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:

• 

  Stepping down in size but up in overall experience - 2017 Lexus NX 200t
  By Victor-Tammy - August 13 - 11:02 am

  We got rid of our 2013 pathfinder and went back to Lexus. We are so glad we did. The pathfinder had random quality issues and several large recall episodes. We looked at many new compact suvs and decided to go back to Lexus. We owned an RX before and it was a wonderful car. The new NX is sporty to drive with the most comfortable front seats we have ever sat in. The truck steers very well and feels very planted on the road. So far it is getting great gas mileage as well; 26-28 mpg. The interior is very nice with Lexus normal quality fit and finish. The exterior is sporty and attractive. The rear storage is on the small side, but that is the only thing we wish was different.

• 

  Excellent car - 2007 Lexus ES 350
  By Rong - August 12 - 3:00 pm

  Low noise and powerful car is my target. I found it ES 350. Its also has very good handling and it hold body tightly. Nicer look than 330, some new fancy features. Amazing gas mileage for 272 horse power

• 

  Retirement Gift! - 2006 Lexus GS 300
  By Jerry - August 12 - 2:43 pm

  I test drove most of the sedans priced between 45 and 50K. To me, the Lexus GS 300 drove the smoothest. I was impressed with its acceleration, fuel economy, ride and the responsive steering. My GS 300 is loaded. Something I did not plan on... but am totally satisfied with it.

• 

  Love my Lexus! - 2000 Lexus RX 300
  By Loretta - August 12 - 10:46 am

  All of my cars have been imports. A friend of mine is a car dealer and got this vehicle. Within minutes of seeing it, I drove it and told him to hold the car for me. Two days later, I turned my Camry over to him for the RX and I absolutely LOVE IT! I travel to Mexico frequently and it handles nicely on the dirt roads. I tend to agree with the other reviewers in that the gas mileage could be improved, but everything else the vehicle makes up for that little nuisance. If youre considering purchasing an RX, I would highly recommend it. It doesnt get any better than a Japanese-made vehicle if youre looking for reliability. I say "I did find a better car and I did buy it!"

• 

  Built for safety - 2004 Lexus SC 430
  By Ladee900 - August 12 - 2:00 am

  In reading the reviews this car had not been crash tested. Unfortunately I was in a 4 car accident on a major 4 lane highway and walked away with only bruises. This car is very well build, all air bags deployed and body structure was able to stand up to t- boning another car, the cement median wall, and then a Rodeo and 4-Runner impact. Car was totaled but I believe I got my money worth in safety features. I will be purcahsing this vechile again ASAP. Loved it!!!!

• 

  My Lexus - 2004 Lexus LS 430
  By Beth Young - August 12 - 2:00 am

  I love my Lexus, I have owned 3 BMW"s and 2 Mercedes recentley, and I will always go back to Lexus from now on!! Lexus of Orlando was wonderful and very responsive. A great deal also!

• 

  Lexus ES330 - 2004 Lexus ES 330
  By Larco - August 12 - 2:00 am

  This is our 4th Lexus over the past 10 years. Reliability and dependability are the best! The ES330 is an excellent mid-size vehicle for mostly local driving. I prefer the LS430 for longer trips.

• 

  Ultimate Comfort - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By Vlady - August 12 - 2:00 am

  My second RX. Lexus managed to improve something which was already near perfection.This car is so comfortable and easy to drive that sometimes seems boring.You could never go wrong with this car.

• 

  Very Happy with my RX330 - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By Christina A - August 12 - 2:00 am

  I just purchased my RX330 and I think it is Amazing. Style, Performance, Reliability, dependability, Very Smooth ride. I am so glad I choose to be a part of the LEXUS family! Excellent Choice. I am very satisfied!

• 

  A joy to drive - 2002 Lexus SC 430
  By watco - August 11 - 10:00 am

  Incredible style coupled with lots of power. The car is a heasd turner. the convertible hard top is excellent. It is a liitle slow to excellerate but once it goes look out.