2023 Mazda CX-5 vs 2024 Lexus GX

The 2023 Mazda CX-5, despite its age, was a standout in the compact crossover SUV segment. It exuded a sense of luxury with its stylish design and high-quality materials, making it feel more like a premium vehicle than a mass-market option. The available turbocharged engine provided impressive power, and the model boasted a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS. However, its small back seat, cramped cargo area, and frustrating infotainment system were potential drawbacks. Mazda's decision to transition the CX-5 to the CX-50 was a strategic move, similar to Infiniti's rebranding efforts, aiming to ease consumers into the change while maintaining the model's loyal customer base.

In contrast, the 2024 Lexus GX underwent a significant redesign, embracing a more geometric and aggressive styling compared to its predecessor. The new model featured a less pronounced spindle grille, standard triple-beam LED headlights, and a more vertical front fascia. The GX's design was both functional and stylish, with minimal character lines and a low window beltline to enhance visibility, especially during off-road adventures. The interior was a blend of luxury and utility, with a focus on off-road capabilities, making it a versatile choice for those seeking a premium SUV with rugged potential.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5 offered two engine options. The base model featured a Skyactiv-G 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, delivering 187 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. It had a fuel economy rating of 9.0 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving. The more enticing option was the 2.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, which produced 256 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque on premium fuel, or 227 hp and 310 lb-ft on regular gas. This engine also used the same transmission and AWD system, with a fuel economy of 9.8 L/100 km. The turbo engine's power delivery was smooth, and the CX-5's handling was refined, thanks to structural and suspension improvements.

The 2024 Lexus GX, on the other hand, replaced its V8 engine with a twin-turbocharged 3.4-litre V6, generating 349 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque. This powertrain was paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, providing confident and assertive performance. The GX featured standard full-time four-wheel drive with a locking Torsen limited-slip centre differential, and the Overtrail packages added a locking rear differential. The GX's off-road capabilities were enhanced by the Electronic Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (E-KDSS), which improved wheel articulation and stability. Despite its size and weight, the GX demonstrated impressive on-road composure and off-road prowess.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5's interior was crafted with high-quality materials, offering features like power-adjustable front seats, heated and ventilated seats, and dual-zone climate control. However, its technology, storage space, and rear-seat room were lacking. The cargo area provided 871 litres of space behind the rear seats and 1,680 litres with them folded, which was less than some rivals.

The 2024 Lexus GX's interior was more minimalist and sophisticated, with fewer physical buttons and a focus on essential controls. It offered ample space for front and second-row passengers, with 1,047 mm of legroom in the front and 933 mm in the second row. The third row was tight, suitable only for children. The GX excelled in cargo space, offering 292 litres behind the third row, 1,138 litres with it folded, and 2,178 litres in total. The Overtrail models provided even more space, with 1,291 litres of total cargo capacity.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5's Mazda Connect infotainment system featured a 10.25-inch display but was criticized for its awkward controls and lack of a voice recognition system. It included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a three-year trial of Mazda Connected Services. The system's user experience was often frustrating, requiring attention away from the road.

The 2024 Lexus GX boasted a 14-inch touchscreen with Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Lexus Interface was user-friendly, and the Drive Connect subscription offered an intelligent voice assistant. The GX came with a 10-speaker audio system, with higher trims featuring a 21-speaker Mark Levinson stereo. However, some features required subscription plans after the initial trial period.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5 excelled in safety, with standard i-Activsense driver assistance features. It included adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and a head-up display. The CX-5 received five-star ratings from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick ranking from the IIHS. However, it lacked a warning for driving without headlights at night.

The 2024 Lexus GX improved its safety offerings with the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, featuring pre-collision detection, adaptive cruise control, and lane-departure warning. While it hadn't been crash-tested by the IIHS or NHTSA, the new GA-F architecture and advanced driver assistance systems inspired confidence in its safety.