2023 Mazda CX-50 vs 2023 Lexus GX

The 2023 Mazda CX-50 showcased a design that was both familiar and fresh. Its styling, characterized by a blunt nose, long hood, and rakish windshield, maintained the subtle seductiveness typical of Mazda's vehicles over the past decade. However, the CX-50 introduced a rugged appeal with its blistered and boxed fender swells, bold lower body cladding, and faux skid plates. The oversized air intake and vent designs added a performance edge without being visually offensive. When combined with the standard black grille, mirror caps, and optional 20-inch alloy wheels, the CX-50's exterior elements created an attractive package. The introduction of the CX-50 Meridian Edition later in the model year added exclusive features like all-terrain tires and a roof-mounted load platform, enhancing its adventurous persona.

Inside, the CX-50 continued Mazda's tradition of driver-focused design with a mix of quality materials, polished metallic trim, and a combination of analog and digital gauges. The interior, dressed in black leather with caramel-coloured stitching, offered a sophisticated look. Despite a few design quirks, such as the small off-centre air vent, the cabin was well-appointed. The availability of terracotta upholstery on higher trims added a touch of luxury. Overall, the CX-50 presented itself as a stylish and well-crafted compact crossover.

The 2023 Lexus GX made a bold statement with its massive spindle grille and substantial ground clearance, giving it a commanding road presence. The front end, with its large headlights, framed the GX's distinctive face, while the Black Line Special Edition added exclusivity with limited production and unique paint options. Despite its imposing front, the GX's side profile revealed a shorter wheelbase and minimal overhangs, emphasizing its off-road capabilities. The flared fenders contributed to its chunky motif, yet the overall design leaned towards a sleeker aesthetic compared to other Toyota models. From the driver's perspective, the hood's design improved visibility, making it easier to navigate challenging terrains.

Inside, the GX's interior was a mix of luxury and practicality. While the use of plastic materials was noticeable, the cabin still offered luxury touches like heated and cooled front seats and premium leather upholstery. The GX's low sales volume meant that Lexus focused on easy manufacturing, resulting in a dated design. However, the driving dynamics were continually improved, offering a communicative road feel and strong braking performance. The GX's Torsen limited-slip differential and 4WD system enhanced its off-road prowess, making it a capable choice for adventurous drivers.

The 2023 Mazda CX-50 offered two engine options, catering to different performance needs. The base engine, a 187 hp Skyactiv 2.5-litre four-cylinder, delivered 186 lb-ft of torque through a six-speed automatic transmission. It provided a balanced fuel economy of 9.7 L/100 km in the city, 7.9 on the highway, and 8.9 combined. For those seeking more power, the CX-50 GT Turbo featured a turbocharged version of the same engine, producing between 227 hp and 256 hp, depending on the fuel type. Torque ranged from 310 lb-ft on regular gas to 320 lb-ft on premium. The turbocharged engine offered smooth acceleration and a towing capacity increase to 3,500 pounds. Despite a slightly firmer ride, the CX-50 excelled in handling, feeling more like a sporty wagon than an SUV. Its ground clearance and off-road capabilities were commendable, though it lacked a downhill assist control system.

The 2023 Lexus GX was defined by its robust 4.6-litre V8 engine, producing 301 horsepower and 329 lb-ft of torque. While not the most powerful on paper, the V8 delivered a satisfying linear power delivery and a distinctive sound. The GX's towing capacity of 6,500 pounds was impressive, though its fuel economy was less so, with estimates of 16.2 L/100 km in the city, 12.3 on the highway, and 14.5 combined. The GX's weight contributed to its predictable handling, and its driving dynamics were continually refined. The Torsen limited-slip differential and 4WD system enhanced its off-road capabilities, making it a reliable choice for challenging terrains.

The 2023 Mazda CX-50's interior was designed for comfort and practicality. The power-adjustable heated front seats, heated rear seats, and heated steering wheel made it ready for winter, while ventilated front seats and dual-zone climate control provided comfort in warmer weather. The driver's seat and front passenger's seat were comfortable for long journeys, though additional side bolstering would have been beneficial. The rear seat offered ample space for adults, and the nearly 90-degree opening rear doors facilitated easy entry and exit. Cargo space was adequate, with 889 litres available behind the rear seats and a maximum of 1,595 litres with the seats folded. The CX-50's storage solutions were practical, though some opportunities for additional storage were missed.

The 2023 Lexus GX offered a well-thought-out interior with ample cubby space for small items. The centre console bin was deep, and the cupholders were conveniently placed. However, the lack of USB-C ports was a drawback. The GX's decision to retain hard buttons for controls was a practical choice, though the abundance of buttons required some getting used to. The adjustable centre console lid was a novel feature, accommodating drivers and passengers of different sizes. The second row was comfortable, with captain's chairs and fold-out cupholders. However, the third row was cramped, suitable only for occasional use. The side-hinged rear door required effort to open, and the cargo space was limited, with 328 litres behind the rear seats and a maximum of 1,832 litres with all seats folded.

The 2023 Mazda CX-50 featured the Mazda Connect infotainment system with a 10.25-inch display, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. While Mazda Connect historically lacked touchscreen control, the CX-50 introduced touchscreen functionality for these platforms. The system's interface was occasionally frustrating, but the addition of touchscreen control was a step forward. The available Bose 12-speaker sound system provided a satisfying audio experience, and the Active Driving Display offered useful information within the driver's line of sight.

The 2023 Lexus GX's infotainment system, updated in 2022, already felt dated compared to other Lexus models. The 10.3-inch touchscreen was an improvement, offering standard features like SiriusXM, Bluetooth, and smartphone compatibility. However, the graphics and responsiveness lagged behind competitors. The GX's off-road capabilities were a highlight, with a real 4WD system, downhill assist, and other driving-focused technologies. The Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System improved on-road and off-road performance, and the optional multi-terrain monitor enhanced its off-road prowess.

The 2023 Mazda CX-50 was rated as a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS, though it fell short of the Top Safety Pick+ designation due to headlight configurations and night-time pedestrian collision avoidance. Mazda provided a comprehensive package of driving assistance systems, with features like active blind-spot monitoring and Traffic Jam Assist. However, the adaptive cruise control occasionally failed to recognize slower vehicles cutting in, highlighting a need for improved sensitivity.

The 2023 Lexus GX had not been crash-tested by the NHTSA or IIHS, but it featured the Lexus Safety System+ with advanced driver assistance systems. While missing some top-end features, the GX included automatic emergency braking, lane-departure alert, adaptive cruise control, and more. Despite its older design, the GX's safety features were up-to-date, providing a reassuring level of protection.