Looking for an SUV but not sure which one will fit your needs and give you all the luxury features you want? We can help. The team at Longo Lexus has put together this quick comparison to show you how the 2025 Lexus GX stacks up to the Mazda CX-90 and why it’s the better choice if you’re looking for the best value.
Quick Comparison Overview
The Lexus GX and Mazda CX-90 are both three-row SUVs, but they are built with two different drivers in mind. The Lexus features a body-on-frame design built for strength. It’s ideal for tackling various terrains and towing heavy loads. The CX-90 has a unibody design for a more car-like driving experience, which is perfect if you spend your driving time on I-10 or I-605 on your way to Los Angeles.
Key Specifications at a Glance
Both SUVs have powerful engines and advanced drivetrains. The GX has a full-time four-wheel drive system, and the CX-90 features a rear-biased all-wheel drive setup. Either one provides confidence on slippery roads, but the GX is made for more rugged adventures, such as exploring Burns Canyon Road or the 2N02 trail.
The GX features a comprehensive suite of advanced safety systems, with features such as adaptive cruise control and blind spot monitoring for more confidence while driving over California roads. The CX-90 also has advanced driver aids, along with remote engine start and multi-zone climate control.
Target Audience for Each Vehicle
The GX is engineered for off-road enthusiasts and adventure seekers who want durability, capability, and luxury in one package.
The CX-90 caters more to families who prioritize space, comfort, and premium amenities at a lower entry price.
Pricing and Value Proposition
The Lexus GX and Mazda CX-90 have very different pricing. The Lexus has a higher starting price, but it offers excellent durability and brand prestige. The Maxda is a more mainstream vehicle. It offers a premium look for car shoppers on a tighter budget.
Starting MSRP and Trim Level Breakdown
The 2025 Lexus GX starts at an MSRP of $64,735 with six trims to choose from:
- Premium
- Premium Plus
- Luxury
- Luxury+
- Overtrail
- Overtrail+
The 2025 Mazda CX-90 starts at an MSRP of $38,045 with seven trims to choose from:
- 3.3 Turbo Select
- 3.3 Turbo Preferred
- 3.3 Turbo Premium Sport
- 3.3 Turbo Premium Plus
- 3.3 Turbo S
- Turbo S Premium
- Turbo S Premium Plus
Standard Features Comparison
The GX’s standard 20-inch wheels are ready to take on all types of terrain, and the standard power liftgate makes it easy to load and unload your gear before and after your adventure. It features synthetic leather upholstery for a premium feel, and the power-adjustable steering wheel, heated and ventilated front seats, and power-adjustable front seats make it easy to find a comfortable position whether you’re driving or riding.
The CX-90 has similar standard features. However, the wheels are smaller at 19 inches, and it has roof rails for when you need to strap a carrier to the roof for extra storage.
Performance and Powertrain
If you’re looking for smooth power, you’ll get it with both the Lexus and the Mazda.
Engine Specifications and Output
Here’s more about the engines for these SUVs:
- Lexus GX: 3.4-liter twin-turbo V6, 349 hp.
- Mazda CX-90: 3.3-liter six-cylinder, 280 hp, or 340 hp with the turbo upgrade. A plug-in hybrid option is also available.
The GX has the power you need to merge and pass on the highway or traverse over rocky terrain on your weekend adventures. The CX-90’s slightly less powerful engine will still give you plenty of confidence behind the wheel.
Lexus GX Twin-Turbo V6 Performance
Passing slower traffic on I-5 is a breeze in the GX. It zips from zero to 60 mph in just 6.2 seconds. And with a 9,096-pound towing capability, it’s perfect for hauling your camper or boat to the San Bernardino National Forest. The full-time all-wheel drive system in the GX is made for taking on rough terrain. It has a low-range transfer case and locking center differential to give you more traction when the going gets rough.
Mazda CX-90 Engine Performance
The CX-90 is not as powerful as the GX, but it will still get to 60 mph in 6.3 seconds. Towing maxes out at 5,000 pounds, so if you have a large trailer you need to haul, the GX is the better option. The all-wheel-drive system in the CX-90 is made for handling rough weather on the road.
Fuel Economy and Efficiency
To compare fuel economy, let’s examine the gas engines. The Lexus GX simplifies determining EPA ratings with its single powertrain. It will get 15 mpg in the city and 21 mpg on the highway.
The CX-90’s fuel economy depends on the engine. The turbo is more efficient with 24 mpg city and 28 mpg highway. The Turbo S is even better with 23 mpg city and 28 mpg highway.
Interior Space and Comfort
When you need to load up your friends or family, both these SUVs have spacious cabins designed for comfort. Everyone in the GX has plenty of space to get comfortable. It can fit up to seven passengers with bench seats in the second and third rows. Optional captain’s chairs give your second-row passengers extra space but reduce seating to six. Choose the Overtrail and you have two rows and room for five. The CX-90 has room for eight people in its three rows. Like the GX, the available captain’s chairs reduce the number of seats.
When it’s time to load up your gear, the GX has more storage space. The cargo area can open up to 76.9 cubic feet. The CX-90 is slightly smaller with a maximum of 75.2 cubic feet.
Final Verdict: Which SUV Should You Choose?
Now that you know more about how the 2025 Lexus GX compares to the Mazda CX-90, you can make an informed decision about which one is right for you. Are you looking for rugged capability and ultra luxury? You need the Lexus GX.
Want to experience the latest GX firsthand? Come to Longo Lexus and get behind the wheel today. We’re confident you’ll love it. Give us a call at 626-539-2221 or stop by.
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