2022 Mazda CX-30 vs 2021 Lexus NX

The 2021 Lexus NX was available in three versions: the NX 300, NX 300 F Sport, and the NX 300h hybrid. This comparison focused on the gasoline models, specifically the performance-oriented F Sport variant. The NX carried over Lexus's signature design elements, featuring sharp lines and a sculpted exterior similar to the smaller UX and larger RX models. Standard features included power-folding outside mirrors and 17-inch wheels. The F Sport model added a sportier touch with a honeycomb grille, triple-beam LED headlights, and 18-inch F Sport wheels.

Inside, the F Sport model boasted exclusive quilted NuLuxe sport seats, with options for a Circuit Red interior color scheme. The interior materials were of high quality, with leather and wood trim available. The gauge cluster featured a sculpted metal-faced four-dial setup with a 4.2-inch multi-information display. However, the design seemed outdated compared to newer models like the 2022 Hyundai Tucson. The center stack, with its elevated climate-control buttons and rare CD player, also showed its age, though it remained functional.

The 2022 Mazda CX-30 had the look and styling of a downsized CX-5, with an upright grille and smooth, flowing fenders. It rode on the same platform as the Mazda3, essentially a raised-up version of the Mazda3 hatchback. The CX-30's raked windshield acted like a greenhouse on sunny days, and its slight curve could distort the view for taller drivers.

The cabin of the CX-30 was comfortable and quiet, with solid-feeling buttons and doors. The interior design was one of the best among affordable cars, featuring a blend of conventional and digital displays. The infotainment screen rose organically from the smooth dashboard, but its functionality took a backseat to form. The system had a steep learning curve, controlled by a rotary dial/joystick in the center console, reminiscent of older luxury-car infotainment systems.

The 2021 Lexus NX was powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering 235 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. The six-speed automatic transmission was adequate but lagged behind newer multi-speed transmissions. The NX accelerated from zero to 60 mph in around seven seconds, with the powertrain getting noisy under hard acceleration. The F Sport model featured Active Sound Control to enhance the engine note electronically.

Front-wheel drive was standard, with all-wheel drive available on all trims. The AWD system could transfer up to 50% of torque to the rear axle but lacked individual-wheel torque vectoring. Fuel economy for the FWD model was 22 mpg city, 28 mpg highway, and 25 mpg combined, while the AWD model had similar figures. The NX 300 had a 2,000-pound towing capacity and a top speed electronically limited to 124 mph.

The 2022 Mazda CX-30's base engine was a 2.5-liter four-cylinder, producing 186 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque. The test model featured an upgraded 2.5-liter turbocharged engine, delivering 227 hp and 310 lb-ft on 87 octane fuel, and 250 hp and 320 lb-ft on 93 octane fuel. Power was routed to all four wheels through a six-speed automatic transmission. The turbocharged engine provided decent acceleration, with a Sport mode enhancing throttle response and shift mapping.

The CX-30 had a sporty, refined ride with well-weighted steering and quick turn-in. It exhibited little body roll in cornering but had a rough ride over potholes. The suspension performed decently on dirt and gravel roads but struggled on craggy paved roads.

The 2021 Lexus NX's upscale interior was comfortable, with front seats providing ample room for adults and second-row seats accommodating two adults with decent legroom. Heated and ventilated seats were available. The NX offered 17.7 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second-row seats, expanding to 54.6 cubic feet with the seats folded. These figures were among the smallest in its class. A power liftgate with kick sensor technology and power-folding rear seats were available.

The 2022 Mazda CX-30 provided up to 45.2 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded and 20.2 cubic feet with the seats in use, average for the subcompact SUV segment. The Turbo Premium Plus model featured a power rear liftgate. The front seats had a sliding center console cover, which could get stuck under the seat when the rear seats were folded. The center console offered ample space for personal items, and the front doors had deep pockets for large water bottles. Rear seats provided solid headroom but might be tight for longer drives.

The 2021 Lexus NX featured an 8-inch touchscreen, with a 10.3-inch screen available in the Navigation package. The infotainment system added HomeLink and Lexus Enform Destination Assist for 2021. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, but the Lexus infotainment system was less user-friendly, relying on a touchpad. Other standard features included keyless entry, dual-zone automatic climate control, Bluetooth, a USB port, HD Radio, and a WiFi hot spot. The Lexus Premium Audio system had eight speakers, with a 14-speaker Mark Levinson system available on the top-tier NX.

The 2022 Mazda CX-30's infotainment screen was nestled into the dash and controlled by a rotary dial/joystick in the center console. This setup was inspired by older luxury-car infotainment systems like BMW's iDrive, which had poor usability. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were difficult to operate with the rotary dial. The system remained confusing even after setting up presets, making it distracting for new users.

The 2021 Lexus NX came standard with Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, including a rearview camera, lane-departure warning, lane-keep assist, traffic-sign recognition, automatic high beams, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, and adaptive cruise control. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were also standard. Optional features included park assist, a surround-view camera system, and adaptive headlights. The NX received top scores from the IIHS and a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA.

The 2022 Mazda CX-30 was equipped with standard driver-assistance features such as forward collision avoidance, pedestrian detection, automatic high beams, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, rain-sensing wipers, and adaptive cruise control. The Turbo Premium Plus model added blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, traffic-sign recognition, front-and-rear parking sensors, and reverse automatic emergency braking. The CX-30 earned five stars from the NHTSA and the highest Top Safety Pick+ award from the IIHS.