2025 Mazda CX-50 vs 2024 Lexus TX

The 2024 Lexus TX was based on the Toyota Grand Highlander, yet it distinguished itself as a luxury SUV. Its upscale appearance was evident, especially with the 22-inch silver-finished wheels included in the TX 350 Executive packages, which significantly enhanced its presence. The styling of the TX was more subdued compared to other Lexus models, offering a conservative look that might appeal to those previously put off by the brand's design. 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 sale.

In contrast, the 2025 Mazda CX-50 was considered an attractive option in the compact SUV class, borrowing styling elements from the CX-5 but enhancing them with distinct fender flares and a wider grille for a sportier stance. The interior featured a traditional layout with classier materials than its rivals, including soft-touch surfaces and sturdy plastics. The hybrid model offered exclusive red leather upholstery, adding vibrancy to the cabin. However, the decorative stripe running down the middle of the seats was a peculiar design choice, described by some as feeling like thong undergarments. Despite this, the CX-50 positioned itself above other compact SUVs, leaning towards entry-level luxury in design and interior quality.

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, although it felt quicker due to the torque. 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 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-50 Hybrid debuted with a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine paired with three electric motors, delivering 219 horsepower and 163 lb-ft of torque. It shared its powertrain with the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, offering similar acceleration, expected to reach 100 km/h between 7.5 and 8 seconds. The e-CVT transmission replicated the feel of a conventional automatic, and the sportier suspension tuning provided engaging handling with minimal body roll. The firmer ride quality was noticeable but not harsh, and the cabin remained quiet on the highway.

The 2024 Lexus TX addressed previous shortcomings in Lexus's three-row SUVs, offering a more habitable third-row seat for adults. 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 provided adequate leg support and a good view. Cargo space measured 572 litres 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.

The 2025 Mazda CX-50 offered ample room in the front seats, but the rear seats were less spacious compared to competitors like the Honda CR-V Hybrid and Sportage Hybrid. Personal storage was adequate, but cargo space was limited to 826 litres behind the rear seats, less than the non-hybrid CX-50 and significantly below the class average. Despite this, the space was usable for day-to-day needs, aided by a standard power liftgate and a large storage bin under the cargo floor.

The 2024 Lexus TX featured a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a digital rearview mirror, with additional options like a head-up display and a surround-view camera 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 also offered free 10-year subscriptions to Service Connect and Safety Connect, and a 21-speaker Mark Levinson premium audio system was available in the Executive package.

The 2025 Mazda CX-50's 10.25-inch infotainment system was controlled by a dial on the centre console, with touchscreen functionality limited to Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. All models came standard with wireless smartphone integration, and the hybrid model included a wireless charging pad. The base trims featured an eight-speaker audio system, while the GT trim offered a 12-speaker Bose premium system.

The 2024 Lexus TX was equipped with the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, which included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and more. Proactive Drive Assist was also part of the system, providing braking and steering assistance. Additional safety features included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a safe exit assist system. The traffic jam assist system offered hands-free driving at low speeds on approved highways.

The 2025 Mazda CX-50 Hybrid earned high safety ratings, with five stars from the NHTSA in most evaluations and a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS. Standard safety features included frontal collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keep assist, and adaptive cruise control. The systems functioned smoothly, with the adaptive cruise control noted for its smooth acceleration and stops.