2025 Lexus RX Hybrid vs 2024 Mazda CX-5

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 retained its familiar design from the second-generation model introduced in 2017, which continued to look modern and appealing. The U.S. version of the new-for-2024 Suna trim featured exclusive Zircon Sand paint and Terracotta leather seats with black artificial suede inserts, adding a touch of exclusivity. Mazda made improvements to fuel economy for the base engine models, removed a previous wheel design, and added wireless charging and connectivity options. The CX-5 lineup offered a base engine with 187 horsepower and a Turbo model with up to 256 horsepower, both equipped with a six-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. In Canada, the CX-5 was available in various trims, with prices ranging from $35,476 to $48,276, including fees. The Suna trim, priced at $47,026, came with the Turbo engine as standard, offering an upscale feel at a mainstream price.

The 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid, particularly the RX 500h F Sport Black Line, was a $90,000 SUV with an exclusive Incognito paint job and orange brake calipers. Despite its high price, the RX's design was unremarkable, with a large front grille and dramatic rear haunches. The RX lineup included three hybrid models: the RX 350h with 246 horsepower, the RX 500h with 366 horsepower, and the RX 450h+ plug-in hybrid with an estimated 60 km electric-only range. All models featured standard all-wheel drive in Canada, with various packages available. Prices ranged from $66,689 to $92,804, including fees. Inside, the RX offered a contemporary interior with quality materials and ambient lighting, though the controls were a mix of intuitive and baffling. The RX avoided the common single curved display approach, maintaining a unique interior design.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 Turbo delivered 256 horsepower on premium gas and 227 horsepower on regular gas, with torque figures of 320 lb-ft and 310 lb-ft, respectively. The powertrain was more rewarding with a gradual acceleration approach, and while not fuel-efficient, it offered a combined rating of 9.8 L/100 km. The CX-5's suspension was re-tuned for a smoother ride, and it featured Mazda's G-Vectoring Control Plus for enhanced cornering. The CX-5 was quiet on highways, firm in the city, and capable on twisty roads, with a ground clearance of 20 cm and a towing capacity of 900 kg.

The 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid offered three models with varying performance. The RX 350h had 246 horsepower, while the RX 450h+ PHEV delivered 304 horsepower with a 0-100 km/h time of 6.5 seconds. The RX 500h, with a turbocharged 2.4-litre engine, produced 366 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque, achieving 0-100 km/h in 6.2 seconds. The RX 500h featured a sport-tuned adaptive damping suspension, 21-inch wheels, and Lexus's Direct4 AWD system. Despite its power, the RX 500h averaged 13.5 L/100 km in testing, higher than the estimated 8.6 L/100 km. The RX 500h was quiet on highways but firm in the city, with adaptive damping that sometimes felt unnatural. While capable on twisty roads, it lacked communication between the driver and the road, making it more about appearance and straight-line acceleration.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 offered standard heated front seats and a heated steering wheel, with comfortable and supportive seating. Leather was standard on most trims, with premium Nappa leather on the Signature trim. The CX-5 was snug for four adults, with good rear seat support and amenities like rear air conditioning vents. The cabin design and quality elevated the CX-5, with 871 litres of cargo space behind the rear seats and 1,680 litres with the seats folded.

The 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid focused on occupant comfort and cargo space, with heated and ventilated front seats that felt snug due to enhanced bolstering. The RX offered a panoramic sunroof and comfortable rear seats with ample room for adults. Interior storage was practical, though the rear centre armrest lacked lining. The RX Hybrid provided 838 litres of cargo space, with hooks for grocery bags and a small storage area under the load floor. Folding the second row increased cargo volume to 1,308 litres, which was modest for a midsize SUV.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 eschewed touchscreens for traditional controls, though it allowed touchscreen operation for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The 10.25-inch display was navigated using a console knob, with quick access buttons for main functions. Mazda Connected Services offered remote engine starting and more, with a 10-speaker Bose sound system standard on the Suna trim.

The 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid featured high-tech amenities like digital key functionality, a camera-based digital rearview mirror, and a hands-free power liftgate. The Lexus Interface infotainment system included a 14-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a cloud-based navigation system. The RX 500h's optional 21-speaker Mark Levinson audio system sounded great, though steering wheel controls were distracting. The system experienced occasional glitches, but overall, the technology worked well.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 came with a comprehensive suite of advanced driving assistance systems (ADAS), including adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and more. Higher trims offered additional safety features like adaptive headlights and a driver monitoring system. The CX-5 received five-star ratings from the NHTSA, except for a four-star rollover resistance rating.

The 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid included Safety Connect with automatic collision notification and Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, featuring forward collision warning, lane-keeping assist, and more. Proactive Driving Assist monitored forward progress, and a surround-view camera was available. The RX earned a five-star safety rating from the NHTSA, though the IIHS rated it poorly in a moderate overlap frontal-impact test.