2025 Toyota Land Cruiser vs 2024 Mazda CX-50

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 was a more rugged alternative to the Mazda CX-5, featuring a design that was both wider and longer, with a lower stance. Its broad-shouldered proportions were accentuated by square wheel arches and faux air vents, giving it a fresh look compared to the older CX-5. Available in eight trim levels, the CX-50 offered a variety of wheel sizes and styling options, with the 2.5 Turbo Meridian Edition standing out for its active-lifestyle image, all-terrain tires, and earthy color palette. The interior was well-designed, with a BMW-like infotainment screen and impressive material quality, though it fell short of Mazda's upscale aspirations.

The 2025 Toyota Land Cruiser, offered in two trim levels, presented a blend of retro and modern aesthetics. The base 1958 model had a nostalgic look with round headlights and basic equipment, while the more expensive Land Cruiser trim boasted a modern, upscale appearance with additional off-roading features. Our test vehicle, equipped with the Premium Package, showcased a Heritage Blue exterior, 20-inch wheels, and a roof rack. The interior was utilitarian yet comfortable, with Java-colored leather and dual 12.3-inch digital screens. Despite its traditional design, the Land Cruiser excelled in off-road capability and provided a commanding view for easy maneuverability.

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 featured a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, with turbocharging available on higher trims. The base engine produced 187 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque, while the turbo variant delivered up to 256 hp and 320 lb-ft on premium fuel. All models came with a six-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive, offering Normal, Sport, and Off-road driving modes. Turbo models also included a Towing mode, increasing towing capacity to 3,500 pounds. While the CX-50 was a competent daily driver, it lacked the sporty dynamics of the CX-5, and the Meridian Edition's all-terrain tires added noise and reduced grip.

The 2025 Toyota Land Cruiser was powered by Toyota’s i-Force Max hybrid system, combining a turbocharged 2.4-liter engine with an electric motor for a total output of 326 horsepower and 465 pound-feet of torque. This setup, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and full-time four-wheel drive, allowed for a towing capacity of 6,000 pounds. The Land Cruiser excelled in off-road conditions, thanks to features like Multi-Terrain Select and Crawl Control. However, its handling on twisty roads was less impressive, with noticeable body roll and a tendency to lean in corners. Despite its fuel efficiency claims, real-world testing showed a lower-than-expected 15.7 mpg.

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 offered similar passenger space to the CX-5, with slightly less headroom but more legroom. It provided 31.4 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats up and 56.3 cubic feet with them folded. While it trailed competitors in cargo capacity, the available power liftgate improved access. The interior layout was sensible, with a substantial shifter and rotary infotainment controller, though the cargo area wasn't ideal for bulky items.

In contrast, the 2025 Toyota Land Cruiser provided a more spacious interior, especially in cargo capacity, with 46.2 cubic feet behind the second row and 82.1 cubic feet with the seats folded. The Premium Package added real leather and a sunroof, enhancing comfort. However, the second-row seats lacked support, and the high load floor made loading heavy items challenging. The rear window design was less practical, and the center console's cool box reduced storage space.

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 came with a 10.25-inch infotainment screen controlled by a rotary dial, offering wireless Apple CarPlay but requiring a cable for Android Auto. Higher trims included wireless charging and a Bose audio system. While the interface was unconventional, it was straightforward once accustomed, though the system felt dated with basic graphics.

The 2025 Toyota Land Cruiser featured dual 12.3-inch displays with the Toyota Audio Multimedia system, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM, and access to music accounts. The Premium Package added a JBL sound system, wireless charging, and a head-up display. The Drive Connect feature provided cloud-based navigation and a digital assistant, enhancing the tech experience.

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 earned a 2023 Top Safety Pick from the IIHS, with top scores in crash tests and front-crash prevention. However, it received lower scores for nighttime pedestrian detection and standard headlights. Standard safety features included automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control, with optional rear automatic braking and a 360-degree camera.

The 2025 Toyota Land Cruiser came with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, offering a comprehensive suite of ADAS features, including forward-collision warning, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. The Premium Package added front cross-traffic alert and lane-change assist. While some features were occasionally intrusive, they proved valuable in critical situations. The Land Cruiser received a four-star overall rating from the NHTSA, with strong side-impact scores but a lower rollover resistance rating.