Lexus LC vs BMW X3
What's the difference?

Lexus LC

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2021 price

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BMW X3

$88,100 - $131,400

2026 price

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Aston Martin Vanquish

Lamborghini Aventador

Mercedes-Benz A-Class

Mercedes-Benz AMG GT

Mercedes-Benz C-Class

Mercedes-Benz C43

Mercedes-Benz C63

Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class

Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class

Mercedes-Benz E-Class

Mercedes-Benz E53

Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class

Mercedes-Benz S-Class

Summary

2021 Lexus LC

2026 BMW X3

By Andrew Chesterton

By Mark Oastler

Safety Rating

Engine Type

V8, 5.0L

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Fuel Type

Premium Unleaded Petrol

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Fuel Efficiency

12.7L/100km (combined)

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Seating

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Likes

Punchy engine
Throaty exhaust
Climate-controlled cabin

M performance
Rear seat knee/headroom
Versatile family/driver’s car

Dislikes

Disconnect from the drive experience
Lexus trackpad tech persists
Thirsty

No ANCAP
Prefers premium fuel
Rear seat shoulder room for three adults

2021 Lexus LC Summary

Being a true Jack of all trades in the car world is rare.

Generally speaking, a vehicle is either capable or comfortable. Attractive or aerodynamic. Practical or performance orientated. And problems arise when cars try to do all those things well, all at the same time.

Which make the Lexus LC 500 Convertible such an interesting proposition. Because it is, without doubt, stylish, and lavishly equipped. It’s also rather large and rather heavy. All of which is perfect for cruising the Bondi foreshore.

But it’s also equipped with a thumping V8 engine and a throaty exhaust that sounds like bricks in a blender on the overrun. It’s stiffer than the LFA supercar, and plenty powerful, which should deliver one of Lexus’ sportiest-ever drives.

So can the LC 500 really do it all? Let’s find out.

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2026 BMW X3 Summary

BMW has recently launched its fourth-generation (G45) X3 range, which comprises three petrol variants including the entry-level 20 xDrive, mid-grade 30e xDrive PHEV and top-shelf M50 xDrive.

The new trio brings revised powertrains, new exterior and interior styling, increased standard equipment, enhanced technology and an emphasis on the use of sustainable materials.

We recently trialled the five-seater flagship to see if it has the right mix of performance and practicality to maintain the X3’s enduring appeal for Aussie families.

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Deep dive comparison

2021 Lexus LC 2026 BMW X3

Verdict

Stunning to behold, and even more so to listen to, the LC 500 Convertible with no doubt turn as many heads as its owners surely want it to. It's not the final word in performance, but it's a lavishly equipped transporter none the less.

Verdict

This is a highly competent all-rounder, given that it has the comfort and practicality for urban family duties yet with its revered M breeding can produce a level of performance which, in competent hands, could hold its own at a track day where its capabilities could be safely explored.

Lexus LC vs BMW X3 What's the difference?

Summary

Deep dive comparison

Verdict

Verdict

Lexus LC vs BMW X3
What's the difference?