Crown Crossover vs Lexus RX 300: Choosing the luxury SUV right
The Tk1-crore to Tk1.5-crore segment, which previously used to be dominated by the Toyota Prado, now has a plethora of premium selections available. Among them, two models which have stood out in the reconditioned vehicle market are the Toyota Crown Crossover and the Lexus RX 300
In recent years, Bangladesh's luxury car market has been going through an expansion stage. Most buyers now prefer to opt for models which blend efficiency, performance, and prestige. Thus, the go-to option these days are luxury SUVs which also offer features from a practicality dimension as well.
The Tk1-crore to Tk1.5-crore segment, which previously used to be dominated by the Toyota Prado, now has a plethora of premium selections available. Among them, two models which have stood out in the reconditioned vehicle market are the Toyota Crown Crossover and the Lexus RX 300.
While the Crown Crossover brings a sportier, sedan-inspired design, the RX 300 stays true to Lexus's refined SUV heritage. Given Bangladesh's unique market factors—such as high import duties, fuel efficiency concerns, and road conditions—choosing between these two models can be a tough choice. Thus, for this feature, we analyse both these vehicles to find the right choice per your needs.
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The Crown used to be known as the most elegant sedan in Toyotas' lineup. Since 2023 however, it broke the conventional sedan norms to now also be offered as the Toyota Crown Crossover. With a raised stance and a sleek, coupe-like design, it offers a futuristic styling. Its sharp body lines, and bold front grille sets it apart from traditional sedans and crossovers and might not be everyone's cup of tea.
The interior is equally sophisticated, featuring premium materials, a well-laid-out dashboard, and an advanced infotainment system. However, its lower ride height compared to a typical SUV might pose some challenges on Dhaka's uneven roads and speed bumps.
In contrast, the Lexus RX 300 stays true to the luxury SUV formula with its sculpted body, aggressive spindle grille, and commanding presence. The cabin of the RX 300 exudes lavishness, with plush leather seats, wood accents, and a driver-centric layout. While the RX 300 feels more like a traditional high-end SUV, the Crown Crossover appeals to those looking for a more unconventional yet premium driving experience.
When it comes to performance, both vehicles cater to different driving styles. The Toyota Crown Crossover offers a choice between the base spec 2500cc 4-cylinder engine with three AC motors outputting a total of 236 HP and just over 400 lb-ft of torque that is optimised for maximum efficiency or a 2400cc turbocharged 4-cylinder option on the new "HYBRID Max" platform that produces upwards of 340 HP and 400 lb-ft of torque paired with two powerful electric motors. This makes it an attractive choice for those who want a balance of fuel efficiency and performance. And for those who didn't know, the 2400cc Crown Crossover is actually faster on the straights than a 2000cc Toyota Supra!
On the other hand, the Lexus RX 300 is powered by a 2000cc turbocharged 4-cylinder engine producing around 238 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of maximum torque. While not as powerful as the Crown's turbo-hybrid variant, it offers smooth power delivery and a refined driving experience, making it well-suited for both city driving and long road trips. The small engine also translates to a lower annual income tax (AIT) of Tk50,000 compared to Tk75,000 for both variants of the Crown. The RX 300's higher ground clearance also makes it a better option for tackling Bangladesh's pothole-ridden roads.
Fuel efficiency is always a big deciding factor for any car owner, although if you're buying a car in this segment you're rarely worried about running costs, but realistically who doesn't like saving money?
Lexus's refined engineering ensures that the RX 300's fuel consumption remains reasonable for an SUV of its class. Lexus claims that the RX 300, being a traditional gasoline-powered SUV, can provide a mileage of around 10 km/l. However we believe the real value would be lower considering the fuel quality and driving conditions in Bangladesh.
However, the Crown Crossover's hybrid powertrain allows it to achieve an impressive fuel economy of around 18 km/l, depending on the variant. So for those prioritising fuel savings, the Crown Crossover is the better choice, but for drivers looking for a more conventional SUV experience, the RX 300 remains a solid contender.
Technology and safety features play a significant role in the luxury segment, and both vehicles excel in this department. The Toyota Crown Crossover features a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Toyota's latest interface, wireless charging, and as an added feature, a panoramic sunroof. It also includes Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, which offers adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and a pre-collision system.
The Lexus RX 300, in comparison, comes with a larger optional 14-inch infotainment screen, Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, and a Mark Levinson premium sound system. While both vehicles are well-equipped with advanced features, the RX 300's infotainment and interior refinement offer a more premium feel.
One of the most crucial factors for buyers is pricing, heavily influenced by Bangladesh's steep import taxes. Internationally, the Toyota Crown Crossover is relatively a cheaper option than the Lexus RX 300. However, after factoring the engine displacement based import duties, both models would cost around the Tk1.3 crore mark. While the RX 300 demands a higher price, it justifies the cost with Lexus's brand value, superior build quality, and established reputation. On the other hand, the Crown Crossover provides a unique blend of sports-sedan and luxury SUV characteristics.
In conclusion, there is no clear winner here. No one car is the best fit for all. For someone who wants a stylish and fuel-efficient luxury vehicle that stands out, the Toyota Crown Crossover is a compelling choice. Its performance oriented yet more efficient hybrid powertrain, distinctive design, and advanced technology make it a well-rounded option. However, for those who prioritise a traditional SUV experience with a more refined interior, and from a brand synonymous with luxury, the Lexus RX 300 is a marvellous choice.
Specifications:
Toyota Crown
Engine: 2500cc Hybrid or 2400cc Turbo Hybrid
Transmission: CVT of 6-speed Automatic
Max Power: 236 bhp to 340 bhp
Max Torque: 400 lb-ft
Price: Starts at Tk1.2 Crore
Lexus RX300h
Engine: 2000cc turbocharged 4-cylinder
Transmission: 6-speed automatic
Max Power: 238 bhp
Max Torque: 258 lb-ft
Price: Starts at Tk1.3 Crore
