The Lexus brand came about as a result of a decision made in 1983 by the Chairman of Japanese manufacturer Toyota to develop a line of luxury cars. The first prototype was built in 1985, with the LS 400 and ES 250 made publicly available four years later. The LS 400 was critically acclaimed on release and won several awards.
Lexus was introduced to Great Britain in 1990, though it would not enter its home market until 2005. Previously Toyota badges were used for models sold in Japan despite most of the line being produced there.
As the brand’s range grew a reputation for reliability and superior quality was established. A 2005 survey conducted by Top Gear ranked Lexus highest in the UK for customer satisfaction, while many similar polls in America have done likewise.
The American market has undoubtedly provided the greatest success for Lexus as it has become the highest selling luxury brand there. Sales have been dwindling in Europe in recent years though, with the likes of Mercedes-Benz and BMW proving to be the preferred choice of many despite the lower prices of Lexus models.
In 2005 the RX 400h was revealed as the world’s first luxury hybrid vehicle and Lexus is continuing to develop such technologies. An imminent foray into motor sports has been rumoured, either through engine supply or the establishment of a team. Such a venture would add another dimension to the young company’s intense competition with other luxury brands.
EuroNCAP Safety Ratings for Lexus cars
The European New Car Assessment Programme produces reports on the safety of vehicles based on the results of several crash tests. As well as measuring how the car will hold up in a crash the risk to a pedestrian struck by the car is assessed. The star ratings (maximum 5) of key Lexus models are shown below.
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