2025 Lexus RX Hybrid vs 2024 Mazda CX-50

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 was a rugged alternative to the CX-5, boasting a lower, wider, and longer profile. Its broad-shouldered design featured 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. The 2.5 Turbo Meridian Edition, with its all-terrain tires and earthy color palette, emphasized an active-lifestyle image. Inside, the CX-50 impressed with its quality materials and minimal use of piano black plastic, though it still fell short of Mazda's upscale aspirations.

In contrast, the 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid, particularly the RX 500h Black Line Special Edition, was a $75,000 SUV with a unique Incognito paint job and orange brake calipers. Despite its bold grille and rear haunches, the RX remained unremarkable in appearance. The RX lineup included three hybrid models, each with varying power and efficiency. The RX 500h stood out with its turbocharged engine and sport-tuned features, but its interior, while contemporary and comfortable, had some ergonomic quirks. The RX offered ample space and comfort, especially in the rear seats, but its cargo capacity was limited for a midsize SUV.

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 featured a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, with turbocharged options on higher trims. The base engine delivered 187 horsepower, while the turbo variant offered up to 256 hp on premium fuel. All models came with a six-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive, along with various driving modes. The CX-50 was a competent daily driver, though it lacked the sporty dynamics of the CX-5. The Meridian Edition's all-terrain tires added noise and reduced grip, making it less ideal for everyday use.

The 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid offered three models with distinct powertrains. The RX 350h was the most efficient, with 246 hp and a hybrid system. The RX 450h+ plug-in hybrid provided 304 hp and a 37-mile electric range. The RX 500h, with its turbocharged engine, delivered 366 hp and impressive acceleration, though it sacrificed fuel efficiency. Equipped with advanced features like adaptive damping suspension and Direct4 all-wheel drive, the RX 500h excelled in straight-line performance but lacked dynamic engagement. Its drivetrain occasionally hesitated, and the ride, while firm, wasn't uncomfortable.

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 seats up and 56.3 cubic feet with them folded. While it trailed competitors in cargo capacity, the CX-50's power liftgate improved access. The interior layout was sensible, with adequate storage and a substantial shifter and rotary infotainment controller.

The 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid focused on comfort and practicality. The RX 500h's front seats, though snug, were heated and ventilated, while the rear seats offered ample space and comfort. The RX provided 29.6 cubic feet of cargo space, with foldable rear seats expanding it to 46.2 cubic feet. Interior storage was practical, though some compartments lacked lining. The hands-free power liftgate and rear seat features added convenience, but cargo space was limited for a midsize SUV.

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 featured a 10.25-inch infotainment screen controlled by a rotary dial. While it lacked a touchscreen, it offered wireless Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto. Higher trims included wireless charging and a Bose audio system. The system's simplicity appealed to those who preferred minimal tech distractions.

The 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid boasted a 12.3-inch digital panel and a 14-inch touchscreen. While some features were optional, the Lexus Interface system impressed with its voice assistant and connectivity options. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, and the Mark Levinson audio system delivered excellent sound. However, the steering wheel controls were distracting and challenging to use.

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 earned a 2023 Top Safety Pick from the IIHS, with top scores in crash tests and front-crash prevention. It offered a comprehensive suite of standard driver-assist features, with optional upgrades like a 360-degree camera system.

The 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid included Safety Connect and Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, offering advanced driver assistance features. It received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, though the IIHS rated it poorly in some tests. The RX's safety tech worked well, but some features, like Traffic Jam Assist, raised privacy concerns.