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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  Best car iv owned - 2000 Lexus ES 300
  By kempboy - March 15 - 2:03 am

  Iv owned this car for about 3 months now and it is great the car is realiable and is very fun to drive. it accelerates quick when it needs to and is great when driving on long trips with the leather seats. Stereo system is great good tone and bass favorite part of the car is the mpg. i luxury car that gets 22MPG in the city ill take it!

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  The squeak that sank the Lexus - 2003 Lexus GS 300
  By unhappy in dallas - March 15 - 2:00 am

  This is my second (and last) GS 300. The first one was incredible. It was 2.5 yr old when we sold it and bought the new one. Our new one, since day one, has had squeaks, creaks and groans from the dash that the dealership has been unable to fix. Thought I would trade it in for a new one (it is only 5 mo old). Was told the dealership would give me $33k. About $8k depreciation in 5 months. Finish out detail problems like what I am experiencing are amazing for a luxury car maker like Lexus. Learned my lesson. Next time- BMW here I come.

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  45 years for another metal roof convert - 2002 Lexus SC 430
  By R Dunn - March 15 - 2:00 am

  Ive always wanted a convertible. My 1957 Ford Skyliner was almost perfect. But the embarassment to an 18 year when the roof refused to close was tough. I drove my SC430 off the lot expecting it to happen here. Wrong! It never failed.The gas mileage, about 18 overall, was better than expected. I was stopped in all weather by at least one person a day asking "what is it? Its the most beautiful car I ever saw." Someone living in New England better not drive in snow or ice. Those wide 18" wheels & 300hp engine has no traction even on level ground. I dropped mine off after 24 months & 32,000 miles, happy with the experience and hoping for spring.

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  Best car Ive ever owned - 2004 Lexus LS 430
  By William Tell - March 15 - 2:00 am

  Ive owned Japanese, German and American cars over my 50+ years and have never owned a better car. The new 2004 replaced (traded in) my 2001 LS430. The braking on the LS is phenomenal. The 04 has improved pads and rotors. The six speed transmission gives the car a 0 - 60 of 5.9 seconds and I swear it is actually faster than that. The keyless entry is wonderful as well. It is very, very convenient to keep the fob in your pocket when you open doors and start the car without having to fumble for a key. The adaptive Front Lighting System (headlights aim where you are going) is great. This is an incredible DriverÂ’s Automobile.

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  No longer fun to browse for cars - 2004 Lexus GS 300
  By Dustin - March 14 - 9:43 pm

  My GS 300 spoiled me, but I didnt realize it until I started looking at other cars online. I used to do it for fun, just to fantasize about what I might enjoy. I was lucky enough to find my 04 model with the Nav/Lev package, which has more than proven itself. Now I dont even have fun looking at other cars. I just cant imagine that it would get any better than the reliability, extreme level of comfort, and total owner satisfaction that I have experienced over the past year and a half. My first lexus was a 96 ES 300, which was replaced with this one. As long as I am able, I will never purchase another vehicle.

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  Smooth Operator - 2002 Lexus SC 430
  By KapaluaBreeze - March 13 - 10:00 am

  This is a great car on its own right. It is also the best value for the money. The closest match (2003 Mercedes SL-500) costs $40,000 more when equipped similarly!

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  Never Again - 2006 Lexus GS 300
  By Don - March 13 - 7:43 am

  I have had 4 Lexus models, LS 400, SC 430, GS 470 and most recently GS 300. Have to say this is the last Lexus I will ever drive. Have had an annoying clunk in the front end when backing out of a parking spot. Although everyone I have had in the car asks what the clunking sound is, mysteriously, it never occurs at the dealership. They have been unable to fix this ongoing problem. Also, tires had to be replaced at 24,000 kms approximately 15,000. Tires are rated as all season. Do not attempt to drive this car in snow conditions without snow tires. 10 months left on lease, cannot wait till end of term.

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  1996 Lexus great Transportation - 1996 Lexus LS 400
  By Waynesax - March 13 - 2:00 am

  After driving nothing but Mercedes for 25 years I decided to try a Lexus. I was at first dissapointed in the way the car handled and the brakes seemed soft. After I got used to it though I was impressed with how quiet and fast it was. The sound system is fabulous and no repair bills. The car is perfect to me now and I wouldnt own another Mercedes.

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  Awesome - 2002 Lexus LX 470
  By adow - March 13 - 2:00 am

  There is nothing better than to take my LX470 out on those long road trips with my family. It is comfortable, large, and isnt as homely as a minivan. It feels muscular and powerful. My only complaint is that it should get more power.

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  Old now-but great - 2000 Lexus LS 400
  By Dave B Tampabay - March 12 - 2:00 am

  For those looking for a great older used car, you must consider the LS400 if you value ride, performance, undying style and good looks. Bought it used and kept it 5 years. Only giving it up because it retained such high value and we wanted to get in on a newer certified LS (2004 which has the highest LS rating for the decade). The care didnt age in looks or care requirements between 30K and 88K miles. Hope the next buyer is as continuously satisfied as we were