Editing Lexus

{{Short description|Japanese luxury vehicle brand owned by Toyota}}
{{Good article}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=November 2023}}
{{Infobox company
| name = Lexus
| logo = [[File:Lexus.svg|frameless|upright=1.2|class=skin-invert|alt=Oval-shaped logo with the letter 'L', above the stylistic Lexus wordmark]]
| logo_alt = Oval-shaped logo with the letter 'L', above the stylistic Lexus wordmark
| type = [[Division (business)|Division]]
| industry = [[Automotive]]
| foundation = {{start date and age|1989|df=yes}}<ref>{{Cite web|title=When was Lexus founded?|url=https://www.northwestlexus.com/when-was-lexus-founded/|date=28 September 2018|website=Northwest Lexus|language=en-US|access-date=1 May 2020|archive-date=2 July 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210702062859/https://www.northwestlexus.com/when-was-lexus-founded/|url-status=live}}</ref>
| founder = [[Eiji Toyoda]]<!-- Please do not change, spelled correctly. -->
| location = [[Shimoyama, Aichi]], Japan
| locations = 
| area_served = Worldwide
| key_people = {{unbulleted list
  | Takashi Watanabe<small> ([[President (corporate title)|president]])</small><ref>{{Cite news |title=TMC Announces Changes to Executive Structure, Senior Professional/Senior Management Employees |publisher=Toyota Motor Corporation |date=13 February 2023 |access-date=14 August 2023 |url=https://global.toyota/en/newsroom/corporate/38774342.html |archive-date=14 August 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230814124158/https://global.toyota/en/newsroom/corporate/38774342.html |url-status=live }}</ref>
  | David Nordstrom<small> ([[Vice President|VP]], Asia Pacific)</small><ref name=lda/>
  | Spiros Fotinos<small> (VP, EU)</small><ref name=rz>{{Cite news |title=Lexus teases RZ electric crossover |last=Gibbs |first=Nick |work=Automotive News |date=2 December 2021 |access-date=5 January 2022 |url=https://www.autonews.com/cars-concepts/toyotas-lexus-touts-incredible-driving-dynamics-rz-electric-crossover |archive-date=5 January 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220105023557/https://www.autonews.com/cars-concepts/toyotas-lexus-touts-incredible-driving-dynamics-rz-electric-crossover |url-status=live }}</ref>
  | Andrew Gilleland<small> (VP, U.S.)</small><ref name=2021sales>{{Cite news |title=Toyota, Lexus End Tough Sales Year on High Notes |last=Finlay |first=Steve |work=Wards Auto |date=5 January 2021 |access-date=5 January 2022 |url=https://www.wardsauto.com/industry-news/toyota-lexus-end-tough-sales-year-high-notes |archive-date=5 January 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210105210359/https://www.wardsauto.com/industry-news/toyota-lexus-end-tough-sales-year-high-notes |url-status=live }}</ref>
  }}
| products = {{unbulleted list
  | [[Luxury vehicles]]
  | Performance vehicles
  }}
| services = [[Financial services|Automotive financing]]
| parent = [[Toyota|Toyota Motor Corporation]]
| brands = [[Lexus F|F marque]]
| homepage = {{URL|https://discoverlexus.com/lexus-in-your-region/|discoverlexus.com}}
}}

{{nihongo|'''Lexus'''|レクサス|Rekusasu}} is the [[luxury vehicle]] division of the Japanese automaker [[Toyota|Toyota Motor Corporation]]. The Lexus [[brand]] is marketed in more than 90 countries and territories worldwide<ref name=lda>{{Cite web| title = Lexus Design Award 2022| author = | work = Bloomberg.com| date = 30 September 2021| access-date = 5 January 2022| url = https://www.bloomberg.com/press-releases/2021-09-30/lexus-design-award-india-2022-announces-esteemed-panel-of-judges-and-mentors-receiving-over-six-hundred-original-entries| quote = | archive-date = 5 January 2022| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20220105023550/https://www.bloomberg.com/press-releases/2021-09-30/lexus-design-award-india-2022-announces-esteemed-panel-of-judges-and-mentors-receiving-over-six-hundred-original-entries| url-status = live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.roadandtrack.com/tests/drives/2010_lexus_rx_350_rx_450h |title=2010 Lexus RX 350 & RX 450h – First Drive |work=Road & Track |access-date=15 May 2010 |last=Wilson |first=Tom |date=13 February 2009 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100410143949/http://www.roadandtrack.com/tests/drives/2010_lexus_rx_350_rx_450h |archive-date=10 April 2010}}</ref> and is Japan's largest-selling make <!-- note: 'make' also means 'brand' or 'marque' --> of premium cars. It has ranked among the 10 largest Japanese global brands in market value.<ref name=jbrand>{{cite web|url=http://www.interbrand.com/Libraries/Files/-1_Japan_BGB2009_pdf.sflb.ashx |title=Japan's Best Global Brands 2009 |year=2009 |work=Interbrand |access-date=20 September 2010 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101123173546/http://interbrand.com/Libraries/Files/-1_Japan_BGB2009_pdf.sflb.ashx |archive-date=23 November 2010}}</ref> Lexus has been headquartered in [[Shimoyama, Aichi]], in Japan since 2024.<ref>{{cite press release |url=https://newsroom.lexus.eu/shimoyama-the-new-home-of-lexus/ |title=Shimoyama, the new home of Lexus |publisher=Lexus |location=Europe |date=2024-12-09 |access-date=2025-05-21}}</ref> Operational centers are located in [[Brussels]], Belgium, and [[Plano, Texas]], United States.

Created at around the same time as Japanese rivals [[Honda]] and [[Nissan]] created their [[Acura]] and [[Infiniti]] luxury divisions respectively, Lexus originated from a corporate project to develop a new premium sedan, [[code-name]]d F1, which began in 1983 and culminated in the launch of the [[Lexus LS]] in 1989.<ref>{{Cite web|title=A Short History of Japanese Luxury Cars|url=http://www.businessweek.com/autos/content/may2006/bw20060523_579325.htm|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110628223731/http://www.businessweek.com/autos/content/may2006/bw20060523_579325.htm|url-status=dead|archive-date=28 June 2011|date=28 June 2011|access-date=1 May 2020}}</ref> Subsequently, the division added [[sedan (car)|sedan]], [[coupé]], [[Convertible (car)|convertible]] and [[Sport utility vehicle|SUV]] models. Lexus did not exist as a brand in its home market until 2005, and all vehicles marketed internationally as Lexus from 1989 to 2005 were released in Japan under the Toyota marque and an equivalent model name. In 2005, a [[hybrid vehicle|hybrid]] version of the [[Lexus RX|RX]] crossover debuted and additional hybrid models later joined the division's lineup. Lexus launched its own [[Lexus#F marque|F marque]] performance division in 2007 with the debut of the [[Lexus IS F|IS F]] sport sedan, followed by the [[Lexus LFA|LFA]] supercar in 2009.

Lexus vehicles are largely produced in Japan, with manufacturing centered in the [[Chūbu region|Chūbu]] and [[Kyūshū]] regions, and in particular at Toyota's [[Tahara plant|Tahara]], [[Aichi Prefecture|Aichi]], Chūbu and [[Miyata, Fukuoka|Miyata]], [[Fukuoka Prefecture|Fukuoka]], Kyūshū plants. Assembly of the first Lexus produced outside the country, the Canadian-built RX 330, began in 2003. Following a corporate reorganization from 2001 to 2005, Lexus began operating its own [[automotive design|design]], [[automotive engineering|engineering]] and manufacturing centers.

Since the 2000s, Lexus has increased sales outside its largest market, the United States. The division inaugurated [[Car dealership|dealerships]] in the [[Japanese domestic market]] in 2005, becoming the first Japanese premium car marque to launch in its [[country of origin]].<ref name=cbs/> The brand has since debuted in Southeast Asia, Latin America, Europe and other regions, and has introduced [[Hybrid vehicle|hybrid]] vehicles in many markets.

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== History ==

=== 1980s: The F1 project ===
The Lexus brand was created around the same time as Japanese rivals [[Nissan]] and [[Honda]] developed their [[Infiniti]] and [[Acura]] premium brands. The Japanese government imposed [[voluntary export restraints]] for the U.S. market, so it was more profitable for Japanese automakers to export more expensive cars to the U.S.

In 1983, Toyota chairman [[Eiji Toyoda]] issued a challenge to build the world's best car.<ref name=m43>{{Harvard citation no brackets|May|2006|p=43}}</ref> The project, code-named F1 ("Flagship One")<ref>{{Harvard citation no brackets|May|2006|p=42}}</ref> developed the [[Lexus LS|Lexus LS 400]] to expand Toyota's product line in the premium segment.<ref name=pr>{{cite web|url=http://www.autolinedetroit.tv/autoline/watch.php?stream=927|title=How Lexus Was Successful in the U.S. (interview)|year=2006|format=WMV|last=Press|first=Jim|access-date=5 March 2006|publisher=Auto Line Detroit|archive-date=6 February 2006|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060206080335/http://www.autolinedetroit.tv/autoline/watch.php?stream=927|url-status=live}}</ref> The F1 project followed the [[Toyota Supra]] sports car and the premium [[Toyota Mark II]] models.<ref>{{Cite news |last=White |first=John |title=New Route for Japanese Cars: Luxury |newspaper=The Boston Globe |date=23 October 1989}}</ref> Both the Supra and Mark II were [[rear-wheel drive]] cars with a powerful [[Toyota M engine#7M-GE|7M-GE]] or [[Toyota M engine#7M-GTE|7M-GTE]] inline-six engine. The largest sedan Toyota built at the time was the limited-production, 1960s-vintage [[Toyota Century]], a domestic, hand-built limousine, and V8-powered model,<ref name=d6/> followed by the inline-six-engined [[Toyota Crown (S110)|Toyota Crown]] premium sedan.<ref name=d6>{{Harvard citation no brackets|Dawson|2004|pp=6–7, 63}}</ref><ref name=l16>{{Harvard citation no brackets|Long|2001|pp=16–21}}</ref> The Century was conservatively styled for the Japanese market and along with the Crown not slated for export after a restyle in 1982.<ref name=l16/> The F1 designers targeted their new sedan at international markets and began development on a new V8 engine.<ref name=d6/><ref name=l16/>

Japanese manufacturers exported more expensive models in the 1980s due to [[Voluntary Export Restraints|voluntary export restraints]] negotiated by the Japanese government and U.S. trade representatives that restricted mainstream car sales.<ref>{{Harvnb|Dawson|2004|pp=xix, 28}}</ref> In 1986, [[Honda]] launched its [[Acura]] marque in the U.S., influencing Toyota's plans for a luxury division.<ref name=d109>{{Harvnb|Dawson|2004|p=109}}</ref> The initial Acura model was an export version of the [[Honda Legend]], called the [[Acura Legend]], itself launched in Japan in 1985 as a rival to the [[Toyota Crown]], [[Nissan Cedric]]/[[Nissan Gloria|Gloria]] and [[Mazda Luce]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.zakzak.co.jp/society/domestic/news/20100716/dms1007161623011-n2.htm |title=Honda's premium sedan, "Legend" |language=ja |work=Sankei Shimbun |date=16 July 2010 |access-date=31 January 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100723233902/http://www.zakzak.co.jp/society/domestic/news/20100716/dms1007161623011-n2.htm |archive-date=23 July 2010}}</ref> In 1987, [[Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.|Nissan]] unveiled its plans for a premium brand, [[Infiniti]],<ref name=d72>{{Harvnb|Dawson|2004|pp=72, 88, 116}}</ref> and revised its [[Nissan President]] sedan in standard wheelbase form for export as the [[Infiniti Q45]], which it launched in 1990.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://gazoo.com/meishakan/meisha/shousai.asp?R_ID=5498&ex_spec=shousai |title=Profile: 1990 Nissan President |language=ja |publisher=Gazoo |access-date=31 January 2011 |year=2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20040811183017/http://gazoo.com/meishakan/meisha/shousai.asp?R_ID=5498&ex_spec=shousai |archive-date=11 August 2004}}</ref> [[Mazda]] began selling the Luce as the [[Mazda 929]] in North America in 1988 and later began plans to develop an upscale marque to be called [[Amati Cars|Amati]], but its plans did not come to fruition.<ref name=d72/>

Toyota researchers visited the U.S. in May 1985 to conduct [[focus group]]s and [[market research]] on luxury consumers.<ref name=d35>{{Harvnb|Dawson|2004|pp=35, 41}}</ref> During that time, several F1 designers rented a home in [[Laguna Beach, California]], to observe the lifestyles and tastes of [[American upper class]] consumers.<ref name=d35/> Meanwhile, F1 engineering teams conducted prototype testing on locations ranging from the German [[autobahn]] to U.S. roads.<ref name=ed>{{cite web|url=http://www.edmunds.com/lexus/|title=Edmunds.com Lexus Overview|publisher=Edmunds.com|access-date=23 May 2011|archive-date=24 December 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201224032742/https://www.edmunds.com/lexus/|url-status=live}}</ref> Toyota's market research concluded that a separate [[brand name|brand]] and sales channel were needed to present its new sedan, and plans were made to develop a new network of dealerships in the U.S. market.<ref>{{Harvnb|Morgan|Liker|2006|p=121}}</ref>

==== Brand development ====
In 1986, Toyota's longtime advertising agency [[Saatchi & Saatchi]] formed a specialized unit, [[Team One (advertising agency)|Team One]], to handle marketing for the new brand.<ref name=d109/> Image consulting firm [[Lippincott (brand consultancy)|Lippincott & Margulies]] was hired to develop a list of 219 prospective names; Vectre, Verone, Chaparel, Calibre and Alexis were chosen as top candidates.<ref name=m57>{{Harvnb|Mahler|2004|pp=56–57}}</ref> While Alexis quickly became the front runner, concerns were raised that the name applied to people more than cars (being associated with the [[Alexis Carrington]] character on the popular 1980s prime time drama [[Dynasty (1981 TV series)|''Dynasty'']]).<ref name=m57/><ref name=d111/> As a result, the first letter was removed and the "i" replaced with a "u" to morph the name to Lexus.<ref name=d111>{{Harvnb|Dawson|2004|pp=111}}</ref>

[[File:Lexus LS 400 UCF10 I.jpg|thumb|1989 [[Lexus LS (XF10)|LS 400]] sedan was the first Lexus model.|alt=Front quarter view of a sedan parked on a street.]]

Theories of the etymology of the Lexus name have suggested it is the combination of the words "luxury" and "elegance",<ref name=flex>{{cite news|url=https://www.forbes.com/facesinthenews/2005/07/26/toyota-lexus-autos-cx_cn_0726autofacescan02.html|title=Watanabe's Toyota Rolls Out Lexus In Japan|date=26 July 2005|work=Forbes|last=Noon|first=Chris|access-date=5 June 2008|archive-date=28 July 2005|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20050728025304/http://www.forbes.com/facesinthenews/2005/07/26/toyota-lexus-autos-cx_cn_0726autofacescan02.html|url-status=dead}}</ref> and that it is an acronym for "luxury exports to the U.S."<ref name=flex/> According to Team One interviews, the brand name has no specific meaning and simply evokes a luxurious and technological image.<ref name=m57/> Prior to the release of the first vehicles, database service [[LexisNexis]] obtained a temporary [[injunction]] forbidding the name Lexus from being used because it might cause product confusion.<ref name=d130>{{Harvnb|Dawson|2004|pp=128–30}}</ref> The injunction threatened to delay the division's launch and marketing efforts.<ref name=d130/> The [[U.S. appeals court]] lifted the injunction, deciding that there was little likelihood of confusion between the two products.<ref name=d130/>

The original Lexus slogan, developed after Team One representatives visited Lexus designers in Japan and noted an obsessive attention to detail, became "The Relentless Pursuit of Perfection."<ref>{{Harvnb|Dawson|2004|pp=113–14}}</ref> Three firms were involved in the final phase of logo development: Saatchi & Saatchi, Molly Designs and Hunter/Korobkin, Inc.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.mollydesigns.com/history.html|title=Molly Designs history, Lexus logo design|publisher=Molly Designs|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080611081501/http://www.mollydesigns.com/history.html |archive-date=11 June 2008}}</ref> The finished logo was a combination of two firms' final designs: the Lexus logo typeface came from Saatchi & Saatchi and the "L" was Hunter/Korobkin, Inc.'s design. According to Toyota, the automaker made some refinements so the logo would be easier to manufacture, rendering it using a mathematical formula.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://huntercommunications.com/success-stories/lexus-logo|title=Symbol of Excellence|website=Hunter Communications|access-date=10 July 2019|archive-date=11 July 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190711031344/https://huntercommunications.com/success-stories/lexus-logo|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name=m57/> The first teaser ads featuring the Lexus name and logo appeared at the Chicago, Los Angeles and New York auto shows in 1988.<ref>{{Harvnb|Dawson|2004|p=115}}</ref>

==== Launch ====
The F1 project was completed in 1989, involving 60 designers, 24 engineering teams, 1,400 engineers, 2,300 technicians, 220 support workers, approximately 450 prototypes and more than $1 billion in costs.<ref>{{Harvnb|Dawson|2004|p=24}}</ref> The resulting car, the Lexus LS 400, had a design that shared no major elements with previous Toyota vehicles, with a new 4.0 L [[V8 engine|V8]] [[Four-stroke cycle|gasoline engine]] and [[rear-wheel drive]].<ref>{{Harvnb|Dawson|2004|pp=xxi, 69}}</ref><ref name=m31>{{Harvnb|Mahler|2004|p=31}}</ref> The car debuted in January 1989 at the [[North American International Auto Show#1989|North American International Auto Show]] in Detroit<ref name=d72/> and official sales of the vehicle began the following September at a network of 81 new Lexus dealerships in the U.S.<ref>{{Harvnb|May|2006|p=47}}</ref> The LS 400 was sold along with the smaller [[Lexus ES|ES 250]], a [[Rebadging|rebadged]] version of the Japanese market [[Toyota Camry#V20|Toyota Camry Prominent/Toyota Vista]].<ref name=ed/> The launch of Lexus was accompanied by a multimillion-dollar advertising campaign.<ref name=d118>{{Harvnb|Dawson|2004|pp=117–18}}</ref>

[[File:Lexus SC 400 1991.jpg|thumb|left|1991 [[Lexus SC (Z30)|SC 400]] was the third Lexus model and first coupe.|alt=Front quarter view of a coupe.]]

The LS 400 was praised for its quietness, well-appointed and [[ergonomic]] interior, engine performance, build [[Quality (business)|quality]], [[aerodynamics]], [[Fuel economy in automobiles|fuel economy]] and value.<ref name=ed/><ref name=d68>{{Harvnb|Dawson|2004|pp=68–76}}</ref> However, it was criticized by some automobile columnists for derivative styling and a [[suspension (vehicle)|suspension]] regarded as too compromising of handling for ride comfort.<ref name=ed/><ref name=autogenerated2>{{Harvnb|Dawson|2004|pp=72–6}}</ref> In some markets it was priced against mid-size, six-cylinder [[Mercedes-Benz]] and [[BMW]] models.<ref name=com>{{cite web|url=http://www.edmunds.com/insideline/do/Features/articleId=115368 |title=Lexus LS 400, LS 430 and LS 460 Generations: Setting the Standard in the Most Comfortable Way Possible |access-date=8 July 2010 |publisher=Edmunds.com |date=13 March 2003 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080705230718/http://www.edmunds.com/insideline/do/Features/articleId%3D115368 |archive-date=5 July 2008 |url-status=dead}}</ref> It was rated by ''[[Car and Driver]]'' magazine as better than the higher-priced Mercedes-Benz [[Mercedes-Benz W126|420 SEL]] and BMW [[BMW E32|735i]] in terms of ride, handling and performance.<ref name=zen>{{cite web|url=http://www.time.com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,971153-1,00.html|title=New Kid on The Dock|date=17 September 1990|access-date=29 April 2007|last=Gwynne|first=S.C.|work=Time Magazine|archive-date=13 October 2007|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071013114639/http://www.time.com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,971153-1,00.html|url-status=dead}}</ref> The LS 400 also won [[Lexus LS awards list|motoring awards]] from automotive publications including ''[[Automobile Magazine]]'' and ''[[Wheels Magazine]]''.<ref>Davis, David E. 1990 All-Stars, ''Automobile Magazine.'' (1990-01).</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wheelsmag.com.au/wheels/site/articleIDs/C40CA2CB6C8577F1CA257285001E7302?open&template=domWheels|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070927115318/http://www.wheelsmag.com.au/wheels/site/articleIDs/C40CA2CB6C8577F1CA257285001E7302?open&template=domWheels|url-status=dead|archive-date=27 September 2007|title=Wheels' COTY the real McCoy|last=Gable|first=Chris|work=Wheels Magazine|date=4 December 2006|access-date=15 May 2007}}</ref> Lexus quickly established customer loyalty and its debut was generally regarded as a shock to existing luxury marques. BMW's and Mercedes-Benz's U.S. sales figures dropped 29 percent and 19 percent, respectively, with BMW executives accusing Lexus of [[Dumping (pricing policy)|dumping]] in that market, while 35 percent of Lexus buyers traded in a Lincoln or Cadillac.<ref name=zen/>

In December 1989, Lexus initiated a voluntary recall of all 8,000 LS 400s based upon two customer complaints over defective [[wiring]] and an overheated [[brake light]].<ref name=zen/> A 20-day operation to replace the parts on affected vehicles included technicians to pick up, repair and return cars to customers free of charge, and also flying personnel and renting garage space for owners in remote locations.<ref name=zen/> This response was covered in media publications and helped establish the marque's early reputation for [[customer service]].<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.autonews.com/article/20060327/SUB/60322012/how-a-recall-earned-lexus-a-top-reputation |title=How a recall earned Lexus a top reputation |first1=Chris |last1=Denove |first2=James |last2=Power |work=Automotive News |location=US |date=27 March 2006 |access-date=19 February 2009 |archive-date=27 May 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210527001953/https://www.autonews.com/article/20060327/SUB/60322012/how-a-recall-earned-lexus-a-top-reputation |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Harvnb|Long|2001|pp=38–39}}</ref>

By the end of 1989, a total of 16,392 LS 400 and ES 250 sedans were sold in the four months following the U.S. launch.<ref>{{Harvnb|Long|2001|p=36}}</ref> Although sales had begun at a slower pace than expected, the final tally matched the division's target of 16,000 units for that year.<ref name=dw125>{{Harvnb|Dawson|2004|pp=125, 141}}</ref> Following initial models, plans called for the addition of a sports coupe along with a redesigned ES sedan.<ref name=dw141/>

===1990s: Growth and expansion===
[[File:Lexus.RX.300.jpg|thumb|1998 [[Lexus RX (XU10)|RX 300]], first Lexus crossover SUV|alt=Front quarter view of an SUV.]]
In 1990, during its first full year of sales, Lexus sold 63,594 LS 400 and ES 250 sedans in the U.S.,<ref name=d139>{{Harvnb|Dawson|2004|pp=139–41}}</ref> the majority being the LS model.<ref name=d139/> That year, Lexus also began limited exports to the United Kingdom, Switzerland, Canada and Australia.<ref name=ed/><ref>{{Harvnb|Long|2001|pp=41–42}}</ref> In 1991, Lexus launched its first sports coupe, the [[Lexus SC|SC 400]], which shared the LS 400s V8 engine and rear-wheel drive design.<ref name=dw141/> This was followed by the second generation [[Lexus ES (XV10)|ES 300]] sedan, which succeeded the ES 250 and became Lexus' top seller.<ref name=dw141>{{Harvnb|Dawson|2004|pp=141–46}}</ref> At the conclusion of 1991, Lexus had become the top-selling premium car import in the U.S.,<ref name=msntl>{{cite web|url=http://autos.msn.com/browse/Lexus.aspx|title=Overview: The Lexus Story|year=2008|publisher=MSN Autos|access-date=25 December 2008|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081209104808/http://autos.msn.com/browse/Lexus.aspx|archive-date=9 December 2008|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref name="Long 2001, p. 51">{{Harvnb|Long|2001|p=51}}</ref> with sales reaching 71,206 vehicles.<ref name=d139/> That year, Lexus ranked highest in [[J.D. Power and Associates]]' studies on initial vehicle quality, customer satisfaction and sales satisfaction for the first time.<ref>{{Harvnb|Dawson|2004|p=75}}</ref> The marque also began increasing U.S. model prices past those of comparable American premium makes, but still below high-end European models.<ref name="Long 2001, p. 51"/> By 1992, the LS 400's base price had risen 18 percent.<ref>{{Harvnb|Long|2001|p=57}}</ref>

In 1993, Lexus launched the mid-size [[Lexus GS|GS 300]] sports sedan, based on the Toyota Aristo using the [[List of Toyota platforms#S|Toyota "S" platform]] from the [[Toyota Crown (S140)|Toyota Crown]], which had sold for two years prior in Japan.<ref name=dw141/> The GS 300 was priced below the LS 400 in the marque's lineup.<ref>{{Harvnb|Long|2001|p=73}}</ref> That same year, Lexus became one of the first marques to debut a [[certified pre-owned]] program, with the aim of improving trade-in model values.<ref>{{Harvnb|Dawson|2004|p=149}}</ref> The marque introduced the second generation LS 400 in 1994.<ref>{{Harvnb|Long|2001|p=89}}</ref> In May 1995, sales were threatened by the U.S. government's proposal of 100 percent [[tariff]]s on upscale Japanese cars in response to the widening U.S.-Japan [[trade deficit]].<ref name=tar>{{cite news |url=https://www.autonews.com/article/20071029/ANA03/710290340/bold-moves-halt-tariff-stalemate-save-lexus-brand |title=Bold moves halt tariff stalemate, save Lexus brand |first=James |last=Treece |work=Automotive News |location=US |date=29 October 2007 |access-date=2 February 2009 |archive-date=3 August 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200803090816/https://www.autonews.com/article/20071029/ANA03/710290340/bold-moves-halt-tariff-stalemate-save-lexus-brand |url-status=live }}</ref> SUVs were exempt from the proposed sanctions.<ref name=d160>{{Harvnb|Dawson|2004|pp=160–61}}</ref> Normal sales operations resumed by late 1995 when the Japanese auto manufacturers collectively agreed to greater American investments and the tariffs were not enacted.<ref name=tar/>

[[File:1996-1999 Lexus ES 300 (MCV20R) LXS sedan (2011-10-25) 01a.jpg|thumb|left|[[Lexus ES (XV20)|ES 300]] was the best-selling Lexus sedan in the 1990s.|alt=Front quarter view of a sedan.]]
In 1996, Lexus debuted its first sport utility vehicle, the [[Lexus LX|LX 450]],<ref>{{Harvnb|Long|2001|pp=105–07}}</ref> followed by the third generation ES 300 sedan, and the second generation GS 300 and GS 400 sedans in 1997. The marque's plans for developing an SUV model had accelerated during the U.S.-Japan tariff discussions of 1995.<ref name=d160/> Lexus added the first luxury-branded [[crossover SUV]], the [[Lexus RX|RX 300]] in 1998. The RX crossover targeted [[suburban]] buyers who desired an upmarket SUV but did not need the LX's off-road capability.<ref name=d172/> It was particularly successful, eventually becoming the marque's top-selling model ahead of the ES sedan.<ref name=d172>{{Harvnb|Dawson|2004|pp=171–72}}</ref> The same year, Lexus made its debut in South America's most populous country when it launched sales in Brazil.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.estadao.com.br/suplementos/not_sup342035,0.htm|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120730212042/http://www.estadao.com.br/suplementos/not_sup342035,0.htm|url-status=dead|archive-date=30 July 2012|title=Em busca de notoriedade|work=Estadao|language=pt|access-date=8 June 2009|date=20 March 2009}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://diariodonordeste.globo.com/2000/03/19/050002.htm |title=Tecnologia é destaque no Lexus ES 300 |work=Diário do Nordeste |access-date=8 June 2009 |language=pt |date=19 March 2000 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110728075351/http://diariodonordeste.globo.com/2000/03/19/050002.htm |archive-date=28 July 2011}}</ref> In 1999, the [[Lexus IS|IS]] was introduced, an entry-level sport sedan. Lexus also recorded its 1 millionth vehicle sold in the U.S. market,<ref name=msntl/> being ranked as the top-selling premium car maker in the U.S. overall.<ref name=d172/>
{{clear}}

=== 2000s: Global reorganization ===
[[File:Lexus RX 400h front.JPG|thumb|right|2004 [[Lexus RX (XU30)|RX 400h]], first hybrid version of Lexus' best-selling vehicle|alt=Front quarter view of an SUV parked next to a beach.]]
In July 2000, Lexus introduced the [[Lexus IS|IS]] 300 in North America, following global launch in 1999 (as the IS 200) and the third generation LS 430. In 2001, the first convertible was introduced, as well as the SC 430 and a redesigned ES 300.<ref>Mahler 204, pp. 27, 196.</ref> The GX 470 mid-size SUV debuted in 2002, followed by the second generation RX 330 in 2003.<ref>{{Harvnb|Dawson|2004|p=189}}</ref> The following year, Lexus recorded its 2 millionth U.S. vehicle sale,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://wardsdealer.com/ar/auto_millionth_lexus_customer/|title=2-Millionth Lexus Customer|quote=RX 330 owner Steven Sandman, trip winner|date=1 June 2004|work=Ward's Dealer|access-date=25 September 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110719225107/http://wardsdealer.com/ar/auto_millionth_lexus_customer/|archive-date=19 July 2011|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{Harvnb|Dawson|2004|p=xxiv}}</ref> and the first luxury-branded production hybrid SUV, the [[Lexus RX (XU30)|RX 400h]].<ref name=hy>{{cite news|url=http://www.dailynews.com/search/ci_3076458|archive-url=https://archive.today/20130102123509/http://www.dailynews.com/search/ci_3076458|url-status=dead|archive-date=2 January 2013|title=Lexus introduces first luxury hybrid SUV|date=26 October 2005|agency=Associated Press|last=Job|first=Ann|access-date=21 June 2008}}</ref> This vehicle used Toyota's [[Hybrid Synergy Drive]] system that combined gasoline and electric motors.<ref name=hyh>{{cite web|url=http://www.businessweek.com/autos/content/mar2006/bw20060308_999129.htm |title=Hybrid Heaven in a Lexus |last=Petersen |first=Thane |work=BusinessWeek |date=8 March 2006 |access-date=6 May 2007 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070614045352/http://www.businessweek.com/autos/content/mar2006/bw20060308_999129.htm |archive-date=14 June 2007}}</ref>

In 2005, Lexus completed an organizational separation from parent company Toyota,<ref name=lown>{{cite web|url=http://www.autofieldguide.com/articles/090601.html |title=Lexus Comes Into Its Own |publisher=Automotive Design & Production |last=Vasilash |first=Gary |year=2006 |access-date=6 May 2007 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070926230046/http://www.autofieldguide.com/articles/090601.html |archive-date=26 September 2007}}</ref> with dedicated design, engineering, training, and manufacturing centers working exclusively for the division.<ref>{{Harvnb|Dawson|2004|pp=199–200}}</ref><ref name=ain>{{cite news|url=http://www.findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m3012/is_11_183/ai_110404995 |publisher=Automotive Industries |title=The pursuit of higher sales: new Lexus managing officer |date=November 2003 |access-date=6 May 2007 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070503195249/http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m3012/is_11_183/ai_110404995 |archive-date=3 May 2007}}</ref> This effort coincided with Lexus' launch in its home market of Japan and an expanded global launch of the brand in markets such as China.<ref name=ain/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://auto.qq.com/a/20050303/000011.htm |title=Lexus luxury to expand market in China|date=3 March 2005|work=Xinmin News|access-date=20 September 2010|language=zh |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20050308234010/http://auto.qq.com/a/20050303/000011.htm |archive-date=8 March 2005}}</ref> Executives aimed to increase Lexus sales outside of its largest market in the U.S.<ref name=ain/><ref name=nk>{{cite web|url=http://www.nni.nikkei.co.jp/AC/TNKS/Nni20080226D26JFF01.htm |title=Lexus to increase production capacity by 35% |date=26 February 2008 |publisher=Nikkei Business Daily |access-date=27 February 2008 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131227051448/http://www.nni.nikkei.co.jp/AC/TNKS/Nni20080226D26JFF01.htm |archive-date=27 December 2013}}</ref> To accompany this expansion, next generation Lexus vehicles were redesigned as "global models" for international release.<ref>{{Harvnb|Dawson|2004|p=210}}</ref> In the European market, where Lexus had long faced struggling sales owing to low brand recognition, few dedicated dealerships, and 1990s [[import quota]]s,<ref>{{Harvnb|Dawson|2004|pp=194–195}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.leftlanenews.com/lexus-magic-fails-to-capture-europeans.html |title=Lexus Magic Fails to Capture Europeans |first=Nick |last=Aziz |website=Left Lane News |date=23 November 2005 |access-date=31 May 2010 |archive-date=22 December 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171222220202/http://www.leftlanenews.com/lexus-magic-fails-to-capture-europeans.html |url-status=live }}</ref> the marque announced plans to introduce hybrid and diesel powertrains,<ref>{{cite news|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/business/4309743.stm|title=Toyota targets Europe's urban youth|date=1 March 2005|work=BBC News|last=Madslien|first=Jorn|access-date=21 June 2008|archive-date=3 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200803040317/http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/business/4309743.stm|url-status=live}}</ref> increase the number of Lexus dealerships, and expand operations in emerging markets such as Russia.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://b-ru.com/economics/general/170-sales-results-foreign-cars-russia-2007/|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110707202658/http://b-ru.com/economics/general/170-sales-results-foreign-cars-russia-2007/ |archive-date=7 July 2011|title=Sales' results of foreign cars in Russia in 2007 |date=15 January 2008|publisher=InvestExp|access-date=30 September 2008}} Source Association of European Business in Russian Federation</ref><ref name=emerging>{{cite web|url=http://blogs.motortrend.com/lexus-is-f-plus-jim-chris-farley-1114.html|title=Lexus IS F, Plus Jim & Chris Farley|date=27 September 2007|work=Motor Trend|last=St. Antoine|first=Arthur|access-date=29 July 2011|archive-date=7 August 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110807103236/http://blogs.motortrend.com/lexus-is-f-plus-jim-chris-farley-1114.html|url-status=live}}</ref>

[[File:Lexus IS250 silver.jpg|thumb|left|2006 [[Lexus IS]], second generation with F marque variant in 2007|alt=Front quarter view of a sedan.]]

Lexus' arrival in the Japanese market in July 2005 marked the first introduction of a Japanese premium car marque in the domestic market.<ref name=cbs>{{cite news |title=Toyota Opens Lexus Dealerships in Japan |work=CBS News |date=30 August 2005 }}</ref> New generation LS, IS, ES, GS, and RX models subsequently became available in Japan along with the SC 430, ending domestic sales of Toyota-branded models under the Celsior, Altezza, Windom, Aristo, Harrier, and Soarer nameplates, respectively. The Altezza and Aristo were previously exclusive to Japanese Toyota retail sales channels called [[Toyota Vista Store]], the Windom was exclusive to Toyota Corolla Store, the Celsior and Harrier were exclusive to Toyopet Store, and the Soarer was previously available at both Toyota Store and Toyopet Store locations.<ref name=d193>{{Harvnb|Dawson|2004|pp=192–93}}</ref><ref name=nihon/> Lexus models sold in Japan featured higher specifications and a price premium compared with their discontinued Toyota counterparts.<ref name=d193/> Sales for the first half-year were slower than expected,<ref name=LexJP>{{cite web|url=http://www.businessweek.com/autos/content/feb2006/bw20060215_597701.htm |title=Lexus Sales Sputter at Home |work=BusinessWeek |last=Rowley |first=Ian |date=15 February 2006 |access-date=6 May 2007 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071013125737/http://businessweek.com/autos/content/feb2006/bw20060215_597701.htm |archive-date=13 October 2007}}</ref> affected by the contraction of the domestic auto market and price increases,<ref name=ljp/> but improved in subsequent months with an expanded lineup.<ref name=ljp>{{cite web|url=http://wardsdealer.com/latest/lexus_progressing_japan/|title=Lexus Slowly Progressing in Japan|last1=Schreffler|first1=Roger|last2=Chrysler|first2=Mack|date=28 December 2007|access-date=18 April 2007|publisher=Ward's Dealer Business|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070926234421/http://wardsdealer.com/latest/lexus_progressing_japan/|archive-date=26 September 2007|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.greencarcongress.com/2009/08/hs250h-triple-20090808.html|title=Toyota to Nearly Triple Production of Lexus HS 250h Hybrid by October|work=Green Car Congress|access-date=25 September 2009|date=8 August 2009|archive-date=23 December 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171223042630/http://www.greencarcongress.com/2009/08/hs250h-triple-20090808.html|url-status=live}}</ref>

Through the mid-2000s, Lexus experienced sales successes in South Korea and Taiwan, becoming the top-selling import make in both markets in 2005;<ref>"Toyota's Lexus Remains Best-Selling Foreign Car in Korea". ''The Korea Times''. 2007-01-05. Retrieved on 2007-01-07.<!--times.hankooki.com/lpage/biz/200701/kt2007010514232811910.htm--></ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://cens.com/cens/html/en/news/news_inner_3938.html|title=Lexus #1 Luxury Import in Taiwan|date=19 January 2006|publisher=Taiwan Economic News|access-date=6 May 2007|archive-date=8 October 2007|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071008073946/http://cens.com/cens/html/en/news/news_inner_3938.html|url-status=live}}</ref> the marque also sold well in the Middle East, where it ranked first or second among rivals in multiple countries,<ref name=furutani/> and in Australia, where Lexus reached third in luxury car sales in 2006.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.drive.com.au/Editorial/ArticleDetail.aspx?ArticleID=57554 |title=Convertible Lexus to take on the Germans |work=Sydney Morning Herald |access-date=20 May 2009 |last=Blackburn |first=Richard |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120306021314/http://www.drive.com.au/Editorial/ArticleDetail.aspx?ArticleID=57554 |archive-date=6 March 2012 }}</ref><ref>"Australia Vehicle Sales – 2006 YTD". Driving Australia. 2006–12. <!--fcai.com.au/sales.php/2006/12/sales.html. -->Retrieved on 2007-05-06.</ref> Division executives in 2006 announced an expansion goal from 68 countries to 76 worldwide by 2010.<ref name=lexglobal>{{cite news|url=http://jp.reuters.com/article/topNews/idJPJAPAN-27671120070831|title=Lexus targets expansion to 76 countries by 2010|work=Reuters|language=ja|date=31 August 2007|access-date=2 February 2009|archive-date=29 June 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130629010951/http://jp.reuters.com/article/topNews/idJPJAPAN-27671120070831|url-status=live}}</ref> By the end of the decade, this expansion resulted in official launches in Malaysia and South Africa in 2006,<ref>{{cite news|url=http://news-business.vlex.com/vid/lexus-launched-in-malaysia-77734791|title=Lexus launched in Malaysia|date=1 January 2007|publisher=Malaysian Business|last=Razif|first=Muhd|access-date=3 April 2012|archive-date=5 February 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160205165324/http://news-business.vlex.com/vid/lexus-launched-in-malaysia-77734791|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name=za>{{cite web|url=http://www.bizcommunity.com/Article/196/140/18890.html|title=Clever marketing boosts Lexus sales|publisher=BizCommunity.com|access-date=20 February 2009|date=16 October 2007|archive-date=7 July 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180707201852/http://www.bizcommunity.com/Article/196/140/18890.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Indonesia in 2007,<ref>"Toyota Indonesia plans to introduce Lexus vehicles". Reuters. 2007-02-21.<!--asia.news.yahoo.com/060221/3/2g5ps.html --> Retrieved on 2008-06-21.</ref> Chile in 2008,<ref name=chile>{{cite web|url=http://diario.elmercurio.cl/detalle/index.asp?id={008baab8-a618-44cd-a5ff-0ecdef6f3502}|title=Lexus en Chile ya es oficial |work=El Mercurio|access-date=4 May 2009|date=29 March 2008|first=Alejandro|last=Manríquez|language=pt}}</ref><ref name=LexusChile>{{cite web|url=http://www.latercera.com/contenido/665_120257_9.shtml|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110720135908/http://www.latercera.com/contenido/665_120257_9.shtml|url-status=dead|archive-date=20 July 2011|title=Lexus: Año uno en Chile|work=La Tercera|access-date=4 May 2009|date=18 April 2009|language=pt}}</ref> and the Philippines in 2009.<ref name="lexusmanila">Mendoza, Al (2009-01-22). "Lexus unleashed in historic glory". ''Business Mirror.''<!--businessmirror.com.ph/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=4977:lexus-unleashed-in-historic-glory&catid=39:motoring&Itemid=72.--> Retrieved on 2009-02-02.</ref>
{{clear}}

====Hybrids and F models====

In 2006, Lexus began sales of the [[GS 450h]], a [[V6 engine|V6]] hybrid performance sedan,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.businessweek.com/autos/content/sep2006/bw20060912_991505.htm?chan=search |title=2007 Lexus GS 450h |date=13 September 2006 |work=BusinessWeek |last=Peterson |first=Thane |access-date=21 June 2008 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081206011133/http://www.businessweek.com/autos/content/sep2006/bw20060912_991505.htm?chan=search |archive-date=6 December 2008}}</ref> and launched the fourth generation [[Lexus LS (XF40)|LS line]], comprising both standard- and long-[[wheelbase]] V8 (LS 460 and LS 460 L) and hybrid (LS 600h and LS 600h L) versions.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.thestar.com/comment/columnists/article/126053 |title=Quiet crown contender |date=17 September 2006 |work=The Star |last=Tojiagic |first=Mark |access-date=21 June 2008 |location=Toronto |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101125225943/http://www.thestar.com/comment/columnists/article/126053 |archive-date=25 November 2010}}</ref> The fifth generation ES 350 also debuted in the same year. The LS 600h L subsequently went on sale as the most expensive sedan ever produced in Japan.<ref name=ult>{{cite web|url= http://www.nextautos.com/countriesmarkets/japan/lexus-ls600hl-to-displace-toyota-century-as-japans-priciest-auto |title=Japan Report: Lexus LS600hl To Displace Toyota Century As Japan's Priciest Auto|date=8 May 2007|work=Winding Road|access-date=1 October 2007|archive-date=10 May 2009|archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20090510122900/http://www.nextautos.com/countriesmarkets/japan/lexus-ls600hl-to-displace-toyota-century-as-japans-priciest-auto}}</ref> By the end of 2006, Lexus' annual sales had reached 475,000 vehicles worldwide.<ref name=global/> In January 2007, Lexus announced a new [[Lexus#F marque|F marque]] performance division, which would produce racing-inspired versions of its performance models. The IS F, made its debut at the [[North American International Auto Show#2007|2007 North American International Auto Show]],<ref name=F>{{cite web|url=http://www.thecarconnection.com/autoshownews/1010188_lexus-confirms-f-performance-cars|archive-url=https://archive.today/20130111101613/http://www.thecarconnection.com/autoshownews/1010188_lexus-confirms-f-performance-cars|url-status=dead|archive-date=11 January 2013|title=Lexus Confirms "F" Performance Cars|date=11 December 2006|publisher=The Car Connection|last=Padgett|first=Marty|access-date=6 May 2007}}</ref> accompanied by a concept car, the [[Lexus LF|LF-A]].

[[File:Tino Rossini's Reviews - 025 - 2010 Lexus GS450h.jpg|thumb|2006 [[Lexus GS (S190)|GS 450h]], first rear-wheel-drive hybrid|alt=Front quarter view of a sedan.]]

In October 2007, Lexus entered the [[SEMA (association)|Specialty Equipment Market Association]] show in the U.S. for the first time with the IS F, and announced its [[Lexus F#F Sport|F-Sport]] performance trim level and factory-sanctioned accessory line.<ref name="Ramsey">{{cite web|url=http://www.autoblog.com/2007/10/31/sema-2007-lexus-f-sport-performance-accessories/|title=SEMA 2007: Lexus F-Sport performance accessories|date=31 October 2007|publisher=Autoblog.com|last=Ramsey|first=Jonathan|access-date=21 June 2008|archive-date=20 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201120151956/https://www.autoblog.com/2007/10/31/sema-2007-lexus-f-sport-performance-accessories/|url-status=live}}</ref> Increased emphasis on sporty models was an effort to target rivals from Mercedes-Benz's [[Mercedes-AMG|AMG]] and BMW's [[BMW M|M]] divisions.<ref name=F/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.businesscar.co.uk/story.asp?storyCode=1182|title=Lexus ISF proves Japanese brand can do sporty|date=16 March 2007|publisher=BusinessCar|access-date=1 October 2007|archive-date=1 August 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120801095156/http://www.businesscar.co.uk/story.asp?storyCode=1182|url-status=live}}</ref> Models such as the SC 400 and GS 400 had received favorable reactions from sport luxury buyers,<ref>{{Harvnb|Dawson|2004|pp=141–47, 163–65}}</ref> most Lexus models had been characterized as favoring comfort over sporty road feel and handling, compared with European rivals.<ref name=motorweek>{{cite web|url=http://www.mpt.org/motorweek/reviews/rt2621a.shtml |title=Motorweek Lexus LS 460 test drive |year=2007 |access-date=29 July 2011 |work=MotorWeek |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110702123038/http://www.mpt.org/motorweek/reviews/rt2621a.shtml |archive-date=2 July 2011}}</ref> By the end of 2007, Lexus annual worldwide sales had surpassed 500,000 vehicles,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.autoblog.com/2006/09/19/lexus-targets-500-000-units-for-2007/|title=Lexus targets 500,000 units for 2007|publisher=Autoblog.com|last=Waterman|first=Stuart|date=19 September 2006|access-date=6 May 2007|archive-date=28 September 2007|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070928100821/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/09/19/lexus-targets-500-000-units-for-2007/|url-status=live}}</ref> and the marque ranked as the top-selling premium import in China for the first time.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gasgoo.com/autobiz/3393/Lexus-knocks-out-Mercedes-in-China-s-high-end-car-market.html |title=Lexus knocks out Mercedes in China's high-end car market |date=24 September 2007 |publisher=Global Auto Sourcing |last=Jiu |first=Joanne |access-date=28 September 2007 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071013071327/http://gasgoo.com/autobiz/3393/Lexus-knocks-out-Mercedes-in-China-s-high-end-car-market.html |archive-date=13 October 2007}}</ref> The largest sales markets in order of size for 2007 were the U.S., Japan, the UK, China, Canada, and Russia.<ref name=global>Tierney, Christine (2007-08-07). "Lexus aims to conquer globe with luxury sales". ''Detroit News''. <!-- http://www.detnews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070908/AUTO01/105280001. --> Retrieved 2007-09-28.</ref><ref name=07s>{{cite web|url=http://www.businessweek.com/lifestyle/content/feb2008/bw20080222_305511.htm |title=The Top Dogs of the Automotive Pack |date=22 February 2008 |last=Henry |first=Jim |work=BusinessWeek |access-date=25 December 2008 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081012004238/http://www.businessweek.com/lifestyle/content/feb2008/bw20080222_305511.htm |archive-date=12 October 2008}}</ref>

In 2008, amidst the [[late-2000s recession]] and a weakened world car market, global sales fell 16 percent to 435,000,<ref name="gazoo"><!-- https://gazoo.com/NEWS/NewsDetail.aspx?NewsId=7ba4ecf2-5277-4b43-9485-0012ebfda71e -->"2009 Lexus sales" (in Japanese). Gazoo/レクサス. 2009. Retrieved 2009-04-22.</ref><ref name=luxs>{{cite news|url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/SB122782355321662353?mod=googlenews_wsj|title=Luxury Cars Sit As Both Money, Mood Slip Away|date=28 November 2008|work=The Wall Street Journal|last=Linebaugh|first=Kate|access-date=8 December 2008|archive-date=3 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200803050514/https://www.wsj.com/articles/SB122782355321662353?mod=googlenews_wsj|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name=08l>{{cite web|url=https://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601100&sid=aE7P22QvyOuI|title=BMW, Mercedes, Lexus Car Sales May Drop to 13-Year Low in U.S.|date=9 January 2009|publisher=Bloomberg|last1=Green|first1=Jeff|last2=Ramsey|first2=Mike|access-date=11 January 2009}}</ref> with declines in markets such as the U.S. and Europe where deliveries fell by 21 percent and 27.5 percent, respectively.<ref name=08s>{{cite web|url=http://www.autonews.com/assets/PDF/CA5945419.PDF|title=U.S. car and light-truck sales by make – 12 months 2008|work=Automotive News|access-date=20 March 2009|year=2009|archive-date=3 March 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160303201629/http://www.autonews.com/assets/PDF/CA5945419.PDF|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.acea.be/index.php/news/news_detail/passenger_cars_european_market_posts_fifteen_year_low_in_2008_78|title=ACEA Passenger Cars – European Market Posts Fifteen Year Low|publisher=ACEA|access-date=4 August 2008|archive-date=29 June 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170629131713/http://www.acea.be/news/news_detail/passenger_cars_european_market_posts_fifteen_year_low_in_2008_78|url-status=dead}}</ref> In 2009, the marque launched the [[Lexus HS|HS 250h]],<ref name=hs>{{cite web|url=http://autos.canada.com/2009detroit1/story.html?id=ab0a6063-8d73-4391-8821-0d3da7eae485&p=1 |title=Full details on Hybrid Lexus HS 250h |publisher=Driving.ca |date=11 January 2009 |access-date=18 July 2009 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090315113810/http://autos.canada.com/2009detroit1/story.html?id=ab0a6063-8d73-4391-8821-0d3da7eae485&p=1 |archive-date=15 March 2009}}</ref> a dedicated hybrid sedan for North America and Japan, the [[Lexus RX (AL10)|RX 450h]], the second generation hybrid SUV replacing the earlier RX 400h, and later that year debuted the {{USD|375,000}} production [[Lexus LFA|LFA]] exotic coupe.<ref name=bwl>{{cite web|url=http://www.businessweek.com/autos/autobeat/archives/2009/10/introducing_the_1.html |title=Lexus launches $375k LFA |work=BusinessWeek |access-date=23 October 2009 |last=Rowley |first=Ian |date=21 October 2009 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091024031038/http://www.businessweek.com/autos/autobeat/archives/2009/10/introducing_the_1.html |archive-date=24 October 2009}}</ref> In late 2009, citing higher sales of hybrid models over their petrol counterparts,<ref name=ukh/><ref>{{cite news |last=Hughes |first=Steve |date=6 October 2006 |title=Successful Mix |newspaper=Daily Record }}</ref> Lexus announced plans to become a hybrid-only marque in Europe.<ref name=euh>{{cite web|url=http://www.motortrader.com/industry-news/car-dealer-news/29338-lexus-network-set-for-overhaul-as-brand-goes-hybrid-only.html |title=Lexus network set for overhaul as brand goes hybrid-only |publisher=Motortrader |access-date=25 September 2009 |date=18 September 2009 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090923105020/http://www.motortrader.com/industry-news/car-dealer-news/29338-lexus-network-set-for-overhaul-as-brand-goes-hybrid-only.html |archive-date=23 September 2009}}</ref> By the end of the decade, Lexus ranked as the fourth-largest premium car make in the world by volume,<ref name=sales/> and was the number one selling premium car marque in the U.S. for 10 consecutive years.<ref name=08l/><ref name=sales>{{cite news |last=van Loon |first=Jeremy |date=4 May 2007 |title=BMW Luxury Lead Threatened by Lexus, Stagnant Margins |work=Bloomberg }}</ref><ref name=09s>{{cite web|url=https://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601100&sid=a2txYe.J5ma8|title=Toyota's Lexus Holds Off BMW, Keeps Luxury Lead for 10th Year|publisher=Bloomberg|access-date=15 May 2010|last=Ramsey|first=Mike|date=5 January 2010}}</ref>

=== 2010s–2020s: Recent developments ===
[[File:Lexus LFA Yellow Las Vegas Speedway.jpg|thumb|left|2012 [[Lexus LFA]]|alt=Front quarter view of a coupe.]]

In 2010, Lexus underwent a gradual sales recovery in North America and Asia as the marque focused on adding hybrids and new model derivatives.<ref name=furutani>Lewis, Georgia (2009-11-04). "Lexus 'resets its compass' to cope with new global economic realities". The National. <!-- http://www.thenational.ae/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20091107/MOTORING/711069952/0/national. --> Retrieved 2010-07-08.</ref> Sales in the U.S. held steady despite the [[2009–2010 Toyota vehicle recalls]], several of which included Lexus models.<ref name=nyt/> The ES 350 and certain IS models were affected by a recall for potentially jamming [[2009–2010 Toyota vehicle recalls#Floor mat recall|floor mats]],<ref name=nyt>{{cite news|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2010/03/12/business/12lexus.html?partner=rss&emc=rss|title=Lexus, a Toyota Brand, Avoids Taint From Recalls|work=[[The New York Times]]|last=Bunkley|first=Nick|access-date=11 March 2010|date=11 March 2010|archive-date=27 December 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201227074339/https://www.nytimes.com/2010/03/12/business/12lexus.html?partner=rss&emc=rss|url-status=live}}</ref> while parent company Toyota bore the brunt of negative publicity amid investigations over its series of product recalls and problem rates per-vehicle.<ref name=nyt/><ref name=uia>{{cite web|url=https://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=124276771&ps=rs|title=Unintended Acceleration Not Limited To Toyotas|publisher=NPR|date=3 March 2010|access-date=3 March 2010|archive-date=22 December 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181222210217/https://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=124276771|url-status=live}}</ref> The redesigned [[Lexus GX (J150)|GX 460]] was also voluntarily recalled in April 2010 for a [[Patch (computing)|software update]], one week after ''[[Consumer Reports]]'' issued a recommendation not to buy the SUV, citing a possible rollover risk following the slow [[Electronic stability control|stability control]] response to a high-speed emergency turn.<ref name=ngx>{{cite news|url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/SB10001424052748704302304575214173486672294?mod=WSJ_auto_IndustryCollection|title=Toyota Resumes Sales of Lexus GX 460|work=The Wall Street Journal|access-date=1 May 2010|last=Linebaugh|first=Kate|date=29 April 2010|archive-date=23 December 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171223042809/https://www.wsj.com/articles/SB10001424052748704302304575214173486672294?mod=WSJ_auto_IndustryCollection|url-status=live}}</ref> Although the publication knew of no reported incidents, the GX 460 received updated stability control software.<ref name=ngx/>

In late 2010 and early 2011, Lexus began sales of the [[Lexus CT|CT 200h]], a compact four-door hybrid [[hatchback]] designed for Europe, in multiple markets.<ref name=ct>{{cite web|url=http://www.autoguide.com/auto-news/2010/02/lexus-ct200h-officially-revealed-with-worldwide-sales-to-begin-in-2010.html|title=Lexus CT200h Officially Revealed With Worldwide Sales to Begin This Year|publisher=Autoguide.com|access-date=19 March 2010|last=Wood|first=Colum|date=26 February 2010|archive-date=22 September 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200922055028/https://www.autoguide.com/auto-news/2010/02/lexus-ct200h-officially-revealed-with-worldwide-sales-to-begin-in-2010.html|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://green.autoblog.com/2010/03/05/lexus-ct-200h-making-u-s-debut-at-new-york-auto-show/|title=Lexus CT 200h making U.S. debut at New York Auto Show|publisher=Autoblog Green|access-date=19 March 2010|last=Abuelsamid|first=Sam|archive-date=8 March 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100308171655/http://green.autoblog.com/2010/03/05/lexus-ct-200h-making-u-s-debut-at-new-york-auto-show|url-status=dead}}</ref> Sales of lower-displacement regional models were also expanded, beginning with the ES 240 in China followed by the RX 270; Japan, Russia, and Taiwan were among markets which received model variants intended for reduced emissions or import taxes.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://tw.autos.yahoo.com/auto_information_article2/url/d/a/100303/4/37rk.html|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120715090439/http://tw.autos.yahoo.com/auto_information_article2/url/d/a/100303/4/37rk.html|url-status=dead|archive-date=15 July 2012|title=Lexus RX 270 Launched|work=Yahoo! Taiwan|access-date=1 October 2010|date=August 2010|language=zh}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.automotiveworld.com/news/powertrain/83508-japan-lexus-reveals-four-cylinder-rx-270|title=Lexus reveals four-cylinder RX 270|work=Automotive World|access-date=1 October 2010|last=Brooks|first=Glenn|date=26 August 2010|archive-date=2 March 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120302164754/http://www.automotiveworld.com/news/powertrain/83508-japan-lexus-reveals-four-cylinder-rx-270|url-status=live}}</ref> In March 2011, the [[2011 Tōhoku earthquake and tsunami|Tōhoku earthquake and tsunami]] caused severe disruption to Lexus' Japan-based production lines, hindering the marque's near-term sales prospects.<ref name=qk>{{cite web|url=http://www.autonews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20110425/RETAIL07/304259921/1292|archive-url=https://archive.today/20130121001958/http://www.autonews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20110425/RETAIL07/304259921/1292|url-status=dead|archive-date=21 January 2013|title=Lexus: Quake will end luxury sales leadership|work=Automotive News|date=25 April 2011|last=Rechtin|first=Mark|access-date=5 May 2011}}</ref> Lexus' U.S. executives stated that due to vehicle shortages amidst close competition from BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and [[Audi]], the marque would not remain the country's top-selling premium car brand.<ref name=qk/>

[[File:Lexus CT 200h Japan 2011 front.jpg|thumb|2010 [[Lexus CT|CT 200h]], first Lexus hatchback|alt=Front quarter view of a hatchback.]]

Cumulative sales results for 2011 indicated a 14 percent sales drop in the U.S. market,<ref name=us11>{{cite web|url=http://www.marketwatch.com/story/toyota-reports-december-2011-and-year-end-sales-2012-01-04 |title=Toyota Reports December 2011 and Year-End Sales |publisher=MarketWatch |date=4 January 2012 |access-date=10 January 2012 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120112031459/http://www.marketwatch.com/story/toyota-reports-december-2011-and-year-end-sales-2012-01-04 |archive-date=12 January 2012}}</ref> along with sales increases of 40 percent and 27 percent in Europe and Japan respectively,<ref name=eu11>{{cite web|url=http://www.toyota.eu/about/pages/newsdetails.aspx?prid=706&prs=Corporate&prrm=pressrelease|title=Toyota Motor Europe posts year-on-year sales increase despite supply disruptions|publisher=Toyota Motor Europe|date=January 2012|access-date=10 January 2012|archive-date=3 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200803025629/https://www.toyota-europe.com/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name=jp11>{{cite web |url= http://www.jada.or.jp/contents/data/brand/gaikyo/201112.php |archive-url= https://archive.today/20121219111408/http://www.jada.or.jp/contents/data/brand/gaikyo/201112.php |url-status= dead |archive-date=19 December 2012 |language=ja|title=Number of units of cars sold|publisher=Japan Automobile Dealers Association|date=5 January 2012|access-date=10 January 2012}}</ref> for a global sales total of 410,000 units.<ref name=asiapac/> Lexus' streak of 11 consecutive years as the best-selling luxury marque in the U.S. ended that year, with the title going to BMW followed by Mercedes-Benz.<ref name=predator>{{cite news |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2012/05/13/automobiles/autoreviews/action-oriented-sedan-with-a-predatory-spirit.html?pagewanted=print |title=Action-Oriented Sedan With a Predatory Spirit |date=11 May 2012 |access-date=21 May 2012 |work=The New York Times |first=Lawrence |last=Ulrich |archive-date=21 July 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180721192135/https://www.nytimes.com/2012/05/13/automobiles/autoreviews/action-oriented-sedan-with-a-predatory-spirit.html?pagewanted=print |url-status=live }}</ref> While 45 percent of Lexus sales in the U.S. in 2011 relied upon the RX luxury crossover SUV, rival Mercedes-Benz's best-selling offering was the E-Class mid-luxury sedan, which commands considerably higher prices.<ref name="big picture">{{cite web |url=http://www.motortrend.com/features/editorial/1111_the_big_picture_saving_lexus/ |title=The Big Picture: Saving Lexus – Toyota's luxury brand needs an overhaul |first=Angus |last=MacKenzie |date=November 2011 |access-date=14 October 2012 |work=Motor Trend |archive-date=16 October 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151016004925/http://www.motortrend.com/features/editorial/1111_the_big_picture_saving_lexus/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Subsequently, Toyota chairman [[Akio Toyoda]] vowed to restore passion to the marque and further increase its organizational independence, admitting that "...back then we did not regard Lexus as a brand, but as a distribution channel". As a result of Toyoda's organizational changes, Lexus senior managers report directly to the chairman for the first time in the marque's history.<ref name=predator/><ref name="big picture"/>

In January 2012, the marque began sales of the fourth generation GS line, including GS 350 and GS 450h variants, as well as a lower-displacement GS 250 model for select markets.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://smh.drive.com.au/motor-news/cars-of-2012-luxury-cars-20111223-1p7uj.html|title=New luxury cars due in 2012|date=23 December 2011|work=Sydney Morning Herald|access-date=10 January 2012|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120110120259/http://smh.drive.com.au/motor-news/cars-of-2012-luxury-cars-20111223-1p7uj.html|archive-date=10 January 2012}}</ref> In April 2012, the sixth generation ES line, including ES 350 and ES 300h variants, debuted at the [[New York International Auto Show#2012|New York International Auto Show]].<ref name=2013es>{{cite web|url=http://rumors.automobilemag.com/new-york-2012-lexus-reveals-2013-es-new-hybrid-variant-120697.html |title=New York 2012: Lexus Reveals 2013 ES, New Hybrid Variant |work=Automobile Magazine |date=4 April 2012 |access-date=9 April 2012 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120407045225/http://rumors.automobilemag.com/new-york-2012-lexus-reveals-2013-es-new-hybrid-variant-120697.html |archive-date=7 April 2012}}</ref>

[[File: Lexus LS 600h front.JPG |thumb|left|The [[Lexus LS (XF40)|fourth-generation LS]]’ production of eleven years made it the longest running single-generation Lexus.]]

In April 2014, Lexus unveiled the five-seater NX crossover. The vehicle features a very first for a Lexus vehicle: a turbocharger. Its nomenclature is denoted as the 200t. In August 2014, Toyota announced it would be cutting its Lexus spare parts prices in China by up to 35 percent. The company admitted the move was in response to a probe foreshadowed earlier in the month by China's [[National Development and Reform Commission]] of Lexus spare parts policies, as part of an industry-wide investigation into what the Chinese regulator considers exorbitantly high prices being charged by automakers for spare parts and after-sales servicing.<ref name="ToyotaChina">{{cite news |title=Anti-trust probe forces Toyota to cut auto spare parts prices in China |url=http://www.asiapacificstar.com/index.php/sid/224972433 |date=21 August 2014 |access-date=22 August 2014 |publisher=Asia Pacific Star |archive-date=26 August 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140826120735/http://www.asiapacificstar.com/index.php/sid/224972433 |url-status=live }}</ref>

In March 2016, Lexus announced that it will be producing a new flagship vehicle: the two-door LC 500. The vehicle will be produced for late 2017 in a V8 version putting out 467 horsepower. The LC 500h, a V6 hybrid variant, could potentially become available in late 2017 or early 2018.

In April 2019, Lexus announced that a rebadged [[limousine]] version of the third-generation [[Toyota Alphard]] would be sold as the [[Lexus LM]].<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.autoindustriya.com/auto-industry-news/2019-lexus-lm-takes-toyota-s-alphard-from-business-to-first-class.html |title=2020 Lexus LM upgrades Toyota Alphard from Business to First class |first=Jose |last=Altoveros |work=Auto News |location=The Philippines |date=16 April 2019 |access-date=1 May 2019 |archive-date=20 September 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200920135522/https://www.autoindustriya.com/auto-industry-news/2019-lexus-lm-takes-toyota-s-alphard-from-business-to-first-class.html |url-status=live }}</ref> It was also announced that Lexus would finally enter the market in Mexico in 2021 with some of the vehicles in their lineup.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://lexusenthusiast.com/2019/04/26/lexus-to-open-dealerships-in-mexico/ |title=Lexus to Open Dealerships in Mexico |work=Lexus Enthusiast |location=US |date=26 April 2019 |access-date=23 February 2020 |archive-date=17 August 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200817160426/https://lexusenthusiast.com/2019/04/26/lexus-to-open-dealerships-in-mexico/ |url-status=live }}</ref> In October 2019, Lexus announced that it will be launching the brand's first all-battery [[electric vehicle]] in 2020, which is the [[Lexus UX 300e|UX 300e]].<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-autoshow-tokyo-lexus-idUSKBN1X20FX|title=Toyota's luxury Lexus brand plans battery EV launch in 2020|date=23 October 2019|work=Reuters|access-date=23 October 2019|language=en|archive-date=3 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200803065133/https://www.reuters.com/article/us-autoshow-tokyo-lexus-idUSKBN1X20FX|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="300ereview2">{{cite web |last=Torr |first=Feann |date=2019-11-22 |title=Lexus UX 300e 2020 Review |url=https://www.carsales.com.au/editorial/details/lexus-ux-300e-2020-review-121753/ |access-date=2020-01-23 |publisher=carsales |location=Australia}}</ref> In June 2023, Lexus introduced its first vehicle in the B-segment, the [[Lexus LBX|LBX]], which went on sale in Europe, Japan, Australia and Southeast Asia.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Adrian |first=Padeanu |date=2023-06-05 |title=Lexus LBX Debuts As Small Luxury Crossover With 134 Hybrid Horsepower |url=https://www.motor1.com/news/670481/2024-lexus-lbx-debut-specs/ |access-date=2023-06-05 |website=Motor1.com |location=US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Martin |first=Charlie |date=2023-08-10 |title=New Lexus LBX priced from £29,995 in the UK |url=https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-news/new-cars/new-lexus-lbx-priced-%C2%A329995-uk |access-date=2023-08-10 |website=Autocar |location=UK}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Ciferri |first=Luca |date=2023-06-05 |title=Lexus LBX small crossover focuses on European buyers |url=https://europe.autonews.com/cars-concepts/lexus-lbx-small-crossover-challenge-audi-mini |access-date=2023-06-24 |work=Automotive News |location=Europe}}</ref>
{{clear}}

== Corporate affairs ==
{| class="wikitable" style="float:right; margin-left:1em;"
|+ Total sales and production
|-
! style="background:#DCDCDC;" | <!-- Global --> Regional sales, 2011
! style="background:#DCDCDC;" | Units
|-
|Japan<ref name=jp11/>|| 42,365 <!--33,365 28,167 -->
|-
|China<ref>{{cite web|url=http://mediacenter.lexus.com.cn/Uploads/db/shuiyin20120118094316101.pdf |title=Lexus China Aims to Increase Sales by More Than 50% in 2012 |publisher=Lexus China |access-date=25 February 2012 |date=18 January 2012 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151016004926/https://mediacenter.lexus.com.cn/Uploads/db/shuiyin20120118094316101.pdf |archive-date=16 October 2015}}</ref>||56,303
|-
|Europe<ref name=eu11/>|| 43,637 <!--17,857 25,921 -->
|-
|United States<ref name=us11/>|| 198,552 <!--229,329 215,975 -->
<!-- |-
|Other regions||
|-
| style="text-align:right;" | '''Total'''||2008 '''435,000'''-->
|-
! style="background:#DCDCDC;" | Type production, 2010
! style="background:#DCDCDC;" | Units
|-
|[[Passenger vehicles]]|| 205,070
|-
|[[Crossover (automobile)|Crossover SUVs]]|| 159,560
|-
|[[Hybrid vehicle]]s||66,226
|-
! style="background:#DCDCDC;" | Line production, 2010 <!-- 2007 Japan: 414,400; Total: 492,470; 2008 277,580; 347,210; 2009 255,012; 319,294-->
! style="background:#DCDCDC;" | Units
|-
| Japan production<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.toyota-global.com/company/profile/figures/production_en.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110617033914/http://www.toyota-global.com/company/profile/figures/production_en.html|url-status=dead|archive-date=17 June 2011|title=Number of Vehicles Produced in Japan by Model|publisher=Toyota Motor Corporation|access-date=5 July 2011}}</ref>
||283,012
|-
| Canada production<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/toyotas-north-american-production-up-18-percent-in-2010-114733604.html|title=Toyota's North American Production Up 18 Percent in 2010|work=PR Newswire|date=27 January 2011|access-date=5 July 2011|archive-date=3 May 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200503014641/https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/toyotas-north-american-production-up-18-percent-in-2010-114733604.html|url-status=live}}</ref>|| 81,618
|-
| style="text-align:right;" | '''Total''' || '''364,630'''
|}

=== Operations ===
Lexus International coordinates the worldwide operations of Toyota's luxury division<ref name=exec>{{cite web|url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/2014-02-26/toyota-names-designer-as-lexus-chief-to-boost-sales-outside-u-s-.html|title=Toyota Names Designer as Lexus Chief to Boost Sales Outside U.S.|publisher=Bloomberg|access-date=21 December 2014|date=26 February 2014|last=Trudell|first=Craig|archive-date=21 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200821103633/https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2014-02-26/toyota-names-designer-as-lexus-chief-to-boost-sales-outside-u-s-|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name=seek>{{cite web|url=http://stage.autonews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20111003/OEM02/310039962/1316/mobile01&template=art4|title=Lexus' global growth gets American spin|work=Automotive News|access-date=23 November 2011|last=Rechtin|first=Mark|date=3 October 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160205165324/http://stage.autonews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=%2F20111003%2FOEM02%2F310039962%2F1316%2Fmobile01&template=art4|archive-date=5 February 2016|url-status=dead}}</ref> from the brand's global headquarters, located in [[Nagoya]], Aichi.<ref name=nagoya>{{cite web|url=http://www.thetruthaboutcars.com/2012/02/lexus_shows_a_new_face_demonstrates_independence/|title=Lexus Shows A New Face, Demonstrates Independence|publisher=The Truth About Cars|first=Bertel|last=Schmitt|date=10 February 2012|access-date=12 February 2012|archive-date=23 September 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200923104602/https://www.thetruthaboutcars.com/2012/02/lexus_shows_a_new_face_demonstrates_independence/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name=exec/> Corporate entities further include the brand's Japan Sales and Marketing and global Product and Marketing Planning divisions.<ref name="seek"/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www2.toyota.co.jp/en/news/09/06/0623.html|title=Toyota Announces Executive and Organizational Changes|publisher=Toyota.jp|access-date=12 January 2010|date=23 June 2009|archive-date=4 March 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100304101309/http://www2.toyota.co.jp/en/news/09/06/0623.html|url-status=dead}}</ref> While organizationally separate from its parent company, Lexus International reports directly to Toyota chief executive officer Akio Toyoda.<ref name=asiapac>{{cite web |url= http://www.asiaone.com/Motoring/News/Story/A1Story20120216-328278.html |archive-url= https://archive.today/20130117140908/http://www.asiaone.com/Motoring/News/Story/A1Story20120216-328278.html |url-status= dead |archive-date=17 January 2013 |title=Lexus restructures to focus on Asia-Pacific |first=Samuel |last=Ee|work=Business Times (Singapore)|date=17 February 2012|access-date=25 February 2012}}</ref> In the U.S., brand operations are managed by the U.S. Lexus division, which is headquartered in [[Plano, Texas]].<ref name=lexusus>{{cite press release |url=https://toyotanews.pressroom.toyota.com/article_display.cfm?article_id=5461 |title=David Christ |publisher=Toyota |location=US |access-date=13 April 2019 |archive-date=14 March 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180314054342/http://toyotanews.pressroom.toyota.com/article_display.cfm?article_id=5461 |url-status=live }}</ref> In Europe, Lexus operations are managed by Lexus Europe, located in Brussels.<ref>{{cite press release |url=http://blog.lexus.co.uk/2014/05/in-conversation-with-lexus-europe-vice-president-alain-uyttenhoven/ |title=In conversation with Lexus Europe vice president Alain Uyttenhoven |first=Eliott |last=Farr |publisher=Lexus |location=UK |date=30 May 2014 |access-date=21 December 2014 |archive-date=27 December 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141227050447/http://blog.lexus.co.uk/2014/05/in-conversation-with-lexus-europe-vice-president-alain-uyttenhoven/ |url-status=dead }}</ref> Companion design facilities are located in Southern California<ref>{{cite news |title=Sexy Lexus is a huge hit |work=Sunday Mail |location=Glasgow |date=26 September 2004}}</ref> and central Japan,<ref name=ctr>{{cite news |title=State to Get Acura Site for Design (separate design center for Lexus) |work=[[The Los Angeles Times]] |page= C2 |date=9 January 2006}}</ref> with the head design studio devoted entirely to Lexus models in Toyota City, Aichi.<ref name=ctr/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.autoweek.com/article/20041123/FREE/411230701|title=Toyota gets serious about design; exec is told to shake things up|work=Automotive News|access-date=1 October 2010|last=Treece|first=James|date=23 November 2004|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110622025651/http://www.autoweek.com/article/20041123/FREE/411230701|archive-date=22 June 2011|url-status=dead}}</ref>

Lexus sales operations vary in structure by region. In many markets, such as the U.S., the dealership network is a distinct organization from corporate headquarters,<ref name=qk/> with separately owned and operated Lexus [[showroom]]s.<ref>{{Harvnb|Long|2001|pp=29}}</ref> By contrast, in Japan all 143 dealerships in the country are owned and operated by Lexus.<ref name=ljp/> Several markets have a designated, third party [[Distribution (business)|regional distributor]]; for example, in the United Arab Emirates, sales operations are managed by Al-Futtaim Motors LLC,<ref name=furutani/> and in Costa Rica, Lexus vehicles are sold via regional distributor Purdy Motors S.A.<ref>{{cite web|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20061110010209/http://www.nacion.com/ln_ee/2006/octubre/27/economia874532.html |archive-date=10 November 2006 |url=http://www.nacion.com/ln_ee/2006/octubre/27/economia874532.html|title=Firmas automotrices realizan inversiones|language=es|access-date=29 May 2009|work=La Nación (San José)|date=27 October 2006}}</ref> Other officially sanctioned regional distributors have sold Lexus models prior to the launch of, or in absence of, a dedicated dealership network.<ref name=za/>

The Lexus brand launched in the Indian market in 2017,<ref>{{cite news |url=http://auto.ndtv.com/news/lexus-cars-to-be-launched-in-india-in-march-2017-more-details-revealed-1641155 |title=Lexus Brand India Launch Date Revealed; Upcoming Models And Other Details |work=Car And Bike |location=India |date=15 February 2017 |access-date=8 March 2017 |archive-date=27 December 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161227055549/http://auto.ndtv.com/news/lexus-cars-to-be-launched-in-india-in-march-2017-more-details-revealed-1641155 |url-status=live }}</ref> with the models [[Lexus RX450h|RX450h]], [[Lexus LX450|LX450d]], [[Lexus LX570|LX570]], [[Lexus ES300|ES300h]],<ref name="autocarindia.com">{{cite news |url=http://www.autocarindia.com/auto-news/lexus-india-launch-in-march-2017-bookings-open-403236.aspx/0 |title=Lexus India launch on March 24, 2017; bookings open |first=Akbar |last=Merchant |work=Autocar India |date=7 February 2017 |access-date=8 March 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170102221901/http://www.autocarindia.com/auto-news/lexus-india-launch-in-march-2017-bookings-open-403236.aspx/0 |archive-date=2 January 2017 |url-status=dead}}</ref> [[Lexus NX|NX]], [[Lexus LS|LS]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.zigwheels.com/newcars/Lexus|title=Lexus Cars Price in India, New Models 2017, Images, Specs, Reviews @ ZigWheels|website=ZigWheels.com|access-date=17 January 2018|archive-date=20 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200820193416/https://www.zigwheels.com/newcars/Lexus|url-status=live}}</ref> Dealerships in [[Mumbai]], [[Delhi]], [[Gurgaon]], and [[Bangalore]] became operational in March 2017, when the brand began sales in India with a second set of dealerships opening in [[Chandigarh]], [[Kochi]], and [[Chennai]] toward the end of 2017.<ref name="autocarindia.com"/> This made Lexus the fifth luxury brand to be launched in India, after Mercedes-Benz, [[Porsche India|Porsche]], BMW, and Audi.

=== Sales ===
Global sales of Lexus vehicles reached an all-time high in 2007, with a total of 518,000. Sales decreased in subsequent years due to the effects of the 2008 recession and the Japanese tsunami of 2011. Following this, sales recovered and reached a new high of 523,000 in 2013.<ref>{{Cite web|title = UK: German brands can't be beaten – Lexus Europe boss|url = http://www.just-auto.com/news/german-brands-cant-be-beaten-lexus-europe-boss_id152377.aspx|website = www.just-auto.com|date = 11 November 2014|access-date = 23 October 2015|archive-date = 10 September 2015|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20150910175922/http://www.just-auto.com/news/german-brands-cant-be-beaten-lexus-europe-boss_id152377.aspx|url-status = dead}}</ref>

In 2014, the Lexus brand set a new global sales record after selling 582,000 vehicles. This made Lexus the fourth best selling luxury brand in the world, trailing BMW, Audi and Mercedes-Benz.<ref>{{Cite web|title = Lexus Seeing Global Growth, Europe Enamored With CUVs, Hybrids|url = http://wardsauto.com/auto-makers/lexus-seeing-global-growth-europe-enamored-cuvs-hybrids|website = wardsauto.com|access-date = 23 October 2015|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20151103233208/http://wardsauto.com/auto-makers/lexus-seeing-global-growth-europe-enamored-cuvs-hybrids|archive-date = 3 November 2015|url-status = dead|df = dmy-all}}</ref>

[[File:Lexus College1.jpg|thumb|upright=1.0|Fuji Lexus College, training facility for dealers in [[Shizuoka Prefecture|Shizuoka]], Japan|alt=Rectangular windowed building, with landscaping and a sign in front labeled 'Lexus'.]]

Global sales of Lexus vehicles increased by 12 percent in 2015 to reach another annual sales record with 652,000 units sold worldwide.<ref>{{cite press release |url=http://pressroom.lexus.com/releases/lexus+2015+review.htm?view_id=43785 |title=Lexus International 2015 Year in Review |publisher=Lexus |location=US |date=1 February 2016 |access-date=16 March 2016 |archive-date=3 August 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170803171406/http://pressroom.lexus.com/releases/lexus+2015+review.htm?view_id=43785 |url-status=live }}</ref>

Global cumulative sales of Lexus brand [[hybrid electric vehicle|hybrid electric cars]] reached the 500,000 mark in November 2012.<ref name=TMC5miHEVs>{{cite web|url=http://www.greencarcongress.com/2013/04/tmc-20130417.html|title=Toyota cumulative global hybrid sales pass 5M, nearly 2M in US|publisher=Green Car Congress|date=17 April 2013|access-date=20 April 2013|archive-date=22 April 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130422004054/http://www.greencarcongress.com/2013/04/tmc-20130417.html|url-status=live}}</ref> The 1&nbsp;million sales milestone was achieved in March 2016.<ref name=Lexus1mi>{{cite press release | url=http://newsroom.toyota.co.jp/en/detail/mail/11719776 | title=Lexus Hybrid Owners, Thanks a Million | publisher=Toyota Global Newsroom | location=Tokyo | date=12 April 2016 | access-date=13 April 2016 | archive-date=15 April 2016 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160415164703/http://newsroom.toyota.co.jp/en/detail/mail/11719776 | url-status=live }}</ref> The [[Lexus RX|Lexus RX 400h/RX 450h]] ranks as the top selling Lexus hybrid with 335,000 units delivered worldwide {{as of|2016|03|lc=y}}, followed by the [[Lexus CT|Lexus CT 200h]] with 267,000 units.<ref name=Lexus1mi/>

Lexus has not sold as well in Europe as it has in the rest of the world where it is marketed. This is allegedly due to suffering from smaller brand recognition, image, and a less-developed dealership network.<ref name=dawson194>{{Harvnb|Dawson|2004|pp=194–95}}</ref> In European markets, the Lexus LS has ranked behind BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Audi, and [[Jaguar Cars|Jaguar]] in flagship luxury car sales.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://news.auto.cz/statistiky/mercedes-benz-cesky-trh-v-roce-2008-nejprodavanejsi-luxusni-limuzinou-tridy-s.html |title=Český trh v roce 2008: Nejprodávanější luxusní limuzínou |publisher=Auto.cz |access-date=20 February 2009 |date=21 January 2009 |language=cs |archive-date=8 July 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180708015804/http://www.auto.cz/mercedes-benz-cesky-trh-v-roce-2008-nejprodavanejsi-luxusni-limuzinou-tridy-s-5684 |url-status=live }}</ref> Automotive analysts have suggested a possible rationale for the sales disparity, in that European buyers place less emphasis on vehicle reliability and have more [[brand loyalty]] to established domestic marques.<ref name=dawson194/> In contrast, the Lexus LS has ranked second in sales to the Mercedes-Benz S-Class (and ahead of rivals from BMW, Audi, and Jaguar) in markets outside Europe, such as South Africa.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.bizcommunity.com/Article/196/140/18890.html |title=Clever marketing boosts Lexus sales |publisher=BizCommunity.com |access-date=20 February 2009 |date=16 October 2007 |archive-date=7 July 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180707201852/http://www.bizcommunity.com/Article/196/140/18890.html |url-status=live }}</ref>

Currently all of Lexus's models for the US market are imported from Japan, with the exception of the RX and NX, which are also produced in [[Cambridge, Ontario]], for North America, and the ES, which is also produced in [[Toyota Motor Manufacturing Kentucky|Georgetown, Kentucky]]. The RX midsized crossover is Lexus's best selling model in the United States, while the ES mid-sized car is the most popular sedan in the line-up.

{| class="wikitable"
!Calendar Year
!Europe<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.goodcarbadcar.net/lexus-europe-sales-figures/ |title=Lexus European sales figures |work=carsalesbase.com |date=29 May 2024 |access-date=29 May 2024 |archive-date=2 January 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240102002037/https://www.goodcarbadcar.net/lexus-europe-sales-figures/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
!US (Market share %)<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.goodcarbadcar.net/lexus-us-sales-figures/ |title=Lexus US car sales figures |work=carsalesbase.com |date=29 May 2024 |access-date=29 May 2024 |archive-date=31 December 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231231105441/https://www.goodcarbadcar.net/lexus-us-sales-figures/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
|-
|2023
| -
| {{increase}}320,249 ({{increase}}2.06)
|-
|2022
| 38,366
| {{decrease}}258,434 ({{decrease}}1.89)
|-
|2021
| 46,250
| {{increase}}326,928 ({{increase}}2.19)
|-
|2020
| 47,041
| {{decrease}}275,042 ({{increase}}1.87)
|-
|2019
| 55,770
| {{decrease}}298,112 ({{increase}}1.75)
|-
|2018
| 45,918
| {{decrease}}298,302 ({{decrease}}1.72)
|-
|2017
| 44,944
| {{decrease}}304,376 ({{decrease}}1.76)
|-
|2016
| 44,287
| {{decrease}}331,228 ({{decrease}}1.89)
|-
|2015
| 39,255
| {{increase}}344,601 ({{increase}}1.97)
|-
|2014
| 31,479
| {{increase}}311,389 ({{increase}}1.88)
|-
|2013
| 23,708
| {{increase}}273,847 ({{increase}}1.76)
|-
|2012
| 26,820
| {{increase}}244,162 ({{increase}}1.68)
|-
|2011
| 27,442
| {{Decrease}}198,552 ({{Decrease}}1.55)
|-
|2010
| 19,185
| {{increase}}229,329 ({{Decrease}}1.98)
|-
|2009
| 20,629
| {{Decrease}}215,975 ({{increase}}2.07)
|-
|2008
| 29,682
| {{Decrease}}260,087 ({{Decrease}}1.96)
|-
|2007
| 40,496
| {{increase}}329,177 ({{increase}}2.07)
|-
|2006
| 40,337
| {{increase}}322,434 ({{Decrease}}1.95)
|-
|2005
| 23,340
| {{increase}}302,895 ({{increase}}2.04)
|-
|2004
| 21,122
| {{increase}}287,927 ({{increase}}1.70)
|-
|2003
| 18,318
| {{increase}}259,755 ({{increase}}1.56)
|-
|2002
| 19,435
| {{increase}}234,109 ({{increase}}1.40)
|-
|2001
| 21,357
| {{increase}}223,983 ({{increase}}1.30)
|-
|2000
| 17,214
| {{increase}}206,037 ({{increase}}1.20)
|-
|1999
| 15,800
| {{increase}}185,890 ({{increase}}1.10)
|-
|1998
| 6,938
| {{increase}}156,260 ({{increase}}1.00)
|-
|1997
| 3,408
| {{increase}}97,563 ({{increase}}0.60)
|-
|1996
|
| {{decrease}}81,529 ({{Steady}}0.50)
|-
|1995
|
| {{decrease}}83,616 ({{decrease}}0.50)
|-
|1994
|
| {{decrease}}91,554 ({{decrease}}0.58)
|-
|1993
|
| {{increase}}99,280 ({{decrease}}0.64)
|-
|1992
|
| {{increase}}92,890 ({{increase}}0.69)
|-
|1991
|
| {{increase}}71,206 ({{increase}}0.58)
|-
|1990
|
| {{increase}}63,534 ({{increase}}0.46)
|-
|1989
|
| {{increase}}16,302 ({{increase}}0.11)
|-
|1988
|
|0 (0.00)
|}

===Financial performance===
Financial data of Lexus operations are not disclosed publicly.<ref name=amplify>{{cite web|url=https://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601101&sid=aJNPURUsO0Kg&refer=japan|title=Toyota's U.S. Pain Amplified by Falling Lexus Sales|publisher=Bloomberg|date=6 April 2009|last=Ohnsman|first=Alan|access-date=19 April 2009|archive-date=18 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200818000954/https://www.bloomberg.com/politics?pid=20601101&sid=aJNPURUsO0Kg&refer=japan|url-status=live}}</ref> However, automotive analysts estimate that the Lexus division contributes a disproportionate share of Toyota's profits, relative to its limited production and sales volume.<ref name=amplify/> Interviews with retired division officials indicate that depending on sales volume, vehicle [[product development]] cycles, and [[exchange rate]]s, Lexus sales have accounted for as much as half of Toyota's annual U.S. profit in certain years.<ref name=amplify/> Division executives have employed pricing strategies aimed at sustaining [[profit margin]]s rather than sales volume, with historically fewer price [[incentive]]s than rival brands.<ref name=amplify/> In 2006, Lexus entered Interbrand's list of the Top 100 Global Brands for the first time, with an estimated [[brand equity#Measurement|brand value]] of approximately $3 billion annually.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.interbrand.com/en/best-global-brands/best-global-brands-2008/best-global-brands-2006.aspx |title=The 100 Top Brands 2006 |year=2007 |work=Interbrand |access-date=20 September 2010 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100919163700/http://www.interbrand.com/en/best-global-brands/best-global-brands-2008/best-global-brands-2006.aspx |archive-date=19 September 2010}}</ref> In 2009, Interbrand ranked Lexus as Japan's seventh largest brand, between [[Panasonic]] and Nissan, based on revenue, earnings, and market value.<ref name=jbrand/>
{{clear}}

==Automobiles==

===Vehicle lineup===
{{further|List of Lexus vehicles}}
The global Lexus lineup features sedans of different size classes, including the [[Compact executive car|compact]] [[Lexus IS|IS]] model, [[Mid-size car|mid-size]] [[Lexus ES|ES]] models, and the [[Full-size car|full-size]] [[Lexus LS|LS]]. The 2-door coupe range consists of the [[Lexus RC|RC]] and the [[Lexus LC|LC]]. Former convertibles include the [[Lexus SC|SC]] and IS C models. Sport-utility vehicles range in size from the subcompact [[Lexus UX|UX]], compact [[Lexus NX|NX]] and mid-size [[Lexus RX|RX]] crossovers, to the full-size [[Lexus GX|GX]] and [[Lexus LX|LX]], the discontinued [[Lexus HS|HS]] and [[Lexus GS|GS]], and variants of the IS, ES, LS, RC, LC, LBX, UX, NX, RX, TX and LM.<ref name=plant/> The F marque line formerly produced a variant of the IS, GS and the [[Lexus LFA|LFA]] and currently produces a variant of the RC coupe.<ref name=plant/>

===F marque===
{{Further-text|[[Lexus F]] and [[Lexus F#F Sport|Lexus F-Sport]]}}
[[File:Lexus F-division logo.png|thumb|upright=0.9|[[Lexus F]] marque emblem|alt=Logo in the shape of the letter 'F'.]]
Lexus produces its highest-performance models under its F marque division.<ref name=F/> The name refers to Flagship and [[Fuji Speedway]] in Japan, whose first corner, 27R, inspired the shape of the "''F''" emblem.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.goauto.com.au/mellor/mellor.nsf/story2/EE775C71EC94A9A5CA257300001FC985 |title=IS-F, TRD power-plays |date=21 June 2007 |publisher=GoAuto |last1=Pettendy |first1=Marton |last2=Martin |first2=Terry |access-date=27 August 2007 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080906221018/https://www.goauto.com.au/mellor/mellor.nsf/story2/EE775C71EC94A9A5CA257300001FC985 |archive-date=6 September 2008}}</ref> F marque models are developed by the Lexus Vehicle Performance Development Division.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.automotorevue.cz/auto/svezli-jsme-se/lexus-is-f-japonsky-expres.html|title=Lexus IS F-Japonský expres|work=Automotorevue|access-date=1 October 2010|date=28 June 2008|language=cs|archive-date=7 October 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091007064809/http://www.automotorevue.cz/auto/svezli-jsme-se/lexus-is-f-japonsky-expres.html|url-status=live}}</ref> The first F marque model, the IS F, went on sale in 2007, followed by the LFA in 2009.<ref name=bwl/> A related [[Lexus F#F Sport|F-Sport]] performance trim level and factory-sanctioned accessory line is available for standard Lexus models such as the IS 250 and IS 350.<ref name="Ramsey"/> The F-Sport trim level commonly includes cosmetic upgrades to the exterior and interior, and in some vehicles, mechanical upgrades such as an adaptive variable suspension.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.autoweek.com/drives/a1934296/2014-lexus-drive-review/|title=2014 Lexus IS drive review|last=Vettraino|first=J.P.|access-date=24 May 2021|date=24 March 2013|newspaper=AutoWeek|archive-date=25 May 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210525202103/https://www.autoweek.com/drives/a1934296/2014-lexus-drive-review/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.automobilemag.com/news/2013-lexus-ls-first-look/|title=First Look: 2013 Lexus LS|last=McCausland|first=Evan|publisher=Automobile Magazine|date=31 July 2012|access-date=24 May 2021|archive-date=25 May 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210525202045/https://www.automobilemag.com/news/2013-lexus-ls-first-look/|url-status=live}}</ref> F-Sport succeeded an earlier in-house tuning effort, the [[Toyota Racing Development|TRD]]-based L-Tuned, which had offered performance packages on the IS and GS sedans in the early 2000s (decade).<ref>{{cite news |last=O'Dell |first=John |title=Toyota Turns Its Tuners Loose on the Lexus |work=The Los Angeles Times |date=23 February 2000}}</ref><ref>{{Harvnb|Long|2001|pp=186}}</ref>

Additions to the performance F Sport marque include the Lexus RC F Sport and Lexus GS F Sport and Lexus LS F Sport.<ref>{{cite web|title=The philosophy of Lexus 'F' models|url=http://blog.lexus.co.uk/2014/02/the-philosophy-of-lexus-f-models/|website=Lexus UK Blog|publisher=Lexus Blog|access-date=11 February 2015|archive-date=20 April 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140420063334/http://blog.lexus.co.uk/2014/02/the-philosophy-of-lexus-f-models/|url-status=dead}}</ref>

===Model nomenclature===
Lexus production models are named [[alphanumeric]]ally using two-letter designations followed by three digits. The first letter indicates relative status in the Lexus model range ([[ranking]]),<ref name=lnam>{{cite news|url=https://money.cnn.com/2004/09/07/pf/autos/car_name_decoder/|title=Car name decoder|date=11 September 2004|publisher=CNN|access-date=1 February 2009|last=Valdes-Dapena|first=Peter|archive-date=26 April 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210426132013/https://money.cnn.com/2004/09/07/pf/autos/car_name_decoder/|url-status=live}}</ref> and the second letter refers to [[car body style]] or type<ref name=lnam/> (e.g. LS for 'luxury sedan'). The three digits commonly indicate [[engine displacement]] in liters multiplied by a factor of one hundred (e.g. 350 for a 3.5 L engine),<ref name=lnam/> except in the case of turbocharged and hybrid vehicles, for which the digits correspond to the displacement of a [[naturally aspirated engine]] with equivalent output (on hybrids, the three digits refer to the combined gasoline-electric output).<ref name=hyh/><ref>{{cite web|url=https://abcnews.go.com/Business/story?id=5229039&page=1|access-date=24 May 2021|date=24 June 2008|publisher=USA Today|title=Test Drive: You will pay a lot, but Lexus 600h delivers|archive-date=25 May 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210525202554/https://abcnews.go.com/Business/story?id=5229039&page=1|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.autoguide.com/auto-news/2017/08/lexus-renames-its-models-because-bigger-is-better.html|last=Siu|first=Jason|access-date=24 May 2021|date=31 August 2017|publisher=AutoGuide|title=Lexus Renames Turbo IS and GS Because Bigger Is Better » AutoGuide.com News|archive-date=25 May 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210525202553/https://www.autoguide.com/auto-news/2017/08/lexus-renames-its-models-because-bigger-is-better.html|url-status=live}}</ref> A space is used between the letters and numbers. The same letter may be used differently depending on the model; 'S' can refer to 'sedan'<ref name=lnam/> or 'sport'<ref name=nihon>{{cite web|url=http://www.nihoncar.com/en/review-292-Lexus+IS250+Test+Drive,+HDTV.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090603165332/http://www.nihoncar.com/en/review-292-Lexus%2BIS250%2BTest%2BDrive%2C%2BHDTV.html |archive-date=3 June 2009 |title=Lexus IS250 Test Drive |publisher=Nihoncar.com |date=6 August 2006 |access-date=1 February 2009 |url-status=dead}}</ref> (e.g. in LS and SC), while 'X' refers to '[[sport utility vehicle|luxury utility vehicle]]' or SUV.<ref name=lnam/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.businessweek.com/autos/content/feb2007/bw20070214_857806.htm |title=Sales of Foreign Autos Climb |work=BusinessWeek |date=14 February 2007 |access-date=1 February 2009 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101126140347/http://www.businessweek.com/autos/content/feb2007/bw20070214_857806.htm |archive-date=26 November 2010}}</ref> For certain models, a [[lower case]] letter placed after the alphanumeric designation indicates powerplant type ('h' for hybrid, 'd' for diesel, 't' for turbocharged),<ref name=ukh/> while [[capital letter]](s) placed at the end indicates a class subtype (e.g. 'L' for long-wheelbase,<ref name=lown/> 'C' for coupe, 'AWD' for [[all-wheel drive]]). On F marque models, the two-letter designation and the letter 'F' are used with no numbers or hyphens (e.g. IS F).<ref name=ukh/>

==Design and technology==
[[File:Remote Touch lexus controller.jpg|right|thumb|Lexus [[Remote Touch]] controller|alt=Palmrest with forward buttons and movable control knob.]]

Lexus design has traditionally placed an emphasis on targeting specific vehicle development standards.<ref>{{Harvnb|Dawson|2004|p=33}}</ref> Since the marque's inception, design targets have ranged from aerodynamics and [[ride quality]] to interior ergonomics.<ref name=d68/><ref>{{Harvnb|Long|2001|pp=42–43}}</ref> The [[backronym]] "IDEAL" ("Impressive, Dynamic, Elegant, Advanced, and Lasting") is used in the development process.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://response.jp/issue/2005/0623/article71881_1.html|title=Lexus IS & GS news|publisher=Response.jp|access-date=20 May 2009|date=23 June 2005|language=ja|archive-date=28 August 2006|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060828115231/http://response.jp/issue/2005/0623/article71881_1.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Each vehicle is designed according to approximately 500 specific product standards, known as "Lexus Musts", on criteria such as [[leather]] seat stitching.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.autofieldguide.com/articles/100502.html |publisher=Automotive Design & Production |title=Introducing the '06 IS |last=Vasilash |first=Gary |year=2006 |access-date=6 May 2007 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090112164957/http://www.autofieldguide.com/articles/100502.html |archive-date=12 January 2009}}</ref><ref name=webcg>{{cite web|url=http://www.webcg.net/WEBCG/news/000016969.html|title=New Lexus GS, SC, IS released|language=ja|date=26 July 2005|publisher=WebCG|access-date=15 November 2010|last=Tamotsu|first=Yoshi|archive-date=6 March 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120306225047/http://www.webcg.net/WEBCG/news/000016969.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Design elements from the marque's concept vehicle line, the [[Lexus LF|LF series]] (including the 2003 [[Lexus LF-S|LF-S]] and 2004 [[Lexus LF-C|LF-C]]), have been incorporated in production models.<ref>{{Harvnb|Dawson|2004|p=206}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Geneva debut, Lexus finesses next IS sedan |work=[[Autoweek]] |date=7 March 2005}}</ref>

Vehicle cabins have incorporated [[electroluminescence|electroluminescent]] Optitron gauges,<ref name=d71>{{Harvnb|Dawson|2004|p=71}}</ref> SmartAccess, a [[advanced key|smart key]] entry and startup system,<ref name=tech/> and multimedia features. Beginning with the 2010 RX and HS models, the [[Remote Touch]] system, featuring a [[computer mouse]]-like controller with [[Haptic technology|haptic feedback]], was introduced;<ref name=hs/><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2817,2341432,00.asp|title=Hands On: Lexus' Remote Touch Beats iDrive|work=PC Magazine|access-date=24 February 2009|last=Howard|first=Bill|date=20 February 2009|archive-date=22 December 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171222220108/https://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2817,2341432,00.asp|url-status=live}}</ref> other models have featured [[touchscreen]] controls (through the 2009 model year) as a navigation screen interface.<ref name=tech>{{cite web|url=http://www.businessweek.com/magazine/content/07_30/b4043103.htm |title=One Long, Lean Lexus |date=23 July 2007 |work=BusinessWeek |access-date=19 June 2008 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080430193427/http://www.businessweek.com/magazine/content/07_30/b4043103.htm |archive-date=30 April 2008}}</ref> 2014 saw the introduction of the next version of Lexus' remote-touch innovations—the Remote Touch Interface Touchpad in the new [[Lexus RC|RC Coupe]].<ref>{{cite press release |url=http://drivers.lexus.com/lexusdrivers/magazine/articles/Vehicle-Insider/Touch-and-Go |title=New Feature: the Remote Touch Interface Touchpad |first1=Brian |last1=Gill |first2=Kevin |last2=Watts |publisher=Lexus |location=US |date=31 March 2014 |access-date=8 November 2015 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160101061338/http://drivers.lexus.com/lexusdrivers/magazine/articles/Vehicle-Insider/Touch-and-Go |archive-date=1 January 2016}}</ref>

In 1989, Lexus became among the first premium car marques to equip models with premium audio systems, in partnership with stereo firm [[Nakamichi]].<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.nytimes.com/1989/06/11/business/what-s-new-in-car-stereos-in-the-auto-sound-race-detroit-speeds-ahead.html|title=What's New in Car Stereos|work=The New York Times|access-date=20 May 2009|last=Bloom|first=Craig|date=11 June 1989|archive-date=28 January 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210128204224/https://www.nytimes.com/1989/06/11/business/what-s-new-in-car-stereos-in-the-auto-sound-race-detroit-speeds-ahead.html|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name=caud>{{cite web|url=http://www.laaudiofile.com/newcar.html|title=Surveying The Best New Car Sound Systems|last=Nakano|first=Roy|publisher=LA Car|year=2004|access-date=6 May 2007|archive-date=21 April 2007|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070421072807/http://www.laaudiofile.com/newcar.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Since 2001, optional [[surround sound]] systems are offered via [[high-end audio]] purveyor [[Mark Levinson Audio Systems|Mark Levinson]].<ref name=caud/> For reduced cabin noise, the first LS 400 introduced sandwich [[steel]] plating,<ref name=d71/> and later models added [[Insulated glazing#Acoustic insulation|acoustic glass]].<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/servlet/story/RTGAM.20050224.wxwhhybrids24/BNStory/specialMegawheels/|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090116181359/http://www.theglobeandmail.com/servlet/story/RTGAM.20050224.wxwhhybrids24/BNStory/specialMegawheels/ |archive-date=16 January 2009 |title=Lexus RX 400h review update|date=24 February 2005|work=The Globe and Mail|last=Cato|first=Jeremy|access-date=19 June 2008|location=Toronto}}</ref> In 2006, the LS 460 debuted the first ceiling [[air diffuser]]s and [[infrared]] body temperature sensors in a car.<ref name=sae/><ref name=wcoty>{{cite web|url=http://www.wcoty.com/media/?release=32&year=2007|title=Lexus LS 460 – WCOTY|access-date=8 April 2007|publisher=World Car of the Year|date=5 April 2007|archive-date=13 May 2007|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070513172536/http://www.wcoty.com/media/?release=32&year=2007|url-status=live}}</ref> [[Telematics]] services include [[G-Book]] with [[G-Book#G-Link|G-Link]] in Asia and [[Safety Connect|Lexus Enform]] in North America.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.webcg.net/WEBCG/news/n0000020373.html|title=Toyota expand telematics services in North America|publisher=WebCG|language=ja|access-date=20 April 2010|date=9 January 2009|archive-date=6 March 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120306225026/http://www.webcg.net/WEBCG/news/n0000020373.html|url-status=live}}</ref>

[[File:Lexus IS F 08.JPG|left|thumb|Eight-speed automatic transmission in the IS F and [[Lexus LS (XF40)|LS 460 Sport]]|alt=Cutaway car transmission, with exposed gears and internal machinery.]]

In 2006, Lexus incorporated the first production eight-speed [[automatic transmission]] in an automobile with the LS 460,<ref name=sae/> and the gearbox was later adapted for the GS 460 and IS F models. [[Continuously variable transmission]]s, [[regenerative brake]]s, and electric motors have been used on all Lexus hybrid models.<ref name=hyh/> In 2007, Lexus executives signaled intentions to equip further models with hybrid powertrains,<ref name=ukh>{{cite web|url=http://www.motortrader.com/industry-news/archives/24829-lexus-plans-for-growth-on-the-back-of-its-hybrid-models.html |title=Lexus GB plans for growth on the back of its hybrid models |publisher=Motortrader |access-date=18 April 2007 |date=18 April 2007 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090917114124/http://www.motortrader.com/industry-news/archives/24829-lexus-plans-for-growth-on-the-back-of-its-hybrid-models.html |archive-date=17 September 2009}}</ref> catering to demands for a decrease in both [[pollution|carbon pollution]] and [[Oil depletion|oil reliance]].<ref name=ph>{{cite web|url=https://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=newsarchive&sid=ai1kb.oIY_nE|title=Toyota's Lexus May Add High-Performance U.S. Hybrids|date=27 September 2007|publisher=Bloomberg|last=Ohnsman|first=Alan|access-date=28 September 2007|archive-date=2 November 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121102191810/http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=newsarchive&sid=ai1kb.oIY_nE|url-status=live}}</ref> Hybrid models have been differentiated by separate badging and lighting technology; in 2008, the LS 600h L became the first production vehicle to use [[Light-emitting diode|LED]] [[LED headlamp|headlamps]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://compoundsemiconductor.net/cws/article/news/26866 |title=Lexus is first to deploy LED-based car headlamps|publisher=Compound Semiconductor|date=19 January 2007|access-date=8 July 2010 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20080320051414/http://compoundsemiconductor.net/cws/article/news/26866 |archive-date=20 March 2008}}</ref>

Safety features on Lexus models range from stability and handling programs ([[Electronic stability control|Vehicle Stability Control]] and [[Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management]])<ref name=safety>{{cite news|url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/auto/lexus-takes-a-new-design-direction/article306040/|title=Lexus takes new design direction|date=9 December 2004|work=The Globe and Mail|last=Law|first=Alex|access-date=8 June 2009|location=Toronto|archive-date=31 July 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090731161644/http://www.theglobeandmail.com/auto/lexus-takes-a-new-design-direction/article306040/|url-status=live}}</ref> to backup cameras, swivel headlights, and sonar warning systems. The [[Precrash system|Lexus Pre-Collision System]] (PCS) integrates multiple safety systems.<ref name=safety/> In 2007, Lexus introduced the first car safety systems with infrared and pedestrian detection capabilities, [[lane departure warning system|lane keep assist]], a [[Driver Monitoring System]] with [[facial recognition system|facial recognition]] monitoring of driver attentiveness, and rear pre-collision [[whiplash (medicine)|whiplash]] protection, as part of the LS 460 PCS.<ref name=sae>{{cite press release |url=http://www.sae.org/servlets/pressRoom?OBJECT_TYPE=PressReleases&PAGE=showRelease&RELEASE_ID=548 |title=Automotive Engineering International – LS 460 2007 Best Engineered Vehicle |work=Society of Automotive Engineers |location=US |publisher=SAE International |date=10 April 2007 |access-date=6 May 2007 |archive-date=5 February 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160205165325/http://www.sae.org/servlets/pressRoom?OBJECT_TYPE=PressReleases&PAGE=showRelease&RELEASE_ID=548 |url-status=live }}</ref> As a safety precaution, Lexus [[Automotive navigation system|GPS navigation systems]] in many regions feature a motion lockout when the vehicle reaches a set speed; to prevent distraction, navigation inputs are limited, while voice input and certain buttons are still accessible. This safety feature has attracted criticism because passengers cannot use certain functions when the vehicle is in motion.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.csmonitor.com/2004/0806/p01s01-usgn.html|title=New peril in driver's seat|date=6 August 2004|work=The Christian Science Monitor|last=Evarts|first=Eric|access-date=1 October 2007|archive-date=7 May 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210507041211/https://www.csmonitor.com/2004/0806/p01s01-usgn.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Pre-2007 models came with a hidden manufacturer override option,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wikihow.com/Override-Lexus-Navigation-Motion-Lock|title=How to Override Lexus Navigation Motion Lock|year=2007|publisher=WikiHow|access-date=28 September 2007|archive-date=1 July 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210701035108/https://www.wikihow.com/Override-Lexus-Navigation-Motion-Lock|url-status=live}}</ref> and updated European models allow operation in motion.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.lexus-mapupdates.eu/|title=LEXUS Navigation Map Updates|year=2010|publisher=Lexus Europe|access-date=15 May 2010|archive-date=6 May 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210506160341/https://www.lexus-mapupdates.eu/|url-status=live}}</ref>

[[File:Lexus LS 600h L powertrain cutaway.jpg|thumb|2006 [[Lexus LS (XF40)|LS 600h]] and LS 600h L in hybrid form|alt=Cutaway hybrid car showing electrical connections; auto show display backdrop.]]

Production models in development have included convertibles, crossovers, and dedicated hybrids.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.autoweek.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20060815/FREE/60814017/1041|title=Future Products – Lexus|date=15 August 2006|work=AutoWeek|access-date=6 May 2007|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110629013744/http://www.autoweek.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=%2F20060815%2FFREE%2F60814017%2F1041|archive-date=29 June 2011|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref name=wings>{{cite web|url=http://www.goauto.com.au/mellor/mellor.nsf/story2/59D124ADF8528A6CCA2572C90016B851 |title=Future Models – Lexus to spread its wings |date=26 April 2007 |publisher=GoAuto |last1=Mathioudakis |first1=Byron |last2=Pettendy |first2=Marton |access-date=1 October 2007 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071013104946/http://goauto.com.au/mellor/mellor.nsf/story2/59D124ADF8528A6CCA2572C90016B851 |archive-date=13 October 2007}}</ref> Under the F marque, Lexus plans to produce high-performance vehicles with its first expressions being the IS F and the LFA. Lexus officials have also discussed standard production model usage of varying [[Automobile platform|platforms]].<ref>{{cite news |last=Johnson |first=Drew |date=1 May 2009 |title=Leaked image reveals 2010 Lexus ES |work=Leftlane News }}</ref> The LS uses a dedicated platform,<ref name=m31/> while the entry-level Lexus ES had been criticized for being too similar to the Toyota Camry, with which it shared platforms until its sixth generation,<ref name="2013es"/> in both styling and powertrain design.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://cars.ign.com/articles/607/607487p1.html |title=IGN Car Review – 2005 Lexus ES 330 |date=25 April 2005 |website=IGN.com |last=Kaehler |first=Justin |access-date=1 October 2007 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060115093934/http://cars.ign.com/articles/607/607487p1.html |archive-date=15 January 2006}}</ref> The [[Nürburgring]] test track in Germany has also seen Lexus prototype testing.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.leftlanenews.com/lexus-lf-a-caught-in-testing-on-nurburgring-circuit.html|title=Lexus LF-A caught in testing on Nurburgring circuit|date=31 October 2005|publisher=Leftlane News|access-date=1 October 2007|archive-date=22 December 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171222220150/http://www.leftlanenews.com/lexus-lf-a-caught-in-testing-on-nurburgring-circuit.html|url-status=live}}</ref>

===L-finesse===
{{see also|Lexus LF}}
Lexus introduced a new [[design language]] known as "L-finesse" in the mid-2000s with its LF series concepts and the 2006 Lexus GS.<ref name=lfin>{{cite web|url=http://car-reviews.automobile.com/news/lexus-l-finesse-design-analysis-is-is-it/1450/|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110707191605/http://www.automobile.com/lexus-l-finesse-design-analysis-is-is-it.html |archive-date=7 July 2011|title=Lexus L-Finesse Design Analysis: IS is IT!|last=Yarkony|first=Jonathan|date=26 September 2005|publisher=American Auto Press|access-date=6 May 2007}}</ref><ref name=lap>{{cite web|url=http://www.automobear.com/WhatThe2006LexusISIsAndIsnt.html |title=What the 2006 Lexus IS is, and isn't |publisher=AutomoBear.com |date=7 March 2005 |access-date=6 May 2007 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060426182338/http://www.automobear.com/WhatThe2006LexusISIsAndIsnt.html |archive-date=26 April 2006}}</ref> L-finesse is represented by three Japanese [[kanji]] characters which translate as "Intriguing Elegance, Incisive Simplicity, and Seamless Anticipation".<ref name=lap/> Design characteristics, including a [[fastback]] profile, lower-set [[Grille (car)|grille]],<ref name=own>{{cite news |last=Rechtin |first=Mark |title=Lexus Finally Gets a Design of its Own |work=Automotive News |date=27 October 2003}}</ref> and the use of both convex and concave surfaces,<ref name=own/> are derived from Japanese cultural motifs (e.g. the phrase ''[[kirikaeshi]]'' in arrowhead shapes).<ref>{{cite news |last=Morrison |first=Mac. |title=Mountain Climber: Lexus unveils the next IS sport sedan |work=AutoWeek |date=21 March 2005}}</ref> While earlier Lexus models were criticized for reserved and derivative styling, and often mistaken for understated domestic market cars,<ref name=own/> [[automotive design]] analyses described L-finesse as adding a distinctive nature and embrace of Japanese design identity.<ref name=lfin/><ref name=lap/>

Opinions varied for L-finesse's debut on the GS; ''[[Sports Car International]]''{{'s}} analysis praised the vehicle's in-person appearance;<ref>Coates, Del. Design Matters. Sports Car International, 2005–09.</ref> ''Automobile Magazine'' criticized the daring of its forward styling,<ref>Cumberford, Robert. Not There Yet But Getting Closer. Automobile Magazine. (2004–05).</ref> and compared subsequent rival models for design similarities.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.automobilemag.com/reviews/jaguar/2009_jaguar_xf/index.html |title=2009 Jaguar XF – Design |year=2007 |work=Automobile Magazine |last=Conway |first=Gavin |access-date=1 October 2007 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071015063427/http://www.automobilemag.com/reviews/jaguar/2009_jaguar_xf/index.html |archive-date=15 October 2007}}</ref> In 2012, the arrival of the redesigned fourth generation Lexus GS featured the introduction of a spindle-shaped grille design, intended to be used on all forthcoming Lexus models.<ref name=nagoya/> L-finesse exhibitions were presented at [[Milan]]'s [[Salone del Mobile]] from 2005 through 2009.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.greencardesign.co.uk/site/item.php?id=1209596679&category=city_watch&subcat=|title=Milan Design Week '08 Auto|date=30 April 2008|publisher=Green Car Design|access-date=25 December 2008|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120803044610/http://www.greencardesign.co.uk/site/item.php?id=1209596679&category=city_watch&subcat=|archive-date=3 August 2012}}</ref>
{{clear}}

==Production==

===Assembly plants===
[[File:Lexus Automobile Lineup 2007.jpg|thumb|Lexus models produced by the Tahara plant in [[Aichi Prefecture|Aichi]], Japan|alt=Car showroom displaying three sedans, the nearest on a glass turntable, in front of a reception counter and windows.]]

The first Lexus vehicles were manufactured in Toyota's [[Tahara plant]], a computerized manufacturing plant in Japan.<ref name=plant/><ref>Tierney, Christine (2004-02-22). "Robot-filled Tahara sets standard for Toyota, World".<!--detnews.com/2004/specialreport/0402/22/a15-70498.htm.-->''Detroit News''. Retrieved on 2007-05-06.</ref> Through the 2000s, most Lexus sedan and SUV production has occurred in Japan at the Tahara plant in Aichi and the Miyata plant in Fukuoka.<ref name=nk/><ref name=plant/> In addition to the Tahara factory, over time Lexus vehicles have been produced at the Miyata plant ([[Toyota Motor Kyushu]]) in [[Miyawaka, Fukuoka]]; the Higashi-Fuji plant ([[Kanto Auto Works]]) in [[Susono, Shizuoka]]; and the Yoshiwara plant ([[Araco]], later [[Toyota Auto Body]]) in [[Toyota City]], Aichi.<ref name=nk/><ref name=plant>{{cite web|url=http://lexus.com/about/corporate/manufacturing.html|title=Lexus Manufacturing|publisher=Lexus.com|access-date=6 May 2007|archive-date=6 May 2007|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070506013055/http://www.lexus.com/about/corporate/manufacturing.html|url-status=dead}}</ref> [[Front-wheel drive]] cars, such as the ES and HS, have been produced in the [[Fukuoka Prefecture]].<ref name=plant/>

Toyota Motor Kyushu's Kokura plant in [[Kitakyushu|Kitakyushu, Fukuoka]], which opened in 2008, is a dedicated hybrid production site for hybrid systems used in Lexus models such as the gasoline-electric RX.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.allcarselectric.com/blog/1020282_pockets-not-allowed-at-lexus-hybrid-plant|title=Pockets Not Allowed At Lexus Hybrid Plant|work=All Cars Electric|access-date=1 October 2010|last=Loveday|first=Eric|date=27 April 2009|archive-date=4 June 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090604070510/http://www.allcarselectric.com/blog/1020282_pockets-not-allowed-at-lexus-hybrid-plant|url-status=live}}</ref> The North American–market RX 350 (since the 2004 model year) is produced at the Cambridge plant (Toyota Canada, Inc.) in the city of [[Cambridge, Ontario|Cambridge]], in Ontario, Canada, which is the first Lexus production site located outside Japan. In late 2015, Lexus started to assemble North American-spec ES 350 sedans at the Georgetown plant ([[Toyota Motor Manufacturing Kentucky|TMMK, Inc.]]).<ref>{{Cite web|title = Georgetown Toyota plant debuts new Lexus line with 3,000 employees, Kentucky officials|url = http://www.kentucky.com/2015/10/19/4095118/georgetown-toyota-plant-debuts.html|website = Kentucky.com|access-date = 9 November 2015|first = Cheryl|last = Truman|archive-date = 22 October 2015|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20151022202126/http://www.kentucky.com/2015/10/19/4095118/georgetown-toyota-plant-debuts.html|url-status = live}}</ref> In January 2020, [[Toyota Kirloskar Motor]] of India started assembling the ES sedan in its Bidadi plant. Toyota planned to produce Lexus-branded EVs in its [[Shanghai]] factory beginning in 2027, which will be wholly-owned (the second after [[Tesla, Inc.|Tesla]]'s [[Gigafactory Shanghai]] and the first by a Japanese automaker).<ref>{{cite news |last=Miao |first=Liu |date=2025-04-22 |title=Toyota signs agreement with Shanghai: wholly-owned Lexus EV factory to begin production in 2027 |url=https://carnewschina.com/2025/04/22/toyota-signs-agreement-with-shanghai-wholly-owned-lexus-ev-factory-to-begin-production-in-2027/ |website=CarNewsChina |publisher=CarNewsChina |access-date=2025-04-23}}</ref>

Relative to Toyota models, Lexus vehicles are built according to different [[quality control]] standards,<ref name=d88>{{Harvnb|Dawson|2004|pp=pp. 88–94}}</ref><ref>{{Harvnb|Mahler|2004|p=90}}</ref> including more stringent [[body panel]] fit tolerances and paint quality requirements.<ref name=d88/><ref>{{cite news|url=https://query.nytimes.com/gst/fullpage.html?res=9C0CE6DE163EF930A35752C0A966958260&sec=&spon=&pagewanted=1|title=Japan's Luxury-Car Gains Pose New Threat to Rivals|date=3 January 1990|work=The New York Times|last=Sanger|first=David|access-date=19 June 2008}}</ref> Their manufacture involves different [[assembly line]]s, molds, [[welding]] processes, and manufacturing equipment.<ref name=autogenerated1>{{Harvnb|Dawson|2004|pp=88–95}}</ref><ref name=m78>{{Harvnb|Mahler|2004|p=78}}</ref> Lexus plant workers also undergo a more selective screening process.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.iht.com/articles/ap/2007/06/29/business/AS-FIN-Japan-Toyota-Lexus.php |title=At Lexus 'dojo' plant workers train on virtues to keep up quality, build elite team |date=28 June 2007 |agency=Associated Press |last=Kageyama |first=Yuri |access-date=26 August 2007 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071013105731/http://iht.com/articles/ap/2007/06/29/business/AS-FIN-Japan-Toyota-Lexus.php |archive-date=13 October 2007}}</ref><ref name=lown/> Production vehicles are given visual inspections for flaws, individually test-driven at high speeds, and subjected to [[vibration]] tests.<ref name=d88/>

{| class="wikitable"
|+ Assembly sites by model<ref name=nk/><ref name=plant/>
|-
! Plant || Owner || Location 
!Country|| Model(s)
|-
|Tahara||Toyota Motor Corp.||[[Tahara, Aichi|Tahara]], [[Aichi Prefecture]]
| rowspan="7" |[[Japan]]||[[Lexus LS|LS]], [[Lexus GS|GS]], [[Lexus IS|IS]], [[Lexus GX|GX]], [[Lexus RC|RC]], [[Lexus NX|NX]], [[Lexus LM|LM]]
|-
|Tsutsumi||Toyota Motor Corp.||[[Toyota, Aichi|Toyota City]], [[Aichi Prefecture]]||[[Lexus ES|ES]]
|-
|Kokura||Toyota Motor Kyushu, Inc.||[[Kitakyushu]], [[Fukuoka Prefecture]]||[[Lexus CT|CT]], [[Lexus HS|HS]], [[Lexus RX|RX]]
|-
|Miyata ||Toyota Motor Kyushu, Inc.||[[Miyawaka, Fukuoka|Miyawaka]], [[Fukuoka Prefecture]]||[[Lexus ES|ES]], [[Lexus IS|IS]], [[Lexus RX|RX]], [[Lexus NX|NX]], [[Lexus UX|UX]]
|-
|Motomachi||Toyota Motor Corp.||[[Toyota, Aichi|Toyota City]], [[Aichi Prefecture]]||[[Lexus LFA|LFA]], [[Lexus LC|LC]], [[Lexus RZ|RZ]]
|-
|Higashi Fuji ||Kanto Auto Works, Ltd.||[[Susono, Shizuoka|Susono]], [[Shizuoka Prefecture]]||[[Lexus SC|SC]]
|-
|Yoshiwara ||Toyota Auto Body Corp.||[[Toyota, Aichi|Toyota City]], [[Aichi Prefecture]]||[[Lexus LX|LX]]
|-
|Cambridge ||[[Toyota Motor Manufacturing Canada]]||[[Cambridge, Ontario|Cambridge]], [[Ontario]]
|[[Canada]]||[[Lexus RX|RX, RXh]], [[Lexus NX|NX]]
|-
|Georgetown ||[[Toyota Motor Manufacturing Kentucky]]||[[Georgetown, Kentucky]]
| rowspan="2" |[[United States]]||[[Lexus ES|ES]]
|-
|Princeton ||[[Toyota Motor Manufacturing Indiana]]||[[Princeton, Indiana]]||[[Lexus TX|TX]]
|-
|Bidadi ||[[Toyota Kirloskar Motor]]||[[Bidadi|Bidadi, Karnataka]]
|[[India]]||[[Lexus ES|ES]]
|-
|Shanghai ||Toyota Motor Corp.||[[Jinshan, Shanghai]]
|[[China]]||Future EVs
|}

===Quality rankings===
In the 2000s (decade), ''[[Consumer Reports]]'' named Lexus among the top five most reliable brands in its Annual Car Reliability Surveys of over one million vehicles across the U.S.<ref name=cd06>{{cite press release |url=http://www.consumerreports.org/cro/cu-press-room/pressroom/archive/2006/04/eng0604rel.htm |title=Consumer Reports Annual Survey Ranks Lexus First in Predicted Reliability for 2006 Models |date=March 2006 |access-date=12 July 2010 |work=Consumer Reports |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080406054103/http://www.consumerreports.org/cro/cu-press-room/pressroom/archive/2006/04/eng0604rel.htm |archive-date=6 April 2008}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.nbcnews.com/id/wbna27341890|title=Scion Tops Consumer Reports Reliability Study|date=March 2008|access-date=23 October 2008|agency=Associated Press|archive-date=23 September 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200923224436/http://www.nbcnews.com/id/27341890|url-status=live}}</ref>
{{clear}}

==Service==
[[File:Lexus of Sapporo.jpg|thumb|Lexus dealership showroom in [[Sapporo]], [[Hokkaido]], Japan|alt=Car showroom with a coupe, two sedans, glass windows, plus large sign reading "Lexus".]]

Lexus has become known for efforts to provide an upscale image, particularly with service provided after the sale. The waiting areas in service departments are replete with amenities, ranging from refreshment bars to indoor [[putting green]]s.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2007/12/12/AR2007121200142_pf.html|title=Amenities Enliven Auto Dealerships|date=12 December 2007|agency=Associated Press|last=Sainz|first=Adrian|access-date=19 June 2008|newspaper=The Washington Post|archive-date=23 December 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171223102443/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2007/12/12/AR2007121200142_pf.html|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name=nex>{{cite news|url=https://www.forbes.com/forbes/2004/0621/068.html|title=The Lexus Nexus|date=21 June 2004|work=Forbes|last=Fahey|first=Jonathan|access-date=19 June 2008|archive-date=3 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200803060227/https://www.forbes.com/forbes/2004/0621/068.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Dealerships typically offer complimentary loaner cars or "courtesy cars" and free [[car wash]]es,<ref name=nex/> and some have added on-site cafes and designer boutiques.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ocregister.com/ocregister/homepage/abox/article_897974.php|title=Luxury battle looming|date=17 December 2006|last=Gittelsohn|first=John|work=The Orange County Register|access-date=6 May 2007|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070930183553/http://www.ocregister.com/ocregister/homepage/abox/article_897974.php|archive-date=30 September 2007}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.signonsandiego.com/uniontrib/20060720/news_1mi20lexus.html|title=Lexus airs plans for an eatery, fountains|last=Lee|first=Booyeon|date=20 July 2006|work=The San Diego Union-Tribune|access-date=6 May 2007|archive-date=18 August 2007|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070818145508/http://www.signonsandiego.com/uniontrib/20060720/news_1mi20lexus.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Service bays are lined with large [[picture window]]s for owners to watch the servicing of their vehicle.<ref>{{Harvnb|Dawson|2004|p=122}}</ref> In 2005, Lexus also began reserving [[parking lot]]s at major sporting arenas, entertainment events, and shopping malls, with the only requirement for free entry being the ownership of a Lexus vehicle.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.businessweek.com/magazine/content/05_29/c3943008_mz003.htm#ZZZEW0N2VAE|title=The Real Reason To Buy A Lexus|last=Gerdes|first=Lindsey|work=BusinessWeek|date=18 July 2005|access-date=6 May 2007|archive-date=24 May 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110524194044/http://www.businessweek.com/magazine/content/05_29/c3943008_mz003.htm#ZZZEW0N2VAE|url-status=dead}}</ref> An online owner publication, ''Lexus Magazine'',<ref>{{cite web|url=http://lexus.com/magazine/ |title=Lexus magazine |date=22 March 2010 |publisher=Story Worldwide |access-date=22 March 2010 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081206005212/http://www.lexus.com/magazine/ |archive-date=6 December 2008}}</ref> features automotive and lifestyle articles and is published online monthly<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.dmnews.com/Lexus-revamps-branded-magazine-and-Web-site/article/108558/|title=Lexus revamps branded magazine and Web site|date=1 April 2008|last=Bell|first=Lauren|publisher=DMNews|access-date=25 December 2008|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080913175444/http://www.dmnews.com/Lexus-revamps-branded-magazine-and-Web-site/article/108558/|archive-date=13 September 2008|url-status=dead}}</ref> and on a mobile site.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://m.lexus.com/magazine |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120731204216/http://m.lexus.com/magazine |url-status=dead |archive-date=31 July 2012 |title=Lexus magazine mobile |date=15 April 2010 |publisher=Story Worldwide |access-date=22 March 2010 }}</ref>

Since 2002, Lexus has scored consecutive top ratings in the ''[[Auto Express]]''<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.motortrader.com/industry-news/24880-lexus-car-dealers-are-britains-best.html |title=Lexus car dealers are Britain's best |publisher=Motortrader |date=27 April 2007 |access-date=6 May 2007 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090503210205/http://www.motortrader.com/industry-news/24880-lexus-car-dealers-are-britains-best.html |archive-date=3 May 2009}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.autoexpress.co.uk/carreviews/driver_power_2007/207909/lexus_rx.html|title=Auto Express Driver Power 2007 Survey|date=March 2007|work=Auto Express|access-date=18 September 2007|archive-date=20 June 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120620125441/http://www.autoexpress.co.uk/carreviews/driver_power_2007/207909/lexus_rx.html|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Best car manufacturers 2019 |url=https://www.autoexpress.co.uk/best-cars/driver-power/91289/best-car-manufacturers-2019 |website=[[Auto Express]] |access-date=25 June 2019 |archive-date=3 October 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191003224558/https://www.autoexpress.co.uk/best-cars/driver-power/91289/best-car-manufacturers-2019 |url-status=live }}</ref> and 76,000-respondent ''[[Top Gear (magazine)|Top Gear]]'' customer satisfaction surveys in the UK.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.topgear.com/content/features/stories/2005/11/stories/01/3.html |title=Top Gear Survey 2005 |date=1 November 2005 |work=Top Gear |access-date=6 May 2007 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070427105753/http://www.topgear.com/content/features/stories/2005/11/stories/01/3.html |archive-date=27 April 2007 |url-status=dead}}</ref> Lexus has also repeatedly topped the [[The Luxury Institute|Luxury Institute]], New York surveys in the U.S.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.theautochannel.com/news/2006/01/19/207880.html|title=Wealthy Rate Lexus #1 in Customer Experience|date=19 January 2006|publisher=The Luxury Institute|access-date=6 May 2007|archive-date=2 January 2007|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070102072200/http://www.theautochannel.com/news/2006/01/19/207880.html|url-status=live}}</ref> To improve customer service, employees are instructed to follow the "Lexus Covenant", the marque's founding promise (which states that "Lexus will treat each customer as we would a guest in our home"),<ref>{{Harvnb|Mahler|2004|p=61}}</ref> and some dealerships have incorporated training at upscale establishments such as [[Nordstrom]] department stores and [[Ritz-Carlton]] hotels.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://wardsdealer.com/ar/auto_lexus_kicks_service/|title=Lexus Kicks Up Service|publisher=Ward's Dealer|last=Schweinsberg|first=Christie|date=1 September 2005|access-date=8 June 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110719225112/http://wardsdealer.com/ar/auto_lexus_kicks_service/|archive-date=19 July 2011|url-status=dead}}</ref>

==Motorsport==
[[File:Lexus LFAs 24h-Rennen Nürburgring 2010.jpg|thumb|Lexus campaigned at the [[24 Hours Nürburgring]].|alt=Forward view of two racecars on a curved section of racetrack.]]

Lexus first entered the motorsport arena in 1999 when its racing unit, Team Lexus,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.motorsport.com/news/article.asp?ID=210355&FS=ALMS-LEMANS|title=Team Lexus driver line-up announced|publisher=Motorsport.com|date=21 February 2006|access-date=20 May 2009|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110606123154/http://www.motorsport.com/news/article.asp?ID=210355&FS=ALMS-LEMANS|archive-date=6 June 2011}}
</ref> fielded two GS 400 race vehicles in the [[List of motorsport championships#Touring car|Motorola Cup]] North American Street Stock Championship [[Touring car racing|touring car]] series. In its 1999 inaugural season, Team Lexus achieved its first victory with its sixth race at [[Road Atlanta]].<ref name=tlex>{{cite web|url=http://www.teamlexus.com/team_stats.htm |title=Team Lexus Stats|year=2006|publisher=Team Lexus|access-date=6 May 2007 |url-status=usurped |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20070821224559/http://www.teamlexus.com/team_stats.htm |archive-date=21 August 2007}}</ref> Led by [[Sports Car Club of America]] and [[International Motor Sports Association]] driver Chuck Goldsborough, based in [[Baltimore, Maryland]],<ref name=lawson>{{cite web|url=http://www.crash.net/MotoGP/News/72072/1/lawson_to_race_lexus.html|title=Lawson to race Lexus|publisher=Crash.net|access-date=20 May 2009|date=29 April 2003|archive-date=5 June 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130605183606/http://www.crash.net/MotoGP/News/72072/1/lawson_to_race_lexus.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Team Lexus capitalized on the debut of the first generation Lexus IS by entering three IS 300s in the third race of the 2001 [[Grand-Am Cup]] season at [[Phoenix, Arizona]].<ref name=va>{{cite web|url=http://www.motorsport.com/news/article.asp?ID=69033&FS=GRANDAM*|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090815042225/http://www.motorsport.com/news/article.asp?ID=69033&FS=GRANDAM*|url-status=dead|archive-date=15 August 2009|title=Lexus Virginia Festival of Speed race report|publisher=Motorsport.com|access-date=20 May 2009|date=1 July 2001}}</ref> Team Lexus won its first IS 300 victory that year at the [[Virginia International Raceway]].<ref name=va/> In 2002, Team Lexus' competitive efforts in the Grand-Am Cup ST1 ([[KONI Sports Car Challenge#Vehicles|Street Tuner]]) class achieved victories in the Drivers' and Team Championships,<ref name=tlex/><ref name=lawson/> as well as a sweep of the top three finishes at [[Circuit Mont-Tremblant]] in [[Quebec]], Canada.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.motorsport.com/news/article.asp?ID=106126&FS=GRANDAM*|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090815042220/http://www.motorsport.com/news/article.asp?ID=106126&FS=GRANDAM*|url-status=dead|archive-date=15 August 2009|title=Grand-Am arrives at historic Mont-Tremblant|publisher=Motorsport.com|access-date=20 May 2009|date=13 September 2002}}</ref>

After the release of the Lexus brand in the Japanese domestic market in 2005, Lexus sanctioned the entry of four SC 430 coupes in the [[Super GT]] series of the [[All Japan Grand Touring Car Championship]] in the [[Super GT#GT500|GT500]] class. In the first race of the 2006 series, an SC 430 took the chequered flag,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.webcg.net/WEBCG/news/000017960.html|title=Debut win for Lexus SC 430|publisher=WebCG|date=20 March 2006|access-date=3 April 2012|language=ja|last=Shimamura |first=Motoko}}</ref> and drivers [[André Lotterer]] and [[Juichi Wakisaka]] raced the SC 430 to capture the GT500 championship for that year.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://response.jp/article/2006/11/06/88050.html|title=Lexus SC 430 title in final race|publisher=Response.jp|access-date=3 April 2012|date=6 November 2006|language=ja|last=Takagi|first=Kay|archive-date=17 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200817125926/https://response.jp/article/2006/11/06/88050.html|url-status=live}}</ref> In 2007, another SC 430 won the GT500 opening round race.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.247motoring.com/article.php?id=1660 |title=Super GT Rd. 1 Suzuka Race Results |date=22 March 2007 |publisher=247Motoring.com |access-date=6 May 2007 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070927030145/http://www.247motoring.com/article.php?id=1660 |archive-date=27 September 2007}}</ref> In 2006, Lexus raced a hybrid vehicle for the first time, entering a GS 450h performance hybrid sedan in partnership with [[SARD|Sigma Advanced Racing Development]] at the 24 Hours of Tokachi race in [[Hokkaido]], Japan.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://response.jp/issue/2006/0718/article83972_1.html|title=Lexus GS 450h in 24 Hours of Tokachi|language=ja|publisher=Response.jp|access-date=20 May 2009|date=18 July 2006|archive-date=28 September 2008|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080928104715/http://response.jp/issue/2006/0718/article83972_1.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Lexus Canada also entered the GS 450h in 2007's [[Targa Newfoundland]] event.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.yorkregion.com/Leisure/article/44774|title=Lexus tests hybrid power|year=2007|last=Robinson|first=Beintema|publisher=York Region|access-date=22 June 2008|archive-date=26 June 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120626185755/http://www.yorkregion.com/Leisure/article/44774|url-status=live}}</ref> In 2009, Lexus Super GT Team SC 430 and IS 350 racers won the GT500 and GT300 championships, respectively.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://ww2.supergt.net/gtcgi/prg/NList02.dll/Code?No=NS014459&List=13 |title=SUPER GT top rankers awarded at JAF Awards presentation |publisher=SuperGT.net |access-date=12 January 2010 |date=28 November 2009 }}{{dead link|date=May 2016|bot=medic}}{{cbignore|bot=medic}}</ref>

[[File:Lexus Rolex 24 Racing Ganassi racer.jpg|thumb|left|In 2006, 2007, and 2008, Lexus won the [[24 Hours of Daytona|Rolex Sports Car Series Manufacturers' Championship]].|alt=Forward angle view of a racecar on a track; the car is labeled '01', 'Lexus', and 'Telmex'.]]

Lexus' participation in [[Endurance racing (motorsport)|endurance racing]] further includes the [[24 Hours of Daytona|Rolex 24 Hours of Daytona]], sanctioned by the [[Grand American Road Racing Association]]. After entering the [[Rolex Sports Car Series]] in 2004, Lexus has won over 15 Rolex Series event races.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.motorsport.com/news/article.asp?ID=231504&FS=GRANDAM-GRANDCUP|title=Lexus race report|date=2 September 2006|publisher=Motorsport.com|access-date=6 May 2007|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070930024207/http://www.motorsport.com/news/article.asp?ID=231504&FS=GRANDAM-GRANDCUP|archive-date=30 September 2007}}</ref> In 2005, Lexus was runner-up, and in 2006, it won the championship.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://autos.msn.com/as/minishow/article.aspx?contentID=4024549&s=Daytona2007|title=2007 Rolex 24: Preview|publisher=autos.msn.com|access-date=20 May 2009|last=Meredith|first=Mike|year=2007|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080308164414/http://autos.msn.com/as/minishow/article.aspx?contentID=4024549&s=Daytona2007|archive-date=8 March 2008|url-status=dead}}</ref> Although Toyota has won this race in the past, it was the first time that its luxury arm emerged as the winner. In 2007, six Lexus-powered Daytona prototypes were entered in the Rolex 24 Hours of Daytona event at the [[Daytona International Speedway]]. Lexus was a repeat winner of the event, with a Lexus-[[Riley Technologies|Riley]] prototype driven by [[Scott Pruett]], [[Juan Pablo Montoya]], and [[Salvador Durán]] of [[Chip Ganassi Racing]] finishing first; Lexus-Riley prototypes also took three of the top ten spots.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.espn.com/espn/print?id=2746664&type=story|title=Rolex 24 at Daytona final results|date=28 January 2007|access-date=6 May 2007|agency=Associated Press|archive-date=3 November 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121103005817/http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/print?id=2746664&type=story|url-status=live}}</ref> In 2008, Lexus won its third consecutive win at Daytona.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.usatoday.com/sports/motor/2008-01-27-rolex-24-hours_N.htm|title=Ganassi wins three in a row at Daytona|date=28 January 2008|work=USA Today|last=DeCotis|first=Mark|access-date=22 June 2008|archive-date=27 November 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101127012442/http://www.usatoday.com/sports/motor/2008-01-27-rolex-24-hours_N.htm|url-status=live}}</ref> For the [[2010 Rolex Sports Car Series season|2010 season]], Lexus departed from the Rolex Sports Car Series, and Ganassi Racing switched to [[BMW]]/[[Dinan Cars|Dinan]] engines.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.racer.com/ganassi-attracts-stars-for-daytona/article/160961/ |title=Ganassi Attracts Stars for Daytona |access-date=24 May 2011 |date=10 January 2010 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100323030310/http://www.racer.com/ganassi-attracts-stars-for-daytona/article/160961/ |archive-date=23 March 2010}}</ref>

The [[Lexus LFA#Motorsport|LF-A prototype]] also competed on the Nürburgring from 2008 to 2011 in [[VLN]] endurance races<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ts-vln.com/valuation/2008-4-classes.html |title=Rennwertung "39. Adenauer ADAC Rundstrecken-Trophy" nach Klassen-Plätzen |access-date=23 October 2009 |date=May 2008 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090902125927/http://www.ts-vln.com/valuation/2008-4-classes.html |archive-date=2 September 2009}}</ref> and in the [[24 Hours Nürburgring]], also with the IS F.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.vln.de/newsausgabe.de.php?id=1654|title=BFGoodrich Langstreckenmeisterschaft Nürburgring – Chronologie 56. ADAC Westfalenfahrt|access-date=23 October 2009|date=4 April 2009|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101222095106/http://vln.de/newsausgabe.de.php?id=1654|archive-date=22 December 2010}}</ref> On 14 May 2011, a CT 200h tuned up by Gazoo Racing competed in the Adenauer ADAC Rundstrecken-Trophy, a six-hour endurance race.<ref>{{cite web|first=Wayne|last=Cunningham|website=CNET|url=http://reviews.cnet.com/8301-13746_7-20062673-48.html?part=rss&subj=news&tag=2547-1_3-0-20|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120715051528/http://reviews.cnet.com/8301-13746_7-20062673-48.html?part=rss&subj=news&tag=2547-1_3-0-20|url-status=dead|archive-date=15 July 2012|title=Lexus hybrid takes on the Nurburgring|date=13 May 2011|access-date=13 May 2011}}</ref>

[[3GT Racing]], a partnership of Lexus and [[Paul Gentilozzi]], entered two [[Lexus RC]] F GT3 at the N.American [[2017 WeatherTech SportsCar Championship]] in the GT Daytona class. Their first win came in the [[2018 WeatherTech SportsCar Championship]] with Dominik Baumann and Kyle Marcelli at [[Mid-Ohio]] before winning again with the same pairing at [[Virginia International Raceway]]. Lexus finished in 8th in their first season in [[2017 WeatherTech SportsCar Championship|2017]] in the GT Daytona Manufacturer's Championship. They then improved to 5th in [[2018 WeatherTech SportsCar Championship|2018]] with the #14 achieving 5th and the #15 getting 10th in the Team's Championship.{{citation needed|date=July 2019}}

For the [[2019 WeatherTech SportsCar Championship]], the running of the Lexus GT3 cars has been transferred to AIM Vasser Sullivan, which is a debuting partnership, where the driver pairing of [[Jack Hawksworth]] and Richard Heistand have currently achieved 2 wins at [[2019 Sports Car Challenge of Mid-Ohio|Mid-Ohio]] before winning the next race at [[2019 Chevrolet Sports Car Classic|Belle Isle]]. As of the result of Lime Rock Park, Lexus are second in the [[2019 WeatherTech SportsCar Championship|2019]] Manufacturer's Championship and the #12 is third with the #14 in 5th despite that being the winning car.{{citation needed|date=July 2019}}

{{clear}}

==Marketing==
[[File:Lexus 2054 Minority Report concept1.jpg|thumb|[[Lexus 2054]], a concept model produced for the film ''[[Minority Report (film)|Minority Report]]''|alt=Futuristic two-door concept car displayed in front of a banner labeled "Minority Report".]]

From its inception, Lexus has been advertised to luxury consumers using specific [[Marketing strategy|marketing strategies]], with a consistent motif used for the marque's advertisements. Beginning in 1989, television ads were narrated by actor [[James Sloyan]] (the voice of "Mr. Lexus" until 2009),<ref name=d118/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://adage.com/adages/post?article_id=135239|title=Lexus Trades in Sloyan for New Set of Voice-Over Pipes|work=Advertising Age|access-date=19 March 2009|last=Halliday|first=Jean|date=13 March 2009|archive-date=5 May 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100505020443/http://adage.com/adages/post?article_id=135239|url-status=live}}</ref> and accompanied by vehicles that performed unusual stunts onscreen.<ref name=d119>{{Harvnb|Dawson|2004|p=119}}</ref> The first decade of Lexus commercials (1989–99) consisted primarily of disjunctive verbal descriptions, such as "relentless", "pursuit", and "perfection",<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.insideline.com/lexus/is-f/2008/first-look-2008-lexus-is-f.html|title=First Look: 2008 Lexus IS-F|date=23 September 2007|publisher=Edmunds.com|last=Huffman|first=John Pearley|access-date=23 May 2011|archive-date=19 October 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121019180154/http://www.insideline.com/lexus/is-f/2008/first-look-2008-lexus-is-f.html|url-status=live}}</ref> while vehicles were used to claim superiority in precision, idling, and interior quiet and comfort on camera.<ref name=d119/> Examples included the champagne glass "[[Balance (advertisement)|Balance]]" (1989) and rolling "[[Ball Bearing (advertisement)|Ball Bearing]]" (1992).<ref name=d119/>

In the 2000s (decade), commercials included descriptions of features,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.vfxworld.com/?sa=adv&code=3631a5a1&atype=news&id=18636|title=Boxer Films Knocks Out New Lexus Spot|publisher=VFXWorld|access-date=20 May 2009|date=15 August 2006}}</ref> or a narration of the events onscreen, and were often targeted at the marque's German competitors.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.topspeed.com/cars/car-news/lexus-takes-swipe-at-german-counterparts-in-latest-print-ad/|title=Lexus Takes Swipe At German Counterparts|publisher=Top Speed|access-date=30 July 2010|last=Garlitos|first=Kirby|year=2010}}</ref> An annual "December to Remember" campaign featured scenes of family members surprising loved ones with the gift of a new Lexus.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://query.nytimes.com/gst/fullpage.html?res=9B0CE4DB1F31F936A25751C1A9639C8B63|title=A Lexus for Christmas? It Happens|work=The New York Times|access-date=20 May 2009|date=15 December 2005|last=Peters|first=Jeremy|archive-date=7 January 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180107175244/http://query.nytimes.com/gst/fullpage.html?res=9B0CE4DB1F31F936A25751C1A9639C8B63|url-status=live}}</ref> The marque returned to the champagne glass theme in a 2006 LS 460 spot showing the sedan maneuvering between two stacks of glasses using its [[Intelligent Parking Assist System|self-parking system]], and in a 2010 LFA spot showing its engine sound shattering a glass via [[resonance]] frequency.<ref name=glass>{{cite web |last=Bowman |first=Zach |url=http://www.autoblog.com/2010/06/02/video-lexus-lfa-breaks-champagne-glass-with-science/ |title=Video: Lexus LFA breaks champagne glass with science |publisher=Autoblog |date=2 June 2010 |access-date=9 October 2010 |archive-date=27 July 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170727104451/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/06/02/video-lexus-lfa-breaks-champagne-glass-with-science/ |url-status=live }}</ref>

[[File:Lexus LF-A Crystallised Wind.jpg|thumb|left|[[Lexus LFA#Sculpture models|Lexus LFA Crystallised Wind]], a full-size glass art model|alt=Translucent glass model in the shape of a coupe.]]

Industry observers have attributed Lexus' early marketing successes to higher levels of perceived quality and lower prices than competitors, which have enabled the marque to attract customers upgrading from mass-market cars.<ref name=pr/><ref name=zen/> A reputation for dependability, bolstered by reliability surveys, also became a primary factor in attracting new customers from rival premium makes.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/business/2004/nov/07/germany.theobserver|title=Vorsprung durch Technik? Not any more|work=The Guardian|last=Caulkin|first=Simon|date=7 November 2004|access-date=8 June 2009|location=London|archive-date=28 February 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210228190418/https://www.theguardian.com/business/2004/nov/07/germany.theobserver|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wheels24.co.za/Wheels24/News/0,,1369-1372_1939381,00.html |title=Why I ditched Merc for Lexus |publisher=Agence France-Presse |access-date=5 May 2007 |date=26 May 2006 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060918011224/http://www.wheels24.co.za/Wheels24/News/0%2C%2C1369-1372_1939381%2C00.html |archive-date=18 September 2006 |url-status=dead}}</ref> Lexus has since grown to command higher [[premium pricing|price premiums]] than rival Japanese makes,<ref name=lal>{{cite web|url=http://www.automobear.com/LexusInTheLapOfLatentLuxury.html |title=Lexus (in the lap of latent luxury) |publisher=AutomoBear.com |date=23 September 2004 |access-date=9 April 2007 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060523004121/http://www.automobear.com/LexusInTheLapOfLatentLuxury.html |archive-date=23 May 2006}}</ref> with new models further increasing in price and reaching the more than $100,000 ultra-luxury category long dominated by rival European marques.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.businessweek.com/autos/content/jan2006/bw20060109_789752.htm |title=A Lexus Aimed at Mercedes' S-Class |work=BusinessWeek |last=Welch |first=David |date=9 January 2006 |access-date=6 May 2007 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071013125745/http://businessweek.com/autos/content/jan2006/bw20060109_789752.htm |archive-date=13 October 2007}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.insideline.com/lexus/ls-600h-l/2008/full-test-2008-lexus-ls-600h-l.html|title=Full Test: 2008 Lexus LS 600h L|date=19 April 2007|publisher=Edmunds.com|last=Pearley Huffman|first=John|access-date=23 May 2011|archive-date=11 September 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120911122442/http://www.insideline.com/lexus/ls-600h-l/2008/full-test-2008-lexus-ls-600h-l.html|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.iht.com/articles/2006/04/16/business/Lexus.php |title=Lexus enters ultra-luxury arena |date=17 April 2006 |work=International Herald Tribune |last=Maynard |first=Micheline |access-date=21 November 2007 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080220213910/http://www.iht.com/articles/2006/04/16/business/Lexus.php |archive-date=20 February 2008}}</ref>

Automotive analysts have also noted Lexus' relative newcomer status as a marketing challenge for the brand,<ref name=lsr>{{cite web|url=http://research.cars.com/go/crp/research.jsp?revid=51083&makeid=27&modelid=8237&year=2007&revlogtype=20&section=reviews|title=2007 Lexus LS 460 Review|date=15 March 2007|publisher=Cars.com|last=Hanley|first=Mike|access-date=28 September 2007|archive-date=13 October 2007|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071013114934/http://research.cars.com/go/crp/research.jsp?revid=51083&makeid=27&modelid=8237&year=2007&revlogtype=20&section=reviews|url-status=live}}</ref> although some have debated the requirement of a long history.<ref name=lal/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://motorshow.cars.uk.msn.com/motorshow/geneva2007/Article.aspx?cp-documentid=3840028 |date=3 June 2007 |title=Lexus Launches Big Three |publisher=MSN Cars UK |last=Laban |first=Brian |access-date=28 September 2007 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070403222907/http://motorshow.cars.uk.msn.com/motorshow/geneva2007/Article.aspx?cp-documentid=3840028 |archive-date=3 April 2007 }}</ref> European rivals have marketed their decades of heritage and pedigree,<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2007/07/27/business/worldbusiness/27showroom.html|title=BMW's Shrine to Horsepower|date=27 July 2007|work=The New York Times|last=Landler|first=Mark|access-date=28 September 2007|archive-date=14 March 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210314193756/http://www.nytimes.com/2007/07/27/business/worldbusiness/27showroom.html|url-status=live}}</ref> whereas Lexus' reputation rests primarily upon its perceived quality and shared history with parent company Toyota.<ref name=lal/> Several analysts have stated that Lexus will have to develop its own heritage over time by highlighting technological innovations and producing substantial products.<ref name=global/><ref name=lsr/>

Lexus' marketing efforts have extended to sporting and charity event sponsorships, including the [[US Open (tennis)|U.S. Open]] tennis Grand Slam event from 2005 to 2009, and the [[United States Golf Association]]'s [[U.S. Open (golf)|U.S. Open]], [[U.S. Women's Open]], [[U.S. Senior Open]], and [[U.S. Amateur]] tournaments since 2007.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://promomagazine.com/eventmarketing/news/lexus_usopen_083006/ |title=Lexus Drives Promos Courtside for US Open |date=30 August 2006 |last=Scott |first=Andrew |access-date=6 May 2007 |publisher=Promo |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070928061045/http://promomagazine.com/eventmarketing/news/lexus_usopen_083006/ |archive-date=28 September 2007}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.sportsbusinessdaily.com/article/109085|title=Luxury Drive: USGA Signs Lexus As First Automotive Partner|date=January 2007|work=Sports Business Daily|access-date=8 June 2009}}</ref> Lexus has organized an annual Champions for Charity golf series in the U.S. since 1989.<ref>{{cite news |title=Lexus Golf Tourney Benefits Charities |work=The Oregonian |date=14 June 1997}}</ref> Endorsement contracts have also been signed with professional athletes [[Hideki Matsuyama]], [[Andy Roddick]], [[Annika Sörenstam]], and [[Peter Jacobsen]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.sportsbusinessdaily.com/article/101191
|title=Lexus Replaces Mercedes As Sorenstam's Automotive Sponsor|date=14 March 2006|publisher=Sports Business Daily|access-date=25 December 2008}}</ref>

Since 2008, Lexus has run the video website L Studio. Shows on L Studio include ''[[Web Therapy (TV series)|Web Therapy]]''.<ref>{{Cite web| title = Lisa Kudrow's 'Web Therapy' Headlines Lexus' L Studio Launch| work = Tubefilter| access-date = 19 November 2017| date = 23 September 2008| url = http://www.tubefilter.com/2008/09/23/lisa-kudrows-web-therapy-headlines-lexus-l-studio-launch/| archive-date = 3 November 2020| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20201103114851/https://www.tubefilter.com/2008/09/23/lisa-kudrows-web-therapy-headlines-lexus-l-studio-launch/| url-status = live}}</ref>

Lexus unveiled its new "Experience Amazing" tagline in the U.S. in a 60-second advertisement at the February 2017 [[Super Bowl LI]].<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.adweek.com/agencyspy/team-one-lil-buck-experience-amazing-in-lexus-big-game-spot/124398 |title=Team One, Lil Buck 'Experience Amazing' in Lexus' Big Game Spot |first=Erik |last=Oster |work=Ad Week |location=US |date=23 January 2017 |access-date=9 February 2017 |archive-date=10 April 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180410171722/http://www.adweek.com/agencyspy/team-one-lil-buck-experience-amazing-in-lexus-big-game-spot/124398 |url-status=live }}</ref> The new tagline replaced Lexus's previous slogans, "Amazing in Motion" and "The Pursuit of Perfection".<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.business2community.com/branding/the-relentless-pursuit-of-perfection-the-lexus-brand-strategy-0307457#qYWidemkqDYoYJw4.97 |title=The Relentless Pursuit of Perfection: The Lexus Brand Strategy |first=Sudip |last=Verma |work=Business 2 Community |location=US |date=19 October 2012 |access-date=14 February 2017 |archive-date=9 September 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170909024005/http://www.business2community.com/branding/the-relentless-pursuit-of-perfection-the-lexus-brand-strategy-0307457#qYWidemkqDYoYJw4.97 |url-status=live }}</ref>

On 30 March 2018, Lexus premiered a fake partnership with [[23andMe|23 and Me]] during a spot on ''[[Saturday Night Live]]'', for a pretend program that allows buyers to customize vehicles based on their DNA, as an [[April Fools' Day|April Fool's Day]] joke.<ref>{{Cite news |url=http://adage.com/article/cmo-strategy/lexus-putting-april-fool-s-joke-snl/312907/ |title=Marketer's Brief: Lexus plans an April Fool's joke ad for 'Saturday Night Live'|access-date=1 April 2018|language=en|archive-date=22 October 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201022043344/https://adage.com/article/cmo-strategy/lexus-putting-april-fool-s-joke-snl/312907|url-status=live}}</ref> 

Lexus has renewed its sponsorship of the Esports Awards on 23 October 2024. As part of the partnership, Lexus will present awards for "Esports Content Creator of the Year" and "Esports Organization of Year" during the second half of the awards ceremony, which will take place in November 2024. The first half of the awards was presented in July 2024 during the [[2024 Esports World Cup|Esports World Cup in Riyadh]], Saudi Arabia. Financial terms of this continued partnership were not disclosed.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Fudge |first=James |date=2024-10-23 |title=Lexus Returns as a Presenting Sponsor of the Esports Awards |url=https://esportsadvocate.net/2024/10/lexus-returns-as-a-presenting-sponsor-of-the-esports-awards/ |access-date=2024-10-25 |website=The Esports Advocate |language=en}}</ref>

=== Lexus slogans ===
* ''The Relentless Pursuit of Perfection'' (1989–2011)
* ''The Pursuit of Perfection'' (2010–2016)
* ''Amazing in Motion'' (2013–2016)
* ''Experience Amazing'' (2017–present)

==See also==
{{Portal|Cars}}
* [[The Championship by Lexus]]
* [[Slide (hoverboard)]]
{{clear}}

==References==

===Notes===
{{Reflist|30em}}

===Bibliography===
* {{Cite book|last1=Dawson|first1=Chester|title=Lexus: The Relentless Pursuit|year=2004 |publisher=Jon Wiley & Sons|location= Hoboken, NJ |isbn=0-470-82110-8}}
* {{Cite book|last1=Long|first1=Brian|title=Lexus: The Challenge to Create the Finest Automobile|year=2001|publisher=Veloce Publishing |location=Dorchester, Dorset, UK |isbn=1-901295-81-8 }}
* {{Cite book|last1=Mahler|first1=Jonathan|title=The Lexus Story: The Behind the Scenes Story of the #1 Automotive Luxury Brand in America|year=2004|publisher=Melcher Media |location=New York|isbn=0-9717935-7-3}}
* {{Cite book|last1=May|first1=Matthew E.|title=The Elegant Solution: Toyota's Formula for Mastering Innovation|year=2006|publisher=Free Press |location=New York |isbn=0-7432-9017-8 |lccn=2006048411 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=uKc4D48LywgC |others=Foreword by Kevin Roberts }}
* {{Cite book|last1=Morgan|first1=James M.|last2=Liker|first2=Jeffrey K.|title=The Toyota Product Development System: Integrating People, Process and Technology|year=2006|publisher=Productive Press|location=New York|isbn=1-56327-282-2}}

==External links==
{{commons category}}
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* {{official website}}
<!-- please do not add individual countries - the list would be too long -->

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