2022 Mazda CX-30 vs 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid presented a blend of sharp edges and a streamlined profile, maintaining a familiar yet distinct look within the Lexus family. Despite its sporty F Sport Black Line styling, the NX Hybrid's design had not evolved significantly over the years, making it both recognizable and somewhat dated. The interior, while initially radical, had become familiar due to its lack of updates. The use of plastic switchgear and trim detracted from the luxury feel, although features like the analog dashboard clock and bright blue exterior paint added some appeal.

In contrast, the 2022 Mazda CX-30 offered a design reminiscent of a downsized CX-5, with smooth, flowing fenders and an upright grille. Its cabin was praised for comfort and quietness, with a blend of conventional and digital displays. However, the infotainment system, controlled by a rotary dial, was criticized for its complexity. The CX-30's interior design was elegant, but the lack of touch functionality in the infotainment system was a drawback, making it less user-friendly.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid featured a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor, producing a total of 194 horsepower. It offered standard all-wheel drive but was not a performance vehicle, with a 0-60 mph time of 9.1 seconds. The hybrid system focused more on fuel efficiency than excitement, with a clunky transition between electric and gasoline power. The sport-tuned suspension improved handling, but the steering felt numb, and drive modes made little difference in performance.

The 2022 Mazda CX-30, on the other hand, came with a base 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 186 horsepower. Our test model had the turbocharged version, delivering up to 250 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque on premium fuel. The CX-30 offered lively acceleration, especially in Sport mode, and featured a conventional shifter design with paddle shifters. Its sporty ride was refined, with quick and precise steering, though it could be rough over potholes.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid had limited interior space, with the least front headroom in its segment and cramped rear seats. Cargo space was also limited, with 16.8 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 53.7 cubic feet with them folded. The dashboard and door sides rose high, offering a sporty feel but potentially alienating those seeking a traditional SUV experience.

The 2022 Mazda CX-30 provided 20.2 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats up and 45.2 cubic feet with them folded. The front seats had a sliding center console cover, though it could get stuck when the rear seats were folded. Rear seats offered decent headroom for short-to-medium trips, but longer drives might be uncomfortable for adults.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid's infotainment system was a weak point, featuring an 8-inch display controlled by a difficult-to-use touchpad. While it supported Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, the system felt dated, with text-heavy menus and poor graphics. An eight-speaker audio system was standard, but the sound quality was lacking.

The 2022 Mazda CX-30's infotainment system was elegantly integrated into the dash but lacked touch functionality, controlled instead by a rotary dial. This setup, inspired by older luxury systems, was frustrating to use, especially with Apple CarPlay. Despite its elegant design, the system's usability was a significant drawback.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid earned a “Top Safety Pick+” from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. It came with the Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, offering a comprehensive suite of driver aids, though it lacked a 360-degree camera system.

The 2022 Mazda CX-30 also received top safety ratings, with a five-star NHTSA rating and a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS. It included a wide array of standard and additional driver-assistance features, such as adaptive headlights and a 360-degree camera, enhancing its safety credentials.