Lexus LBX vs Mazda CX-90
A detailed look at how two of Australia's most popular SUVs compare on price, running costs, safety, and everyday livability.
Specifications and pricing correct at time of publishing. Prices are RRP before on-road costs unless stated otherwise. Always confirm with the manufacturer or dealer before purchasing.
Price Breakdown
The Lexus LBX starts from $47,550 before on-road costs, while the Mazda CX-90 opens at $74,385. That makes the Lexus LBX the more affordable entry point by $26,835.
Once you factor in stamp duty, registration, CTP insurance, and dealer delivery, expect to add roughly 8-12% on top of the RRP depending on your state. That puts estimated driveaway prices in the ballpark of $52,305 and $81,824 respectively.
Over 5 years, the running costs favour the Lexus LBX by roughly $5,130 in fuel alone.
Safety Rundown
Both the Lexus LBX and Mazda CX-90 hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating. Adult occupant protection scored 82% for the Lexus LBX and 91% for the Mazda CX-90.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. The Mazda CX-90 packs more ADAS features with 6 out of 10 key systems fitted, compared to 5 in the Lexus LBX.
Both include the essentials: autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, a reversing camera.
Feature Showdown
Both come with modern infotainment systems. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The Lexus LBX stands out with Apple CarPlay that you will not find on the Mazda CX-90. The Mazda CX-90 counters with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, wireless charging and power tailgate. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The Lexus LBX uses a Hybrid producing 100kW and 185Nm of torque, sent through a cvt to a FWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 9.2 seconds.
The Mazda CX-90 responds with a Petrol making 254kW and 500Nm, paired to a automatic driving all four wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 7.8 seconds.
The Mazda CX-90 has the clear power advantage at 254kW vs 100kW. In the real-world sprint, the Mazda CX-90 is 1.4s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The Lexus LBX measures 4,190mm long on a 2,580mm wheelbase, 930mm shorter than the Mazda CX-90 at 5,120mm (3,120mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Mazda CX-90 generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 332L in the Lexus LBX and 257L in the Mazda CX-90, giving the Lexus LBX a 75L advantage. The Mazda CX-90 seats 7 vs 5.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
10.8m diameter
Good
Based on 10.8m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Turning circle ratings
True Cost to Own
Based on 15,000km of annual driving, fuel costs roughly $1,311/year for the Lexus LBX and $2,337/year for the Mazda CX-90. That is a $1,026 annual difference in favour of the Lexus LBX.
Estimated annual total: $1,311 (Lexus LBX) vs $2,337 (Mazda CX-90). The Lexus LBX saves you roughly $1,026 per year in total ownership costs. Use our Fuel Cost Calculator to estimate based on your driving.
Warranty: 5 years / 999,999km (Lexus LBX) vs 5 years / 999,999km (Mazda CX-90). Both match on warranty length.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Lexus LBX if: You want the lower entry price, need more boot space, want lower running costs, or prefer Lexus's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Mazda CX-90 if: You prioritise performance, or prefer Mazda's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Lexus LBX takes 3 of 5 key spec categories and comes in at a lower price. The Lexus LBX will save you roughly $1,026 a year in fuel. If boot space matters, the Lexus LBX has a clear edge. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Common questions
Which is cheapest, Lexus LBX and Mazda CX-90?
The Lexus LBX is the cheapest at $47,550 before on-road costs. That undercuts the Mazda CX-90 by $26,835.
Which is the most fuel-efficient?
The Lexus LBX uses the least fuel at 4.6L/100km on the combined cycle.
Which is safest?
They are evenly matched — Lexus LBX and Mazda CX-90 all hold a 5-star ANCAP rating. Compare the active-safety features above to separate them.
Which has the most boot space?
The Lexus LBX has the largest boot at 332L.
Which can tow the most?
The Mazda CX-90 has the highest braked towing capacity at 2,500kg.
Which is the most powerful?
The Mazda CX-90 makes the most power at 254kW. The Mazda CX-90 is quickest to 100km/h in 7.8s.
Disclaimer: All information in this comparison was believed to be correct at the time of publishing (20 April 2026). Prices are manufacturer recommended retail prices (RRP) and may vary by state, dealer, and options. Driveaway costs include estimated on-road costs for Victoria. Fuel economy figures are WLTP/ADR combined cycle. Specifications can change without notice. Always verify with the manufacturer before making a purchase decision. CarSorted does not accept payment for recommendations.
Auto-generated from CarSorted's specification data · 20 April 2026
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