It was a narrow victory, though. Only two points separated the LC500 and the runner-up, Peugeot's 3008 - a sport utility vehicle (SUV) that is extremely well put together, offers a high equipment level and drives exceedingly well. In fact, the 3008 had the highest score for ride quality among all the contenders.
Coming in a close third is The Volvo XC60 with 331 points. Clearly, this is the best premium compact crossover there is today. Its technology, design and attention to detail surpass those of pricier rivals. It is not too shoddy in the performance department, either. In fact, it took pole position for performance among this year's contenders.
It was also a closer fight among the rest of the pack this year. In fact, the difference between the average score of the top five and the rest was just 46 points. That is about the same lead that last year's winner-the Volvo S90 - had over the runner-up, the BMW M2.
This year's cream of the crop is surprising in at least one aspect. The French, which rarely have a strong showing in this annual tally, took three spots.
The Germans continued to dominate as before, with four.
And reflecting their global popularity, SUVs and crossovers made up half of the 10 cars that were shortlisted among 50 or so new models launched by authorised agents this year.
Will they continue to put up a strong showing next year? Well, we will just have to wait and see.