2024 Mazda CX-30 vs 2024 Lexus TX

The 2024 Lexus TX was based on the Toyota Grand Highlander, yet it distinguished itself as a luxury SUV. It presented an upscale appearance, especially in the Luxury trim with its striking 22-inch silver wheels, which significantly enhanced its presence. The TX's styling was more subdued compared to other Lexus models, offering a conservative design that might appeal to those previously put off by the brand's bolder aesthetics. The TX lineup included the TX 350, TX 500h F Sport Performance, and TX 550h+ plug-in hybrid, with prices ranging from $55,050 to $69,350, though the TX 550h+ was not yet available. The TX 350, likely the most popular variant, featured a turbocharged four-cylinder engine with options for FWD or AWD. Our test model, equipped with FWD and Luxury trim, had a base price of $60,950, and with additional packages, the MSRP reached $67,869. The interior, while luxurious with premium materials, felt a bit dark despite the panoramic sunroof, but overall, it met the expectations of a Lexus badge.

The 2024 Mazda CX-30, on the other hand, had a design that aimed to ensure it wasn't mistaken for a car, with excessive charcoal-colored plastic on the lower body. Despite this, the CX-30 was appealing with its short overhangs, long hood, and sculpted flanks. The interior felt a class above, with style and refinement akin to an entry-level luxury SUV. The gauges were clear, and the infotainment screen was integrated into the dashboard. The CX-30 offered eight versions, with the 2.5 S models featuring a 191-hp engine and the 2.5 Turbo models boasting up to 250 hp. Prices ranged from $24,995 to $36,800, plus a $1,420 destination charge. Our test car, in 2.5 Carbon Turbo trim, had a unique Zircon Sand paint over Terracotta and Black interior, with an MSRP of $34,210. The CX-30's interior, though cramped in the back, was comfortable for front passengers, and the high seating position made entry and exit easy. Cargo space was practical, with 20.2 cubic feet behind the back seat and 45.2 cubic feet with the seats folded.

The 2024 Lexus TX 350 was equipped with a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 275 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque. It accelerated to 60 mph in eight seconds with FWD and 7.8 seconds with AWD. The performance was adequate, with a swell of torque aiding its speed, though the engine note was grating, and torque steer was noticeable with FWD. The EPA rated the TX 350 FWD at 23 mpg combined, but during testing, it averaged 20.4 mpg. AWD, costing an additional $1,600, offered slightly quicker acceleration and better traction in adverse conditions. The ride and handling were well-balanced, with a firm yet comfortable suspension, accurate steering, and a quiet highway experience. The brake pedal felt soft but was easy to modulate for smooth stops.

In contrast, the 2024 Mazda CX-30 Turbo featured a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 250 hp and 320 pound-feet of torque (227 hp and 310 lb-ft on regular gas). The power delivery was smooth, building to a crescendo, making it feel like the sports car of its class. The six-speed automatic transmission shifted flawlessly, and the standard AWD system distributed power effectively. However, fuel economy was not its strong suit, with an EPA rating of 25 mpg combined, but our test observed 21.3 mpg. The CX-30's small 12.7-gallon fuel tank limited its range to about 270 miles. The driving experience was fun and nimble, with excellent visibility and standard safety features enhancing confidence. On winding roads, it handled with enthusiasm, and its off-road capabilities were supported by standard AWD and eight inches of ground clearance.

The 2024 Lexus TX addressed previous shortcomings in Lexus's three-row SUVs. It offered a comfortable and luxurious interior with premium materials, heated and ventilated seats, and a heated steering wheel. The second-row bench seat was standard, with optional captain's chairs. The third-row seat was habitable for adults, a significant improvement over the RX L and GX models. However, sliding the second-row seat forward for third-row comfort compromised second-row legroom. The TX provided 20.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 57.4 cubic feet with the third row folded and 97 cubic feet with the second row down. Storage options were plentiful but lacked lining, potentially causing noise.

The 2024 Mazda CX-30's interior featured quality materials and logical controls, with a three-gauge digital instrumentation setup. The cabin had gloss black trim, metallic accents, and exposed stitching, with Terracotta leather seats adding color. The interior was cramped, especially in the back, but the front seats were comfortable and heated. Storage space was adequate, with 20.2 cubic feet of cargo volume behind the back seat and 45.2 cubic feet with the seats folded. The load floor could be adjusted for flexibility, offering practical storage solutions.

The 2024 Lexus TX came with an optional Technology Package, including a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel, head-up display, digital rearview mirror, surround-view camera, and semi-autonomous parking assist. However, the unmarked steering wheel controls and head-up display visibility issues were frustrating. The Lexus Interface infotainment system featured a 14-inch touchscreen with a three-year Drive Connect subscription, offering cloud-based navigation and a digital assistant. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were included, along with 10-year subscriptions to Service Connect and Safety Connect. The optional 21-speaker Mark Levinson PurePlay surround-sound system provided impressive audio quality.

The 2024 Mazda CX-30 Turbo had a new 10.25-inch infotainment display with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, offering touchscreen functionality for these platforms. However, the screen's distance from the driver and lack of natural voice recognition were drawbacks. All CX-30s included a three-year Mazda Connected Services subscription and a three-month Wi-Fi trial. New USB-C ports and a wireless smartphone charger were available, along with a Bose premium audio system in higher trims.

The 2024 Lexus TX featured the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, and more. Proactive Drive Assist offered additional braking and steering assistance but was not transparent in operation. The TX also had blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and safe exit assist, with optional parking sensors, front cross-traffic alert, and traffic jam assist. The system was generally smooth and effective, though it slowed too dramatically when other vehicles cut in.

The 2024 Mazda CX-30 emphasized safety with new standard features like blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and rear-seat alert. It also included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assistance, and adaptive cruise control. Higher trims offered adaptive headlights, parking sensors, a surround-view camera, and a Cruising and Traffic Support system. The CX-30 earned five-star ratings from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS, ensuring excellent protection in collisions.