2022 Mazda CX-30 vs 2023 Lexus GX

The 2022 Mazda CX-30 was reminiscent of a smaller CX-5, featuring an upright grille and smooth, flowing fenders. It shared its platform with the Mazda3, essentially serving as a raised-up version of the Mazda3 hatchback. The CX-30's raked windshield acted like a greenhouse on sunny days, potentially causing a tan on longer drives. However, the windshield's slight curve at eye level for taller drivers could distort the road view, which was distracting. Inside, the cabin was comfortable and quiet, with a solid feel to the buttons and doors. The interior design was one of the best among affordable cars, blending conventional and digital displays artfully. The infotainment screen rose organically from the dashboard, but its steep learning curve was a downside.

In contrast, the 2023 Lexus GX had a commanding presence with its huge spindle grille and 206 millimetres of ground clearance. The front end appeared ready to conquer the road, framed by massive headlights. The GX Black Line Special Edition returned for 2023, limited to 3,000 units in three paint colours. Despite its luxury badge, the GX's interior had a disappointing amount of plastic, reflecting its low sales and the need for easy manufacturing. However, it still offered luxury touches like heated and cooled front seats and impressive leather upholstery. The GX's design leaned sleeker compared to Toyota's blocky designs, making it easier to navigate technical driving scenarios.

The 2022 Mazda CX-30 offered a range of engine options. The base GX model featured a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine with 155 horsepower and 150 pound-feet of torque. The GS and GT models came with a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing 186 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque. Our test model had the upgraded 2.5-litre turbocharged engine, delivering 227 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque on 87 octane fuel, and 250 horsepower and 320 lb-ft on 93 octane fuel. The six-speed automatic transmission routed power to all four wheels. The turbocharged engine provided decent acceleration, and the Sport mode enhanced throttle response and shift mapping. The CX-30's sporty ride was refined, with well-weighted steering and quick turn-in, though it had a rough ride over potholes.

The 2023 Lexus GX was defined by its V8 engine, offering 301 horsepower and 329 lb-ft of torque through a 6-speed automatic transmission. While not the most powerful on paper, the naturally aspirated 4.6-litre V8 provided a satisfying sound and linear power delivery. The GX had a 2,948-kilogram towing capacity, making it more capable than most three-row crossovers. However, its fuel economy was less appealing, with estimates of 16.2 litres per 100 kilometres in city driving. The GX's weight contributed to predictable and controllable roll through corners. The Torsen torque-sensing limited-slip differential distributed the 4WD system into a 40:60 front:rear split, adjusting based on wheel slip for user-friendly driving in various conditions.

The 2022 Mazda CX-30 offered up to 1,280 litres of cargo space with the rear seats folded, and 572 litres with the seats in use. The GT grade featured a power rear liftgate. The front seats had a sliding centre console cover, though it could get stuck under the seat when folded. The centre console provided ample space for personal items, and the front doors had deep pockets for large water bottles. Rear seats offered solid headroom for short-to-medium trips, though longer drives might be tight.

The 2023 Lexus GX retained plenty of cubby space for small items, with a deep centre console bin and a space for a phone. The cupholders were conveniently placed, and two USB-A ports were available. The GX's physical controls were a blessing, with hard buttons instead of haptic-touch interfaces. The centre console lid had adjustable sliding mechanisms, and the second row was comfortable with captain's chairs. The third row was tight for regular use, and the side-hinged trunk door required muscle to open. The GX offered 328 litres of cargo space behind the rear seats, 1,322 litres with the third row folded, and 1,832 litres with both rows down.

The 2022 Mazda CX-30 featured an elegant dash design with an infotainment screen nestled into the dash. The screen lacked touch functionality, controlled by a rotary dial/joystick and toggle buttons. This setup was inspired by luxury-car infotainment systems like BMW's iDrive, but it had usability issues. Navigating Apple CarPlay was challenging, and the rotary dial made operating CarPlay and Android Auto frustrating. Even after setting up presets, the system remained cumbersome.

The 2023 Lexus GX had a 10.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a significant improvement over the previous system. It included SiriusXM satellite radio, Bluetooth, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. The Lexus Remote Touch Interface was present but unnecessary due to the improved touchscreen. The GX came with three years of Lexus Enform Remote and a 17-speaker Mark Levinson audio system. However, the tech offerings felt dated compared to other Lexus models. The GX excelled in off-road capability, with a real 4WD system, downhill assist, hill-start assist, and more. The Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System and optional multi-terrain monitor enhanced its off-road prowess.

The 2022 Mazda CX-30 offered available driver-assistance features, though most were not standard in Canada. Features included forward collision avoidance, pedestrian detection, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. Standard features included rain-sensing wipers, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The CX-30 earned five stars from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, with top marks in crash tests and driver-assistance technology.

The 2023 Lexus GX had not been crash tested by the NHTSA or IIHS, but it included advanced driver assistance systems. The Lexus Safety System+ featured automatic emergency braking, lane-departure alert, adaptive cruise control, parking assist, blind spot monitoring, and more. Despite its older body, the GX's safety features were significantly newer.