2024 Mazda CX-90 vs 2023 Lexus RX

The 2023 Lexus RX presented a refined evolution in its design, appearing shorter in height but broader in width, with a longer wheelbase compared to its predecessor. Despite maintaining the same overall length, the RX offered more cargo space than the 2022 model, though it still lagged behind some competitors. Its appearance was notably smaller due to a reduction in rear overhang and softer design lines, complemented by a floating roof effect created by the down-sloping black trim on the rear pillar. 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, ensuring the RX remained recognizable yet fresh compared to its predecessor.

Inside, the RX boasted a modern interior with fewer buttons, emphasizing digital instrumentation and a choice between a 9.8-inch or 14-inch touchscreen display. The inclusion of natural voice-recognition technology and a complimentary three-year Intelligent Assistant service enhanced user interaction, though a subscription was required afterward. High-quality materials were evident, with NuLuxe artificial leather as standard and options for genuine leather and simulated suede. The RX was available in various trims, including the RX 350, RX 350h, RX 500h, and the upcoming RX 450h+ plug-in hybrid, with pricing expected to remain close to the previous model's base price of just over $47,000.

The 2024 Mazda CX-90 marked a significant leap for Mazda, positioning itself closer to luxury brands with its design and material quality. The CX-90 adopted the elegant design language of smaller Mazda models and expanded it into a 200-inch imposing SUV. Its large grille, wide-set front end, and substantial wheels, complemented by tasteful chrome trim, gave it an elegant yet commanding presence. Inside, the CX-90 offered a luxurious interior in top trims, with brown suede upholstery, wood inlays, and matte black plastic, rivaling luxury competitors like BMW.

The CX-90 was available in 11 trims across three powertrains, including the Turbo, PHEV, and Turbo S. The PHEV model combined a 2.5-liter engine with a 17.8-kWh battery, offering 323 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque, while the Turbo S delivered 340 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque with premium fuel. The CX-90's driving dynamics were impressive, with agile handling and a composed ride, thanks to its larger platform and double-wishbone front suspension. Despite its size, the CX-90 maintained a nimble feel, reminiscent of Mazda's reputation for building driver's cars.

The 2023 Lexus RX 350 featured a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine producing 275 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. During testing, the RX 350 Luxury trim displayed occasional torque steer and excess body motion over uneven surfaces, though it generally provided a smooth ride. The F Sport Handling trim, with its adaptive damping suspension, offered a more secure and composed driving experience, especially in Sport mode. The RX 350 AWD accelerated to 60 mph in 7.2 seconds, while the FWD version did so in 7.5 seconds. Fuel economy was expected to average 25 mpg for the FWD and 24 mpg for the AWD, though real-world results were slightly lower.

The 2024 Mazda CX-90 introduced two new powertrains, including a plug-in hybrid and a turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine. The Turbo S trim delivered 340 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque with premium fuel, providing a thrilling exhaust note and dynamic performance. The CX-90 featured three driving modes: Normal, Sport, and Off-Road, with noticeable differences in behavior between Normal and Sport modes. The PHEV model offered 323 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque, with an all-electric range of 26 miles and an estimated 56 MPGe. Both CX-90 models excelled in handling, navigating corners with agility and composure.

The 2023 Lexus RX 350 provided a comfortable interior with semi-aniline premium leather upholstery, ten-way power-adjustable front seats, and a heated wood-and-leather steering wheel in the Luxury trim. The F Sport Handling trim featured sportier black NuLuxe simulated leather seats and Dark Graphite trim. The back seat offered good leg support and legroom, though headroom was tight for taller passengers. Cargo space improved over the previous model, with 29.6 cubic feet behind the second row and 46.2 cubic feet with the rear seat folded.

The 2024 Mazda CX-90 offered various seating configurations, with lower trims seating eight passengers and higher trims featuring captain's chairs. The Turbo S models had a two-seat third row, providing slightly more cargo space. Total cargo capacity reached 75.2 cubic feet in two-seater third-row models, with 15.9 cubic feet behind the third row. While the CX-90 improved on the CX-9's capacity, it still fell short compared to some competitors. The interior featured ample storage options, comfortable seats, and high-quality materials, creating a pleasant and luxurious environment.

The 2023 Lexus RX introduced the new Lexus Interface infotainment system with a 9.8-inch or 14-inch touchscreen display, offering wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and various connected services. The system included Drive Connect with Intelligent Assistant voice recognition, though it occasionally provided inaccurate results. User profiles allowed for personalized settings, and the 21-speaker Mark Levinson sound system delivered excellent audio quality. However, the inability to view multiple data panels simultaneously was a drawback. Additional features included digital instrumentation, Digital Latch door handles, and an optional color head-up display.

The 2024 Mazda CX-90 focused on reducing distractions with its Mazda Connect infotainment system, using a rotary control knob and hard buttons instead of a touchscreen. While the intention was to enhance safety, the system's quirks often led to frustration. The CX-90 offered personalization software with facial recognition, adjusting settings to individual preferences. Standard features included Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, with wireless functionality in higher trims. Despite the challenges, the CX-90's technology aimed to provide a safer driving experience.

The 2023 Lexus RX came equipped with Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, offering a comprehensive suite of advanced driver assistance systems. New features included motorcycle detection, evasive steering assistance, and intersection turn assistance. Proactive Driving Assist, Traffic Jam Assist, and Advanced Park Assist were also introduced, though some functions had limitations. The system's reliance on the head-up display posed challenges for drivers wearing polarized sunglasses, and the curve-speed reduction technology was not predictive.

The 2024 Mazda CX-90 featured i-Activsense, a standard suite of advanced driver assistance systems, including blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and automatic emergency braking. The CX-90 also offered lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, and rear cross-traffic alert. The top-spec Turbo S Premium Plus trim included cruising and traffic support, providing hands-on driver assistance. While crash test ratings were not yet available, the CX-90 was expected to perform well, given the CX-9's previous accolades.