Story by John Carleton
This hotly contested category gained new players in 2004 while the leading lights tinkered with successful packages.
The final scores of the top four vehicles were agonisingly close. But we're still lauding the Lexus RX330.
Like its competition out of Europe, the RX330 has all the qualities that make a luxury four-wheel-drive vehicle feel special. And like it did last year, the Lexus impressed the judges with its overall packaging and pricing.
This Japanese-built luxury off-roader impresses in design and function with a peerless bottom line. Its safety, comfort, ergonomics and build and finish quality are on par with the best. Lexus should, however, look at boosting its security standings.
It is worth conveying just how cosseting the RX330 is for ride. Its silence when driving and admirable seats add to the feeling of opulence.
Considering the distinguished competition it faces, it is a commendable win for the Lexus.
The BMW X5 3.0-litre turbo-diesel just misses out on clinching the title and shows how far oil-burners have progressed in a few years.
Building on the attributes of other X5s the turbo-diesel engine is remarkably responsive, quiet and smooth and provides comparatively better returns for fuel economy.
Full Details: www.australiasbestcars.com.au.
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