2023 Mazda CX-5 vs 2023 Lexus GX

The 2023 Lexus GX was a vehicle that commanded attention with its imposing spindle grille and substantial ground clearance of 206 millimetres. Standing at an overall height of 1,885 millimetres, the GX had a formidable presence on the road. Its front end, with massive headlights, seemed ready to devour the pavement ahead, while the Black Line Special Edition added exclusivity with its limited production of 3,000 units and unique paint options. Despite its luxury badge, the GX's design leaned towards a sleeker aesthetic compared to the blocky designs of its Toyota counterparts, making it more manageable in technical driving situations.

In contrast, the 2023 Mazda CX-5, despite its impending phase-out, remained a stylish and high-quality choice in the compact crossover SUV segment. It exuded a sense of luxury with its refined materials and sophisticated design, appealing to those seeking a premium feel without the premium price tag. The CX-5's available turbocharged engine provided impressive power, and its Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS added to its allure. Mazda's decision to transition to the CX-50 was a strategic move, but the CX-5 continued to offer a compelling package for those who valued style and performance.

The 2023 Lexus GX was defined by its robust V8 engine, delivering 301 horsepower and 329 lb-ft of torque through a 6-speed automatic transmission. While it didn't boast the most impressive figures on paper, the naturally aspirated 4.6-litre V8 provided a satisfying linear power delivery. However, its fuel economy was less appealing, with estimates of 16.2 litres per 100 kilometres in the city and 12.3 on the highway. The GX's towing capacity of 2,948 kilograms was respectable, but it lagged behind some competitors. Despite its weight, the GX offered predictable handling, and its Torsen torque-sensing limited-slip differential enhanced its off-road capabilities.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5, on the other hand, offered a choice between a standard 187-horsepower four-cylinder engine and a more enticing 2.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine. The latter delivered up to 256 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque on premium fuel, providing a spirited driving experience. The CX-5's fuel economy was competitive, with a combined rating of 9.8 L/100 km for the turbocharged variant. Mazda's updates to the CX-5's structural rigidity and suspension improved its driving dynamics, making it feel more like an entry-level luxury vehicle. The turbocharged engine's torque delivery and responsive handling made the CX-5 a joy to drive on winding roads.

Inside the 2023 Lexus GX, practicality was evident with ample cubby space and a deep centre console bin. However, the lack of USB-C ports and the abundance of hard buttons might have been a drawback for some. The second row offered comfort with captain's chairs, but the third row was cramped and best suited for occasional use. The GX's cargo space was limited, with only 328 litres behind the rear seats, expanding to 1,832 litres with both rows folded.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5, while offering improved front seat comfort and a range of luxury features in higher trims, fell short in terms of technology and interior space. The infotainment system lacked a conversational voice recognition system, and the control knob was cumbersome to use. The CX-5's cargo space was reasonable, with 871 litres behind the rear seats and 1,680 litres with the back seat folded, but it was smaller compared to some rivals.

The 2023 Lexus GX featured a 10.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system with standard integrations like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, the system felt dated compared to newer Lexus models, and the graphics were not as crisp. The GX excelled in off-road capability with its 4WD system, downhill assist, and Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System, making it a strong contender for adventurous drivers.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5's Mazda Connect infotainment system, despite its appealing display, was a source of frustration due to its awkward controls and lack of a voice recognition system. The system's user experience was less intuitive, requiring more attention than a touchscreen. However, the CX-5 offered features like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Bose premium audio system in higher trims, enhancing its appeal.

The 2023 Lexus GX, while not crash-tested by NHTSA or IIHS, came equipped with the Lexus Safety System+ and other safety features like automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and blind spot monitoring. Despite its older engineering, the GX offered a comprehensive suite of driver assistance systems.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5 excelled in safety, earning a five-star rating from NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick ranking from IIHS. Its i-Activsense suite included features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring. However, the lack of a warning message for driving without headlights at night was a notable oversight.