2023 Mazda CX-30 vs 2024 Lexus GX

The 2023 Mazda CX-30 presented a choice between two models: the 2.5 S and the 2.5 Turbo. The 2.5 S featured a 191-horsepower 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, while the 2.5 Turbo boasted a turbocharged version capable of up to 250 horsepower. Both models came with a six-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. The CX-30's design was characterized by a long hood, dramatic flanks, and a stubby rear end, giving it a nose-heavy appearance. Despite its appealing design, the excessive gray body cladding detracted from its overall aesthetic. Inside, the CX-30 offered an upscale cabin with quality materials, including leather upholstery and polished metal accents, creating an entry-level luxury SUV feel.

In contrast, the 2024 Lexus GX embraced a bold geometric styling, departing from the softer lines of its predecessor. The redesigned midsize SUV featured a less pronounced spindle grille, flanked by standard triple-beam LED headlights. The GX's front end stood more vertically, giving it an aggressive look, while the flat hood rose above the front wheels for better off-road visibility. The GX's profile appeared as if carved from a solid block, with minimal character lines and a low window beltline for improved visibility. The interior of the GX was minimalist and sophisticated, with fewer physical buttons and a focus on essential controls. The cabin offered ample space for front and second-row passengers, while the third row was best suited for children. The GX excelled in cargo space, with impressive capacity, especially in the Overtrail models.

The 2023 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S models gained five horsepower, totaling 191 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque from the 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. This improvement resulted in better fuel economy, with an EPA-rated 29 mpg in combined driving. The 2.5 Turbo, with its turbocharged engine, delivered 250 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque on premium gas, or 227 hp and 310 lb-ft on regular gas. Both engines were paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and standard AWD. The CX-30 offered eight inches of ground clearance and an Off-Road traction assist function. However, the suspension struggled with speed bumps, and the small 12.7-gallon fuel tank limited its range. Despite these drawbacks, the CX-30 excelled on twisty roads, thanks to its G-Vectoring Control Plus and responsive steering.

The 2024 Lexus GX, on the other hand, replaced its V8 engine with a twin-turbocharged 3.4-liter V6, producing 349 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque. The GX's powertrain provided impressive torque low in the rev range, making it ideal for off-road driving. Built on the GA-F truck platform, the GX offered a stiffer chassis for improved stability. It featured a 10-speed automatic transmission, full-time 4WD, and a locking Torsen limited-slip center differential. The Overtrail trims added a locking rear differential and the Electronic Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (E-KDSS) for enhanced off-road capability. The GX demonstrated excellent acceleration and braking performance, with a composed on-road demeanor despite its size and weight.

The 2023 Mazda CX-30 offered standard dual-zone automatic climate control, an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat, and heated front seats. However, the front passenger seat had limited manual adjustment. Rear air conditioning vents were standard on all but the base trim, but legroom in the rear was tight. The CX-30 provided reasonable storage space, with a center armrest bin, glove compartment, and door panel bins. Cargo space was limited, with 20.2 cubic feet behind the rear seats and a maximum of 45.2 cubic feet with the seats folded.

The 2024 Lexus GX featured a more minimalist interior with fewer physical buttons. It offered 41.2 inches of legroom in the front and 36.7 inches in the second row, providing comfort for adults. The third row, available in Premium and Luxury models, was best suited for children. The GX excelled in cargo space, with 10.3 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 40.2 cubic feet with the third row folded. Overtrail models offered even more space, with 45.6 cubic feet behind the second row and a total of 90.5 cubic feet.

The 2023 Mazda CX-30's Mazda Connect infotainment system had three significant flaws: the lack of a touchscreen display, non-conversational voice recognition, and no tuning knob. The system required frequent glances away from the road, and the voice recognition was only partially effective. However, the system offered Bluetooth, HD Radio, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and connected services. Turbos added SiriusXM, navigation, and a 14-speaker Bose sound system.

The 2024 Lexus GX featured a 14-inch touchscreen with Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It offered USB-C ports, a wireless charging pad, and a 120-volt AC outlet. The Lexus Interface included an intelligent voice assistant and subscription services like Drive Connect and Remote Connect. The GX came with a 10-speaker audio system, with a 21-speaker Mark Levinson stereo available on higher trims.

The 2023 Mazda CX-30 received a "Top Safety Pick" rating from the IIHS, thanks to improved side-impact crash protection and standard safety features like adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. The CX-30 also included a driver monitoring system, automatic high-beam headlights, and blind-spot monitoring. The Turbo Premium Plus trim added a surround-view camera, parking sensors, and Traffic Jam Assist.

The 2024 Lexus GX saw significant improvements in safety with the standard Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, offering pre-collision detection, adaptive cruise control, lane-tracing assist, and road-sign recognition. The GX's proactive driving assist feature enhanced safety during highway driving. While crash-test ratings were not yet available, the GX's modern architecture and advanced safety features inspired confidence.