2022 Lexus NX vs 2023 Mazda CX-5

The 2022 Lexus NX, redesigned and available in four model series, offered a range of trim levels from base to Luxury, with prices starting at $37,950. The NX 350 F Sport and Luxury trims were particularly notable for their distinct design elements, such as the unique mesh-pattern grille and sport-bolstered seats in the F Sport. The NX's design was unmistakably Lexus, featuring a prominent spindle grille and refined styling details. The interior aimed for a minimalist look, with most functions integrated into a 14-inch touchscreen, which could be challenging to navigate quickly. Despite some ergonomic issues, the NX maintained high-quality materials, though some components, like the turn signal, felt less premium.

In contrast, the 2023 Mazda CX-5, despite its age, continued to impress with its stylish design and high-quality materials, giving it a luxury feel. The CX-5 was available in eight versions, with prices ranging from $26,700 to $39,650. The top-of-the-line 2.5 Turbo Signature model featured premium Nappa leather upholstery and a sophisticated exterior paint option. While the CX-5 excelled in style and build quality, it faced challenges with its small back seat, limited cargo space, and a frustrating infotainment system. However, the available turbocharged engine provided impressive power, and the CX-5 boasted a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS.

The 2022 Lexus NX offered two electrified versions, with the NX 350h delivering 239 horsepower and the NX 450h+ providing 302 horsepower with a 36-mile electric range. The NX 350 featured a turbocharged 2.4-liter engine producing 275 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. The NX 350 F Sport added performance enhancements like adaptive variable sports suspension and additional driving modes. The NX's handling was improved, though the turbocharged engine lacked the refinement of some German rivals. The NX was not suited for off-road adventures, with limited ground clearance and approach angles.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5 offered a standard 2.5-liter engine with 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. The 2.5 Turbo model, running on premium fuel, delivered 256 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque. The CX-5's updates improved structural rigidity, suspension dampening, and noise reduction, enhancing its driving dynamics. The turbocharged engine provided a satisfying surge of power, though fuel economy could suffer with aggressive driving. The CX-5 excelled on winding roads, offering a firm and connected ride, though it could feel choppy on rough surfaces.

The 2022 Lexus NX offered increased interior space, though it felt more intimate from the driver's seat. The NX provided comfortable seating, especially with heated and ventilated options, and thoughtful padding for driver comfort. Rear-seat passengers enjoyed ample space and amenities like air conditioning vents and USB ports. The NX's cargo space increased to 22.7 cubic feet, expanding to 46.9 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5 improved front seat comfort and support, with height-adjustable seats and available power adjustments. The Signature trim featured luxurious Nappa leather upholstery. However, the CX-5's interior space was limited, with small storage areas and a cramped back seat. The cargo area offered 30.9 cubic feet, expanding to 59.3 cubic feet with the rear seats folded, which was less than some rivals but more than some luxury models.

The 2022 Lexus NX made significant strides in technology with the new Lexus Interface infotainment system, featuring large touchscreens, natural voice recognition, and cloud-based features. The system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with a 9.8-inch or optional 14-inch display. The NX offered a range of connected services, a 10-speaker sound system, and an optional 17-speaker Mark Levinson system. The Voice Assistant and Intelligent Assistant systems enhanced usability, though the touchscreen could be prone to fingerprints and reflections.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5's Mazda Connect infotainment system, with a 10.25-inch display, faced criticism for its awkward controls and lack of voice recognition. The system required memorization and focus, detracting from the driving experience. Despite these issues, Mazda Connect offered features like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a three-year trial of Mazda Connected Services. The CX-5 also included a front-facing camera and a surround-view camera system for easier parking.

The 2022 Lexus NX featured the comprehensive Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, including advanced driver assistance systems like Risk Avoidance Emergency Steer Assist and Oncoming Vehicle Detection. The NX also offered Emergency Driving Stop System, blind-spot warning, rear cross-traffic warning, and Safe Exit Assist. Additional features included adaptive front lighting, semi-autonomous parking assist, and a Vision Package with a panoramic view monitoring system.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5 excelled in safety with the i-Activsense suite, offering most features as standard. The 2.5 Turbo Signature added a surround-view camera, parking sensors, and Traffic Jam Assist. The CX-5's safety systems operated smoothly, with an Active Driving Display showing alerts. The CX-5 received five-star ratings from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS, though it lacked a warning for driving without headlights at night.