2025 Lexus RX Hybrid vs 2024 Mazda CX-5

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 retained its familiar design from the second-generation model introduced in 2017, which continued to look modern and appealing. The new Carbon Turbo trim featured Zircon Sand paint and exclusive Terracotta leather seats, enhancing its aesthetic appeal. Mazda also introduced improvements such as better fuel economy for the base engine, wireless charging, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto in several trims. The CX-5 lineup offered a range of trims and prices, with the Carbon Turbo test vehicle priced at $39,355, including destination. Despite being a compact crossover, the CX-5 felt upscale, thanks to its upgraded interior materials and technology.

In contrast, the 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid, particularly the RX 500h Black Line Special Edition, was priced at $75,000 and featured an exclusive Incognito paint job with orange brake calipers. While the RX's design was not particularly striking, it offered a contemporary interior with quality materials and ambient lighting. The RX lineup included three hybrid models, each with different power outputs and fuel efficiency. The RX 500h stood out with its turbocharged engine and sport-tuned suspension, but its performance was more about appearance than dynamic capability. The RX Hybrid's interior provided ample space and comfort, with practical storage solutions and a hands-free power liftgate.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 Carbon Turbo delivered 256 hp with premium gas and 227 hp with regular gas, offering a rewarding driving experience when driven with a steady foot. However, its fuel efficiency was unimpressive, with an observed 22.9 mpg. The CX-5's tall and narrow feel provided excellent visibility, and its re-tuned suspension and standard all-wheel drive contributed to a smooth and responsive ride. The CX-5 excelled in various driving conditions, from city streets to twisty mountain roads, and offered a decent 7.9 inches of ground clearance for off-road adventures.

The 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid offered three models with varying power outputs. The RX 350h was the most efficient, while the RX 500h delivered 366 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque, providing quick acceleration but lower fuel economy. The RX 500h featured a sport-tuned suspension, adaptive damping, and performance brakes, but its driving experience was more about straight-line acceleration than dynamic capability. The RX 500h's drivetrain was powerful but not fuel-efficient, averaging 20.9 mpg. While the RX Hybrid was capable on twisty roads, it lacked communication between the driver and the road, making it less rewarding to drive.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 offered comfortable and supportive heated front seats, with leather upholstery standard on most trims. The interior, though smaller than some competitors, provided a comfortable space for four adults. The rear seat offered good support and amenities like rear air conditioning vents and a center armrest. The CX-5's cabin design and quality elevated it above most mass-market rivals, with good storage space and 30 cubic feet of cargo area, expandable to 59.3 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.

The 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid focused on occupant comfort and practical cargo space. The RX 500h's front seats were snug but comfortable, while the rear seats offered ample room and comfort. The RX Hybrid provided practical interior storage and a hands-free power liftgate, revealing 29.6 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 46.2 cubic feet. While the RX Hybrid's cargo space was less than expected for a midsize SUV, it offered convenience features like grocery bag hooks and a cargo cover.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 featured traditional switchgear for various controls, with a 10.25-inch display offering touchscreen operation for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with a large knob and surrounding buttons for navigation. Mazda Connected Services provided remote engine starting, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and more. The Carbon Turbo trim included a 10-speaker Bose premium sound system, enhancing the SUV's premium interior.

The 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid met luxury standards with its high-tech features, though some expected features were optional. The RX 500h featured a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 14-inch touchscreen display with a volume knob and climate control dials. The Lexus Interface infotainment system offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM satellite radio, and cloud-based navigation. The RX Hybrid's technology worked well, though some glitches were noted, and the optional 21-speaker Mark Levinson audio system provided excellent sound quality.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 came equipped with advanced driving assistance systems (ADAS) like adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and blind-spot monitoring. Higher trims offered additional safety features like adaptive headlights and a driver monitoring system. The CX-5 received five-star ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), except for a four-star rollover resistance rating.

The 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid featured Safety Connect, providing automatic collision notification and emergency assistance. Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 included ADAS like forward collision warning, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. The RX Hybrid's Predictive Driving Assist monitored forward progress and ensured safe following distances. The RX received a five-star safety rating from NHTSA, but the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) rated it poorly for occupant protection in a frontal-impact test.