2024 Mazda CX-30 vs 2023 Lexus GX

The 2023 Lexus GX was a vehicle that commanded attention with its massive spindle grille and substantial ground clearance of 206 millimetres. Standing at an overall height of 1,885 millimetres, it had a formidable presence on the road. The front end, with its large headlights, gave the GX a distinctive and aggressive look. Despite its luxury badge, the GX appeared engineered for off-road adventures, with short overhangs and a wheelbase of 2,789 millimetres. The interior, however, was a mix of luxury and practicality, with some plastic materials that seemed out of place for a high-end SUV. Yet, it offered features like heated and cooled front seats and impressive leather upholstery.

In contrast, the 2024 Mazda CX-30 was a stylish crossover with a design that leaned towards elegance. It featured excessive charcoal-coloured plastic cladding, which some found excessive, but overall, it had a sleek appearance with short overhangs, a long hood, and a rakish roofline. The interior was a standout, offering a level of refinement and attention to detail that rivalled entry-level luxury SUVs. The gauges were clear, and the infotainment screen was seamlessly integrated into the dashboard. The CX-30's interior was a blend of style and functionality, with quality materials and logical controls.

The 2023 Lexus GX was powered by a 4.6-litre 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 numbers on paper, the V8 provided a satisfying linear power delivery and a distinctive sound. The GX had a towing capacity of 2,948 kilograms, making it more capable than many three-row crossovers. 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 weight contributed to its predictable handling, and its Torsen torque-sensing limited-slip differential enhanced its off-road capabilities.

The 2024 Mazda CX-30, on the other hand, featured a turbocharged 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, producing up to 250 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque. The power delivery was smooth, with torque arriving at 2,000 rpm, creating a sensation akin to surfing. The CX-30 was equipped with a six-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. While its fuel economy was not its strong suit, with observed consumption of 13.3 litres per 100 kilometres, the CX-30 offered a fun and nimble driving experience. It excelled in handling, with excellent visibility and a firm, connected ride.

The 2023 Lexus GX offered ample storage space, with a deep centre console bin and conveniently placed cupholders. However, it lacked modern USB-C ports, relying on older USB-A ports. The interior featured hard buttons, which some appreciated for their tactile feedback. The second row was comfortable, with captain's chairs and fold-out cupholders, while the third row was tight and best suited for emergencies. The GX's cargo space was limited, with 328 litres behind the rear seats, expanding to 1,832 litres with both rows folded.

In contrast, the 2024 Mazda CX-30 boasted a well-designed interior with quality materials and logical controls. The driver and front passenger enjoyed comfort, while the back seat was cramped. The CX-30 offered 572 litres of cargo space behind the back seat, with the flexibility to adjust the load floor for additional storage. Folding the back seat down provided 1,280 litres of cargo volume, making it practical for a small SUV.

The 2023 Lexus GX featured a 10.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, an improvement over its predecessor, with standard integrations like SiriusXM, Bluetooth, and smartphone compatibility. However, the system felt dated compared to other Lexus models, with lagging graphics. The GX excelled in off-road technology, with a real 4WD system, downhill assist, and a multi-terrain monitor.

The 2024 Mazda CX-30 offered a new 10.25-inch infotainment display on GT and Suna trims, with touchscreen functionality for smartphone mirroring. While the screen was positioned far from the driver, it represented an improvement in reducing driver distraction. The CX-30 included Mazda Connected Services, USB-C ports, a wireless smartphone charger, and a Bose premium audio system.

The 2023 Lexus GX had not been crash-tested by major safety organizations, but it came equipped with the Lexus Safety System+, including features like automatic emergency braking, lane-departure alert, and adaptive cruise control. Despite its older design, the GX offered a comprehensive suite of safety features.

The 2024 Mazda CX-30, on the other hand, received high safety ratings, earning a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS and five-star ratings from the NHTSA. It included a range of driver assistance systems, with adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assistance, and a surround-view camera system available on higher trims.