2023 Lexus RX vs 2023 Mazda CX-5

The 2023 Lexus RX presented a modernized exterior with a shorter height, broader width, and longer wheelbase, maintaining the same overall length as its predecessor. Despite offering more cargo space than the 2022 model, it appeared smaller due to reduced rear overhang and softer design lines. The front featured a well-integrated spindle-style grille with a modern mesh texture, leading into an elevated hood and upswept body sides reminiscent of the Lexus IS sedan. The rear showcased a light-blade taillight design and sporty bumper. Inside, the RX boasted a modern interior with fewer buttons, digital instrumentation, and a choice of touchscreen displays. High-quality materials were evident, with options for NuLuxe artificial leather or genuine leather, and various dashboard trims. The RX was available in multiple trims, including hybrid options, with pricing expected to remain close to the previous model's base price.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5, despite its age, remained a strong contender in the compact crossover segment, offering a stylish design and high-quality materials that gave it a luxury feel. The CX-5 was available with a turbocharged engine providing impressive power and boasted a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS. The model was set to be replaced by the CX-50, but the CX-5 continued to offer quality and refinement across its lineup. Buyers could choose between a standard 187-hp engine or a more powerful 256-hp turbocharged variant. The CX-5's pricing was competitive, with the top-tier 2.5 Turbo Signature model offering premium features like Nappa leather upholstery. However, the CX-5's small back seat, limited cargo space, and challenging infotainment system were potential drawbacks.

The 2023 Lexus RX 350 featured a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine producing 275 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. This engine offered better torque and fuel economy than the previous V6, though it lacked the same smoothness. The RX 350 Luxury trim displayed occasional torque steer and body motion over uneven surfaces, while the F Sport Handling trim, with its adaptive suspension, provided a more secure and comfortable ride. The RX 350 AWD accelerated to 60 mph in 7.2 seconds, with fuel economy expectations of 24 mpg in combined driving, though real-world results were slightly lower.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5 offered a standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 187 hp and 186 lb-ft of torque, delivering power through a six-speed automatic transmission and standard AWD. The turbocharged variant provided 256 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque on premium fuel, with a slightly lower output on regular gas. The CX-5's updates improved structural rigidity, suspension dampening, and transmission responsiveness, enhancing its driving dynamics. The turbocharged engine delivered quick acceleration, though fuel economy fell short of expectations during testing. The CX-5 excelled on winding roads, offering a firm and communicative ride, though it could feel choppy on rough surfaces.

The 2023 Lexus RX 350 offered comfortable seating, with the F Sport Handling package providing sport seat bolsters for added support. The RX 350 Luxury trim featured premium leather upholstery, power-adjustable seats, and a sophisticated interior design. The back seat was roomy with good leg support, though headroom was tight for taller passengers. Cargo space improved over the previous model, with 29.6 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 46.2 cubic feet with them folded down.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5's front seats were updated for improved comfort, with power adjustments and heated options available in higher trims. The Signature trim included luxurious Nappa leather upholstery. However, the CX-5's interior space was limited, with small storage areas, a cramped back seat, and less cargo space than some rivals. It offered 30.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats and 59.3 cubic feet with them folded down.

The 2023 Lexus RX introduced the Lexus Interface infotainment system with a choice of touchscreen displays, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and various connected services. The system included an Intelligent Assistant for voice commands, though it occasionally provided inaccurate results. User profiles and music streaming apps were available, but the inability to view multiple data panels simultaneously was a drawback. The RX also offered a premium sound system, digital instrumentation, and optional head-up display.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5's Mazda Connect infotainment system featured a 10.25-inch display with sophisticated graphics but was challenging to use. The lack of a voice recognition system and awkward physical controls made it frustrating. The system required attention away from the road, and its user experience was often confusing. Despite these issues, Mazda Connect offered Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a premium audio system in higher trims. The test vehicle included a front-facing camera and surround-view system for easier parking.

The 2023 Lexus RX came equipped with Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, offering a comprehensive suite of advanced driving assistance systems. New features included motorcycle detection, evasive steering assistance, and intersection turn assistance. Semi-autonomous technologies like Proactive Driving Assist and Traffic Jam Assist were also available. However, some features, like curve-speed reduction, were not as effective as expected, and the driver monitoring system could be overly sensitive.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5 featured i-Activsense technology, providing most driver assistance features as standard. Exclusive features in the 2.5 Turbo Signature trim included a surround-view camera system and Traffic Jam Assist. The i-Activsense tech operated smoothly, with a head-up display showing alerts and system status. The CX-5 also included an E911 system for automatic collision notification. It received top safety ratings from both the NHTSA and IIHS, though it lacked a warning for driving without headlights at night.