Here at Neftin Westlake Mazda, we’ve had the fantastic opportunity to closely explore the all-new 2024 Mazda CX-90. We matched it up against the esteemed Lexus TX 350 to find out how these two powerhouses of comfort and performance measure up against each other.
Table of contents
| Specification | 2024 Mazda CX-90 Turbo S AWD | 2024 Lexus TX350 FWD |
|---|---|---|
| Vehicle Type | Four-door wagon | Four-door wagon |
| Seating Capacity | 6 passengers | 7 passengers |
| Drive Type | All-wheel drive | Front-wheel drive |
| Base/As Tested Price | $53,125 / $61,920 | $55,050 / $55,050 |
| Engine Type | Turbocharged inline-6 | Turbocharged inline-4 |
| Engine Displacement | 200 in³, 3283 cm³ | 146 in³, 2393 cm³ |
| Power | 340 hp @ 6000 rpm | 275 hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Torque | 369 lb-ft @ 2000 rpm | 317 lb-ft @ 1700 rpm |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic | 8-speed automatic |
| Suspension (F/R) | Control arms / Multilink | Struts / Multilink |
| Brakes (F/R) | 13.7 in / 13.8 in vented disc | 13.3 in / 13.3 in vented disc |
| Tires | Falken Ziex LT60a A/S, 275/45R-21 | Goodyear Assurance Finesse, 255/55R-20 |
| Wheelbase | 122.8 in | 116.1 in |
| Length | 200.8 in | 203.2 in |
| Width | 78.5 in | 78.4 in |
| Height | 68.2 in | 70.1 in |
| Passenger Volume (F/M/R ft³) | 57 / 51 / 35 | 60 / 54 / 39 |
| Cargo Volume (behind F/M/R ft³) | 75 / 40 / 16 | 97 / 57 / 20 |
| Curb Weight | 4885 lb | 4427 lb |
| 0-60 mph | 6.3 sec | 7.1 sec |
| 1/4-Mile @ Speed | 14.7 sec @ 99 mph | 15.4 sec @ 93 mph |
| Top Speed (governed) | 130 mph | 113 mph |
| Braking, 70–0 mph | 177 ft | 172 ft |
| Roadholding, 300-ft Skidpad | 0.85 g | 0.82 g |
| EPA Fuel Economy (Combined/City/Highway) | 25/23/28 mpg | 23/21/27 mpg |
| Observed Fuel Economy | 23 mpg | 20 mpg |
| 75-mph Highway Driving | 29 mpg | 31 mpg |
| 75-mph Highway Range | 560 mi | 550 mi |
Design Elegance and Aesthetic Appeal
Upon first glance, the Mazda CX-90 demands attention with its striking presence. The introduction of the Artisan Red color option—richer and more vibrant than Mazda’s signature Soul Red—adds an element of prestige and allure.
The CX-90 departs from the increasingly common aggressive front-end designs seen in competitors, including the Lexus TX 350 with its spindle grille, opting instead for a more understated and sophisticated approach.
The Mazda features gracefully integrated LED headlights and C-shaped daytime running lamps that highlight an elegantly crafted grille, presenting a modern yet timeless façade.
The Lexus TX 350, while handsome, adheres to a design philosophy that may not appeal to all, with its sharp lines and prominent grille.
In contrast, the CX-90’s design is fluid, with soft curves and a lack of harsh angles, conveying motion even when stationary. This design philosophy not only enhances the vehicle’s visual appeal but also contributes to a more aerodynamic profile.
Performance: Engine and Driveability
Mazda continues to innovate with the powertrain of the CX-90, featuring a 3.3-liter inline-six turbocharged engine that produces an impressive 340 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque.
The engine pairs with a new 8-speed automatic transmission, delivering swift and smooth acceleration. During our test drives, the CX-90’s performance was consistently robust, offering a driving experience that balances excitement with refinement.
One of the CX-90’s most significant advantages over the Lexus TX 350 is its rear-wheel-drive architecture, with all-wheel drive available as an option.
This setup provides the CX-90 with superior handling dynamics, making it a more engaging drive than the front-wheel-drive based TX 350.
Interior: Luxury, Comfort, and Technology
Inside the cabin, the CX-90 offers an oasis of luxury. The Premium Plus trim envelops occupants in high-quality materials, including genuine wood inserts and soft-touch surfaces that rival luxury leaders. The interior design is both functional and aesthetically pleasing, with a clean and intuitive layout.
The centerpiece is a 12.3-inch infotainment display that offers both touchscreen and rotary controls, an advantage in usability over the Lexus TX 350’s system, which some users find less intuitive.
Mazda’s attention to comfort is evident in the meticulously crafted seats—upholstered in premium leather with detailed stitching—that offer heating and ventilation in the front.
Practicality and Convenience Features
The CX-90 shines with its practicality as well. The cargo space is ample, with up to 75 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded down—a figure that rivals many competitors, including the Lexus TX 350.
Moreover, Mazda has enhanced the CX-90 with thoughtful touches like USB-C ports across all three rows and an optional wireless charging pad, ensuring that all passengers can stay charged and connected.
Conclusion: A New Midsize SUV Leader?
After thorough evaluation and comparison, it is evident that the 2024 Mazda CX-90 not only meets the expectations set by the Lexus TX 350 but surpasses them in several key areas.
With its superior driving dynamics, refined interior, and thoughtful technological integrations, the CX-90 redefines what’s possible in the luxury midsize SUV category.
For those seeking a vehicle that elegantly combines performance, comfort, and style, the 2024 Mazda CX-90 emerges as a compelling choice over the Lexus TX 350.
We invite you to visit Neftin Westlake Mazda and experience firsthand the distinct advantages of the new CX-90.
