2023 Mazda CX-30 vs 2024 Lexus TX

The 2023 Mazda CX-30 was available in Canada in four trim levels: GX, GS, GT, and GT Turbo, each offering a unique powertrain. All models featured a six-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive, with prices ranging from $26,700 to $38,600, excluding a $2,095 destination charge. The design of the CX-30 was characterized by a long hood and a stubby rear end, giving it a nose-heavy appearance. Despite its appealing design, the excessive gray body cladding detracted from its overall aesthetic. Inside, the CX-30 offered an upscale cabin with quality materials, including leather upholstery in higher trims. The GT Turbo model featured a tasteful interior with off-white leather and a chocolate brown centre console, resembling an entry-level luxury SUV.

In contrast, the 2024 Lexus TX was based on the Toyota Grand Highlander but distinguished itself as a luxury SUV. The TX featured upscale styling with 22-inch silver-finished wheels that enhanced its appearance. Its design was more conservative compared to other Lexus models, appealing to those who preferred a toned-down look. The TX was available in three model series: TX 350, TX 500h F Sport Performance, and TX 550h+ plug-in hybrid, with prices ranging from $72,036 to $87,486, including destination charges. The TX 350, likely the volume-selling version, came with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine and standard AWD. The interior of the TX 350 was luxurious, with premium semi-aniline leather upholstery and a dark Peppercorn interior. However, the cabin felt too dark despite the panoramic glass sunroof.

The 2023 Mazda CX-30 offered a range of engine options, starting with the base GX trim's 2.0-litre inline four-cylinder engine producing 155 horsepower and 150 lb-ft of torque. The GS and GT models featured a 2.5-litre engine with 191 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque, offering improved fuel economy at 8.2 L/100 km combined. The GT Turbo model boasted a turbocharged 2.5-litre engine, delivering 250 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque on premium gas, or 227 hp and 310 lb-ft on regular gas. The CX-30's six-speed automatic transmission and AWD provided a smooth driving experience, with a ground clearance of 20 centimetres. However, the suspension struggled with speed bumps, and the small 48-litre fuel tank limited its range. Despite these drawbacks, the CX-30 excelled on twisty roads, offering a rewarding driving experience.

The 2024 Lexus TX 350 was equipped with a turbocharged 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 275 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque. It accelerated to 100 km/h in approximately eight seconds, offering adequate performance for typical driving situations. The TX 350's fuel economy was rated at 10.3 L/100 km combined, slightly better than the previous RX L model. The ride and handling were well-balanced, with a firm suspension providing a comfortable ride and accurate steering. The interior remained quiet on the highway, enhancing the overall driving experience. However, the brake pedal felt too soft, though it was easy to modulate for smooth stops.

The 2023 Mazda CX-30 featured standard dual-zone automatic climate control, an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat, and a power moonroof. Heated front seats and rain-sensing wipers were standard in Canada, with a heated steering wheel available from the GS trim. The CX-30 offered reasonable storage space, with a centre armrest bin, glove compartment, and door panel bins. However, rear legroom was tight, and the cargo space was limited to 572 litres, expanding to 1,280 litres with the rear seats folded.

The 2024 Lexus TX addressed previous shortcomings in Lexus's three-row SUVs. It offered a comfortable interior with premium semi-aniline leather and artificial suede upholstery. Heated and ventilated front seats, heated second-row seats, and a heated steering wheel were standard. The TX provided a habitable third-row seat, accommodating adults comfortably. The cargo space measured 572 litres behind the third row, expanding to 1,625 litres with the third row folded, and 2,746 litres with the second row down. The TX featured numerous storage options, though some lacked lining, potentially causing noise and vibration.

The 2023 Mazda CX-30's Mazda Connect infotainment system had three significant flaws: the lack of a touchscreen display, limited voice-recognition technology, and the absence of a tuning knob. The system required drivers to look down to reference controls, causing distraction. Despite these issues, the 8.8-inch display was well-integrated into the dashboard, offering pleasing graphics and a logical menu structure. The CX-30 included Bluetooth, HD Radio, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and two USB ports, with Turbos adding SiriusXM satellite radio and a 14-speaker Bose premium sound system.

The 2024 Lexus TX featured a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel, a digital rearview mirror, and a 14-inch touchscreen display. The Lexus Interface infotainment system offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with a Drive Connect subscription providing cloud-based navigation and a digital assistant with natural voice recognition. The TX included free 10-year subscriptions to Service Connect and Safety Connect, with Remote Connect free for three years. The optional 21-speaker Mark Levinson premium audio system delivered impressive sound quality.

The 2023 Mazda CX-30 excelled in safety, earning a "Top Safety Pick" rating from the IIHS. It featured standard rear side airbags, outboard rear seatbelt tensioners, and other updates. Safety features included blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, and automatic high-beam headlights. The GT and GT Turbo trims added an adaptive front lighting system, a surround-view camera, parking sensors, automatic rear braking, traffic sign recognition, traffic jam assist, and a head-up display.

The 2024 Lexus TX was equipped with Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, intersection assist, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, lane-centring assist, road sign assist, and automatic high-beam headlights. Proactive Drive Assist provided additional braking and steering assistance. The TX also featured blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a safe exit assist system. Optional features included parking sensors, front cross-traffic alert, lane change assist, and traffic jam assist.