The wait has been worthwhile for the Australian Lexus operation.
Those years watching the powerful US market gobble up RX soft-roader allocations have been erased by the arrival of an RX330 which tips the luxury four-wheel-drive market on its head.
It is the new kingpin and rewrites the manner in which customers can be cosseted and lured into the concept of adventure.
The BMW X5, champ for two years, did not go without a fight. And a new entrant, the Volkswagen Touareg, available only in V8 initially, also loomed large.
Much of the Lexus appeal starts with the price of the RX330 and, with the exception of high running and repair costs, its value for money is among the best in class.
Its on-road competence against a well-credentialled foe like the X5 also surprises. And while the Lexus gives little away in design or function, it would rate even better if its security was up to scratch for the class.
Its win comes down to a simple fact. Lexus delivers in the areas luxury buyers rate highly. Top marks for smoothness and quietness, ride, build quality, ergonomics and safety – all are critical to owners.
The BMW comes very close to matching the Lexus, and has more consistent scores overall. It just fails to match the victor in the areas that matter most. If BMW was to tinker with an otherwise successful formula, it could be a different tale.
Judges were impressed with the superbly smooth 3.0-litre petrol and diesel engines in BMW’s X5s, the latter holding its own against the petrol powerplants in the Lexus and VW.
In outright performance, the V8 Touareg is a ripper but it’s also thirsty. The VW is also off the pace when it comes to the ride, handling and quietness standards set by the Lexus. And although the security of the Touareg was excellent, its ergonomics and comfort could be better.
Final Scores (Out of 5): RX330 Sport: 4.18, X5 3.0i 4.13/3.0d 4.12, Touareg 3.84.
Full Details: www.australiasbestcars.com.au.
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