When comparing the Mazda CX-5 vs Lexus RX 350, both SUVs offer great features. The 2024 Mazda CX-5 has a starting MSRP that's lower than the Lexus RX 350. The Mazda comes with a 2.5L engine that delivers strong horsepower and torque. Meanwhile, the 2024 Lexus RX 350 has a more powerful engine, offering 275 horsepower. Both cars offer good fuel economy and impressive infotainment systems.
Mazda cx 5 vs lexus rx 350: Overview & History
Mazda CX-5: Overview
Mazda CX-5 is a small, fun to drive crossover SUV. Moreover, Its perfect for people who want an entry-level SUV that feels sporty. With its sleek design and compact size, the CX-5 is easy to drive in both city traffic and on long road trips. It’s also designed to look stylish, offering a modern feel that appeals to younger drivers.
The CX-5 stands out among japanese car brands with its handling and sporty performance, making it a top choice for anyone who loves adventure but doesn’t need a huge car. Whether you’re going to school or the beach, the CX-5 has what it takes to keep you moving in style.
Performance and Handling
The Mazda CX-5 offers a few engine choices to suit your driving style. The base model comes with a 2.5 liter 4 cylinder engine. It is good for smooth cruising, city driving, and some light off-roading. But, if you want more power, you can go for the turbocharged 2.5L engine. This option boosts your horsepower to 250, and torque increases to 320 lb-ft. The turbo engine gives you that extra oomph for faster acceleration and a more powerful driving experience.
The CX-5 is available with front-wheel drive. The AWD option is great for anyone who wants more traction, especially in bad weather conditions. Whether you are on wet roads or tackling light snow, AWD helps the car grip the road better. The CX-5’s handling is agile, offering a sporty feel.
When it comes to fuel efficiency, the 2024 Mazda CX-5 with the standard 2.5L engine offers an average of 25 MPG in the city and 31 MPG on highways, which is great for saving gas. The turbocharged version, however, has slightly lower efficiency, averaging 22 MPG in the city and 27 MPG on highways. Both options are efficient, but the turbocharged engine sacrifices a little fuel economy for more power.
Interior Features and Comfort
Inside, the Mazda CX-5 feels cozy and well-equipped. It has plenty of space for five passengers, with comfortable seating in both the front and back. The legroom is generous for a compact SUV, making long trips more enjoyable. The cargo space isn’t the largest in its class, but it’s still enough for groceries, sports gear, or a weekend getaway.
The materials used in the CX-5’s cabin are high-quality. Soft-touch materials and premium finishes make it feel upscale without the luxury price tag. The seats are supportive, and the overall comfort level is great, especially on longer trips. You can also upgrade to a higher trim for additional features like leather seats and a power-adjustable driver’s seat.
Safety Features and Ratings
The Mazda CX-5 is equipped with many safety features to keep you safe on the road. Standard features include lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring.
The CX-5 performs well in crash tests, earning high ratings from organizations.. It has a 5-star rating in the frontal crash test, which is excellent for an SUV in this class. The CX-5 is also equipped with rearview cameras and automatic emergency braking system. Overall, the CX-5 is a safe choice for drivers.
Pricing and Value for Money
The 2024 Mazda CX-5 starts at a base price of around $27,000. There are different trims available, so you can choose one that fits your budget and needs. The base trim comes with standard features like the 2.5L engine, a 7-inch display, and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto. If you want more luxury and tech features, you can upgrade to higher trims like the Grand Touring or Signature models. These trims add features like a larger touchscreen, leather seats, and a premium sound system.
Lexus RX 350 Overview
The Lexus RX 350 is a luxury SUV that blends sophistication, comfort, and cutting-edge technology. Its smooth and refined ride, the RX 350 gives a premium experience with every ride. Whether you are driving through city streets or taking a road trip, it provides a comfortable and quiet cabin.
This luxury crossover offers plenty of space, making it an excellent choice for families or those who value both comfort and style. It stands out with its sleek design, high-quality materials. Inside, advanced technology features, such as a user-friendly infotainment system. The 2024 Lexus RX 350 comes equipped with features like a Mark Levinson audio system and a large touchscreen display, ensuring that every drive is enjoyable and connected.
Performance and Handling
The Lexus RX 350 is powered by a 3.5L V6 engine that delivers strong performance with 275 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. It provides a smooth and quiet driving experience, making it a top choice. The RX 350 is also available with an all-wheel-drive (AWD) option, providing enhanced traction and control in various driving conditions.
For those interested in better fuel efficiency, the RX 350 is available as a hybrid model, offering improved miles per gallon (MPG) compared to the standard gasoline engine. In terms of fuel efficiency, the RX 350 is competitive with other vehicles in its class, like the Mazda CX-5, though it may not be the most fuel-efficient option in the market. The RX 350’s hybrid version stands out in terms of fuel economy, offering better efficiency for long drives.
The RX 350’s driving experience is tailored to those who appreciate a smooth, comfortable, and quiet ride, rather than a sporty feel. It may not handle as sharply as some sportier SUVs like the Mazda CX-5, but it offers a refined and luxurious experience that most buyers of this SUV are looking for.
Interior Features and Luxury
If you step into the Lexus RX 350, you will notice that the interior is filled with high-end materials. Both front and back passengers will have plenty of legroom in the roomy cabin. It offers a sumptuous and tranquil setting that is ideal for lengthy trips or daily commuting.
The RX 350 features an advanced infotainment system, which includes a large touchscreen, easy-to-use controls, and available navigation. The Mark Levinson audio system provides crystal-clear music that improves the driving experience for audiophiles. Additionally, the RX 350 has a large cargo area, which makes it perfect for anyone. Moreover, it requires space for groceries, baggage, or outdoor equipment.
When compared to the Mazda CX-5, the RX 350 offers more premium materials and larger cabin space, particularly in the back row. The Mazda CX-5, though impressive in its own right, offers a more compact feel and does not match the RX 350 in terms of interior luxury. The Lexus also provides more comfortable seating options, with high-quality leather and soft-touch materials throughout. In terms of technology, the RX 350 offers more advanced features, making it a standout in this category.
Safety Features and Technology
The Lexus Safety System+ suite, which comes with the Lexus RX 350. Moreover, it has technologies including adaptive cruise control. Additionally, the RX 350 comes with side curtain airbags and a top-notch crash test rating, including a frontal crash rating of 5 stars from NHTSA. With these features, the RX 350 ensures both driver and passenger safety.
When compared to the Mazda CX-5, the RX 350 comes with more advanced safety technology and a higher crash test rating, making it a more secure choice for those concerned about safety.
Pricing and Value for Money
The 2024 Lexus RX 350 starts at an MSRP of around $47,000, which places it in the premium SUV category. Customers may choose a configuration that suits their demands and budget with to the RX 350's several trim levels. Moreover, it includes the basic model, Premium, and Luxury trims.
When compared to the Mazda CX-5, the RX 350 is generally more expensive, but it offers superior luxury, space, and advanced technology features. The CX-5, starting at a lower MSRP, is a more affordable option, but it does not quite match the RX 350 in terms of interior luxury, safety features, or performance options. However, the CX-5 provides great value for buyers looking for a less expensive SUV with solid performance and a comfortable ride.
Lexus RX 350 Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Luxury interior with premium materials
- Quiet and smooth ride
- Advanced tech features like the Mark Levinson audio system and a large touchscreen
- Excellent safety features and high crash test ratings
Cons:
- Higher price compared to some competitors, like the Mazda CX-5
- Not as sporty or agile as the Mazda CX-5
Mazda CX-5 vs Lexus RX 350: Price Comparison
When comparing the Mazda CX-5 to the Lexus RX 350, the price difference is notable. The Mazda CX-5 starts at a more affordable MSRP, typically around $27,000 for the base model. In contrast, the Lexus RX 350 comes with a much higher starting price, around $47,000.
This price gap reflects the Lexus' luxury branding, offering premium features, finishes, and higher-end specifications. However, for those on a budget, the Mazda CX-5 provides great value for money .If you are looking for a more budget-friendly option, the Mazda CX-5 is an excellent choice. But if you desire more luxury and extra features, the Lexus RX 350 might be worth the extra cost.
Mazda CX-5 vs Lexus RX 350: Performance
The Mazda CX-5 and Lexus RX 350 differ in performance, catering to different driver preferences. The Mazda CX-5 has a 2.5-liter engine producing 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque. It offers nimble handling, making it a great choice. On the other hand, the Lexus RX 350 is equipped with a more powerful 3.5-liter V6 engine.However, it produces 275 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque.
This gives the RX 350 more power for highway cruising and towing. While the Mazda CX-5 offers excellent fuel economy with its AWD option, the Lexus RX 350 delivers more comfort and power for drivers looking for a smoother, more luxurious ride. The choice depends on whether you prioritize sporty handling or comfort and performance.
Mazda CX-5 vs Lexus RX 350: Interior Comfort and Features
When it comes to interior comfort, the Lexus RX 350 stands out with its luxurious cabin, featuring high-quality materials and an advanced infotainment system. The RX 350 offers more space with impressive legroom and a quiet ride. Its tech features include a larger touchscreen, a premium sound system, and optional rear-seat entertainment.
The Mazda CX-5 also provides a comfortable interior with a sleek design, but its not quite as refined as the Lexus. It has a smaller infotainment screen, and while the sound system is good, it does not match the Lexus’ premium offerings. For cargo, the Mazda CX-5 has a good amount of space, but the Lexus RX 350 offers more with seats folded down, making it a better choice for those needing extra storage.
Mazda CX-5 vs Lexus RX 350: Safety Features and Ratings
In terms of safety, both the Mazda CX-5 and Lexus RX 350 offer strong protection. The Mazda CX-5 comes with standard safety features such as blind-spot monitoring.The Lexus RX 350, being a luxury SUV, offers even more advanced safety features.Moreover, it includes a 360-degree camera system. However, its crash test rating from NHTSA is slightly lower with a 4-star rating in the frontal crash category. Overall, both SUVs are highly rated for safety, but the Lexus RX 350 offers slightly more advanced features for those seeking a higher level of protection.
Which is better: Mazda CX-5 or Lexus RX 350?
The Mazda CX-5 is a great choice for those seeking a sporty, affordable SUV with a stylish design. Its ideal for people who value fun driving with a lower starting MSRP and a smooth, responsive ride. On the other hand, the Lexus RX 350 is a luxury SUV, perfect for those who prioritize comfort, advanced features, and a premium interior. If you want a more refined ride with extra features like a bigger infotainment system, the RX 350 is for you.
Does the Lexus RX 350 have a hybrid option?
Yes! The Lexus RX 350 comes in a hybrid variant. The RX 350h offers excellent fuel efficiency, perfect for people who want to save on gas. It also delivers a smooth and quiet drive. Plus, the hybrid engine reduces emissions, making it better for the environment.
Which SUV has better fuel efficiency?
The Lexus RX 350 hybrid is more fuel-efficient than the Mazda CX-5. While the RX 350 gets an impressive fuel economy, especially in the hybrid version, the CX-5 offers good mileage too. However, the RX 350’s hybrid option offers the best efficiency for those who drive long distances or in the city.
What are the key differences in interior space between the Mazda CX-5 and Lexus RX 350?
The Mazda CX-5 has a cozy interior with a bit less cargo space. It comfortably fits five passengers. The Lexus RX 350, however, has more room, offering a spacious cabin and better cargo capacity. Plus, the RX 350 offers more legroom, making it great for taller passengers.
