Lexus offers a broad range of cars, crossovers and sport utility vehicles and is a leading luxury brand. A division of Toyota, Lexus is currently the largest seller of luxury cars in the United States. The idea for Lexus started at a secret board meeting in 1983 where Toyota’s chairman tasked his executives with creating a world-class large sedan to compete with luxury brands. Toyota launched the project with extensive research into U.S. consumer’s preferences as well into how to develop a new luxury brand.
In 1989, the Lexus brand debuted in the United States with the large LS 400 sedan. In keeping with Lexus’ tagline of The relentless pursuit of perfection, the car was designed of all new parts, including a 4.0 liter eight-cylinder... View more engine. At the same time, Lexus also sold the smaller ES 250 sedan, derived from the Toyota Camry. Soon thereafter, Lexus debuted the SC series sports coupe.
At its original launch, Lexus became known as providing cars with industry-leading luxury coupled with very high levels of customer service. However, the automotive press also noted that it was geared more towards comfort than performance. Nevertheless, it was successful from day one, taking customers from both German and American premier luxury marques.
Over the years, Lexus has expanded its line to include the GS large sports sedan, the IS-series small sports sedan, the LX and GX sport utility vehicles and the RX crossover utility vehicle in addition to smaller HS and CT series vehicles. Although Lexus has maintained their focus on luxury and service, the performance of many of their cars has become sportier, matching the taste of performance-oriented drivers. To further leverage the performance-orientation of many luxury car buyers, the company has launched the F line. Current F cars include the performance-oriented IS-F sedan which competes with cars like the BMW M3 and Audi S4, as well as the Lexus LFA supercar.
One of Lexus main directions has been the expansion of hybrid technology into luxury vehicles. The RX hybrid crossover remains one of the most successful hybrids on the road, and their newer hybrid line consisting of the HS sedan and CT hatchback expands the technology into smaller vehicles. On the high end, Lexus offers a hybrid option in both the GS sport sedan as well as their flagship LS luxury car.
Lexus has always been at the forefront of introducing technology into cars, going well above and beyond the hybrid. Modern cars use a mouse-like controller with a haptic, touch-based feedback system, and Lexus Mark Levinson audio systems were one of the first to put surround sound on wheels. The original LS series debuted sandwiched sheets of steel for better soundproofing, and the LS series also introduced the first eight-speed automatic transmission ever built in 2006.
Today, Lexus continues to be one of the world’s most respected luxury brands due to their combination of quality and service. Because of this they remain the only Japanese luxury automaker able to impose pricing similar to their German rivals. View less
The Lexus GS is a four-door sedan that was designed to provide exceptional luxury and outstanding performance. The GS series includes the 350, 460 and 450h models, which are differentiated primarily by their...
The Lexus GS is a four-door sedan that was designed to provide exceptional luxury and outstanding performance. The GS series includes the 350, 460 and 450h models, which are differentiated primarily by their...
The Lexus GS is a four-door sedan that was designed to provide exceptional luxury and outstanding performance. The GS series includes the 350, 460 and 450h models, which are differentiated primarily by their...
The Lexus GS is a four-door sedan that was designed to provide exceptional luxury and outstanding performance. The GS series includes the 350, 460 and 450h models, which are differentiated primarily by their...
The Lexus HS is a small, but comfortable sedan that strives to become the first hybrid to offer both fuel economy and luxury. Although many individuals mistakenly believe that it is based upon the Toyota...
The Lexus IS series offers a stylish design and comfortable ride combined with precise handling and excellent resale value. Available as a four-door sedan or a two-door hardtop convertible, the IS fits...
The Lexus LS is a luxury full-size sedan. It was the first car launched by Lexus, Toyota's luxury division, and it remains Lexus's flagship. The newest fourth generation model, the LS 460, is a front-engined,...
Since 1996, the Lexus LX has been sold as the Toyota Motor Corporation's largest sport utility vehicle. The LX is a luxurious choice for a family vehicle. It seats eight people, with two in front, three in...
The Lexus RX is designed as a luxury SUV with crossover features from high-end sedans and more traditional SUVs. It has been produced with all-wheel and front-wheel drive. Both drive versions are powered by...
The Lexus SC 430 is a luxury, two-seat sports car that is equipped with a variety of standard features and distinguished by a one-touch, retractable, folding hard top. The SC was developed to appeal to a...
