2023 Genesis GV80 vs 2022 Mazda CX-5

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 underwent subtle yet impactful exterior updates, including new LED headlights and taillights, which provided a more distinctive illumination. The refreshed bumpers, grille, and rear liftgate, along with new alloy wheel designs, contributed to its refined appearance. The top-tier Signature trim featured body-colour lower exterior trim, emphasizing Mazda's ambition to position itself as a premium brand. Inside, the CX-5 retained its luxurious feel, especially in the Signature trim, with premium Nappa leather upholstery, real wood trim, and polished metallic accents. The new seats offered improved comfort, enhancing the overall driving experience.

In contrast, the 2023 Genesis GV80 exuded sophistication with its quad-lamp headlights and bold grille, presenting a stately presence just shy of 5 metres in length. The Prestige trim tester boasted 22-inch alloy wheels, enhancing its elegant look, especially with the matte Brunswick Green paint. Inside, the dark green quilted leather seats, complemented by metal and matte wood trim, created a luxurious atmosphere. The centre console featured three large dials for infotainment, transmission, and drive modes, while the two-spoke steering wheel added a unique touch. Despite a minor quibble with the 14.5-inch infotainment screen's placement, the GV80's interior was spacious and luxurious, offering a comfortable environment for occupants.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 offered a Skyactiv-G 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing 187 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque, paired with a revised 6-speed automatic transmission for enhanced responsiveness. All-wheel drive was standard across all models, with fuel consumption rated at 9.3 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving. For those seeking more power, the turbocharged engine delivered 256 horsepower and 320 pound-feet of torque on premium gas, with a slightly higher fuel consumption of 9.8 L/100 km. The CX-5's improved structural rigidity and reworked suspension provided a quieter, smoother ride, with reduced body roll and enhanced driving dynamics, making it a compelling alternative to entry-level luxury SUVs.

The 2023 Genesis GV80 came standard with all-wheel drive and offered a choice between a turbocharged 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with 300 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque, or a twin-turbo 3.5-litre V6 producing 375 horsepower and 391 pound-feet of torque. Both engines were mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission. While not the quickest in its class, the GV80 excelled in highway driving, with smooth power delivery and shifts. The electronically controlled suspension, combined with active noise cancellation, ensured a quiet and comfortable ride, particularly on long commutes.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 addressed previous complaints with new, supportive seats and a sportier driving position. Most trims included a height-adjustable front passenger seat, a rarity among its rivals. The interior featured leather upholstery, dual-zone automatic climate control, and heated and ventilated front seats. However, the back seat remained snug, and the infotainment system's control layout was a source of frustration. Cargo space was adequate, with 871 litres behind the rear seats and 1,680 litres with the seats folded, comparing favourably to entry-level luxury SUVs.

The 2023 Genesis GV80 offered a wealth of luxury features, including heated and ventilated front and rear seats, a heated steering wheel, and Nappa leather upholstery. The Ergo driver's seat provided fatigue-reducing adjustments, while the optional third row offered limited legroom. The GV80 featured Genesis puddle lamps, a proximity key, and a digital key for convenience. The tri-zone climate control and available 21-speaker Lexicon sound system enhanced comfort and entertainment. With 988 litres of cargo space behind the second row and 2,378 litres with the seats folded, the GV80 offered impressive utility, along with a towing capacity of 2,720 kilograms.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 retained its Mazda Connect infotainment system with a 10.25-inch display, lacking touch sensitivity and natural voice recognition. Users had to rely on centre console and steering wheel controls, which required acclimation. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with a 10-speaker Bose premium sound system on higher trims. Mazda Connected Services offered a complimentary two-year trial subscription, enhancing connectivity and convenience.

The 2023 Genesis GV80 featured a 14.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system and a 12.3-inch 3D digital gauge cluster. While the infotainment screen was slightly out of reach, the dial offered a tactile experience, albeit with a learning curve. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were available, though not wirelessly. The GV80 included wireless charging, multiple USB ports, and a 110-volt outlet. The remote smart parking assist allowed for manoeuvring in tight spaces without the driver in the car, adding a unique technological advantage.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 boasted a comprehensive i-Activsense package, including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring. Higher trims added features like adaptive headlights, a surround-view camera system, and Traffic Jam Assist. The CX-5 received a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS, highlighting its robust safety credentials.

The 2023 Genesis GV80 offered an array of advanced driver aids, including forward collision warning, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. The Blind-Spot View Monitor system provided a video feed of the car's blind spot, enhancing safety. Highway Drive Assist used multiple systems to provide a hands-on/eyes-up driving aid, though it struggled in certain conditions. The GV80 received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and high marks from the IIHS, underscoring its safety prowess.