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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  Peaceful Power - 2005 Lexus SC 430
  By Charlene Johnson - May 19 - 6:23 pm

  This car is the most fun Ive had driving since my 1963 Stingray! Its incredible comfort is the icing on the cake to its impressive power and smooth ride. The two back seats are very handy to have in a hardtop convertible although the trunk space is very adequate. One purchase Ill never regret!

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  Satisfied Customer - 2003 Lexus ES 300
  By Mika - May 18 - 10:50 pm

  This vehicle handles well on the highway it has a kick during take off. Im happy with the space I tend to let others drive and ride in the back. It also does good under cold conditions the engine remains quiet and warms up quickly. Overall Im happy with my decision. By the way it has a nice sound system. The navigation is pretty accurate for the most part.

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  2007 GX470 - 2007 Lexus GX 470
  By Arno Huang - May 18 - 12:29 pm

  A Lexus mechanic checked out my car prior to purchase. Beware there are some trouble spots, but overall they are one of the most reliable vehicles you can buy. If you are a Lexus owner, you have access to all Lexus service records online (including records prior to your ownership). This is a great resource. We traded a RX330 for the GX, the GX has a much nicer interior and the build quality is amazing. Very pleased with the vehicle.

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  Lexus RX300 - 2000 Lexus RX 300
  By abcarroll3@juno.com - May 18 - 10:00 am

  Great car, fun to drive, sound system has great sound although the sound quality is not same when listening to the radio. The gas milage is low considering the size of the car at 14 mpg around town, but the car itself more than makes up for the low mileage.

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  This is the absolute best youll love it - 2004 Lexus GX 470
  By Daddyridesagain - May 18 - 10:00 am

  Im 47 and I needed a luxury car for work and a 4 wheel for fun. The GX is perfect for business and pleasure. Process of elimination came down to new Sequoia, ML500,older LX470 and a 2004 GX470. BUY THE GX and dont look back. Its worth every penny.This car does everything but shave, shower and make love to you. The sales person said that comes with next years model. Rear camera has saved me twice, navigation is awesome,drove 600 miles in the mountains without a map. The DVD was a hit taking my children to Yosemite this week. The leather and wood interior is beautiful. My only complaint is that its so quiet that Im not aware Im driving 85-90, no kiddin

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  Awesome - 2004 Lexus ES 330
  By OnTheRoad - May 18 - 10:00 am

  I had been driving BMWs since the early 80s and decided to see what all the talk was about a LEXUSs reliabiltiy. I drive around the bay Area M-F and needed comfort and a car that would not be in the shop every few months. So far, this car has been a dream to drive: quiet, smooth and comfy beyond belief! I do not miss the performance of the Beemers-- more focused on comfort& luxury- guess I am getting older.... and the Lexus is my reward!

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  Love my new car - RX 350 AWD - 2010 Lexus RX 350
  By NewLexusOwner - May 15 - 4:00 pm

  When you keep cars as long as I do, its probably more of a shock when you step into a wonderfully, comfortable car - features have changed in 10 years. I love my new car - its comfortable, got amenities beyond my expectations, and has good pickup. Everything seems to be very logically laid out, and easy to use. Its got a lot of room, and drives really smoothly. It will take me awhile to get used to the quietness...

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  Second LS400-Best 4dr on the road - 1997 Lexus LS 400
  By ptdulac - May 15 - 2:00 am

  Dont be afraid of puchasing a used Lexus. This is the second one Ive bought and have been extremely satisfied with both. There is no better build car on the road for the money.

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  GREAT CAR - 1998 Lexus ES 300
  By l. wood - May 15 - 2:00 am

  THIS IS A GREAT CAR I JUST HIT 50.000 MILES AND NEVER HAD ONE PROBLEM. THE SERVICE PEOPLE AT LEXUS HERE IN LAS VEGAS ARE GREAT BEST CAR I EVER OWNED.

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  Lexus LX470 - 2004 Lexus LX 470
  By mariediana - May 13 - 10:00 am

  I have only one negative comment - and that is the way the rear gate opens. It opens like a door instad of like a gate. When putting groceries in the back, I like to have the gate serve as a cover for me in the rain while I load groceries. Im not a fan of the way this back gate is designed.