2021 Mazda CX-5 vs 2022 Lexus RX

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 was a departure from the trend of sharply creased designs, opting instead for a smooth and sleek appearance that exuded a sense of motion even when stationary. While it didn't boast the aggressive styling of some competitors, it took Mazda's familiar design language in a more refined direction. The exterior features varied slightly across trim levels, with the base GX offering LED headlights and 17-inch wheels, while higher trims like the GS and GT added leatherette seats, power-adjustable options, and larger wheels. The top-tier Signature model elevated the CX-5 to a premium level with Nappa leather seats and genuine wood trim, showcasing a well-executed design with high-quality materials.

In contrast, the 2022 Lexus RX maintained its modern and sporty design, characterized by sharp character lines and angular features. The RX's aggressive exterior styling set it apart in the midsize luxury crossover segment, with the F Sport models enhancing the athletic appearance with 20-inch wheels and unique front fascia. The interior mirrored this luxury appeal, with F Sport models adding sporty elements like Scored Aluminum trim and NuLuxe synthetic leather. Despite its luxury, the RX's centre stack felt dated, and the seats, particularly in the F Sport, lacked comfort. The RX's design was visually striking, but some ergonomic issues detracted from its overall appeal.

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 offered two engine options, starting with a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque. This engine was paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and available in both FWD and AWD configurations. The GT trim introduced a turbocharged 2.5-litre engine with 250 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque, providing a more spirited driving experience. The CX-5's fuel efficiency varied, with the FWD non-turbo model achieving 9.7 L/100 km in the city and 7.8 on the highway. The turbocharged AWD version was slightly less efficient but still competitive. The CX-5's engaging driving style and sporty suspension made it fun to drive, though the stiff suspension could be a drawback for some.

The 2022 Lexus RX 350 featured a 3.5-litre V6 engine with 295 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque, while the hybrid RX 450h combined the V6 with electric motors for a total of 308 horsepower. All RX models came with an 8-speed automatic transmission and standard AWD in Canada. Despite its sporty appearance, the RX's performance was underwhelming, with a lack of engine growl and sluggish acceleration. The F Sport's adaptive suspension and drive modes, including Sport+, failed to deliver significant changes in driving dynamics. However, the RX excelled in comfort and cabin quietness, making it a pleasant companion for long drives. Fuel efficiency for the RX 350 was 12.2 L/100 km in the city and 9.0 on the highway, with the hybrid offering better figures at 7.9 L/100 km combined.

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 provided a comfortable and stylish interior, though rear legroom was limited for taller passengers. The CX-5's cargo space was below average for the segment, with 875 litres behind the second row and 1,687 litres with the seats folded. The interior featured straightforward climate controls, but the larger shifter and infotainment controls were not ideally positioned for shorter drivers. Despite these drawbacks, the CX-5's design execution met the needs of families seeking comfort and style.

The 2022 Lexus RX offered 2,826 litres of passenger volume in the two-row model, comfortably accommodating four adults. The three-row L models had limited cargo space, with only 210 litres available with all seats upright. The RX's interior featured thoughtful touches like a smartphone slot and adjustable cup holders, but the cargo area had a high load-in height. The rear seats did not fold completely flat, limiting cargo versatility. Despite these limitations, the RX's interior was well-appointed with luxury features.

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 came standard with a 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen, though its operating system was not user-friendly. The lack of tuning knobs and the screen's positioning made it challenging to use, but Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration provided a workaround. The infotainment system's design felt outdated, detracting from the vehicle's overall high-class feel.

The 2022 Lexus RX featured an 8-inch touchscreen, with a 12.3-inch version available. Despite being moved closer to the driver, the screen's positioning was still ergonomically unfriendly. The touchpad control was hypersensitive and unintuitive, leading to frustration. However, the RX offered a range of tech features, including multiple USB ports, smartphone integration, and premium audio systems. The Lexus App added personalization options, enhancing the vehicle's connectivity.

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 boasted a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assist. Optional features like a head-up display and surround-view camera system were available. The CX-5 earned high safety ratings, including a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA. Mazda's warranty coverage included a three-year/unlimited kilometre new vehicle warranty and a five-year/unlimited kilometre powertrain warranty.

The 2022 Lexus RX came equipped with the Lexus Safety System 2.0+, featuring adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and a pre-collision system. Additional safety features included blind-spot monitoring and a head-up display. The RX received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS, though it missed the "plus" designation due to its headlights. The NHTSA awarded the RX four stars overall, with five stars in side crash tests. Despite its age, the RX's safety features remained competitive.