the pilot made a descent from (just guessing) 2-3 km, and the engines didn't spool up till we were taxiing. Extremely smooth approach and landing, no reverse thrust and very little braking. The best landing I ever experienced!
Based on my experience, that approach would have been unstable by a long shot. It is not possible, in a modern jet, to fly from 500ft AGL to touchdown with the engines at idle (which it sounds like they were if they had to be "spooled up" for taxi) within the stabilised speed limits. I therefore conclude, based on the info given, that that crew hit 500ft going way too fast and bled off the speed down final.
Don't judge an approach and landing by the touchdown...