2023 Lexus LX vs 2021 Fiat Ducato

What's the difference?

The Lexus LX500d is the base-spec variant in the Lexus LX range, so it’s your entry-level introduction to a prestige line-up. 

But “base-spec” and “entry-level” usually mean “budget-friendly”, right? Well, this seven-seat four-wheel-drive SUV has a price tag tickling the $150 grand mark, so it’s not a cheap vehicle, but it is a very refined, plush and feature-packed urban-friendly vehicle – and it is an effective off-road touring platform.

So, is the Lexus LX simply a Toyota LandCruiser 300 Series in a nice suit?

Read on.

The Ducato originated in 1981 through a joint venture between Fiat and PSA Peugeot-Citroen, which are both now part of the recently formed Stellantis conglomerate. The Ducato has evolved through four decades and several generations, with more than 2.6 million sold in a variety of body styles (including popular motorhomes) and wheelbases.

The current generation van, which competes in the 3501-8000kg GVM commercial class, is also marketed as the Peugeot Boxer, which was tested at maximum GVM by CarsGuide in 2020. Despite many similarities between them, the latest iteration of the Ducato is more than just a badge-engineered version of its French sibling.

The MY21 Fiat Professional Ducato Series 7 is equipped with an all-new drivetrain, updated safety and convenience features and a class-leading two-tonne-plus payload capacity, which we recently put to the test.