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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  The BEST serious off/on-road luxury SUV - 2004 Lexus GX 470
  By Dino Munoz - October 31 - 10:00 am

  I have been driving the GX470 for one month and I have receiving more of what I pay for it. Previously, I had a Toyota Land Cruiser and I changed for GX 470 2004 (full); better suspension, more futures, more comfort, ride quality, better acceleration respond when I need it, more quietness, smoother, with the same interior room (more head room) and believe me I was really happy with my 99 Land Cruiser! This is power, reliability and comfort, this is a Lexus!

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  In Love with my GX - 2004 Lexus GX 470
  By lexuslady - October 31 - 10:00 am

  This is the 3rd Lexus Ive owned and by far the most comfortable; loaded with safety features; and a joy to drive.

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  Why buy anything else? - 2004 Lexus ES 330
  By dexterdoorah - October 31 - 10:00 am

  After test driving many competing cars, it was quite easy to focus on the Lexus. Creature comforts are abundant. The ride is superb and quiet. Sound system is teriffic and the navigation system after conquering the learning curve is fantastic. The car is simply fun to drive and has adequate power. Cost is considerably less than the competition and car should be trouble free for years to come. Seats are extremely comfortable and the rear sunscreen is a big plus. There is nothing to dislike and is a real joy to drive.

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  New Car in Town - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By hm goldberg - October 31 - 10:00 am

  After a lot of inspection of the BMW, Cadillac and other "mini " SUV we purchased the RX 330 . The dealer made it a smooth purchase and the vehicle and sales persons exceeded our expectations. Plenty of hp when we get on the highway and plenty or cargo space to haul cartons. The rear TV camera can be a hazard. The distortion can back you into a wall.

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  Solid buy - 2006 Lexus GS 300
  By Former 5 Owner - October 31 - 4:46 am

  The Lexus is tightly built, has all the gadgets you can ever ask for - that actually work as they are supposed to - and looks great inside and out. However, as a former 5 series owner, it also made me understand what they meant by Lexus as being just a Camry with leather. However, the GS IS a very dependable Toyota with many, many quality upgrades if that is what you are looking for. Personally, I wasnt.

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  Quality Vehicle - 2000 Lexus RX 300
  By Chicago - October 31 - 4:16 am

  We bought ours used with 78K miles in 2005. We were taking our chances with Toyota quality and we are glad we did. The car has no problems till this day with 110K. We have promptly serviced our car with timing belt replacement, new tires, new brakes, and new alternator over three years and it is still running strong. Well probably keep it another year or two.

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  Nothing but love - 2002 Lexus SC 430
  By SCDVR - October 29 - 2:53 pm

  I bought this car today and am nothing short of ecstatic about this vehicle! Its fast, fun, and looks great. Has one of the most amazing sound systems Ive ever heard from the factory. If youre buying and have the choice to get mark levinson upgrade, just do it! You will be very happy with your choice.

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  Best there is! - 2001 Lexus LS 430
  By 01LS430 - October 29 - 10:00 am

  Amazing. Currently have almost 130k on car. Owned for 3 years with no issues whatsoever. Great for trips. Get 25-30mpg on hwy. City is 14-18mpg. Wish I could have splurged for the 05-06 with the newer styling. Would def do it all over again.

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  Jerky Auto Shift - 2010 Lexus RX 350
  By Jerky Auto Shifting? - October 29 - 10:00 am

  I love this vehicle. I replaced a 2001 RX 300 with this model because the Lexus RX had been so reliable and low maintenance. I love this vehicle (hate the location of cable plugs), but am worried that I have had the vehicle just over a month and having issues with auto shifting while in Drive. With in town driving, sometimes when I press the gas coming from a stop, it takes a second to do anything and then it revs the RPM with a quick jerk as it if is auto shifting. Other times when coming to a stop it jerks as if a rough down shift. So frustrating because I love the vehicle! Anyone else having this problem?

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  FUN RIDE! - 2017 Lexus CT 200H
  By CMH - October 28 - 2:33 am

  It is low to the ground with low profile tires, so one needs to be really careful to watch out for potholes or anything at all in the road. It takes a bit to become accustomed to the electric noises. One might think they are hearing a siren when the cars slows down.