2025 Mazda CX-50 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, contrasting with the Grand Highlander's resemblance to a larger RAV4. The test model, featuring Luxury trim, boasted striking 22-inch silver wheels, an expensive option that significantly enhanced the SUV's aesthetic and presence. The TX's styling was more subdued compared to other Lexus models, resulting in a conservative look that might appeal to those previously put off by the brand's design. The TX lineup included the TX 350, TX 500h F Sport Performance, and TX 550h+ plug-in hybrid models, with prices ranging from $55,050 to $69,350, excluding the TX 550h+, which was expected to start over $75,000. The TX 350, likely the most popular version, offered a turbocharged four-cylinder engine with FWD or AWD. The test vehicle, equipped with FWD and Luxury trim, had a base price of $60,950 and included various packages and features, bringing the MSRP to $67,869. The interior, though dark with its Peppercorn color scheme, felt luxurious enough to bear the Lexus badge.

The 2025 Mazda CX-50 was considered an attractive option in the compact SUV class, borrowing styling elements from the CX-5 but enhancing them with distinct fender flares and a wider grille for a sportier stance. Its interior featured a traditional layout with classier materials than rivals, offering soft-touch surfaces and sturdy plastics. Distinct stitching and red leather upholstery in the hybrid model added flair, though the decorative stripe on the seats was noted for its odd placement. Despite this, the CX-50 positioned itself above other compact SUVs, leaning toward entry-level luxury in design and interior quality.

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. Lexus claimed it could accelerate to 60 mph in eight seconds (7.8 seconds with AWD), though it felt quicker due to its torque. The performance was adequate, with an EPA rating of 23 mpg in combined driving for the FWD model, which averaged 20.4 mpg during testing. AWD, costing an additional $1,600, offered slightly quicker acceleration and improved traction in adverse conditions. The TX 350's suspension provided a balance between road feel and comfort, with commendable body motion control and accurate steering. The interior remained quiet on the highway, though the brake pedal felt too soft in the test car.

The 2025 Mazda CX-50 Hybrid debuted with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with three electric motors, delivering 219 horsepower and 163 lb-ft of torque with AWD. The powertrain, shared with the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, was a smart choice given Toyota's experience. Acceleration was expected to be between 7.5 and 8 seconds to 60 mph, similar to the RAV4 Hybrid. The e-CVT transmission aimed to replicate a conventional automatic feel. The CX-50 stood out with sportier suspension tuning, offering engaging handling and minimal body roll. The firmer ride quality was noticeable but not harsh, and the cabin remained quiet on the highway.

The 2024 Lexus TX addressed previous shortcomings in Lexus's three-row SUVs. The TX 350 Luxury model featured premium leather and suede upholstery, heated and ventilated front 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, unlike previous models, and offered decent cargo space with the seat in use. Sliding the second-row seat forward improved third-row comfort but compromised second-row legroom. The TX provided numerous storage options, though some lacked lining, potentially causing noise. Cargo space measured 20.2 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 57.4 cubic feet with the third row folded and 97 cubic feet with the second row down.

The 2025 Mazda CX-50, while enjoyable to drive, fell short in practicality and space compared to competitors. The front seats offered ample room, but rear seats were less accommodating for taller passengers. Personal storage was adequate, but rivals provided more options. Cargo capacity was 29.2 cubic feet behind the rear seats, less than the non-hybrid CX-50 and class average. Despite this, the space was usable for daily needs, aided by a power liftgate, underfloor storage bin, and remote rear seatback releases.

The 2024 Lexus TX featured an optional Technology Package with 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 drawbacks. The Lexus Interface infotainment system, with a 14-inch touchscreen, offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a digital assistant with natural voice recognition. The TX included free subscriptions to Service Connect, Safety Connect, Wi-Fi Connect, and Remote Connect. The optional 21-speaker Mark Levinson PurePlay surround-sound system provided impressive audio quality.

The 2025 Mazda CX-50's 10.25-inch infotainment system was controlled by a center console dial, with touchscreen functionality limited to Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. This setup was preferred by some for its ease of use. All models included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with a wireless charging pad available on higher trims. The base audio system had eight speakers, while the Premium trim featured a 12-speaker Bose system.

The 2024 Lexus TX came with Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and more. Proactive Drive Assist offered braking and steering assistance but was not transparent in operation. Additional features included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and traffic jam assist. The system generally performed well, though it slowed too dramatically when other vehicles cut in.

The 2025 Mazda CX-50 Hybrid earned five stars in NHTSA crash tests, except for rollover protection, which received four stars. The non-hybrid 2024 model received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from IIHS. Standard safety features included frontal collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keep assist, and adaptive cruise control. The systems functioned as intended, with smooth adaptive cruise control.