Mazda CX-90 vs Lexus TX

The 2026 Lexus TX offered a range of trim levels tailored to different powertrains, including the TX 350, 500h hybrid, and 550h+ plug-in hybrid. The 550h+ stood out with its standard panoramic glass roof and striking Matador Red Mica paint. Most models featured 20-inch wheels, but the 550h+ boasted 22-inch wheels. The design retained the large spindle grille, complemented by sharp bi-LED headlights and rear LED lighting. Inside, the TX provided two interior color options, with the PHEV adding a Peppercorn brown. Ambient lighting and suede trim enhanced the cabin, though material quality fell short of luxury standards. Redesigned door handles offered a unique touch, but some might have preferred more attention to cabin detail.

The 2026 Mazda CX-90 presented a complex lineup with three model designations: 3.3 Turbo, 3.3 Turbo S, and the CX-90 PHEV. The 3.3 Turbo was the most affordable, while the Turbo S and PHEV offered more power and features. The CX-90's design featured a short front overhang, long hood, and concave door skins, creating a sporty appearance. Inside, the materials were top-notch, except for the wood trim's olive undertone. The digital instrumentation and 12.3-inch infotainment display were well-integrated, though the center console was cluttered. The electronic shifter and climate control toggles were less intuitive, and the i-Stop feature could be unpredictable. Despite these quirks, the CX-90 excelled in handling, offering a driving experience rivaled only by the Ford Explorer ST.

The 2026 Lexus TX offered a range of powertrains, with the base model producing 317 horsepower from a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine. The 550h+ plug-in hybrid, however, delivered an impressive 404 horsepower from its 3.5-liter V6 and hybrid system. The onboard seven-kilowatt charger allowed for a full battery charge in under three hours. The TX provided various drive modes, including Normal, Eco, Sport, and Custom, with Sport mode enhancing throttle sensitivity. The 550h+ offered a smooth ride, with seamless transitions between gas and electric power, and a versatile AWD system that adjusted power distribution as needed.

The 2026 Mazda CX-90 featured three powertrains, with the 3.3 Turbo producing 280 horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque. The Turbo S increased output to 319 hp on regular gas and 340 hp on premium. The CX-90 PHEV combined a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with a 68-kilowatt electric motor, generating 323 hp and 369 lb-ft on premium fuel, with a 26-mile electric-only range. All models used an eight-speed automatic transmission and AWD. The CX-90's powertrains lacked smoothness, with the i-Stop feature causing occasional delays. Despite this, the Turbo S engine offered strong power and acceleration, and the CX-90 excelled in handling, though the firm suspension communicated road nuances to passengers.

The 2026 Lexus TX 550h+ provided standard luxury features, including multi-zone climate control, heated and cooled front seats, and heated second-row seats. The third row was spacious, with a recline function and ample headroom. A one-touch button facilitated third-row access, though folding the second row flat was more complex. The front seats were roomy but lacked thigh support. The TX offered excellent cargo space, with 20.2 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 97 cubic feet with all seats folded. All models could tow up to 5,000 pounds.

The 2026 Mazda CX-90 featured firm yet comfortable seats, with heated and ventilated front and second-row captain’s chairs. Storage space was limited, with a shallow bin beneath the center armrest. The second row offered a good view and climate control panel, though legroom was less than some rivals. The third row accommodated adults with small feet, but the center console restricted leg placement. Cargo space was 14.9 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 74.2 cubic feet with all seats folded. The manual third-row seat folding was quick, but overall cargo space was less than some competitors.

The 2026 Lexus TX featured a 14-inch color touchscreen, though some functions lacked polish. Steering wheel buttons controlled various functions but were not labeled, requiring drivers to rely on the gauge cluster for guidance. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, though connectivity issues occurred. A subscription was needed for in-dash navigation and other features. The backup camera offered a clear view, with an available Advanced Park system for automated parking. The TX included seven USB ports and wireless charging, with a 120-volt outlet in the second row.

The 2026 Mazda CX-90 came with a 10.25-inch infotainment display on the base trim, with higher trims featuring a 12.3-inch screen and wireless smartphone integration. The system was sometimes intuitive but could be confusing, lacking a digital voice assistant. Amazon Alexa compatibility required an internet connection, and the native voice recognition system was basic. Drivers often relied on Apple CarPlay for navigation and other functions. The infotainment system was controlled via buttons and knobs, with a touch-sensing display for smartphone integration.

The 2026 Lexus TX included Safety System+ 3.0 as standard, featuring forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane centering, and more. Proactive Driving Assist was often turned off due to its unpredictability. Adaptive cruise control worked well once set up, though it could be slow to respond in traffic. The TX 350 and 500h earned five-star NHTSA ratings, while the TX received an "Acceptable" IIHS score for the small overlap front crash test on the driver’s side.

The 2026 Mazda CX-90 offered standard driver-assist features, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. Higher trims added active blind-spot monitors, lane-keep assist, and more. The CX-90 earned a Top Safety Pick+ award from the IIHS and a five-star overall NHTSA rating, though steering assist features were less sophisticated. Blind-spot monitor warnings were effectively conveyed via digital instrumentation and the head-up display.