2025 Mazda CX-50 vs 2026 Lexus TX

The 2025 Mazda CX-50 was a standout in the compact SUV segment, borrowing styling cues from the CX-5 but enhancing them with more pronounced fender flares and a wider grille. This gave the CX-50 a sportier and more athletic appearance while maintaining an elegant presence. Inside, the CX-50 featured a traditional layout with high-quality materials, including soft-touch surfaces and sturdy plastics. The interior was further accentuated by distinct stitching and exclusive red leather upholstery in the hybrid model, adding a touch of flair. However, the decorative stripe running down the middle of the seats was a point of contention, as some found its placement awkward.

In contrast, the 2026 Lexus TX offered a variety of trim levels and powertrains, with the 550h+ plug-in hybrid standing out due to its standard panoramic glass roof and striking Matador Red Mica paint. The exterior design retained the large spindle grille but was complemented by sharp bi-LED headlights and rear LED lighting. Inside, the TX provided a spacious and luxurious cabin with multi-zone climate control, heated and cooled front seats, and a roomy third row. However, the overall material quality fell short of luxury standards, with basic plastics scattered throughout. The redesigned door handles were a unique feature, though some might have preferred more attention to detail elsewhere in the cabin.

The 2025 Mazda CX-50 Hybrid debuted with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with three electric motors, delivering 219 horsepower and 163 lb-ft of torque. While not designed for serious off-road use, the AWD system provided adequate traction. The hybrid powertrain, borrowed from the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, offered a smart balance between the 187hp base engine and the 256hp Turbo models. Acceleration was expected to reach 60 mph in 7.5 to 8 seconds, similar to the RAV4 Hybrid. The CX-50's sportier suspension tuning allowed for engaging handling, though it resulted in a firmer ride quality. Despite this, the cabin remained quiet on the highway.

The 2026 Lexus TX 550h+ plug-in hybrid generated an impressive 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, along with Normal, Eco, Sport, and Custom drive modes. The 550h+ provided a smooth and quiet ride, with a suspension that absorbed bumps and potholes effectively. The AWD system could distribute power between the front and rear wheels, and a Trail Mode helped maintain traction on slippery surfaces.

The 2025 Mazda CX-50 offered a comfortable driving experience but fell short in terms of practicality and space compared to competitors. While the front seats provided ample room, the rear seats were less accommodating for taller passengers. Personal storage was adequate, but rivals offered more options. The CX-50's cargo space was limited to 29.2 cubic feet behind the rear seats, which was less than the class average. However, the space was usable, and features like a power liftgate and remote rear seatback releases added convenience.

The 2026 Lexus TX 550h+ provided standard luxury features, including multi-zone climate control and heated seats. The third row was spacious, with a recline function and ample headroom. However, folding the second row flat was complicated due to a series of levers. 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 97 cubic feet with the second row folded. All TX models could tow up to 5,000 pounds.

The 2025 Mazda CX-50 featured a 10.25-inch infotainment system controlled by a dial on the center console, with touchscreen functionality limited to Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. While some users appreciated the dial controller, others might have preferred a more modern interface. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, with a wireless charging pad available on higher trims. The base audio system included eight speakers, while a 12-speaker Bose system was standard on the Premium trim.

The 2026 Lexus TX offered a 14-inch touchscreen with quick response times, though some features lacked polish. Steering wheel buttons controlled various functions but were not labeled, leading to confusion. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, though connectivity issues occasionally arose. A subscription was required for in-dash navigation and other features. The TX included a clear back-up camera with an available bird’s-eye view and an Advanced Park system for automated parking. With seven USB ports and wireless charging, the TX ensured devices stayed charged.

The 2025 Mazda CX-50 Hybrid earned five stars in NHTSA crash tests, except for rollover protection, which received four stars. The non-hybrid 2024 model received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS. Standard safety features included frontal collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keep assist, and adaptive cruise control. All systems functioned smoothly, with the adaptive cruise control providing smooth acceleration and stops.

The 2026 Lexus TX came with Safety System+ 3.0, including forward collision warning, lane centering, and traffic sign recognition. Proactive Driving Assist was a feature that some drivers preferred to turn off due to its sensitivity. The adaptive cruise control worked well once set up, though it was slow to accelerate in stop-and-go traffic. The TX 350 and 500h earned five stars from the NHTSA, while the IIHS gave the TX an "Acceptable" score for the small overlap front crash test on the driver’s side and a "Good" score for the passenger’s side.