2025 Lexus RX Hybrid 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 mild hybrid’s Signature trim, featured extra-cost Soul Red paint, bringing the Canadian 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 counterintuitive climate controls, but overall, the CX-90 exuded sophistication compared to other midsize three-row crossover SUVs.

The 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid, particularly the RX 500h F Sport Black Line, was priced around $90,000 and featured exclusive Incognito paint and orange brake calipers. Despite these unique touches, the RX's design was considered unremarkable, with a large front grille and dramatic rear haunches. The RX lineup included the RX 350h, RX 500h, and RX 450h+ models, each offering different power outputs and fuel efficiencies. Standard AWD was available across all models in Canada, with various package options for each. The RX's interior was contemporary, with quality materials and ambient lighting. Ergonomically, the controls varied from baffling to brilliant, with Lexus avoiding the common single curved display approach. The RX Hybrid offered a comfortable and spacious interior, with ample room for adults in the back seat and practical cargo space. However, the automatic climate system's fan was notably loud, and the rear centre armrest storage lacked lining, potentially causing noise and vibration.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90's performance was somewhat disappointing, particularly with the standard 3.3 Turbo drivetrain, which lacked refinement. The turbocharged 3.3-litre inline-six engine produced 280 horsepower and 332 pound-feet of torque in standard-output models, while the high-output version delivered 319 hp and 369 lb-ft (340 hp with premium gas). Power was transmitted through an eight-speed automatic transmission and a standard AWD system, with a rear-wheel bias for improved dynamics. The CX-90 offered Normal, Sport, Off-Road, and Towing modes, with a maximum towing capacity of 2,268 kilograms. Fuel economy ratings were 9.3 L/100 km for the standard engine and 9.5 L/100 km for the high-output version, while the PHEV offered 42 kilometres of electric range and a 9.4 L/100 km combined rating. 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 created by the styling and interior. However, the CX-90's taut suspension provided a firm, communicative ride, and switching between driving modes offered a satisfying experience.

The 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid offered three models, with the RX 350h being the least powerful but most efficient, producing 246 hp and 233 lb-ft of torque. The RX 450h+ PHEV delivered 304 hp and a 0-100 km/h time of 6.5 seconds, while the RX 500h featured a turbocharged 2.4-litre engine, producing 366 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque, with a 0-100 km/h time of 6.2 seconds. The RX 500h included a sport-tuned adaptive damping suspension, 21-inch wheels, and Lexus's Direct4 AWD system. Despite its power and appealing engine sound, the RX 500h's fuel efficiency was poor, averaging 13.5 L/100 km. The drivetrain occasionally hesitated, and the adaptive damping suspension produced unnatural sensations. While capable on twisty roads, the RX 500h filtered communication, making it difficult to discern dynamic limits. The RX 500h was more about sporty appearance and straight-line acceleration than dynamic capability and satisfaction.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90's interior featured Nappa leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and a heated steering wheel in Signature trim. However, the three-zone climate control system struggled to cool the cabin efficiently. The panoramic sunroof provided natural light, and second-row passengers enjoyed comfortable seating with height-adjustable armrests and window shades. The third row was best suited for children, with limited space for adults. The CX-90's storage options were limited, with a smartphone charging tray, a shallow bin under the centre armrest, and minimal door panel storage. The hands-free power liftgate revealed 451 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 1,155 litres with the third row folded and 2,129 litres with the second row down, which was small for the segment.

The 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid focused on occupant comfort and practical cargo space. The RX 500h's front seats were snug due to enhanced bolstering, and the automatic climate system's fan was loud. The panoramic sunroof extended over the rear seat, which featured optional power-reclining, heated, and ventilated seats. The RX provided ample room for adults in the back seat. Interior storage was practical, with an illuminated shelf under the air vents, though the rear centre armrest storage lacked lining. The hands-free power liftgate revealed 838 litres of cargo space, with hooks for grocery bags and a small amount of storage under the load floor. Folding the second row created 1,308 litres of cargo volume, which was limited for a midsize SUV.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90's dashboard featured a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 12.3-inch infotainment screen in the Signature trim. The infotainment screen was touch-sensitive only when using wireless Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, with the native Mazda Connect platform requiring a knob and buttons. The voice recognition system was lacking, but Mazda planned to introduce a new Google built-in infotainment system 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 RX Hybrid was equipped with high-tech features, including digital key functionality, a camera-based digital rearview mirror, and a hands-free power liftgate. The RX 500h model featured a 14-inch touchscreen display with a conversational digital voice assistant called Intelligent Assistant. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with SiriusXM satellite radio and cloud-based navigation. The optional 21-speaker Mark Levinson audio system provided excellent sound quality. However, the steering wheel controls were distracting and difficult to use while driving.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90 received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and five-star ratings in all NHTSA crash tests for the PHEV model. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. Higher trims added features like steering assist, emergency lane-keeping assist, and a surround-view camera system. The CX-90's driver aids were effective, though the speed reduction feature was irritating, and the audible warning systems were excessive.

The 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid included Safety Connect, offering automatic collision notification and emergency assistance. Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 provided advanced driver assistance systems like forward collision warning, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. Proactive Driving Assist monitored forward progress and used braking or steering input to maintain safe distances. The surround-view camera was a valuable addition, though the lane-change assist function was slow. The RX received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, but the IIHS rated it Poor in the moderate overlap frontal-impact test.