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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  Youll love it - 2004 Lexus ES 330
  By D-Berg - July 31 - 10:00 am

  One of the best ways to judge a car is to ask, "Would I buy this car again?". Well, after diving my 1994 Lexus ES300 for nine years I bought a 2003 model. There were phenomenal advancements that made the car even better. There are faster cars, sportier cars, fancier cars but you wont get a better value anywhere. The next car I buy, whenever that may be, will be a Lexus.

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  Great Midsize vehicle - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By Robert Wilt - July 31 - 10:00 am

  Fun car to drive.

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  RX330 Hits The Sweet Spot - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By J Ward - July 31 - 10:00 am

  Ive compared the RX330 to the X5 3.0 and MDX in my buying decision. Bottom line - Im impressed with and glad I bought the RX. Fit and finish are outstanding. Drives like a car yet provides enough height for visability and power for highway passing. The DVD Nav and Mark Levinson sound systems are incredible. The backup camera is a good compromise for the limited view rear window. No squeaks, rattles, engine or road noise as noted in previous Edmunds.com reviews. Though not as athletic and quick off the throtle as the X5 or cavernous as the MDX, the RX330 hits the sweet spot on safety,style,luxury,technology and performance you wont get tired of.

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  A terric car to own - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By RichardD - July 31 - 10:00 am

  I dont often get too excited about an automobile, but this one is GREAT. The ride is smooth, the sound system is superb and the way it handles in snow and ice is fabulous. I highly recommend it.

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  Love It! - 2004 Lexus RX 330
  By fenkazl - July 31 - 10:00 am

  Love it...second Lexus I have owned and the ride cant be beat. The comfort and dependability of the make is the best.

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  GS 300 review - 2002 Lexus GS 300
  By John T. - July 30 - 4:20 am

  After owning a 1990 turbo Supra, I wasnt sure if the performance would measure up to the comfort. I was plesantly suprised! The 3.0L V-6 is spunky, manuverable, and with the power position selected (broader shift pattern), this car is definitely entertaining. With that great Lexus craftmanship, great curb appeal, and great value for the luxury car it is, I should have known I wouldnt go wrong with the GS 300.

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  WHAT A CAR! - 2002 Lexus SC 430
  By Sue - July 28 - 10:00 am

  I could not be happier with my choice. Before I purchased my Lexus, I drove the Merc SL500 (which has always been my dream car) and let me assure you there is no comparison, the Lexus won hands down! The interior, retractable roof, sound system, comfort, ride, trunk space...everything about the Lexus was superior! But let me warn you, if youre shy, dont buy this car because all eyes are on you....its a real beauty! I read some consumer comments about the rough ride of the run flat tires, however, I have to disagree..the ride is as smooth as glass.

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  "Great Driving" - 2007 Lexus RX 350
  By N Flynn - July 27 - 8:00 pm

  A joy to drive, & others agree. Think that my wife with her new MB is envious. Can lead the pack any time you want to,with no loss of speed on most curves or grades.

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  Almost 1 year later & still loving it - 2013 Lexus GS 450h
  By sdgolwn - July 27 - 4:11 am

  Ive had the car for almost one year now, and still love it. As previously mentioned, I do not drive much, as I live in downtown San Diego, mostly walking. I now have less than 4K miles. I am averaging 29 in town, with 35-36 on the highway when driving to Palm Springs. I have found driving in ECO mode is usually fine, unless I am in the desert (my car is black, so require full a/c there). Sport + is a totally fun experience, and I like that I can have it when I want it. There have been zero warranty issues. The first service experience at San Diego Lexus was good. I will likely have to bring it back in December just because it will be one year old, due to my lack of driving.

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  Better than our RX 300 - 2005 Lexus RX 330
  By Stella May Catter - July 26 - 5:36 pm

  We have had two RX 300s and the RX 330 is much better in handling. Turnaround is quicker and seems to ride smoother. I like the new look and the roomier back compartment. So many other extras you didnt realize you would enjoy having. For once more is better!