2024 Lexus TX vs 2024 Mazda CX-5

The 2024 Lexus TX, based on the Toyota Grand Highlander, distinguished itself as a luxury SUV with its upscale appearance. The Luxury trim model featured striking 22-inch silver wheels, enhancing its presence. Its styling was more conservative compared to other Lexus models, appealing to those who preferred a toned-down design. 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. The TX 350, likely the most popular version, offered a turbocharged four-cylinder engine with FWD or AWD. The test vehicle, priced at $67,869, included various packages and a dark Peppercorn interior, which felt too dark despite the panoramic sunroof. However, the interior was luxurious enough to bear the Lexus badge.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 retained its appealing design from its 2017 debut, with minor updates. The test vehicle, a new Carbon Turbo trim, featured Zircon Sand paint and Terracotta leather seats, adding to its modern look. Mazda improved fuel economy for base engine models and added wireless charging and connectivity features. The CX-5 lineup included 2.5 S and 2.5 Turbo models, with prices from $29,300 to $40,600. The Carbon Turbo test vehicle, priced at $39,355, offered a premium feel inside and out. Over the years, Mazda enhanced the CX-5’s interior materials, technology, and suspension, resulting in an upscale crossover at a mainstream price.

The 2024 Lexus TX 350 was equipped with a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 275 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque. It accelerated to 60 mph in eight seconds, or 7.8 seconds with AWD. The performance was adequate, with a combined fuel economy rating of 23 mpg, though testing showed 20.4 mpg. The AWD option, costing $1,600, offered better traction and slightly quicker acceleration. The TX 350’s suspension provided a balance of comfort and road feel, with commendable body motion control and accurate steering. The interior was quiet on highways, though the brake pedal felt soft.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 Carbon Turbo delivered 256 hp with premium gas and 320 lb-ft of torque. Regular gas offered 227 hp and 310 lb-ft. The powertrain was more rewarding with gradual acceleration, though fuel efficiency was unimpressive at 22.9 mpg observed. The CX-5 felt tall and narrow, with excellent visibility and maneuverability. Mazda’s suspension tuning improved ride quality and handling, with G-Vectoring Control Plus enhancing cornering. The CX-5 was quiet on highways and lively in city driving, with a ground clearance of 7.9 inches for off-road capability. It could tow up to 2,000 pounds.

The 2024 Lexus TX addressed previous shortcomings in Lexus’s three-row SUVs. The TX 350 Luxury featured premium leather and suede upholstery, 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, offering better comfort than previous models. Cargo space measured 20.2 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 97 cubic feet with seats folded. Storage options were plentiful, though some lacked lining, and the split front center armrest design was less practical.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 offered standard heated front seats, with power adjustment for the driver. Leather was standard on most trims, with Nappa leather on the Turbo Signature. The rear seat provided good support and comfort for four adults, with rear air vents and a center armrest. The cabin’s design and quality rivaled luxury brands, though storage space was limited. The CX-5 offered 30 cubic feet of cargo space, expanding to 59.3 cubic feet with seats folded, less than most compact crossovers.

The 2024 Lexus TX featured an optional Technology Package with a 12.3-inch digital panel, head-up display, and more. However, the unmarked steering wheel controls were distracting, especially with polarized sunglasses. The Lexus Interface infotainment system, with a 14-inch touchscreen, offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The TX included free subscriptions to various services, enhancing connectivity. The optional 21-speaker Mark Levinson sound system provided impressive audio quality.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 avoided touchscreens, using traditional controls for various functions. However, it allowed touchscreen operation for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The 10.25-inch display was navigated using a console knob, with quick access buttons. Mazda Connected Services offered remote features and emergency dialing. The Carbon Turbo trim included a 10-speaker Bose sound system, enhancing the premium feel.

The 2024 Lexus TX came with Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and more. Proactive Drive Assist offered braking and steering assistance, though it wasn’t always smooth. Additional features included blind-spot monitoring and traffic jam assist. The system was generally effective, though it slowed too dramatically when other vehicles cut in.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 included essential ADAS features like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. Higher trims offered adaptive headlights and Traffic Jam Assist. The CX-5 had previously earned a Top Safety Pick from IIHS, though not in 2024. NHTSA gave it five-star ratings, except for a four-star rollover rating.