2024 Lexus RX 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 towards the rear wheels, embodying the subtle allure that Mazda vehicles have been known for over the past decade. However, the CX-50 introduced a rugged aesthetic with its pronounced fender swells, bold lower body cladding, and faux skid plates, which were common among crossovers masquerading as SUVs. The oversized air intakes and vent designs added a performance edge without being visually offensive. When combined with the standard black grille, mirror caps, and optional 20-inch wheels, these elements created an appealing exterior. The interior of the CX-50 was equally impressive, featuring black leather with caramel-colored stitching, a driver-focused design, and quality materials, though the off-center air vent on the dashboard seemed like an afterthought.

In contrast, the 2024 Lexus RX, following a recent redesign, presented a mixed bag in terms of styling. The front end was dominated by an oversized trapezoidal grille, flanked by large air inlets, which appeared awkward, especially in lighter colors. The hood's large bump added to the bulky appearance, deviating from the sleek designs of previous RX models. The sides featured bulging body panels, while a swooping chrome accent suggested a floating-roof design that seemed slightly out of place. The rear, however, was more cohesive, with a tidy design connecting the taillights with a single light strip. Inside, the RX offered a more conventional layout, with faux suede inserts in the top Luxury trim lending a softer feel. The 14-inch infotainment touchscreen was well-placed, and the climate controls were easily accessible, though the simulated woodgrain on the center console felt less convincing compared to the genuine wood inlays on the steering wheel.

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 to all four wheels. Mazda estimated a combined fuel economy of 27 mpg for this model. For those seeking more power, the 2.5 Turbo variant provided between 227 hp and 256 hp, depending on the fuel type, with torque ranging from 310 lb-ft to 320 lb-ft. This model also increased towing capacity from 2,000 to 3,500 pounds. Despite a slightly firmer ride quality compared to the CX-5, the CX-50 excelled in smooth acceleration and off-road capability, though it lacked a downhill assist control system. The turbocharged engine delivered power smoothly, and the vehicle's G-Vectoring Control technology ensured natural handling across different driving modes.

The 2024 Lexus RX offered four models, starting with the RX 350, powered by a 275 hp turbocharged 2.4-liter engine with 317 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The RX 350h hybrid featured a 246 hp 2.5-liter engine with 233 lb-ft of torque, using a CVT and standard AWD. The RX 500h F Sport Performance combined a turbo 2.4-liter engine with a hybrid powertrain, producing 366 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque. The new RX 450h+ plug-in hybrid offered 304 hp and an estimated 37 miles of electric-only range. While the RX 350 and RX 350h felt underpowered, the RX 450h+ provided a more responsive drive, reaching 60 mph in 6.2 seconds. The RX's suspension prioritized comfort, resulting in noticeable body roll during cornering, but the F Sport Handling trim offered a sportier experience.

The 2023 Mazda CX-50's interior was designed for comfort and practicality. The test vehicle featured power-adjustable heated front seats, heated rear seats, a heated steering wheel, and more, though the ventilated front seats and dual-zone climate control were more useful in warm weather. The front seats were comfortable for long drives, though additional side bolstering would have been beneficial. The rear seats provided ample space for adults, with nearly 90-degree opening rear doors for easy access. Cargo space was adequate, with 31.4 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 56.3 cubic feet with the seats folded, though the load floor was narrow between the wheel wells.

The 2024 Lexus RX offered spacious front seats with plenty of adjustments, though a massage function was absent. The Premium trim included a wireless charging pad, and the interior featured ample storage options, including a deep bin under the armrest. The rear seats provided good legroom and headroom, with standard rear climate controls and USB ports. Cargo space was slightly limited at 29.6 cubic feet, expanding to 46.2 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The load floor was higher than competitors, requiring more effort for loading heavy items, but the power liftgate and optional hands-free operation added convenience.

The 2023 Mazda CX-50 came equipped with the Mazda Connect infotainment system, featuring wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with Mazda Connected Services. The base model had an 8.8-inch display, while higher trims offered a 10.25-inch screen. Historically, Mazda Connect lacked touchscreen functionality, relying on center console controls and voice recognition, which could be frustrating. However, the 2023 CX-50 introduced touchscreen control for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The available 12-speaker Bose Centerpoint sound system provided a satisfying audio experience, and the Active Driving Display offered useful information within the driver's line of sight.

The 2024 Lexus RX benefited from a redesigned infotainment system, replacing the previous trackpad controller with a more conventional touchscreen interface. Lower trims featured a 9.8-inch display, while higher trims boasted a 14-inch screen. The system supported natural speech commands and offered cloud-based navigation, though connectivity issues were noted. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were available, and the optional 21-speaker Mark Levinson sound system delivered impressive audio quality. The steering wheel featured multi-function pads, and a head-up display provided additional information.

The 2023 Mazda CX-50 was expected to perform well in safety tests, though the IIHS had not yet evaluated it. Mazda provided a comprehensive package of standard driving assistance systems, with additional features available 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 occasionally failed to recognize slower vehicles cutting in, but overall, the safety systems functioned effectively.

The 2024 Lexus RX received high safety ratings, with five stars from the NHTSA for overall and side collision protection, though the FWD RX 350 received four stars. The IIHS awarded it a Top Safety Pick, despite a "Poor" rating in the moderate frontal overlap test. The Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 suite included adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, lane-keep assist, and more. Additional features were available on higher trims, though some systems were overly sensitive, resulting in unnecessary warnings.