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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  One Fantastic Car - 2005 Lexus ES 330
  By David - July 9 - 3:06 am

  The ES 330 rides like a dream. And dont be fooled, the get-up and go is there whenever called upon. The exterior design is classic, and the interior is simply georgous. Mileage is fair, and it runs on regular fuel - no small consideration these days.

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  Great vehicle with only a few complaints - 2013 Lexus RX 350
  By j0hnnyb1 - July 8 - 4:10 pm

  The 2013 has made subtle changes from the 12 model but the changes are noticeable. The front of the car looks great now and unfortunately those with the 2012 model look outdated and antiquated next to it. The interior is clean, modern, and sleek without goddy ornamentation and flare. Its a luxurious car without looking ostentatious. The ride is smooth and you cant hear the wind outside going 70mph down the highway. The technology is a win, Ive driven Mercedes (2011), Jeep (2012), BMW (2006), and so on... none of them come close to the Lexus for tech. Pandora is a huge plus.

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  rebadged Highlander - 2002 Lexus RX 300
  By Pete - July 6 - 10:43 pm

  Ive been driving it for about a year and the whole experience is boring to say the least. Theres little road information in the sluggish steering feel and road tracking isnt always linear and true. Braking is lousy and made artificially light. what really irks me is a wide turning circle that hinders parking and no such things as back up sensors offered. While cornering, you really feel its weight. I really feel this car is for a much older crowd. This car offers a silenced cabin and wallowy ride, yet unable to smooth out road bumps. Overall, disappointing car considering its hefty price and bad fuel mileage.

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  Ride of my dreams - 2006 Lexus GS 300
  By Carol - July 6 - 6:20 am

  From the minute I got in to this car, I fell in love. This is the ride of my dreams. The luxury features make me feel pampered. I love to drive, but I have never had this much fun on four wheels. The color is the most perfect shade of metalic red, which accentuates the stylish lines. I was too excited to catch everything from the salesman the night I bought the car, so I keep finding neat things that make me fall more in love. The best part is that I dont have to hunt for my keys anymore, because Im such a scatterbrain. What a ride!

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  Love my SC 430 - 2003 Lexus SC 430
  By Lank - July 6 - 2:00 am

  Nothing but good things to say. I would buy another one.

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  i love it !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! - 1998 Lexus GS 300
  By i love it !!!!!!!!!! - July 5 - 11:33 am

  When I bought this car it had 80000 miles I didnt do anything to the car until it reached 100000 miles nothing major and had to change the starter at about 105000 miles now at 110000 miles no problems so far an I hope it stays that way. Overall the car is great compare to whatÂ’s out there dont think twice and buy it...........

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  Joy to Ride - 2006 Lexus RX 330
  By Howard - July 4 - 9:10 pm

  The idea of being able to slide into a car seat without bending is great on an older body. This car drives smooth both in the city and on the highway. Pick up speed when needed is there. Comfort while driving is a plus. The car is reliable - knowing that your vehicle will not break down at any time is a relief. Lexus dealerships are among the best anywhere, both for service and help. I really love my car. My friends who drive with me all compliment the features of this car.

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  Will buy another one - 2003 Lexus GX 470
  By sherry - July 2 - 9:00 pm

  I love my Lexus and cannot think of owning any other vehicle. Toyota has a convert.

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  What a Car - 2003 Lexus GS 300
  By ZNRED - July 1 - 10:00 am

  Now have close to 5,000 miles on our GS300, have taken a trip or two and enjoy driving it more each day. The Mark Levinson sound system is tremendous as is the Nav system. The car averages between 28-29 MPG on the road at 70-75 MPH. The dealership experience was great, unlike BMW dealers who seem to think they rank a step or two above the consumer!

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  OK - 2002 Lexus IS 300
  By Lexus Fan - July 1 - 10:00 am

  This is my third Lexus. Es250, Ls400, and now this. Overall the car has been pretty good. Manual has smooth shifting. Gear shift gets a little hot in summer. Radio is adequate. Im a little envious of the G35 coupes styling and power. Other than squeeks and rattles....good car. NEEDS MORE POWER OR 6th gear! Maybe convertible?