Mazda CX-90 vs Lexus TX

The 2025 Mazda CX-90 was available in three variants: the 3.3 Turbo, the 3.3 Turbo S, and the PHEV. Trim levels ranged from Select to Premium Plus, with pricing between $39,575 and $59,480. Our test vehicle, a 3.3 Turbo with Premium Plus trim and Soul Red paint, had an MSRP of $51,450. The CX-90's exterior boasted lustrous paint, polished chrome trim, and intricate 21-inch wheels, giving it a luxury SUV appearance. Its sculptural sheet metal and athletic design contributed to its sophisticated look. Inside, the CX-90 featured an upscale interior with polished metallic trim and Nappa leather, though some materials reflected its competitive pricing. Ergonomic issues, such as a confusing electronic shifter and non-touchscreen infotainment, were noted, but overall, the CX-90 exuded sophistication compared to other midsize three-row SUVs.

The 2026 Lexus TX offered various trim levels based on powertrain, including the TX 350, 500h hybrid, and 550h+ plug-in hybrid. The 550h+ featured a standard panoramic glass roof and Matador Red Mica paint. Most models had 20-inch wheels, while the 550h+ sported 22-inch wheels. The TX retained a large grille with sharp bi-LED headlights and rear LED lighting. Inside, the TX provided multi-zone climate control, heated and cooled seats, and a spacious third row with recline function. However, material quality fell short of luxury standards, with basic plastics present. Redesigned door handles were noted, but the focus on interior detail was lacking. The TX's interior was functional, with ample cargo space and thoughtful features like ambient lighting and USB-C ports.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90's 3.3 Turbo model featured a turbocharged 3.3-liter inline-six engine, producing 280 horsepower and 332 pound-feet of torque. The Turbo S variant delivered 319 hp and 369 lb-ft, or 340 hp with premium gas. Power was channeled through an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive, with a rear-wheel bias for improved dynamics. The CX-90 offered Normal, Sport, Off-Road, and Towing modes, with a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds. Despite its impressive ride and handling, the drivetrain lacked refinement, with unpredictable power delivery and transmission behavior. The CX-90's suspension was firm and communicative, but noise and impact harshness were noticeable. Sport mode enhanced throttle response and steering, but Normal mode provided smoother driving.

The 2026 Lexus TX 550h+ plug-in hybrid generated 404 horsepower from its 3.5-liter V6 and hybrid system. The onboard seven-kilowatt charger allowed for a full battery charge in under three hours. The TX offered multiple drive options, including electric-only, hybrid, and gas-only modes, with Normal, Eco, Sport, and Custom drive modes. The 550h+ provided a quiet and smooth ride, with seamless transitions between gas and electric power. The suspension absorbed bumps effectively, and the brakes were firm and linear. The AWD system could distribute power between the front and rear wheels, with Trail Mode for slippery surfaces. The TX excelled in providing a comfortable and versatile driving experience.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90's interior featured Nappa leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and heated second-row captain's chairs. However, the three-zone climate control system struggled to cool the cabin efficiently. The panoramic sunroof provided natural light, and second-row passengers enjoyed comfortable seating. The third row was best suited for children, with limited space for adults. Storage options were limited, with a shallow bin under the center armrest and minimal door panel storage. The CX-90 offered 14.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 40 cubic feet with the third row folded and 74.2 cubic feet with the second row flattened.

The 2026 Lexus TX 550h+ featured standard luxury amenities, including multi-zone climate control, heated and cooled front seats, and heated second-row seats. The third row was spacious, with a recline function and ample headroom. A one-touch button facilitated third-row access, but folding the second row flat was more complex. The front seats were roomy but lacked thigh support. The TX offered excellent cargo space, with 20.2 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 57.4 cubic feet with the third row flat and 97 cubic feet with the second row folded. The TX's interior was functional, with thoughtful features like cupholders and USB-C ports.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90 featured a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 12.3-inch infotainment screen. The infotainment screen was touch-sensitive only with wireless Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, requiring the use of a knob and buttons for the native Mazda Connect platform. The voice recognition system was subpar, but a new Google Built-in infotainment system was expected in future models. The CX-90 included a 12-speaker Bose audio system and a head-up display with blind-spot alerts.

The 2026 Lexus TX boasted a 14-inch color touchscreen, though some features lacked polish. Steering wheel buttons controlled various functions but were confusing to use. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, but connectivity issues were noted. A subscription was required for in-dash navigation and other features. The TX offered a clear back-up camera with a bird’s-eye view and an Advanced Park system for automated parking. The rear-camera mirror provided an unobstructed view, and the TX included seven USB ports and wireless charging.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90 received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and five-star ratings from the NHTSA for the PHEV model. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assist. Higher trims added advanced features like steering assist and a surround-view camera system. The CX-90's driver aids were effective, though the speed reduction feature was irritating.

The 2026 Lexus TX came with Safety System+ 3.0, including forward collision warning, lane centering, and Proactive Driving Assist. The adaptive cruise control worked well, though setup was confusing. The TX 350 and 500h received five-star ratings from the NHTSA, while the IIHS gave the TX an "Acceptable" rating for the small overlap front crash test on the driver’s side. The TX's safety features were comprehensive, though some were intrusive.