2024 Lexus GX vs 2023 Mazda CX-50

The 2023 Mazda CX-50 showcased a design that was both familiar and fresh. Its styling was characterized by a blunt nose, long hood, and a rakish windshield, with the cabin positioned toward the rear wheels. This design language was consistent with Mazda's subtle seductiveness seen in their vehicles over the past decade. However, the CX-50 introduced a rugged appeal with its blistered and boxed fender swells, bold lower body cladding, and faux skid plates. The oversized air intake and vent designs added a performance edge without being visually overwhelming. When combined with the standard black grille, mirror caps, and optional 20-inch wheels, the CX-50's exterior elements created an attractive package. The interior, dressed in black leather with caramel-colored stitching, maintained Mazda's driver-focused design ethos, featuring quality materials and a mix of analog and digital gauges. Despite a few design quirks, the CX-50 was a visually appealing compact crossover.

In contrast, the 2024 Lexus GX embraced a more geometric styling, moving away 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 front end stood more vertically, giving the GX a more aggressive look. The flat hood rose above the front wheels, aiding driver awareness off-road. The GX's profile was minimalistic, with a low window beltline for better visibility. The interior was a departure from the previous model, with a minimalist and sophisticated design. It retained essential physical buttons, with rotary knobs for climate control and off-roading features. The GX offered spacious seating for six-foot-tall adults in the first and second rows, though the third row was best suited for children. Cargo space was generous, with up to 90.5 cubic feet available in Overtrail models.

The 2023 Mazda CX-50 offered two engine options. The 2.5 S model featured a 187 hp 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering 186 lb-ft of torque through a six-speed automatic transmission. It was expected to achieve 27 mpg in combined driving. For those seeking more power, the 2.5 Turbo variant provided between 227 hp and 256 hp, depending on the fuel used, with torque ranging from 310 lb-ft to 320 lb-ft. The turbocharged engine offered smooth acceleration and a towing capacity increase from 2,000 to 3,500 pounds. The CX-50's ride quality was firm, and it handled well on various terrains, though it lacked a downhill assist control system. The upcoming Meridian Edition promised enhanced off-road capabilities with all-terrain tires.

The 2024 Lexus GX, meanwhile, transitioned from a V8 to a twin-turbocharged 3.4-liter V6 engine, producing 349 hp and 479 lb-ft of torque. The torque was available 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 performance. The GX accelerated well and maintained composure on-road, with effective brakes and minimal body roll. Off-road testing was limited, but the GX demonstrated its capability on less aggressive terrain.

The 2023 Mazda CX-50's interior was equipped with features like power-adjustable heated front seats, heated rear seats, and a heated steering wheel. Ventilated front seats and dual-zone automatic climate control ensured comfort in various conditions. The driver and front passenger seats were comfortable, though more side bolstering would have been beneficial. The back seat offered ample space for adults, with rear air vents and charging ports. Storage space was adequate, with a long load floor and side bins in the cargo area. The CX-50 provided 31.4 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 56.3 cubic feet.

The 2024 Lexus GX's interior was more minimalist and sophisticated, with fewer physical buttons. It offered 41.2 inches of legroom in the front seats and 36.7 inches in the second row. The third row was tight, suitable for children. The GX excelled in cargo space, with 10.3 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 76.9 cubic feet in total. Overtrail models offered even more space, with 45.6 cubic feet behind the second row and 90.5 cubic feet in total.

The 2023 Mazda CX-50 featured the Mazda Connect infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The base model had an 8.8-inch display, while higher trims offered a 10.25-inch display. Mazda Connect lacked touchscreen control, relying on center console buttons and knobs, steering wheel controls, and voice recognition. However, touchscreen control was available for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The CX-50 also offered a 12-speaker Bose sound system and an Active Driving Display with blind-spot warnings.

The 2024 Lexus GX boasted a 14-inch touchscreen with Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It included USB-C ports, a wireless charging pad, and a 120-volt outlet. The Lexus Interface infotainment system featured 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. While the Lexus Interface was user-friendly, subscription costs for certain features were a consideration for long-term ownership.

The 2023 Mazda CX-50 was expected to perform well in safety tests, though official ratings were not available at the time. It offered a comprehensive package of driving assistance systems, with additional features on the 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus trim. These included Traffic Jam Assist, active blind-spot monitoring, parking sensors, and a surround-view camera system. The adaptive cruise control system had some limitations in recognizing slower vehicles in traffic.

The 2024 Lexus GX received significant upgrades in safety features with the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0. It included pre-collision detection, adaptive cruise control, lane-tracing assist, and road-sign recognition. A new 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 systems inspired confidence.