2022 Lexus GX vs 2021 Mazda CX-5

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 was a departure from the trend of sharply creased designs, opting instead for a sleek and smooth aesthetic that appeared dynamic even when stationary. While it didn't boast the aggressive styling of some competitors, it took Mazda's familiar design language in a more refined direction. The exterior features varied slightly across trim levels, with the base model offering practical elements like LED headlights and 17-inch wheels, while higher trims added luxurious touches such as leatherette seats and auto-leveling LED headlights. The top-tier Signature model elevated the CX-5 to a premium level with Nappa leather seats and genuine wood trim, showcasing a well-executed design with high-quality materials.

In contrast, the 2022 Lexus GX maintained a design that harkened back to its first-generation roots, with only the signature spindle grille and modern lighting distinguishing it from its predecessors. The interior, however, was crafted with the legendary refinement expected from Lexus, offering a quiet cabin with high-quality materials. Despite its dated exterior, the GX's interior provided a comfortable and luxurious experience, with features like heated and ventilated seats and triple-zone climate control. The Black Line Special Edition added unique touches like NuLuxe upholstery and black ash wood trim, enhancing the overall aesthetic.

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 offered two engine options, both paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. The base engine was a 2.5-litre four-cylinder producing 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque, available with either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. The GT and Signature trims featured a more powerful 250-hp turbocharged 2.5-litre engine, delivering 320 lb-ft of torque and standard all-wheel drive. The CX-5's fuel efficiency varied, with the most economical version achieving 9.7 L/100 km in the city and 7.8 on the highway. The turbocharged models were slightly less efficient but still competitive. The CX-5 was known for its engaging driving style, though its stiff suspension and lack of seat bolstering were noted drawbacks.

The 2022 Lexus GX was powered by a 4.6-litre V8 engine, producing 301 horsepower and 329 lb-ft of torque. This engine, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and full-time 4WD, provided a towing capacity of 2,948 kilograms. The GX's fuel consumption was less impressive, with a combined estimate of 14.5 L/100 km. Despite its hefty curb weight and high drag coefficient, the GX's Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System improved stability and off-road capability. The GX's ride was refined, though its steering and brake pedal were less responsive, making it less agile in urban settings.

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 offered a comfortable interior with good headroom but limited legroom for rear passengers. It featured straightforward climate controls and a larger shifter that took up space in the centre console. The cargo space was below average for its class, with 875 litres behind the second row and 1,687 litres with the seats folded. The CX-5's design was functional for families, though its cargo capacity lagged behind competitors like the Subaru Forester and Toyota RAV4.

The 2022 Lexus GX provided an elevated driving position and comfortable seating, though the rear door openings were narrow, making access challenging. The third-row seat was cramped and reduced cargo space, with only 328 litres available behind it. Folding the third row increased capacity to 1,322 litres, and with the second row down, it offered 1,833 litres. The GX's side-swinging tailgate was cumbersome, especially in tight spaces, and the high load floor made loading heavy items difficult.

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 came standard with a 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen, though its operating system was criticized for being outdated and difficult to use. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, providing a workaround for the system's shortcomings. The lack of physical knobs for tuning the stereo was a noted inconvenience.

The 2022 Lexus GX featured a new 10.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, eliminating the need for the outdated Remote Touch Interface. It included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, and navigation, along with a CD player and Lexus Enform connected services. The stereo controls were awkwardly placed below off-roading controls, making them difficult to use. The system offered a dual-screen view and excellent voice recognition, enhancing the overall user experience.

The 2021 Mazda CX-5 boasted a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and forward collision warning. It earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA. Additional safety options included a head-up display and a surround-view camera system.

The 2022 Lexus GX lacked crash-test ratings due to its age but included the Lexus Safety System+ with features like adaptive cruise control and automatic emergency braking. It also offered blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. However, it missed some advanced safety technologies found in competitors, such as lane-keeping assist and semi-autonomous driving systems.