Toyota’s luxury car brand, Lexus, has established a reputation as a pioneer in automotive performance, style, and innovation. Its development from idea to international success is evidence of careful engineering and a dedication to quality. This history of Lexus is begin.
The Founding and Early Years
Under the leadership of Eiji Toyoda, who was Toyota’s chairman at the time, Lexus was established as a project by Toyota in 1983. Acknowledging the increasing demand for high-end automobiles, Toyota started developing a new flagship sedan to compete with European companies such as Mercedes and BMW. The Lexus LS 400 made its premiere at the North American International Auto Show in 1989 as the project’s final product, code-named “F1” (Flagship One).
The name “Lexus” was chosen to evoke luxury and sophistication, while the brand was introduced in the United States as a separate entity from Toyota to appeal to premium car buyers.
Model Line-up
Lexus began with the LS 400, a revolutionary sedan praised for its quiet cabin, advanced technology, and reliability. Over time, the brand expanded to include a range of models:
- Sedans: The ES, IS, and GS series joined the LS to cater to various market segments.
- SUVs: The RX, launched in 1998, became one of the world’s first luxury crossovers and remains one of Lexus’ best-sellers. The LX and GX further expanded the SUV lineup.
- Coupes and Convertibles: The LC series exemplifies Lexus’ commitment to design and performance.
- Electrified Models: With models like the UX Hybrid and fully electric RZ, Lexus is advancing toward a sustainable future.
Sales in The United States and Global
The United States has been Lexus’ primary market since its inception. Within its first year, Lexus sold over 63,000 vehicles in the U.S., exceeding expectations. Today, the RX remains one of the top-selling luxury SUVs in America.
Globally, Lexus has established a presence in over 90 countries. In 2022, Lexus reported selling approximately 700,000 vehicles worldwide, with strong markets in Europe, China, and the Middle East complementing its dominance in North America.
Milestones and Achievements
This is a milestone and achievement that Lexus has gone through, as a luxury car brand.
- Hybrid Leadership: In 2005, Lexus introduced the RX 400h, the world’s first luxury hybrid SUV, positioning itself as a pioneer in hybrid technology.
- Design Evolution: The “spindle grille” design introduced in the 2010s became a hallmark of Lexus’ bold and futuristic aesthetics.
- Commitment to Sustainability: Lexus aims to electrify its entire lineup by 2035, with an emphasis on reducing carbon emissions across production and operation.
The history of Lexus showcases its unwavering dedication to innovation, luxury, and reliability. This will, of course, continue, and we look forward to seeing how Lexus cars evolve in the future. As a Lexus owner or enthusiast, ensuring your vehicle is equipped with the best accessories can enhance your driving experience even further. Be sure to visit our car accessories store for a curated selection of premium items tailored for Lexus models. Whether it’s style, functionality, or performance, we’ve got you covered!
