Here are the main reasons Brits tend not to buy the Lexus RX, despite its strengths:
While the Lexus RX is arguably more reliable, cheaper to run, and better built, it lacks the brand pull, emotional appeal, and cultural fit that the Range Rover Sport commands in the UK. For many Brits, the Lexus RX just doesn't feel aspirational — even if it’s the smarter buy.
1. Brand Prestige & Heritage
- Range Rover has immense brand cachet in the UK. It's deeply tied to British luxury, aristocracy, and countryside glam.
- Lexus, while respected, lacks that emotional tie for UK buyers — it’s seen as "posh Toyota" rather than a status symbol.
- Many Brits buy Range Rovers more for the badge than the build.
2. Design & Image
- The RX is conservative, with a futuristic but restrained design. It’s more “understated elegance” than “flashy wealth.”
- The Range Rover Sport looks aggressive, muscular, and makes a statement — which many UK buyers in the luxury SUV segment want.
- Lexus designs tend to appeal more to American and Asian tastes.
3. Driving Dynamics
- Lexus prioritizes comfort, quietness, and hybrid smoothness.
- Range Rover Sport leans more into performance and road presence — with more powerful petrol/diesel options and dynamic driving modes.
- British roads, especially in rural areas, still demand off-road or performance confidence — where the Range Rover shines (at least in theory).
4. Dealer Network & Awareness
- Lexus has a much smaller dealer network in the UK.
- Fewer showrooms means fewer test drives and lower visibility.
- Many buyers may simply never consider Lexus when shopping for luxury SUVs because it’s not top of mind.
5. Fleet and Leasing Culture
- A huge portion of UK vehicle sales are company cars and lease schemes.
- Range Rover models are more widely available through these channels, despite higher costs and reliability concerns.
- Lexus often doesn’t offer the aggressive leasing deals that Range Rover and German marques do in the UK.
6. Hybrid Powertrain Limitations
- Until recently, the RX was hybrid only — great for economy but not for towing or performance-minded buyers.
- Diesel still had a hold on UK buyers for a long time, and Lexus ignored diesel completely.
- The RX 500h F Sport is an improvement, but it arrived relatively late.
7. National Pride
- Buying a Range Rover in Britain is buying British — even if the reliability isn’t great.
- Lexus, being Japanese, is still seen as a foreign import in a category where people like to “buy local” — especially with Range Rover and Bentley Bentayga in the mix.
In Summary:
While the Lexus RX is arguably more reliable, cheaper to run, and better built, it lacks the brand pull, emotional appeal, and cultural fit that the Range Rover Sport commands in the UK. For many Brits, the Lexus RX just doesn't feel aspirational — even if it’s the smarter buy.