it a compelling choice for driving enthusiasts.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 featured a sophisticated interior with a focus on technology and design. The centre console and stack housed a rotary gear selector and a circular multimedia controller with dual control capabilities. The HVAC control panel used capacitive touch buttons with intelligent masking to prevent accidental misuse. The second row offered ample space for two adults, with power-adjustable seats and window shades available. The 3.5T models included a third row, increasing passenger capacity to seven, with power-folding seats for added convenience.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 addressed previous complaints about its ride and seating comfort with new furnishings. The updated seats provided better support and a sportier driving position. Most models included a height-adjustable front passenger seat, dual-zone climate control, and heated and ventilated front seats. The back seat remained snug but offered heated cushions and air conditioning vents for added comfort. The control layout, while not touchscreen, became more intuitive over time. Cargo space was adequate, with 871 litres behind the rear seats and 1,680 litres with the seats folded, making it competitive with entry-level luxury SUVs.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 boasted a sixth-generation Genesis UX infotainment system with a 14.5-inch HD touchscreen, supporting Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system offered cloud connectivity, over-the-air updates, and user-configurable displays. Android users could utilize a digital key function, while Genesis Connected Services provided features like remote start and emergency assistance. A head-up display and a 12.3-inch 3D digital instrument cluster were available on higher trims, along with a Lexicon Quantum Logic Surround audio system with 21 speakers.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 retained its Mazda Connect infotainment system with a 10.25-inch display, lacking touchscreen capability and natural voice recognition. Users relied on centre console and steering wheel controls, with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard features. Mazda Connected Services offered a two-year trial subscription, and higher trims included a 10-speaker Bose premium sound system. While the system required acclimation, it provided essential connectivity and entertainment options for drivers and passengers.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 received top safety ratings, including a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA. It featured 10 airbags, including a front-centre airbag, and a comprehensive suite of driver assistance and safety features. These included blind-spot collision avoidance, lane-departure warning, forward collision-avoidance assist, and adaptive cruise control with machine learning. The GV80 also offered advanced features like highway-driving assist and Remote Smart Parking Assist for added convenience and safety.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 also earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, showcasing its commitment to safety. The standard i-Activsense package included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, and lane-keeping assist. Higher trims added features like adaptive headlights, a surround-view camera system, and Traffic Jam Assist. The CX-5's safety technology operated mostly in the background, providing a seamless and reassuring driving experience. The head-up display integrated blind-spot warnings, enhancing driver awareness and safety.