All change for Lexus SUV

In the midst of a growing debate over role of SUVs in our in our society, the new Lexus RX300 has a lot to live up to.

According to Lexus, "it changes everything". Brave words indeed. Mark Teevan, managing director of Lexus Ireland, backs up this bold claim by reference to several statistics which claim to show the RX300 to be superior to its counterparts in the growing luxury sports utility vehicle (SUV), or 4x4, market.

Lexus claim a strong following in the luxury SUV sector, admittedly due to the rapid growth in the segment and the supply problems suffered by several competitors.

Waiting lists for competitors like the BMW X5 and Volvos XC90 will certainly help Lexus gain some conquest sales.

While Lexus Ireland refrains from promising to be able to supply on demand, it does expect to sell its quota of 150 per year (up from 86 last year), with 100 due to be sold in the remainder of this year. Already, according to Mark Teevan, 50 have been registered for customers here.

The Lexus strength is in the quality of its finish, and the Japanese marque is keen to play on its acclaimed refinement, particularly in terms of the criteria of Noise, Vibration and Harshness (NVH).

Lexus claims superior figures under each category for the three-litre RX300 against the rest of the petrol variants of its competitors.

And it is only against the petrol-powered competitors that the RX300 can be judged. Unfortunately a diesel version will not be available for some time yet, which is sure to impact on potential sales. However, there is a bright light at the end of this fuel tunnel.

In keeping with claims to change everything, next year will see the arrival of "a competitively priced" hybrid. Unconfirmed figures for the hybrid of 0-60 mph in seven seconds as opposed to nine seconds in the petrol model, along with a mid-40s mpg consumption figure.

Our morning spent with the RX300 suggests a strong, silent performance, continuing the Lexus trend of misleadingly quiet and smooth motorway runs. We also went on a short off-road stint, more gymkana than Camel Trophy challenge.

In terms of styling, while the interior finish is strong, it will have its work cut out to compete with the near iconic status now acquired by the X5.

Prices begin at €63,500, with most interest in the executive model at €67,150. A sports model is available for €72,900.