The battle for luxury in the compact SUV segment has never been more competitive, and two brands stand at the center of the debate: one known for unmatched reliability and refinement, and another rapidly rising with bold styling and feature-packed value. As these rival automakers push to outdo each other, shoppers are left with a surprisingly close contest, one where luxury, technology, and driving comfort all take on new meaning.
These compact SUVs deliver far more than just upscale cabins. They offer advanced safety tech, smooth powertrains, and premium materials that rival models costing thousands more. And with both brands expanding their luxury credentials, the question is no longer about who offers the better badge, it’s about who delivers the richer experience for the money.
This article breaks down the strengths of each contender, from comfort and build quality to performance and ownership value. Whether you prioritize long-term reliability or cutting-edge design, this matchup reveals which compact luxury SUV truly earns the crown in 2025.
In order to give you the most up-to-date and accurate information possible, the data used to compile this article was sourced from various manufacturer websites and other authoritative sources, including the EPA.
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This luxury sedan is turning heads with its upscale features, surprisingly accessible price point, and impressive performance capabilities.
The Genesis GV70 and Lexus RX do battle in an ultra-competitive segment
The luxury SUV segment is one of the most competitive areas of the market, with a number of fantastic options that all compete to draw attention away from one another. If you’re looking for a sensible and affordable luxury, your main choice would traditionally be the Lexus RX. However, since Genesis’ entry into the market, they have been challenging the long-standing domination that the Japanese brand has had. The GV70 proves that they’re capable of being a top player.
2026 Genesis GV70 trims and pricing
Model | Starting MSRP |
|---|---|
2.5T | $48,985 |
2.5T Select | $51,885 |
2.5T Advanced | $56,435 |
2.5T Sport Prestige | $59,795 |
3.5T Sport Advanced | $64,415 |
3.5T Sport Prestige | $71,095 |
Genesis has made a pretty big update for the 2026 model year, adding a brand-new 27-inch screen which spans across the top of the dashboard. This will please as many as it disappoints. Climate controls are now operated via a small touchpad located lower down on the console. The Korean brand has also slightly updated things, like the headlight design, a new grille pattern, and a few other touch-ups. They also claim they have made changes to the steering and suspension, which should improve the ride and handling.
Genesis has priced the GV70 well, and it offers a lot of value for money. While we wouldn’t blame you for sticking with one of the more affordable trims, we think that the 3.5T Sport Advanced showcases this SUV at its best. As well as featuring a more powerful engine, this model comes equipped with a ton of luxuries, including high-end leather upholstery, heated and ventilated seats, and a premium sound system from Bang and Olufsen.
2026 Lexus RX trims and pricing
Model | Starting MSRP |
|---|---|
Base | $51,175 |
Premium | $53,350 |
F Sport Design | $55,680 |
Premium+ | $56,840 |
F Sport Handling | $59,950 |
Luxury | $61,895 |
Lexus is usually one of the most affordable options in the segments where it competes, but the RX actually starts a little more expensive than the Genesis GV70. For the most part, the Japanese brand has kept their compact SUV the same for the 2026 model year. The only real change that they’ve made is that they have added an appearance package for the F Sport Handling trim. They have also made wireless charging standard across the board as well.
Of the available trims here, we think that the Premium+ model will best satisfy classic luxury shoppers. It comes with a number of upgrades over the trims before it, including an upgraded infotainment screen, plush leather, and an available heads-up display. It also comes with things like heated and ventilated seats, a power-operated moonroof, and upgraded ambient interior lighting.
The RX also comes as a hybrid and a plug-in hybrid. As the Genesis does not, we have focused on the ICE models for the sake of a more direct comparison.
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The Genesis GV70 feels like the better defined luxury vehicle than the Lexus RX
Lexus defined themselves in the market by offering simple yet comfortable interiors, packed with tons of comfort features. Other luxury brands often lock a number of features behind additional paywalls where Lexus offers them standard. Genesis has taken a similar approach, but they seem less afraid of pushing boundaries. Both SUVs are plush on the inside, but the GV70 feels like a more well-rounded modern luxury car while the Lexus feels like it plays things safe.
2026 Genesis GV70 interior comfort
Front row headroom | 38.6 inches |
|---|---|
Front row legroom | 41.3 inches |
Second row headroom | 38.3 inches |
Second row legroom | 37.2 inches |
Cargo capacity | 28.9 cubic feet |
In terms of interior space, the GV70 sits near the top of the segment. While not cavernous, the interior of the Genesis does feel reasonably spacious. Those relegated to the back seats won’t find themselves uncomfortable either, with plenty of legroom on offer. Cargo space is equally generous, with more than enough room for any getaway bags or groceries.
The GV70 offers one of the more bold interior designs in the Genesis lineup. This family-friendly SUV saw a slight update for the 2026 model year which pushes things even further. High-end materials and sweeping lines help make the cabin of this compact SUV feel more upscale than some of its direct competitors. Small touches, like a glass shift knob, constantly remind you that this isn’t a mainstream ride.
2026 Lexus RX interior comfort
Front row headroom | 38.1 inches |
|---|---|
Front row legroom | 41.1 inches |
Second row headroom | 38.5 inches |
Second row legroom | 37.4 inches |
Cargo capacity | 29.6 cubic feet |
When it comes to comfort and interior space, there is very little competition between the GV70 and the Lexus RX. The Japanese compact SUV is equally spacious, and has more than enough room for adults in the front and the back. While the margin is pretty small, it’s also worth noting that the RX comes out ahead when it comes to overall cargo capacity.
Lexus takes a more reserved approach to interior design in the RX. Rather than trying anything drastic, they allow the materials to speak for themselves. In a lot of ways, this is actually nice, with the quiet cabin feeling familiar without sacrificing quality. However, some might argue that it feels too much like the top trims of its mainstream Toyota cousins to really stand out.
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Lexus’ SUV is a comfortable cruiser while the Korean GV70 takes a sportier approach
Generally, luxury buyers don’t just want a plush ride. They want a balance between comfort and performance, an experience that is more than what you’d get from a mainstream marquee. In this sense, the Genesis is one of the most impressive crossovers out there, competing with legacy brands that have taken this approach for decades. However, we can’t discount just Lexus’ dedication to quiet cruising, with a ride quality that is near-unmatched.
2026 Genesis GV70 performance
Engine | 2.5-liter turbocharged inline-four | 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged V-6 |
|---|---|---|
Transmission | 8-speed automatic | 8-speed automatic |
Horsepower | 300 HP | 375 HP |
Toruqe | 311 LB-FT | 391 LB-FT |
Driveline | AWD | AWD |
0-60 MPH | 5.8 seconds | 5 seconds |
Top speed | 150 MPH | 150 MPH |
Genesis offers a duo of really impressive powertrains in the GV70. Both deliver a pretty sporty driving experience, but those seeking speed will definitely want to opt for the twin-turbocharged V-6. It might not be as agile or as quick as rivals like the Porsche Macan, but we have to respect what the Korean automaker has achieved here given how reasonably priced the GV70 actually is.
2026 Lexus RX performance
Engine | 2.4-liter turbocharged inline-four |
|---|---|
Transmission | 8-speed automatic |
Horsepower | 275 HP |
Toruqe | 317 LB-FT |
Driveline | FWD or AWD |
0-60 MPH | 7 seconds |
Top speed | 115 MPH |
The RX is a much tamer machine than the GV70. In fact, it is one of the slowest options in its segment off the line, despite producing relatively similar output figures to the GV70 2.5T. If you’re after a plush ride and a quiet cabin, the RX will more than satisfy. However, if you like your cars to offer some character, you’ll be pretty disappointed with just how dull the Lexus is to drive.
There are hybrid and PHEV versions of the RX that do deliver improved performance for a higher cost. Beyond being quicker off the line, though, they’re just as uninspiring.
The Japanese sedan with the best balance of luxury and practicality in 2025
It’s loaded with features and offers tons of space at a surprisingly affordable price.
How-To Geek’s take: Lexus feels stuck in a rut while Genesis pushes boundaries
Comparing these two similarly priced luxury compact SUVs demonstrates just how complacent Lexus has become. They have defined themselves as a budget-focused luxury brand with a fantastic reputation for reliability, but this mindset has held them back. The RX isn’t a bad product by any means, but it isn’t as affordable as it once was, and it now has a plethora of rivals that cost the same amount of money but offer a better experience.
This is where the GV70 comes in. Genesis has perfectly capitalized on the complacency of the luxury market. They price themselves similarly to Lexus, but their vehicles aim to compete with the best players on the market rather than compromising. The GV70 is the perfect example of this, with it easily able to hold its own against the likes of the BMW X3 or the Mercedes-Benz GLC.
