2025 Lexus GX vs 2025 Mazda CX-90

The 2025 Mazda CX-90 was available in three powertrain variants: the standard-output 3.3 Turbo, the high-output 3.3 Turbo, and the plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV). Canadian trim levels included GS-L, GS, GT, GT-P, and Signature, with pricing ranging from $48,846 to $67,886. The test vehicle in the U.S., equivalent to the Signature trim, featured extra-cost Soul Red paint, bringing the MSRP to $67,286. The CX-90's exterior boasted lustrous paint, polished chrome trim, and intricate 21-inch wheels, giving it a luxury SUV appearance. Its sculptural sheet metal created a dynamic interplay of light and shadow, while the short front overhang, long hood, and rear-axle-focused cabin placement contributed to a low, athletic look. Inside, the CX-90 continued its premium theme with polished metallic trim, Nappa leather, and clearly marked switchgear, though some materials reflected its price point. Ergonomic issues included a confusing electronic shifter and a non-touchscreen Mazda Connect infotainment system. Despite these drawbacks, the CX-90 exuded sophistication compared to other midsize three-row crossover SUVs.

The 2025 Lexus GX underwent a complete redesign, presenting a striking new look compared to its predecessor. Its boxy shape evoked old-school Land Rover vibes, with a brawny facial expression accentuated by LED headlights and a well-proportioned grille. The GX 550 Overtrail+ test vehicle featured 33-inch tires on matte grey 18-inch wheels, a raised ride height, rock rails, and a distinctive brown colour called Earth. Inside, the GX offered a clean and elegant design with quality switchgear and chic dashboard, centre console, and door trim. The front and rear seats provided ample headroom, even for tall drivers, and the head-up display was easily adjustable. The seats, upholstered in stitched black and tan faux leather, offered heating, ventilation, and massaging functions. Overall visibility was excellent, thanks to tall windows and the elevated ride height of the Overtrail+ package.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90's standard 3.3 Turbo drivetrain was less refined than its design and materials suggested. The turbocharged 3.3-litre inline-six engine, also used in the Mazda CX-70, produced 280 horsepower and 332 pound-feet of torque in standard-output models. The high-output version, standard on GT-P and Signature trims, delivered 319 hp and 369 lb-ft, or 340 hp with premium gas. Power was transmitted through an eight-speed automatic transmission and a standard all-wheel-drive system, which biased power to the rear wheels for improved dynamics. The CX-90 offered Normal, Sport, Off-Road, and Towing modes, with a maximum towing capacity of 2,268 kilograms. Ground clearance ranged from 20.4 to 20.6 centimetres, and hill descent control was standard. Fuel economy ratings were 9.3 L/100 km combined for the standard engine, 9.5 L/100 km for the high-output version, and 9.4 L/100 km for the PHEV. Despite impressive ride and handling, the CX-90's drivetrain lacked refinement, with unpredictable power delivery and transmission behaviour. Noise and impact harshness were also issues, detracting from the upscale impression. However, the CX-90 excelled in handling, with a firm suspension that provided excellent road feedback.

The 2025 Lexus GX featured a twin-turbo 3.4-litre V6 engine producing 349 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque, paired with a full-time four-wheel-drive system and a 10-speed automatic transmission. The GX accelerated from 0-100 km/h in approximately 6.5 seconds, a second faster than its V8-powered predecessor. The GX's performance was robust, with ample power throughout the rev band, making highway merges effortless. However, the transmission occasionally lagged in selecting the right gear for peak acceleration. Fuel economy was rated at 15.3 L/100 km in the city, 11.2 on the highway, and 13.5 combined, with an average of 19.0 L/100 km during testing. The GX's chassis, featuring double-wishbone suspension and adaptive dampers, provided athletic handling despite its size. On-road ride quality was good, though the rear axle exhibited some jiggliness. Off-road, the GX excelled, with easy-to-use controls for low gear range and differential locking. The GX handled challenging terrain with ease, demonstrating impressive off-road capability. The Overtrail+ package added off-road features, but increased the price significantly.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90's interior climate control system struggled to cool the cabin quickly, though it eventually became comfortable. The Signature trim featured Nappa leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and a heated steering wheel. However, front-seat ventilation was less effective than expected. The panoramic sunroof provided ample natural light, and second-row passengers enjoyed comfortable seating with height-adjustable armrests and window shades. The third row was accessible via long rear doors, but best suited for children on longer trips. Storage space was limited, with a smartphone charging tray, shallow bin, and small door panel storage. The hands-free power liftgate revealed 451 litres of cargo space behind the third row, increasing to 1,155 litres with the third row folded and 2,129 litres with the second row flattened.

The 2025 Lexus GX offered a spacious interior, with front headroom measuring 1,001 millimetres and rear headroom at 1,095 mm. Legroom was 1,047 mm in the front and 933 mm in the second row, with generous shoulder room. The GX's cargo space was impressive, with 291 litres behind the third row, 1,138 litres with the third row stowed, and 2,177 litres with both rows folded. The Overtrail packages, without a third row, offered 2,563 litres of space with the second row folded. The GX's towing capacity was 4,111 kilograms. Despite its size, the GX was easy to park, with a width of 1,999 millimetres and a length of 5,005 mm.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90's dashboard featured a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 12.3-inch infotainment screen. While the infotainment screen was touch-sensitive for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, the native Mazda Connect platform required using a knob and buttons. The voice recognition system was subpar, but a new Google built-in infotainment system was expected in future models. The test vehicle included a 12-speaker Bose audio system and a head-up display with blind-spot alerts.

The 2025 Lexus GX's infotainment system was user-friendly, with a 12.3-inch gauge cluster and a 14-inch infotainment touchscreen. The system offered haptic feedback, smooth operation, and an intuitive layout. Wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth were standard. The Mark Levinson Premium Audio system, included in higher packages, provided good audio quality. Six USB-C ports were standard, and the Executive and Overtrail+ packages included cooled armrest storage.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90 received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and five-star ratings in NHTSA crash tests. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assist. Higher trims added advanced features like steering assist and a surround-view camera system. The driver aids generally met expectations, though some features were overly sensitive.

The 2025 Lexus GX featured the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, with adaptive cruise control, lane-centring assistance, road sign assist, and blind-spot monitoring. The Overtrail+ package included pedestrian detection. The GX's safety systems were user-friendly and not intrusive. A 360-degree camera system and trail-viewing cameras enhanced visibility. The GX had not been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA but included 10 airbags for occupant protection.