2023 Mazda CX-50 vs 2023 Lexus GX
Overview | |
MSRP$27,550 | MSRP$58,875 |
Listings736 | Listings679 |
Ratings & Reviews | |
User Reviews | User Reviews |
Expert reviews7.2 out of 10 | Expert reviews6.0 out of 10 |
Pros
Cons
| Pros
Cons
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2023 Mazda CX-50 Reviews SummaryWith the new 2023 CX-50, Mazda doubles down on the immensely popular compact crossover SUV segment. For now, the CX-50 complements rather than replaces the existing CX-5 model, and it targets active lifestyle adventure seekers instead of the sophisticated urbanites typically drawn to the CX-5. The 2023 Mazda CX-50 shares powertrains and underlying technology with the CX-5, but it's otherwise different, offering slightly more rear-seat room and practical cargo space in a longer, lower, and wider design. Given Mazda’s future SUV product plans calling for new CX-70 and CX-90 models, we expect the CX-50 will ultimately replace the CX-5. | |
2023 Lexus GX Reviews SummaryThanks to the rise of car-based crossovers, today’s body-on-frame SUVs appeal to buyers with specific use-cases in mind: towing and driving off-road. Luxury SUVs like the 2023 Lexus GX appeal to an even narrower cross-section of buyers: those who want to tow or drive off-road, and do either in style and comfort. With a V8 engine as its trump card, the GX remains compelling amid its small pool of competition, but due to a combination of age and a lack of innovation, Lexus’s only real off-road SUV has fallen out of favor for anyone not enamored by a V8 growl. | |
No video found | |
Popular Features & Specs | |
Engine2.5L 187 hp I4 | Engine4.6L 301 hp V8 |
Drive TrainAWD | Drive TrainAWD |
Seating Capacity5 | Seating Capacity7 |
Horsepower187 hp @ 6000 rpm | Horsepower301 hp @ 5500 rpm |
MPG City24 | MPG City15 |
MPG Highway30 | MPG Highway19 |
Engine | |
Engine Name2.5L 187 hp I4 | Engine Name4.6L 301 hp V8 |
Torque186 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm | Torque329 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm |
Horsepower187 hp @ 6000 rpm | Horsepower301 hp @ 5500 rpm |
DrivetrainAWD | DrivetrainAWD |
Fuel Economy | |
MPG City24 | MPG City15 |
MPG Highway30 | MPG Highway19 |
Interior | |
Seating Capacity5 | Seating Capacity7 |
Key Features | |
Navigation System | Navigation SystemStandard |
Sunroof/Moonroof | Sunroof/MoonroofStandard |
Safety | |
Front Crash Overall5 | Front Crash Overall3 |
Side Crash Overall5 | Side Crash Overall5 |
Dimensions & Capacity | |
Cargo Space31.4 cu ft | Cargo Space11.6 cu ft |
Curb Weight3706 lbs | Curb Weight5126 lbs |
Height63.5 in | Height74.2 in |
Length185.8 in | Length192.1 in |
Width80.8 in | Width74.2 in |
Wheelbase110.8 in | Wheelbase109.8 in |
Maximum Payload1142 lbs | Maximum Payload1315 lbs |
Number of doors4 | Number of doors4 |
Maximum Towing Capacity2000 lbs | Maximum Towing Capacity6500 lbs |
Overview | ||
MSRP | $27,550 | $58,875 |
Listings | ||
Ratings & Reviews | ||
User reviews | ||
Expert reviews | 7.2 out of 10Read full review | 6.0 out of 10Read full review |
Pros & cons | Pros
Cons
| Pros
Cons
|
Summary | With the new 2023 CX-50, Mazda doubles down on the immensely popular compact crossover SUV segment. For now, the CX-50 complements rather than replaces the existing CX-5 model, and it targets active lifestyle adventure seekers instead of the sophisticated urbanites typically drawn to the CX-5. The 2023 Mazda CX-50 shares powertrains and underlying technology with the CX-5, but it's otherwise different, offering slightly more rear-seat room and practical cargo space in a longer, lower, and wider design. Given Mazda’s future SUV product plans calling for new CX-70 and CX-90 models, we expect the CX-50 will ultimately replace the CX-5. | Thanks to the rise of car-based crossovers, today’s body-on-frame SUVs appeal to buyers with specific use-cases in mind: towing and driving off-road. Luxury SUVs like the 2023 Lexus GX appeal to an even narrower cross-section of buyers: those who want to tow or drive off-road, and do either in style and comfort. With a V8 engine as its trump card, the GX remains compelling amid its small pool of competition, but due to a combination of age and a lack of innovation, Lexus’s only real off-road SUV has fallen out of favor for anyone not enamored by a V8 growl. |
Video | No video found | |
Popular Features & Specs | ||
Engine | 2.5L 187 hp I4 | 4.6L 301 hp V8 |
Drive Train | AWD | AWD |
Seating Capacity | 5 | 7 |
Horsepower | 187 hp @ 6000 rpm | 301 hp @ 5500 rpm |
MPG City | 24 | 15 |
MPG Highway | 30 | 19 |
Engine | ||
Engine Name | 2.5L 187 hp I4 | 4.6L 301 hp V8 |
Torque | 186 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm | 329 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm |
Horsepower | 187 hp @ 6000 rpm | 301 hp @ 5500 rpm |
Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
Fuel Economy | ||
MPG City | 24 | 15 |
MPG Highway | 30 | 19 |
Interior | ||
Seating Capacity | 5 | 7 |
Key Features | ||
Navigation System | Standard | |
Sunroof/Moonroof | Standard | |
Safety | ||
Front Crash Overall | 5 | 3 |
Side Crash Overall | 5 | 5 |
Dimensions & Capacity | ||
Cargo Space | 31.4 cu ft | 11.6 cu ft |
Curb Weight | 3706 lbs | 5126 lbs |
Height | 63.5 in | 74.2 in |
Length | 185.8 in | 192.1 in |
Width | 80.8 in | 74.2 in |
Wheelbase | 110.8 in | 109.8 in |
Maximum Payload | 1142 lbs | 1315 lbs |
Number of doors | 4 | 4 |
Maximum Towing Capacity | 2000 lbs | 6500 lbs |
According to CarGurus experts, the 2023 Mazda CX-50 is rated 9 out of 10, while the 2023 Lexus GX scores 7 out of 10 in terms of look and feel.
The 2023 Mazda CX-50 boasts a stylish and rugged design, featuring a blunt nose, long hood, and rakish windshield. The CX-50's exterior design elements come together in an appealing way, and it offers a choice of two engines and various trim packages.
The 2023 Lexus GX exhibits a commanding presence with its massive grille and distinctive face. It offers a Black Line Special Edition with limited units and three exclusive paint colors.

















CarGurus experts rate the 2023 Mazda CX-50 8 out of 10 and the 2023 Lexus GX 6 out of 10 in terms of performance.
The Mazda CX-50 offers two engine options, with the turbocharged version delivering strong acceleration and a towing capacity of up to 3,500 pounds. It provides a smooth and deliberate power delivery and is capable of tackling off-road situations.
The Lexus GX is powered by a V8 engine, offering linear power delivery and a 6,500-pound towing capacity. It features a real 4WD system and a Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System for on- and off-road driving.
The 2023 Mazda CX-50 is rated 7 out of 10, while the 2023 Lexus GX scores 6 out of 10 in terms of form and function.
The Mazda CX-50 offers a comfortable interior with ample storage space and a power rear liftgate. It also provides various convenience features such as heated and ventilated seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, and a smartphone charger.
The Lexus GX provides generous cubby space for small items, comfortable seating, and a spacious second row. However, the third row is limited in space, and the trunk offers relatively narrow cargo space.
CarGurus experts rate the 2023 Mazda CX-50 5 out of 10 and the 2023 Lexus GX 6 out of 10 in terms of technology.
The Mazda CX-50 comes equipped with Mazda Connect infotainment system, wireless Apple CarPlay, wireless Android Auto, and an available Active Driving Display. It also offers a premium Bose sound system and a head-up display for added convenience.
The Lexus GX features a 10.3-inch touchscreen with integrations like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa. It also includes advanced off-road driving technology such as a multi-terrain monitor and a multi-terrain select system.
The 2023 Mazda CX-50 is rated 9 out of 10, while the 2023 Lexus GX scores 6 out of 10 in terms of safety.
The Mazda CX-50 offers a generous standard package of driving assistance systems, with exclusive features available on higher trim levels. However, there have been some reported issues with the adaptive cruise control system.
The Lexus GX includes advanced driver assistance systems such as automatic emergency braking, lane-departure alert, adaptive cruise control, and parking assist. However, it lacks some top-end features found in newer models.
CarGurus highlights

According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for 2023 Mazda CX-50 is 7.2 out of 10, while the 2023 Lexus GX scores 6.0 out of 10. Based on these ratings, the 2023 Mazda CX-50 emerges as the more highly rated option, offering a compelling combination of style, performance, safety, and cost effectiveness. Therefore, the 2023 Mazda CX-50 is the recommended choice for consumers seeking a well-rounded and stylish compact SUV.
Choose the 2023 Mazda CX-50 if:
- You prioritize a stylish and rugged design with appealing exterior elements.
- You seek strong performance with a choice of two engines and various trim packages.
- You value a comfortable interior with ample storage space and convenience features.
Choose the 2023 Lexus GX if:
- You prefer a commanding presence with a distinctive face and exclusive paint options.
- You prioritize a V8 engine with linear power delivery and a 6,500-pound towing capacity.
- You value advanced off-road driving technology and a spacious second row.
CarGurus highlights

According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for 2023 Mazda CX-50 is 7.2 out of 10, while the 2023 Lexus GX scores 6.0 out of 10. Based on these ratings, the 2023 Mazda CX-50 emerges as the more highly rated option, offering a compelling combination of style, performance, safety, and cost effectiveness. Therefore, the 2023 Mazda CX-50 is the recommended choice for consumers seeking a well-rounded and stylish compact SUV.
Choose the 2023 Mazda CX-50 if:
Shop Now- You prioritize a stylish and rugged design with appealing exterior elements.
- You seek strong performance with a choice of two engines and various trim packages.
- You value a comfortable interior with ample storage space and convenience features.
Choose the 2023 Lexus GX if:
Shop Now- You prefer a commanding presence with a distinctive face and exclusive paint options.
- You prioritize a V8 engine with linear power delivery and a 6,500-pound towing capacity.
- You value advanced off-road driving technology and a spacious second row.

By: CarGurus + AI
At CarGurus, our team of experienced automotive writers remain at the heart of our content operation, conducting hands-on car tests and writing insightful guides that are backed by years of industry experience. To complement this, we are harnessing AI to make our content offering more diverse and more helpful to shoppers than ever. To achieve this, our AI systems are based exclusively on CarGurus content, ratings and data, so that what we produce is both unique to CarGurus, and uniquely helpful to car shoppers.








































