2024 Lexus TX vs 2024 Mazda CX-5

The 2024 Lexus TX was based on the Toyota Grand Highlander, yet it distinguished itself as a luxury SUV. It presented an upscale appearance, contrasting with the Grand Highlander's resemblance to a larger RAV4. The test model featured striking 22-inch wheels in a silver finish, part of the TX 350 Executive packages, which significantly enhanced its visual appeal and presence. The TX's styling was more subdued compared to other Lexus models, resulting in a conservative design that might appeal to those previously put off by the brand's aesthetics. The TX lineup included the TX 350, TX 500h F Sport Performance, and TX 550h+ plug-in hybrid models, with prices ranging from $72,036 to $87,486, including destination charges and dealer fees. The TX 350, likely the volume-selling version, came with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine and standard all-wheel drive, offering Ultra Luxury or Executive packages in Canada. The interior, while luxurious, felt somewhat dark due to the Peppercorn interior and black-grained trim, despite the panoramic glass sunroof.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 retained its design from the second-generation model introduced in 2017, which had aged well and remained modern and appealing. The test vehicle arrived in the U.S. version of the new-for-2024 Suna trim, featuring exclusive Zircon Sand paint and Terracotta leather seats with black artificial suede inserts. Mazda improved the fuel economy of versions equipped with the base engine, eliminated a previously available machined-finish 19-inch wheel design, and added wireless charging and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto to several trim levels. The CX-5 lineup included versions with a base engine and 2.5 Turbo models, with the Turbo offering 256 hp on premium gas. In Canada, trim levels ranged from GS to Signature, with prices from $35,476 to $48,276, including destination charges. The Suna trim, equivalent to the test unit, came with the Turbo engine as standard. The CX-5's interior materials, seating, technology, drivetrain, and suspension upgrades over the years resulted in an upscale crossover SUV at a mainstream price.

The 2024 Lexus TX 350 was equipped with a turbocharged 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 275 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque. Lexus claimed it could accelerate to 100 km/h in roughly eight seconds, though it felt quicker due to the torque swell. The official fuel economy rating was 10.3 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving, but during testing, it averaged 13.8 L/100 km. The ride and handling were well-balanced, with a firm suspension providing a comfortable ride and accurate steering. The interior was quiet on the highway, though the brake pedal felt too soft.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 Turbo delivered 256 hp at 5,000 rpm and 320 lb-ft of torque at 2,500 rpm on premium gas, with slightly reduced figures on regular gas. The powertrain was more rewarding with a steady acceleration, allowing revs to build before utilizing the torque. The official fuel economy rating was 9.8 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving, with observed results at 10.3 L/100 km. The CX-5 felt tall and narrow from the driver's seat, with excellent outward visibility. Mazda re-tuned the suspension for a smoother ride and made all-wheel drive standard. The CX-5 was quiet on the highway and lively in the city, with zippy handling on twisty roads. It offered a decent 20 centimetres of ground clearance and could tow up to 900 kilograms.

The 2024 Lexus TX addressed previous shortcomings in Lexus's three-row SUVs. The TX 350 test unit featured premium semi-aniline leather and artificial suede upholstery, with heated and ventilated front seats and a heated steering wheel as standard in Canada. The second-row seat was less welcoming due to its flat lower cushion, but the third-row seat was habitable for adults. The TX offered 572 litres of cargo space behind the third-row seat, expanding to 1,625 litres with the third-row seats folded and 2,746 litres with the second-row seats down. Storage slots and bins were numerous but lacked lining, potentially contributing to noise and vibration.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 provided standard heated front seats and a heated steering wheel, with comfortable and supportive seating. Leather was standard on all trim levels except the base GS and GX, with premium Nappa leather on the Signature trim. The rear seat offered good support and a proper sitting position, with rear air conditioning vents and a centre fold-down armrest. The CX-5's cabin design and quality elevated it above most mass-market rivals. It offered 871 litres of cargo space behind the back seat, expanding to 1,680 litres with the rear seat folded.

The 2024 Lexus TX featured a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel, a digital rearview mirror, and a head-up display in the Executive packages. The Lexus Interface infotainment system included a 14-inch touchscreen display, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a Drive Connect subscription for cloud-based navigation and a digital assistant. The TX offered 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 provided impressive fidelity.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 eschewed touchscreens for traditional switchgear, though it allowed touchscreen operation of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto while driving. The 10.25-inch display was navigated using a large knob and surrounding buttons on the centre console. Mazda Connected Services offered remote engine starting and a find my car feature. The Suna trim included a 10-speaker Bose premium sound system, adding to the SUV's premium interior.

The 2024 Lexus TX came with Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and more. Proactive Drive Assist was part of LSS+ 3.0, offering braking and steering assistance. The TX also featured blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a safe exit assist system. The traffic jam assist system provided hands-free driving at low speeds on approved highways.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 included adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and more as standard. Higher trims offered adaptive headlights, a traffic sign recognition system, and a driver monitoring system. The CX-5 had previously earned a Top Safety Pick designation from the IIHS and received five-star ratings from the NHTSA, except for a four-star rollover resistance rating.