2026 Genesis GV70 2.T AWD vs 2026 Audi Q5

 We can name a handful of reasons why the new Genesis GV70 2.T AWD is rapidly growing in popularity in Columbus, with its affordability being a huge factor. Next to competitors like the Audi Q5, it's almost unbelievable how the latest 2026 GV70 model is plenty more powerful and offers a massive 27-inch OLED screen at no additional cost. And we're only getting started. 

                                               

2026 Genesis GV70 2.T AWD	2026 Audi Q5
Starts at $47,985 MSRP	Starts at $52,800 MSRP

 No one knows the power of power like Genesis. A smooth and commanding drive is the foundation of a luxury car that looks and feels high-end in every way. So don't be surprised when you find out that the base-model GV70 delivers 300 horses through a turbocharged engine. That's what Genesis believes to be required for a sophisticated drive, and we've felt it for ourselves. But who's to say you can't have a sportier drive in your luxury car? Tapping into a niche secondary market, the 2026 Genesis GV70 in Columbus also offers an optional 3.5L Twin-Turbo V6 engine that pushes its limit to 375 horsepower.

You don't get options in the Audi Q5 as you do with Genesis. Every new Audi Q5 is fated to run on a 2.0L engine minus the turbocharger for an underwhelming 268 horsepower. No other engine available, just an upgrade option for an adaptive air suspension system. But we see little point in trying to cushion a bumpy ride when you don't have the strength to push your drive.

 Remember us mentioning the GV70's new 27-inch OLED display? Genesis made that standard. Combining your infotainment center and driver information into one seamless display, a bit of OLED technology brightens your wide screen in vivid color and responsive touch. The 2026 Genesis GV70 sees even more interior upgrades in Columbus, like stylish contrast stitching onNappa leather seats and a power cushion extension for your Ergo Motion driver chair in select trims. Between style, comfort, and tech, you don't need anything else for a complete luxury SUV.

 A 14.5-inch infotainment touchscreen and an 11.9-inch digital driver display come out to 26 inches of combined screen size, and some change in the Audi Q5. Not quite as large as the GV70's stellar new display, and definitely not in Genesis OLED quality. So, what else might the Q5 have going for it? Tech was its main draw. You could opt for available sports seats, but we believe that Genesis takes the sporty aesthetic a step further in the GV70 with a racecar-inspired D-cut steering wheel next to bolstered sports chairs. 

 Every new Genesis SUV is reliable, and the new GV70 2.T AWD is even more special with more available systems to pick and choose from. You still have the Blind Spot View Monitor and Surround View Monitor as part of your selection, both big hits just last model year. This year, we're noticing more families in Columbus turn to the revamped Advanced Rear Occupant Alert system. Advanced ROA is a better version for using ultrasonic sensors to detect more subtle movements like breathing. Driver Attention Warning has also been upgraded to Forward Attention Warning, which utilizes in-cabin cameras to watch your facial features.

 What does Audi have to offer in the Q5? After slapping on the standard safety package, the brand added a mere couple of optional features to the repertoire and called it a night. Those available features include Adaptive Cruise Assist and a forward-facing dash cam. Compared to the enhancements Genesis made to their already solid lineup, we can understand why drivers in the area prefer the GV70's features that prove to be more life-saving in everyday situations.

Both of these brands aimed to create a luxury SUV with value in top-tier performance, and only one of them truly succeeded. The 2026 Genesis GV70 2.T AWD in Columbus has blown us (and many critics) away with impressive specs, authentic sport styling, and all of the luxuries you've come to expect from a name like Genesis.