Overview & Reviews

Lexus has earned a well-deserved reputation for turning out utterly refined luxury vehicles. The hallmarks of this brand are a quiet, well-crafted cabin, a plush ride and commendable performance from powerful, nearly silent engines.

Lexus began out of a desire by parent company Toyota to create a world-class luxury car brand. Groundwork for Lexus was laid in the mid-1980s, when the company began tapping U.S. focus groups in an attempt to define design concepts best suited for American consumers. Hundreds of prototypes were built and tested on Germany's autobahn and on U.S. roads.

In early 1989, the company unveiled its first two models (which would debut for the 1990 model year) -- the entry-level ES 250 sedan and the flagship LS 400 sedan. The LS 400 was lauded by both journalists and consumers alike for offering a stellar luxury-car experience, with a remarkably silent cabin, superb build quality and a refined V8 engine. At the same time, the LS was priced considerably lower than smaller, lesser-equipped, six-cylinder European rival luxury sedans.

By the early 1990s, the Lexus brand was expanded to other markets, including the United Kingdom, Canada and Australia. More models were added to the lineup, including the SC 300 and SC 400 coupes and the brand's first luxury performance sedan, the GS 300. By decade's end, the company had added SUVs (in the form of the LX 450/LX 470 and RX 300) and had sold more than a million vehicles in the U.S.

The first decade of the 2000s saw Lexus proving itself a trend setter with the launch of many hybrid-powered versions of its vehicles such as the RX 400h and the GS 450h. And by 2011, Lexus even introduced a world-class supercar, the LFA.

In the years since its inception, the Lexus brand has distinguished itself time and again in quality and reliability surveys. The brand's vehicles may not offer as much passion as some Teutonic rivals, but for drivers interested in vehicles that emphasize quality, dependability and comfort, the Lexus marque is hard to beat.

User Reviews:

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  Lexus at its best!! - 2003 Lexus LS 430
  By jakemt - September 22 - 9:26 pm

  I recently purchased this car used. Out of all the series of the LS, this is probably the best. Also, if buying used, make sure the previous owner(s) maintained it properly as this will have a huge bearing on the current condition of the car. I had a 2000 LS400 that was poorly maintained previously and the transmission started slipping on me. I also test drove a used LS460 but did not feel as comfortable as the 430. It felt too stiff for my taste as I live in pot- holed NYC. Surprisingly, Im getting almost 20 mpg in city driving. So far, great car!

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  A great car! - 2004 Lexus SC 430
  By RSA - September 22 - 10:00 am

  I owned 3 Porsches and a Mercedes E55. The SC430 lacks true sports car feel but is the best built. A hardtop convertible was our preference. We could not rationalize or justify the $40,000 price difference of the SL500. The Mercedes CLK500.It felt cheap and plastic-filled - ditto the new Cadilac. As for the back seat and small trunk the SC430 has more than my Porsches, the SL500 or Cadilac. With the top up we have room for both sets of golf clubs and luggage - meaning we can travel with this car where we could not with the SL500 or Caddy.

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  Best $50k ever!!! - 2004 Lexus GX 470
  By classylady - September 22 - 10:00 am

  I had bought a Jeep brand new and had nothing but probelms. Own a toyota and never had a problem. Loved the idea of the "all new toyota r-runner" but hated the new body style. When the GX came out I read everything I could find on it. I am very very pleased with the quality, comfort and class.

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  Impressive - 2004 Lexus GX 470
  By GabWmn - September 22 - 10:00 am

  I was driving a Vette and felt it was time to purchase a more family friendly vehicle. The GX blew away the competition! Smooth ride and zips around town & into parking areas with ease. The interior is as plush as a home den. I like the rear side- opening barn door. Its light weight and easy to handle. I have banged my head on my husbands up & away tailgate. I continue to be amazed at all the safety features incl. automatic lighting inside & out which assures safe passage to and from the house, multiple side curtain airbags and rear view camera for backing up. Too many well planned ammenities to list...

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  BARTELLS - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By PEAAIR - September 22 - 10:00 am

  NO GUTS, COMFORTABLE TO DRIVE, MOVES PEOPLE NICELY BUT NOT TO SPORTY.

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  Luxury from east - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By Seung - September 22 - 10:00 am

  Quietness,Smoothness... Toyota products are well known as reliable car company and this one is above the limit! good car to commute around.

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  Poor redesign of rear entry/exit - 2017 Lexus RX 350
  By Nathan - September 21 - 3:40 pm

  In an effort to have floating roof line, the designers failed to notice the passenger comfort and safety as they exit the vehicle. Not so much getting in, but one gets out without paying attention to the roof line, you could most certainly get hit at the temple if you dont lean forward as you get out ...... Its disappointing to see this from Lexus, not to mention their interior is cluttered with too many types of cheap materials and finishes, which does not flow well. Gives a very clumsy finish. If not, I would have bought it. I liked the BMW X5 interior, but with all their reliability issues, Ive settled with Porsche Cayenne.

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  ls 430 value - 2006 Lexus LS 430
  By art - September 21 - 4:00 am

  Has navigation system, great features, sturdy and reliable. Many compliments on appearance of car and features

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  hybrid rules - 2016 Lexus RX 450h
  By lou fine - September 19 - 3:13 pm

  excellent ride and comfort.

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  Quality, Luxury & Service - 2005 Lexus LS 430
  By Zoom - September 18 - 7:50 pm

  After years of trying other luxury cars, I am back to the Lexus. The service cant be matched. The quality is top notch. The car screams with luxury and comfort. I highly recommend this car.