2021 Mazda CX-5 vs 2022 Lexus RX

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 was a departure from the trend of sharply creased designs, opting instead for a sleek and smooth aesthetic that appeared dynamic even at rest. While it didn't boast the aggressive styling of some competitors, it took Mazda's familiar design language in a more refined direction. The exterior features varied slightly across trim levels, with the base Sport model offering practical elements like automatic LED headlights and rain-sensing wipers. Higher trims like the Touring and Grand Touring Reserve added luxury touches such as leatherette seats, dual-zone climate control, and advanced lighting systems that enhanced both style and functionality. The top-tier Signature model elevated the CX-5 to a premium level with Nappa leather seats and genuine wood trim, rivaling luxury brands in terms of interior quality and design.

In contrast, the 2022 Lexus RX maintained its modern and sporty design, characterized by sharp character lines and angular features that gave it an aggressive stance in the midsize luxury crossover segment. The RX was available in several trims, including the performance-oriented F Sport, which featured unique styling elements like 20-inch wheels and a distinctive front fascia. The RX's interior mirrored its exterior's luxury appeal, with a variety of color combinations and materials available, although the F Sport trim added a sporty touch with specific badging and trim. Despite its stylish design, the RX's interior felt slightly dated, with an abundance of buttons and a center stack that hadn't been significantly updated in years. However, it excelled in providing a comfortable and quiet ride, making it a suitable choice for long journeys.

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 offered two engine options, both paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. The base engine was a 2.5-liter four-cylinder producing 187 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque, available with either front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD). The more powerful option was a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine delivering 250 horsepower and 320 pound-feet of torque, standard on the Grand Touring Reserve and Signature trims with AWD. The CX-5's fuel efficiency varied, with the FWD non-turbo model achieving 25 mpg city and 31 mpg highway, while the turbocharged AWD version managed 22 mpg city and 27 mpg highway. The CX-5 was known for its engaging driving dynamics, though its stiff suspension could be a drawback for those seeking a smoother ride.

The 2022 Lexus RX 350 came with a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 295 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, while the hybrid RX 450h combined the V6 with electric motors for a total of 308 horsepower. Both powertrains were mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission, with FWD standard on the RX 350 and AWD available. The RX 450h was AWD only. Despite its sporty appearance, the RX's performance was underwhelming, with a lackluster engine note and sluggish acceleration. The F Sport trim added performance dampers and an adaptive variable suspension, but the driving experience remained largely unchanged across drive modes. The RX excelled in comfort and quietness, with a compliant ride that absorbed road imperfections well. Fuel efficiency for the RX 350 was 20 mpg city and 27 mpg highway, while the RX 450h achieved 31 mpg city and 28 mpg highway.

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 offered a comfortable and stylish interior, though rear legroom was limited for taller passengers. It featured two full LATCH connections for child seats and straightforward climate controls. However, the CX-5's 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. The power liftgate was a convenient feature, but the larger shifter and infotainment controls took up valuable space in the center console.

The 2022 Lexus RX provided 99.8 cubic feet of passenger volume in its two-row configuration, comfortably seating four adults. The three-row L models offered limited space for passengers and cargo, with only 7.45 cubic feet available behind the third row. The RX's cargo area was accessible via a power liftgate, though the load-in height was high due to the sporty bumper design. The interior featured thoughtful touches like a smartphone slot and adjustable cup holders, enhancing convenience for occupants.

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 came standard with a 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen, though its operating system was criticized for being outdated and difficult to use. The lack of physical knobs for tuning and volume control was a drawback, though Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration helped mitigate some usability issues.

The 2022 Lexus RX offered an 8-inch touchscreen as standard, with a 12.3-inch version available. Despite being moved closer to the driver, the screen's positioning was still ergonomically challenging. The infotainment system included voice commands and a touchpad, though the latter was particularly frustrating to use. The RX featured a range of tech amenities, including multiple USB ports, wireless charging, and premium audio systems, enhancing connectivity and comfort for passengers.

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 boasted a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and forward collision warning. It earned high safety ratings, being named a Top Safety Pick+ by the IIHS and receiving a five-star rating from the NHTSA. Optional safety features included a head-up display and a surround-view camera system.

The 2022 Lexus RX came equipped with the Lexus Safety System 2.0+, offering adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and a pre-collision system. It was named a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS when equipped with optional headlights but missed the top-tier "plus" designation. The RX received a four-star overall rating from the NHTSA, with five stars in side crash tests.