2025 Lexus NX 250 vs. 2023 Mazda CX-9 Review

Comparison Review

Comfort
Passengers in the backseat will be able to stretch out a lot more in the Mazda CX-9 than in the Lexus NX 250, due to its greater head- and legroom. The Mazda CX-9 will be a hit with tall drivers and their front seat passengers, since it has greater front head- and legroom than the Lexus NX 250.

Convenience
You'll be making about the same number of stops at the gas station with the Lexus NX 250 as you will with the Mazda CX-9, as they are both able to travel similar distances on a tank of gas.

Cost
There are a lot of factors to consider when calculating the overall cost of a vehicle. The main consideration is Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP). When looking only at MSRP, the Lexus NX 250 will have less of an impact on your bank account than the Mazda CX-9.

Dimensions
Since the Lexus NX 250 is much slimmer than the Mazda CX-9, it'll be much easier to find a wide enough space in a crowded parking lot. If you go with the Lexus NX 250, you'll have a much easier time finding a large enough space to park than you will with the Mazda CX-9.

Handling
The Lexus NX 250 has a smaller turning radius than the Mazda CX-9, allowing you to more easily maneuver in and out of tight spots.

Performance
In terms of towing capacity, the Mazda CX-9 is clearly the choice over the Lexus NX 250 for pulling heavy loads. The Lexus NX 250 has a little less horsepower than the Mazda CX-9.

Powertrain
The Lexus NX 250 has much lower torque than the Mazda CX-9, which generally means that it won't feel as fast or powerful.

Utility
The Lexus NX 250 has less seating than the Mazda CX-9, making the Mazda CX-9 the better choice, if you need to chauffeur many passengers. The Lexus NX 250 has significantly less cargo capacity than the Mazda CX-9.