2024 Lexus GX vs 2023 Mazda CX-50

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 allure that Mazda vehicles have been known for over the past decade. However, the CX-50 introduced a ruggedness not seen before, with its pronounced fender swells and bold lower body cladding. The oversized air intake and vent designs added a performance edge without being visually overwhelming. When combined with the standard black grille, mirror caps, and optional 20-inch alloy wheels, the CX-50 presented an appealing exterior. The introduction of the CX-50 Meridian Edition later in the model year brought exclusive features like all-terrain tires and a roof-mounted load platform, enhancing its adventurous appeal.

In contrast, the 2024 Lexus GX embraced a more geometric and aggressive design compared to its predecessor. The new model featured a less pronounced spindle grille, flanked by standard triple-beam LED headlights, giving the front end a more vertical and assertive stance. The GX's side profile appeared as if carved from a solid block, with minimal character lines and a low window beltline to aid visibility. The rear design continued the theme of geometric precision, and standard running boards completed the look. The GX's design was a clear departure from the softer lines of the previous generation, offering a more robust and off-road-ready appearance.

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 trim 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 to 320 lb-ft, with a towing capacity increase from 907 kg to 1,587 kg. The turbocharged engine offered smooth acceleration and a firm ride quality, making it suitable for both city driving and off-road adventures.

The 2024 Lexus GX, on the other hand, replaced its previous V8 engine with a more advanced twin-turbocharged 3.4-litre V6, generating 349 hp and 479 lb-ft of torque. This new powertrain provided impressive low-end torque, ideal for off-road driving. Built on the GA-F truck platform, the GX featured a stiffer chassis, enhancing stability both on and off the road. The 10-speed automatic transmission operated smoothly, and the standard full-time 4WD system, along with the Overtrail packages' additional off-road features, ensured the GX was well-equipped for rugged terrain. Despite its size, the GX maintained composed handling on-road, offering a pleasant driving experience.

The 2023 Mazda CX-50's interior was designed for comfort and practicality. It featured power-adjustable heated front seats, heated rear seats, and a heated steering wheel, making it well-suited for Canadian winters. The ventilated front seats and dual-zone automatic climate control provided comfort in warmer weather. The driver and front passenger seats 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 2024 Lexus GX's interior marked a significant shift from its predecessor, with a more minimalist and sophisticated design. The reduction in physical buttons was balanced by retaining essential controls, such as rotary knobs for climate control. The first and second rows provided ample space for six-foot-tall adults, with 1,047 mm of legroom in the front and 933 mm in the second row. The optional third row, however, was best suited for children due to its limited legroom. The GX excelled in cargo capacity, offering 292 litres behind the third row and expanding to 1,138 litres with it folded. The Overtrail models, without a third row, provided even more cargo space, making the GX a practical choice for those needing ample storage.

The 2023 Mazda CX-50 came equipped with the Mazda Connect infotainment system, featuring wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system included a 10.25-inch display, though it lacked touchscreen functionality for Mazda's native interface, requiring the use of centre console controls or voice recognition. However, touchscreen control was available for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The available 12-speaker Bose Centerpoint surround-sound system provided a satisfying audio experience, and the Active Driving Display offered useful information within the driver's line of sight.

The 2024 Lexus GX featured a 14-inch touchscreen integrated into the dash, with USB-C ports and an available wireless charging pad for front-seat passengers. The Lexus Interface infotainment system supported Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and the Drive Connect subscription service offered an intelligent voice assistant. The GX's audio system varied by package, with the Luxury, Overtrail+, and Executive packages including a 21-speaker Mark Levinson stereo. While the Lexus Interface was user-friendly, the subscription-based features could add to long-term ownership costs.

The 2023 Mazda CX-50 earned a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS, though it fell short of the Top Safety Pick+ designation due to certain headlight configurations and night-time pedestrian collision avoidance results. It offered a comprehensive package of driving assistance systems, including active blind-spot monitoring and Traffic Jam Assist. However, the adaptive cruise control system occasionally failed to recognize slower vehicles cutting in, highlighting a need for improved sensitivity.

The 2024 Lexus GX saw significant improvements in safety features with the introduction of Lexus Safety System+ 3.0. This included pre-collision detection, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and road-sign recognition. The proactive driving assist feature enhanced safety during highway driving. While the GX had not yet been crash-tested by the IIHS or NHTSA, its modern architecture and advanced safety systems inspired confidence in its safety capabilities.