2024 Genesis GV80 vs 2025 Mazda CX-90

The 2024 Genesis GV80 presented a choice between the 2.5T and 3.5T models, with trim levels ranging from Standard to Prestige Signature. Prices varied from $57,700 to $81,750, plus a $1,350 destination charge. Our test vehicle, a 3.5T in the Prestige Signature trim, featured an optional Matterhorn White Matte paint, bringing the MSRP to $84,600. The Prestige Signature trim offered exclusive exterior colors and a stylish 22-inch wheel design, though the black paint obscured the wheel details. Inside, the Ultramarine Blue over Dune interior exuded luxury with diamond-stitched Nappa leather, a suede headliner, and a wide touchscreen display, reinforcing the GV80's status as a flagship Genesis SUV.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90, available in three variants, offered a range of trim levels from Select to Premium Plus, with prices between $39,575 and $59,480, including the destination charge. Our 3.3 Turbo test vehicle, in Premium Plus trim with Soul Red paint, had an MSRP of $51,450. The CX-90's exterior featured lustrous paint, polished chrome trim, and intricate 21-inch wheels, giving it a luxury SUV appearance. The interior continued this premium look with polished metallic trim and Nappa leather, though some materials reflected its competitive price. Design-related complaints included a confusing electronic shifter and counterintuitive climate controls, but overall, the CX-90 exuded sophistication compared to other midsize three-row crossover SUVs.

The 2024 Genesis GV80 offered two engine options: a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder with 300 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque, and a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 producing 375 hp and 391 lb-ft of torque. Both engines paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. The GV80 3.5T, with its more robust power, included upgraded front brakes and an adaptive damping suspension. It provided a rewarding driving experience, with swift acceleration and commendable grip from its P265/40R22 all-season tires. However, the steering was unremarkable, and the vehicle proved thirsty, with observed fuel economy of 17.2 mpg compared to the EPA's 20 mpg estimate.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90 featured a turbocharged 3.3-liter inline-six engine, generating 280 horsepower and 332 pound-feet of torque in the 3.3 Turbo models. The 3.3 Turbo S variant offered 319 hp and 369 lb-ft, or 340 hp with premium gas. Power flowed through an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive, with a rear-wheel bias for better dynamics. The CX-90's maximum towing capacity was 5,000 pounds, and it offered 8.1 inches of ground clearance. Despite impressive ride and handling, drivetrain refinement was lacking, with unpredictable power delivery and transmission behavior. The CX-90's fuel economy was rated at 25 mpg combined, but we observed 21.3 mpg during testing.

The 2024 Genesis GV80 3.5T Advanced was the only model with a third-row seat, while the Prestige Signature held only four people due to its second-row captain's chairs. The interior featured artificial leather, real leather, or premium leather, depending on the trim level. Standard features included heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and a power hands-free liftgate. Our test vehicle had a panoramic glass roof and triple-zone climate control, but seat comfort was lacking, with diamond-stitched surfaces feeling like bubble wrap. Cargo space measured 34.9 cubic feet behind the second row, expanding to 84 cubic feet with the seats folded.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90's interior, in 3.3 Turbo Premium Plus trim, featured Nappa leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and a heated steering wheel. The three-zone climate control system struggled to cool the cabin quickly. The panoramic sunroof provided ample natural light, and second-row passengers enjoyed comfortable seating. However, the CX-90's long rear doors made loading children challenging. The third row was best suited for children, and cargo space measured 14.9 cubic feet behind it, expanding to 74.2 cubic feet with the second-row seats flattened.

The 2024 Genesis GV80 featured a 12.3-inch digital instrument display in the Prestige and Prestige Signature trims, with a 14.5-inch touchscreen infotainment display. The infotainment system included a navigation system, SiriusXM satellite radio, and wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Wireless smartphone charging was standard, and the Prestige Signature added this feature in the second row. The GV80 also offered a digital key system and a Lexicon premium sound system, with a head-up display showing blind-spot warnings.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90's dashboard featured a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 12.3-inch infotainment screen. The infotainment screen was touch-sensitive only when using wireless Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, with the native Mazda Connect platform requiring the use of a center console knob. The voice recognition system was hit-and-miss, but the test vehicle's 12-speaker Bose audio system provided a rewarding listening experience. The CX-90 also featured a head-up display with helpful data, including blind-spot alerts.

The 2024 Genesis GV80 came with numerous advanced driving-assistance systems, including a Blind-Spot View Monitor, Remote Smart Parking Assist, and Highway Driving Assist. The GV80 received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, though it earned four stars in frontal-impact tests for driver and passenger seating positions.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90 was one of only four midsize, three-row, gas-powered SUVs to receive a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS. The CX-90 PHEV earned five-star ratings in all NHTSA crash tests, with a four-star rollover resistance rating. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. Higher trim levels added steering assist, emergency lane-keeping assist, and a surround-view camera system. The CX-90's driver aids met expectations, though the audible warning systems could be intrusive.