Lexus RX270 Executive Review: Smooth Operator

What we like:

Surprisingly lively performance and high levels of refinement from a four-cylinder engine

What we dislike:

A 2.7-litre motor is not exactly small and affordable to tax

It is mostly standard RX fare on the inside, albeit with less kit and luxuries. The driving position is commanding and comfortable and there's good space to use at the rear for both passengers and load.

Perceived luxury on this base model is down on higher spec RX models though - the lack of wood trim on the centre console and steering wheel rim means there is just too much plastic surfaces up front, thus making the dashboard look a tad bare when compared to higher end models. Also missing in the RX270 is the RX350's new Remote Touch operating system. Overall build quality is unquestionable and everything should work and last through the life span of the car.

The base Luxury spec RX270 tested here isn't exactly sparsely equipped even though it comes without the powered tailgate, Adaptive Front Lighting system, ventilated seats features of more expensive models. The base RX270 still comes with HID headlamps, electrically adjustable front seats, keyless operation, 18-inch alloy wheels, cruise control and so on even though it is a significant $15k more affordable than the Super Luxury spec RX270.

A big naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine might not be the best solution for a base model premium crossover SUV as such an engine will lack the pulling power of a small turbocharged lump like in the base variant Volvo XC60 or Audi Q5 but at least the RX270 delivers in most of the key areas like a Lexus should while being significantly more affordable than the RX350.

Credits: Story and Photos by Raymond Lai