Mazda CX-9 vs Lexus RX
What's the difference?

Mazda CX-9

$18,990 - $42,990

2021 price

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Lexus RX

$101,200 - $111,100

2026 price

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Land Rover Discovery Sport

Mercedes-Benz EQ-Class

Mercedes-Benz G-Class

Mercedes-Benz G63

Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class

Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class

Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class

Mercedes-Benz GLS

Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class

Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross

Mitsubishi Outlander

Mitsubishi Pajero

Mitsubishi Pajero Sport

Summary

2021 Mazda CX-9

2026 Lexus RX

By Justin Hilliard

By Emily Agar

Safety Rating

Engine Type

Turbo 4, 2.5L

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Fuel Type

Unleaded Petrol

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Fuel Efficiency

8.4L/100km (combined)

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Seating

Likes

New 10.25-inch display
Seven-seater's versatility
Comfortable ride

Smooth & refined
Premium features
Family-friendly rear seat

Dislikes

Expensive AWD option
Six-seater's compromises
Older ANCAP safety rating

Relatively short EV-only range
No spare tyre, just a repair kit
Raised rear seat cramped for tall people

2021 Mazda CX-9 Summary

The second-generation Mazda CX-9 may have been on sale in Australia for nearly five years now, but it remains the second best-selling large SUV using unibody construction (as opposed to old-school, off-road-focused body-on-frame).

That said, it is getting on a bit, so Mazda’s given it an update with a twist for 2021, hoping to inject a little bit more life into its flagship model.

And when we say twist, we mean it. After all, who would’ve thought there’d ever be a six-seat CX-9? Well, we’ve checked it out to see if it’s the version we needed all along. Read on.

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2026 Lexus RX Summary

Lexus has finally brought a plug-in hybrid to the Australian market with the RX450h+, and we’ve been testing the second-from-the-top Sports Luxury grade to see how it stacks up.

Promising a blend of electric efficiency and the high-end comfort Lexus is known for, this large SUV steps into a competitive segment. But does it deliver on both fronts?

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Deep dive comparison

2021 Mazda CX-9 2026 Lexus RX

Verdict

The CX-9 is still a great option for families looking for a large SUV, even if it is starting to show its age as new rivals continue to launch with newer technologies.

That said, the availability of a luxury-focused six-seat configuration (Azami LE AWD) for the first time might be enough to convince some buyers to give it further consideration.

But for others who need the versatility of seven seats, this is still the CX-9 we’ve all come to know and love – but just a little bit better – particularly in its best-selling Azami AWD form.

Verdict

The new Lexus RX450h+ Sports Luxury is packed with a wealth of premium features and strikes a solid balance between refinement and practicality. There are enough thoughtful touches that make everyday driving a little easier.

You’ll get the most out of the plug-in hybrid powertrain if you’re able to charge it regularly; ideally every day. That might not always be practical for busy people on the go, but overall, the RX450h+ manages to blend efficiency with Lexus’ signature comfort and quality.

Mazda CX-9 vs Lexus RX What's the difference?

Summary

Deep dive comparison

Verdict

Verdict

Mazda CX-9 vs Lexus RX
What's the difference?