What's the difference?
Let's face it. Previous Lexus RXs – and there've been three whole generations since 2003 in Australia and an earlier one (from 1998) if you're reading this from abroad – have always felt a little bit like, well, Toyota Klugers in drag.
Lacking sufficient charisma and talent, none really possessed the appropriate dynamics, sophistication or comfort to effectively take on rivals like the Audi Q7, BMW X5 and Volvo XC90.
At least Lexus had the uniqueness and nerve to release a hybrid version way back in 2006 in the pioneering 400h. Remember that?
Now, there's an all-new RX, and it's had quite the transformation. But is it any good? Let's find out.
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.
So, is the latest Lexus RX good enough to stay, or should it sashay away?
In almost every single way except accessibility (the cheapest is now $15K more expensive, remember), the newcomer is hugely better than the model it replaces, with a level of sophistication and refinement – as well as comfort – that the underwhelming predecessors just could not manage.
And, yes, while there is tech shared with the Toyota Kluger (as there's always been), RX #5 looks, feels and drives much more like a large luxury SUV should.
Speaking of which, few rivals can match the family-friendly RX's combination of customer service, glamour and opulence.
Our verdict then? This Lexus has gone from being a drag to one of the queens of the BMW X5 class. RX... Shantay, you stay!
The Lexus LX500d is a genuine seven-seater with impressive levels of refinement, comfort and even off-road capability.
The interior borders on being chintzy and it’s price-tag is the wrong side of bloody expensive, but there's no denying this Lexus is packed with stuff.
It’s more city than country, more bling than bush tourer – it’s like a tarted-up 300 Series – but that’s absolutely fine for the people who buy these.
I wouldn’t blame anyone for cross-shopping a Toyota LandCruiser 300 Series with this – and then opting for the 300 Series! For one thing, you’ll save a stack of cash.