2020 Lexus RX vs 2021 Mazda CX-5

The 2020 Lexus RX received a significant refresh, enhancing its appeal both inside and out. The updates were more than just minor tweaks, as the styling changes allowed the RX to stand out in a competitive market. Despite its age, the RX maintained a stylish edge over its Toyota counterparts. The exterior featured standard 18-inch wheels, slimmer headlights, and L-shaped taillights, with optional triple-beam LED headlights. The grille was redesigned to resemble other Lexus models, and new paint colors like Moonbeam Beige Metallic and Nori Green Pearl were introduced. The rear of the vehicle was updated with a new shape, dual exhaust, rear diffuser, and reflectors, along with an available hands-free tailgate. Inside, the RX offered a well-appointed cabin with various interior color and material combinations, including wood and satin-brushed aluminum trim. The F Sport package added unique features like a special steering wheel, shift knob, aluminum pedals, and 20-inch wheels, enhancing the SUV's sporty appeal. The leather-wrapped surfaces provided a premium feel, while the center stack, though functional, appeared dated compared to industry trends.

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 took a different design approach, opting for a smooth and sleek appearance rather than sharp angles and creases. The base CX-5 Sport featured automatic LED headlights, 17-inch wheels, a rear roof spoiler, and rain-sensing wipers. The Touring model added rear privacy glass, leatherette seats, dual-zone climate control, and more. The Touring Preferred SV Package offered upgrades like a Bose sound system, leather seats, and a power moonroof. The Carbon Edition combined Touring features with a unique paint job and red leather seats. The Grand Touring model added heated mirrors, leatherette upholstery, and a power liftgate. The Grand Touring Reserve and Signature trims offered a turbocharged engine, AWD, and premium features like ventilated seats and Nappa leather. The CX-5's interior materials were of high quality, though the design was not as modern as some competitors.

The 2020 Lexus RX 350 was powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, delivering 295 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque. The three-row RX 350L had slightly reduced power at 290 horsepower and 263 pound-feet of torque. The RX 450h hybrid combined the V6 with an electric motor, achieving 308 horsepower and 247 pound-feet of torque. The RX 450hL hybrid had a similar setup but with 259 horsepower from the gasoline engine and 165 horsepower from an electric motor. The RX's performance was smooth, with a 0-60 mph time of 7.9 seconds for most models. Fuel economy varied, with the RX 350 achieving 23 mpg combined, while the RX 450h hybrid excelled at 30 mpg combined. The F Sport models offered adaptive suspension and sportier features, enhancing agility. The RX provided a comfortable and quiet ride, though it struggled in snowy conditions without torque-vectoring technology.

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 offered two engine options: a naturally aspirated 2.5-liter four-cylinder with 187 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque, and a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder with 250 horsepower and 320 pound-feet of torque. The base engine was available with FWD or AWD, while the turbo engine came standard with AWD. The CX-5's fuel economy was decent, with the non-turbo engine achieving up to 28 mpg combined with FWD. The turbo engine was slightly less efficient, with up to 25 mpg combined. The CX-5's driving experience was engaging, especially with the turbo engine in Sport mode. However, the stiff suspension could be uncomfortable, and the seats lacked sufficient bolstering for spirited driving. The CX-5's AWD system provided good traction, but the ride was not as refined as some competitors.

The 2020 Lexus RX's interior was not as minimalist or stylish as some German luxury SUVs, but it was functional. The two-row RX comfortably seated four adults, while the three-row RX-L's third row was best for small children. The cabin was spacious in the two-row configuration, with comfortable front seats and good visibility. However, the cargo area was smaller than competitors, with a high load floor limiting space. The RX 350L and 450hL also had less cargo space compared to rivals like the Lincoln Aviator. A hands-free liftgate was available on some models.

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 offered a comfortable and stylish interior, though rear legroom was limited for taller passengers. The SUV had two full LATCH connections in the rear seats, though they were not the easiest to use. The climate controls were straightforward and effective. The CX-5's larger shifter took up space, and the infotainment controls were not ideally positioned for shorter drivers. Cargo space was below average for the segment, with 30.9 cubic feet behind the second row and 59.6 cubic feet with the seats folded. Competitors like the Subaru Forester and Toyota RAV4 offered more space. A power liftgate was available.

The 2020 Lexus RX's infotainment system was often criticized, but improvements were made for 2020. The display was moved closer to the driver, and the system became a touchscreen. However, it remained difficult to navigate. Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and other integrations helped mitigate these issues. The RX had six USB ports and a standard 12-speaker audio system, with an optional 15-speaker Mark Levinson system.

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 featured a standard 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen. While the screen size was impressive, the operating system was not user-friendly. The lack of tuning knobs was inconvenient, though volume control was accessible via the steering wheel or center console. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, providing a workaround for the system's shortcomings.

The 2020 Lexus RX came with Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, including adaptive cruise control, automatic high beams, and blind-spot monitoring. Additional features like daytime bicyclist detection and lane-tracing assist were standard. The RX received good safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, though not as high as newer models.

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 offered a comprehensive list of standard safety features, including adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and forward collision warning. Optional features included a head-up display and surround-view camera. The CX-5 earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA. Mazda provided a three-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a five-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty.