2025 Lexus RX Hybrid vs 2025 Mazda CX-5

The 2025 Mazda CX-5 was often praised for its elegant design, standing out in the small SUV class with its graceful curves and timeless styling. Despite not having a redesign since 2017, it maintained a luxury-like appearance, especially when the Mazda emblem was hidden. Inside, the CX-5 offered a blend of traditional and modern elements, with high-quality materials and a user-friendly layout. It favored physical controls over digital, enhancing usability and comfort.

In contrast, the 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid, particularly the RX 500h Black Line Special Edition, was less visually striking despite its high price tag. Its design featured a large grille and distinctive rear haunches, but it lacked the appeal of some competitors. The interior, however, was contemporary and comfortable, with quality materials and ambient lighting. The RX offered a range of trims, each with varying levels of luxury and performance, but its overall look was dependent on specific configurations.

The 2025 Mazda CX-5 offered two engine options: a 2.5-liter four-cylinder with 187 hp and a turbocharged version with 256 hp. Both engines came with a six-speed automatic transmission and standard AWD. The base engine provided adequate power, while the turbocharged model delivered quicker acceleration, reaching 60 mph in about 6 seconds. The CX-5 was known for its sporty handling and confidence-inspiring driving dynamics, though it had a slightly firmer ride.

The 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid lineup included the RX 350h with 246 hp, the RX 450h+ PHEV with 304 hp, and the RX 500h with 366 hp. The RX 500h stood out with its turbocharged engine and sport-tuned suspension, offering impressive acceleration but lower fuel efficiency. It featured advanced AWD and performance enhancements, though its driving experience was somewhat disconnected. The RX 500h was capable on twisty roads but lacked the engaging feel of the CX-5.

The Mazda CX-5's interior was refined but less spacious than some rivals. It offered 30.8 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 58.1 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. While practical, it lagged behind competitors like the Honda CR-V in cargo capacity. The CX-5 provided adequate storage for personal items and included features like a power liftgate on higher trims.

The Lexus RX Hybrid focused on comfort and practicality, with ample room for adults and a panoramic sunroof. The RX 500h's front seats were snug, and the climate system was noisy. It offered 29.6 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 46.2 cubic feet. The RX included convenient storage solutions but had limitations in cargo capacity for a midsize SUV.

The 2025 Mazda CX-5 featured a 10.25-inch infotainment display controlled by a center console dial. It supported Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with wireless capability on higher trims. The system was user-friendly, though the analog gauges felt outdated. A head-up display was standard on mid-level trims, and a premium audio system was available.

The Lexus RX Hybrid boasted a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 14-inch touchscreen. It included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with a cloud-based navigation system. The RX offered advanced connected services and a premium audio system, though the steering wheel controls were cumbersome. The infotainment system was generally effective, despite occasional glitches.

The 2025 Mazda CX-5 earned high safety ratings, with standard features like forward-collision warning and adaptive cruise control. Higher trims added advanced safety technologies, and the systems operated smoothly during testing.

The Lexus RX Hybrid included Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, offering comprehensive driver assistance features. It received a five-star safety rating from NHTSA but a lower rating from IIHS. The RX's safety tech was effective, though some features were intrusive or slow to respond.