2024 Lexus TX vs 2025 Mazda CX-5

The 2024 Lexus TX was based on the Toyota Grand Highlander, yet it distinguished itself as a luxury SUV with its upscale appearance. Unlike the Grand Highlander, which resembled a larger RAV4, the TX boasted elegant 22-inch wheels in a silver finish, enhancing its presence significantly. The styling of the TX was more subdued compared to other Lexus models, offering a conservative design that might appeal to those previously put off by the brand's bolder aesthetics. 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, although the TX 550h+ was not yet available for purchase.

In contrast, the 2025 Mazda CX-5 was celebrated for its attractive design, standing out in the small SUV class with its graceful curves. Despite not having been redesigned since 2017, the CX-5's styling remained impressive, often mistaken for an entry-level luxury SUV. The interior of the CX-5 featured materials and a layout that bridged the gap between traditional and modern designs, with physical buttons and knobs instead of a massive touchscreen. While it lacked some high-tech features, the CX-5's usability was praised, and its interior was comparable to last-generation Acura or Lexus models, offering a special feel compared to similarly priced crossovers.

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 about eight seconds, although it felt quicker due to its torque delivery. The TX 350's fuel economy was rated at 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 yet comfortable suspension and accurate steering. However, the brake pedal felt too soft, though it was easy to modulate for smooth stops.

The 2025 Mazda CX-5 offered two engine options: a base 2.5-litre four-cylinder with 187 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque, and a turbocharged version with 256 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque. The base engine accelerated to 96 km/h in about eight seconds, while the turbo model was quicker by two seconds. The CX-5 was praised for its sporty driving dynamics, with minimal body roll and a sure-footed AWD system. The ride was slightly firmer, but the cabin remained quiet, filtering out wind and road noise effectively.

The 2024 Lexus TX addressed previous shortcomings in Lexus's three-row SUVs. It offered a comfortable interior with premium materials, heated and ventilated seats, and a heated steering wheel. The third-row seat was habitable for adults, unlike previous models, and the TX provided ample cargo space, with 572 litres behind the third row and up to 2,746 litres with the second-row seats folded. However, second-row legroom was limited, and storage compartments lacked lining, potentially causing noise.

The 2025 Mazda CX-5's interior was well-designed but less spacious than some rivals. It offered adequate headroom and rear legroom, though competitors like the Honda CR-V and Kia Sportage provided more space. The CX-5 had 871 litres of cargo space behind the rear seats, expandable to 1,680 litres with the seats folded. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with a dial for control, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were available. However, the analog gauges felt outdated compared to digital displays.

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 included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with a Drive Connect subscription for cloud-based navigation and a digital assistant. The TX also offered a 21-speaker Mark Levinson premium audio system. However, the head-up display's unmarked steering wheel controls and visibility issues with polarized sunglasses were drawbacks.

The 2025 Mazda CX-5 came with a 10.25-inch infotainment display controlled via a dial, offering easy operation while driving. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were available, with wireless options in higher trims. The CX-5's analog gauges felt dated, but a head-up display was standard in higher trims. The audio system ranged from a four-speaker setup to a 10-speaker Bose premium system in the Signature model. Remote vehicle monitoring and a Wi-Fi hotspot were also available.

The 2024 Lexus TX was equipped with the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, lane-keeping assist, and more. Proactive Drive Assist was available but not always transparent in operation. The TX also featured blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and optional parking sensors and traffic jam assist. The safety systems generally performed well, though the TX slowed too dramatically when other vehicles cut in.

The 2025 Mazda CX-5 received high safety ratings, with five stars from NHTSA and good scores from IIHS, though its collision avoidance system was rated poorly. Standard safety features included forward-collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keep assist. Higher trims added adaptive headlights, a head-up display, and a 360-degree camera. The safety systems operated smoothly, with no false alarms or glitches during testing.