What Is The Most Prestigious Brand?

Yugo of course!

Most Prestigious Cars

1902-1980 Cadillac
1981-1997 Mercedes
1998- ---- Lexus

Most delirious Autospies poster:

silver1

Congrats.

"Willis"

Whats so delirious about that? I'm just baseing it off the public perception....

Read your comments throughout this thread and then get back to me. You need help.

"Willis"

Why do I need help? All I do is list facts and other peoples opinion about cars....

I don't know who is the bigger dope, the blogger who put together this so called "study", or Agent63 for posting it
as if it's news.

I will stay out of this argument waiting to happen :).

I can honestly say that I like at least one car from each of the brands mentioned in that article therefore I 'll stay unbiased even though I've mentioned in numerous threads which cars I own.

The typical fan boys will support their Lexus and the German fans will support theirs. I just found this very interesting.

I pretty much agree with the rankings. Especially the Tier III groupings. The Japanese are getting closer, but still fail to innovate, choosing to adapt existing technology to their needs.

You do however see some minor innovations rolling out of Japan right now, but this is not the norm.

While I agree with the article (its near perfect) I disagree with your comment, 009. While the Japanese have followed in the footsteps of their German rivals in an effort to compete with them, they have had several innovative technologies that have gone unnoticed, for example, the 2002 Q45 introduced the first rear-view camera. Also active steering appeared on the Q in the early 90's. Infiniti's ATTESA AWD system is also very impressive, routing all power to the rear wheels on dry pavement.

Their biggest shortfall is probably overall refinement and fit and finish. Audi and BMW are industry leaders in that department IMO.

If you really desire to stay out of arguments, you could always avoid posting stories for the express purpose of starting an argument.

Answer

Agent63 is a member... I think.


Oh and dont waste your time with Silver1. He has lexus pictures all over her room walls.

I would put Lexus in Tier 2. I think they earned the right to be there with the big boys, MB, Jag, and BMW

with cars like the A3, front wheel drive platforms from VW, I don't see Audi as a Tier 2 choice, more like Tier 4 with Saab and Volvo. Yes Audi does have a very nice R8 sports car, but so did Acura with the NSX and Ford with the GT, soon Lexus will have a sports car and Lexus has rear wheel drive platforms. Audi in the US is not on par with Mercedes, BMW and Jaguar.( Or Lexus and Infinti) As bad as Jaguar is doing at least they don't use front drive Ford platforms.

I don't see what's so bad about front wheel drive platforms though. It doesn't make a car any less prestigious. If a Rolls Royce was FWD people would still buy it. If the R8 had it's engine up front and still performed the way it does it would sitting in my garage as the actual one is right now.

I do see what you're getting at though. The more "expensive" car are RWD. But then again we forget to look at the practicality of FWD. In area's where it rains or snows FWD may be the optimal choice. Of course Audi has the famous Quattro system so in that front their set.

agent63, you have an R8? can you post some pictures of it so we all can see? surely you must have a camera

Larry, I'd like for you to drive my A3 to see just how fun it really is to drive. Your assumption that all FWD cars aren't fun is unfounded. I don't know if you completely ignore the magazines and just stubbornly believe what you want, but surely you've seen at least one test extolling the A3's virtues, because there are many. If everyone had one, the world would be a much better place.

Also, it's mind-numbingly stupid to say that Audi is a "tier 4" brand, but I don't expect much from you.

LOL! and what do I have to prove to you? I'm a modest person I don't take photos of my car and post it on the internet.

But you may get lucky. Here is my S550. The guys at a local shop in Richmond, BC. a nearby shop took shots of it(of course without my plate)

http://www.srautogroup.com/gallery/photos/473a55ceb5c49.jpg

http://www.srautogroup.com/gallery/photos/473a55cee329d.jpg

http://www.srautogroup.com/gallery/photos/473a55cf19bbe.jpg

:P

hey 63 i seen ur car before! i swear i seen it. i live in renton, washington state. my friend from missouri took a snap of it too.

too bad its not as sexy as a lexus ls

The Lexus LS is a nice car, but it certainly is not sexy. In fact when you look it over from top to bottom it strikes you as elegant and classy a bit boring, but not sexy.

The Mercedes S class is equally classy and elegant but not sexy. It only becomes sexy when you add an AMG body kit to it.

you are one ignorant individual mr. Larry and I hope that you are either 14 years old or you are just posting those stupid comments for your own amusement, if not I am really sorry for your family and your friends if you have any...

Good day, stay in your closet where it is safe.

Stay off Drugs! Your hallucinating again with your totally ignorant comments. Stop Audi hating. You sound jealous that cannot affor an Audi. The A3 defined the premium entry class by the way and is by far the global leader in this market. It is the perfect luxury car for today's high gas prices and global warming issues. Stop being an a$$ already and grow up.

why was acura even tagged?

I would say its RR. If you happen to see one of those on the road it always turns your head cuz you know its at least a few hundred k. As far as something you might see on little more regular basis I would say Bentley. Of your everyday scenary...I would probably have to say MB. Theres just too many 19 year old girls driving around in a 3 series for me to call BMW prestigious.

The article is moreso about quality no quantity. So no matter how many BMW you see (or who's driving them), or how much of a Toyota knock off Lexus is, or that Acura is Honda to the rest of the world, no one can really debate the quality of these cars in comparison to you chevys, honda, toyota, nissans, VWs, etc.

I really think this article hits it right on the head, especially the descriptions. I'm in tier 3 working my way up!

sholeman- I can't name any self respecting 19 yr old girl that would be caught dead in any Lexus. I guess they want to be hip and cool that may be why BMW is their choice.

I can name quite a few 19y/o girls that would love a Lexus. Im 24 and prob a little closer to that generation than you. Maybe you are just out of touch with what the younger crowd wants.

Rolls Royce
Maybach - cause of their limited lineup and price range
Bentley
Everybody else
Acura

Oh boy, here comes the Lexus fanboys. Let the Lexus is league of their own arguments begin.

Same can be said about BMW fans. You must be on that end of the spectrum. Quickly to tell them their shit stinks without first evaluating your own.

This sums it up well .....

From Ultra-luxury brands like Rolls Royce, Bentley, and Maybach to premium-luxury brands such as Audi, BMW, Jaguar, & Mercedes to modest luxury brands such as Acura, Cadillac, Infiniti, & Lexus all of these have the right to be prestigious in their own rights.

Some people here in the USA might see Audi otherwise but the world sees Audi as a premium brand.

Drive an A8L and no one argues it is not premium. The fact Americans (or at least the stupid ones) cannot see a premium carmaker like Audi for what is a premium carmaker then it's their loss, not Audi's.

Tier 1:
Lexus
Audi
Bentley
BMW

Tier 2:
Mercedes (Brand Image has been Dwindling somewhat, not what it use to be to be proud to drive a Mercedes, it's now like "oh okay he drives a Mercedes, POS"

Tier 3:
Cadillac
Infiniti
Rolls Royce (Need to get more cars out their. Lots of people wouldn't know what this was if they seen one)

(Maybach- A lot of people still don't know what this car is, they only sold 800 cars)

wow...you have no clue.

rolls in tier 3?!
lexus in tier 1?
mercedes in tier 2?

this isn't about how prestigious a brand is considering by a guy who makes $30,000/year. it's about perception of prestige amongst people who are at least in one of the luxury categories.

I am shocked that you haven't created Super Tier and put Lexus there.

"enthusiastx11"

I'm baseing this off public perception. Of course If it was just me ranking it I would most indeed put Maybach and Rolls Royce Phantom on top.

Lots of people didn't know what the car was in the Movie "Iron Man" Inside the movie theater, I had to tell them, thats a Rolls Royce Phantom Simon Cowell drives one, and they was like "oh okay."

A few of them didn't know what the Audi R8 was.....But let that had been a BMW or Lexus everybody could've told you what kind of brakes they use!

"2001W210"

I'll create a Super Tier

Super Tier
2010 - Lexus 650h V12 Hybrid

silver1,

what are you smoking?

A Mercedes a POS? Let me tell you something. I work hard to get my S550 which deserves to be on tier 2 not tier 1. I don't know what "POS" Mercedes you've been in but you go sit in one at your local dealership and tell me it's crap. I also don't know what type of people you associate yourself with because Mercedes is respected worldwide & with good reason. Tier 1 is RR, Bentley & Maybach turf.

Secondly, I own a Lexus that you happen to place on tier 1. It's definitely no tier 1 car. To put Lexus on that rank and not even include Mercedes is ridiculous. absurd to say the least.

- Most of the people who are into Ironman are probably comic geeks who aren't too familiar with cars in the first place so to base judgment from their reaction is not accurate.

Not to hate on you but I just don't disagree. Nothing wrong with that.

"Agent63"

Consumer Reports quoted "A 10 year old Lexus LS has less problems than a Brand New Mercedes ML"

MB = POS

silver1

Although it makes me laugh, but according to Motortrend Veracruz is better then RX350. Does this mean Hyundai is in same league as Lexus?

Go outside and take a DEEP breathe and face the fact.

We're not talking about a 1990 Lexus LS. We're talking about today.

Come on, we all know the previous generation ML wasn't great, but I think they've made major improvements.

I drive an 07 LS and an 07 S550. I don't see the Merc being an POS and I definitely don't see the Lexus being superior.

Do you own both? If not then you're not making your statement based on your OWN experience but maybe believing something you WANT to hear from somebody else's. My experience with MB has been great. My service has been also great with Lexus.

We're getting off topic here as most topics like this usually do.

Mercedes-Benz a tier two luxury brand? Get real, Silver1.

Mercedes-Benz tramples all over Lexus in terms of brand prestige, especially outside of the US where people actually think with their heads and not rate the brand prestige of a car high that simply comes better equipped but has no history to offer that would make other people aspire to own their cars.

Mercedes slipped in the late 1990s, stuff happens but look at them now, they've made an incredible comeback. I own an S550 and I've had zero troubles or problems with this car since I bought it.

When you look at the big picture, the achievements of Mercedes, their contributions to the automotive industry, to making cars more efficient, greener and safer totally destroys the contributions of Lexus: because if we look at the big picture, Lexus hasn't done any real innovation. They've not developed any new safety systems or features (without taking existing ideas and adding a thing or two).

The only thing Lexus has done for the industry is set the reliability standards. And they've tried to emphasize that their products should be more appealing based on value, but they're lacking in so many other things.

To me, brand history creates an emotional connection to the brand. I've always been fond of Mercedes and BMW for example because of their history and their historic cars. These things make me lust after a brand. With Lexus, you don't get that. In all honesty I don't know anyone who buys a Lexus based on emotions. The people I know who buy a Lexus generally buy it because of value and because its comes well equipped, but not because it makes their knees go weak.

Mercedes has also taken many risks throughout the 19th and 20th century. Lexus has always played it safe and always thrown a lot of marketing behind their cars to make sure people don't perceive them as mistakes (hybrids ring a bell?).

Anyway, I'm not here to argue with you or bash Lexus, but your post is pathetic and completely biased (and moronic).

Well, when an "agent" is being argumentative and stooping down to the level of some of the immature posters here, I'd be surprised if this didn't go off topic.

I used to think agents here were both informed and mature (kind of like message board moderators if you will). Agent63 proves my belief wrong yet again.

lol arent u the hero of the day. nobody's being immature but u. lol starting trouble online. you must be a brewer cause you seem to know how to stir stuff up.

"Super Tier
2010 - Lexus 650h V12 Hybrid"


I can't wait for this car. Space shuttle performance while burning only as much fuel as a Prius!

Yeah, this is the way to create a premium brand.

UM, NOT.

Wow, Silver1, you have got to be high right now! You put Lexus on Tier 1 and Rolls Royce on Tier 3?!!!!! Lay off that weed, man!!

"07G35J"

Am I the only one here knows what prestige is and what auto-makers has accomplish the word "Prestige"

prestige: reputation or influence arising from success, achievement, rank, or other favorable attributes.

Prestige:having or showing success, rank, wealth.
Reliability and quality.
The Lexus LS has won the J.D. Power award for "Best High-end Luxury Sedan" 13 years in a row, the most for any manufacturer, in the long-term Vehicle Dependability Study. The Lexus LS has also been the highest-ranked luxury sedan in J.D. Power's Initial Quality Survey for 10 consecutive years. In 2006, Consumer Reports awarded the Lexus LS with a repeat ranking as the most reliable vehicle in the luxury car class, and for vehicles overall.

Safety and security.
In 2007, Auto Bild recognized the LS 460 Pre-Collision system with its 2007 Innovation Prize, finding that its active safety features had a slight edge over rival Mercedes-Benz S-Class due to its collision avoidance system, which in recent tests has been shown to be highly ineffective. Kiplinger's named the 2006 LS 430 as "Best in Safety for Cars $40,000 and Over." In 2001, UK insurance centre Thatcham awarded the LS 430 with its only 5-star theft-deterrence ratings; from 2002-2005, the LS 430 topped the What Car? Security Supertest with perfect 100 scores.

Advanced technology. Automotive research firm TRG found that the 2007 LS 460 offered the most advanced technological features of any vehicle available in North America. The LS has won Popular Mechanics' Automotive Excellence and Popular Science's Design and Engineering Awards. Citing its world's firsts, the official publication of the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) named the LS 460 as 2007's Best Engineered Vehicle, and CNET.com named the 2007 Lexus LS 460 L its "Tech Car of the Year."

Best-in-class features.
Edmunds.com named the LS 430's Mark Levinson premium sound system as the "Best Sound System in Cars Over $30,000" in consecutive top 10 lists in 2002-2005. Car Audio and Electronics ranked the LS ahead of its competition in the areas of audio, navigation and ergonomics. Ward's Auto named the LS 400's V8 engine to its 10 Best Engines awards lists from 1998-2000. In its 2002 luxury sedan comparison test, Automotive Marketing Consultants, Inc. found that the Lexus LS had the quietest cabin of any luxury car, with an idle reading of just 31.1 dB in the front seat.

Value and loyalty.
Kelley Blue Book gave the Lexus LS its Best to Hold Value Award in 2001, 2002, and 2003. The LS is also a repeated Intellichoice Best Overall Value awardee in the luxury class, and was R. L. Polk & Co.'s Polk Automotive Loyalty Award recipient from 2001 through 2005 for customer retention.

Luxury car.
In 2007, the LS 460 was named Luxury Car of the Year at the North American International Auto Show and was selected as the Best Luxury Car at the Fleet World Honours. In 2006, Kiplinger's named the Lexus LS as the best luxury car f

Car of the Year.
The Lexus LS has been named Wheels magazine’s Car of the Year, Canadian Car of the Year, Top Gear's Limousine of the Year, and Japan Car of the Year (won by both the original LS 400 and the fourth generation LS 460), among similar awards.

In 2007, the LS 460 was named the planet's best automobile at the World Car of the Year and International Car of the Year awards.

Now lets define prestige:
having or showing success, rank, wealth, etc...

Lexus = success, rankings, and wealth.

Toyota Motor Corporation is the richest auto-maker on the planet..

Do this not define the definition word "prestige" ????????????

Again, Silver1, those awards you posted are mostly from American publications. Why not step outside your moms basement for a change and see the rest of the world. The European brands have won thousands of awards on the international scene and American as well.

And the LS winning all those awards is commendable, but that is only ONE car from the Lexus lineup and one car doesn't do anything for prestige.

And you don't get it, do you? The prestige I am talking about can be found by looking at the history of Mercedes-Benz for example and their achievements. Achievements Lexus cannot even hope to match. You pay too much attention to Lexus marketing because Lexus is using this to make themselves appear prestigeous. They're essentially cheating or buying their way into being labeled as a prestige brand on the "same level as their European rivals". Prestige has to be earned, not bought.

"Bill"

3 Questions:

1st, Has mercedes achieve what Lexus did in their first 20 years of birth?

2nd, Could you imagine Lexus another 20 years from now and Mercedes another 20 years from now? If so, where?

3rd, If Mercedes was born in 1989 like Lexus, who do you think will be the prestigious brand if both were born in 1989-2008 and why?

"1st, Has mercedes achieve what Lexus did in their first 20 years of birth?"

Did Benz/Daimler have a "sugar daddy" that gave them huge cashchecks whenever they needed money? No.

That question you're asking is ignorant and stupid. The world in 1886 was totally different than the world is today. In 1886 there was no such thing as a car market and its associated features. Automotive consumers (there were hardly any around in 1886 anyway) didn't have any expectations of brands - because they didn't exist yet.

Let me put it to you this way. Soon after in 1886, Benz and Daimler were building highly advanced engines, chassis, steering and suspension systems and were winning customers left and right. In the late 19th century and early 20th century Benz and Daimler began competing and participating in so-called endurance races - with spectacular results. The first Grand Prix's came at the beginning of the 20th century, and Benz and Daimler enjoyed many successes here.

I believe it was in 1902 when Mercedes' (Daimler) introduced the SIMPLEX - the most advanced car on earth at the time with such novel features as low-placed-chassis for better handling and chain-driven-sprocket that powered the rear wheels for example.

I could care less what Lexus has done in 20 years. It's not the same as the challenges that faced Benz and Daimler in 1886 and the early 20th century. The major flaw here is that Lexus has had it easy with Toyota pumping money into them. With money anything is possible. Not to mention that Lexus shamelessly copied Mercedes' in philosophy and technology in some cases. Wow, I am impressed with what Lexus has done in 20 years. NOT.



"2nd, Could you imagine Lexus another 20 years from now and Mercedes another 20 years from now? If so, where?"

This is a hard question to answer but both brands have a great future ahead of them. That's all I am going to say.


"3rd, If Mercedes was born in 1989 like Lexus, who do you think will be the prestigious brand if both were born in 1989-2008 and why?"

Another difficult (or impossible) question to answer. I DON'T KNOW.

Top
Rolls Royce/Bentley
Ferrari

High
Bugatti
Mercedes-Benz
BMW
Cadillac

All these companies have the rich histories with real lasting power. Perhaps others will join the list, but it takes time.

I agree.

I almost agree. I think Bugatti should easily be considered to be ranked in the highest tier.

As a side note, I'm very surprised that Acura is considered to be in the same tier as Lexus. Maybe they missed another catagory that they could have called entry level luxury.

lexus is a part of the entry level luxury with the is and es. like the article says they are missing a flagship.. one that can be taken serious.

Rolls
Maybach
Bentley
Mercedes
Ferrari
Aston
Maserati
Jaguar
BMW
Porsche
Audi
Lexus
Cadillac
Acura
Infiniti

that summary is remarkably accurate.
correctly breaks down the brands into three tiers.

Auto Expert -- sorry but Cadillac are hardly sold in the reat of the world and even in Europe where they sell a smattering they are priced mid level to try and steel a few sales of BMW Jag and the like. Rose tinted glasses groups them with Merc and the like.

So you're saying because Cadillacs aren't a smashing success in Europe, that they're automatically a subpar brand? Well if that isn't flawed logic.

I'd say they're definitely onpar with BMW and Mercedes, here in the states.

silver1

No matter how hard you and fanboys cry about Lexus, it won't raise the level of perception of the brand. In your argument many people don't know what Rolls and Maybachs is, but me and people who chouldn't care less about your super tier "2010 - Lexus 650h V12 Hybrid" think, Lexus is just a glorified Toyota's or expensive Toyota's like the article mentioned.

And Liked I stated before, Toyota last longer and more reliable than a mercedes and BMW per J.D. Power and Consumer Reports....

I wouldn't have said it in such a harsh way but alright :P

silver1.

This is about brand's prestige not reliability. Although Lexus has cought up in recent decades, it's going to be nearly impossible to go over the biggest bump called people perception. Just be happy about Lexus is in tier 3, and get over with.

Yo 2001,

Just because you say something, it doesn't make it true.

Why do you let a seperate branding strategy or the over-zealous Lexus fans confuse the truth?

You may prefer Merc 10 times out of 10 over Lexus for your own vehicle, but:

1.Mercedes/BMW/Audi/etc. all view Lexus as a legit competitor.

2.Lexus has done a lot in the relative short existance they've had.

3.The concept of "prestige" is relative.

EricHartman you're retarded. The way the owner treats his car has everything to do with how long it will last.

Which do you think gets better treatment, an S class or a tercel? S class. And, even with all that TLC from its rich owner, the PROBABILITY of the tercel being more reliable higher HIGHER than the S class. If you dont know what probability means that go get a dictionary.

**correction - Cartman,

You do agree with me on the fact that how the car is cared is a factor.

But I disagree with your other statement based on the above, please excuse my confusing first sentence. You're not retarded, Jimmy and Timmy are.

answer

There is no doubt that Lexus is one of the top perstigious brand here in US, but to saying Lexus is above and beyond of any brand is just wrong and stupid.

and u su@ck silver one coc$

and u su@ck silver one coc$

and u su@ck silver one coc$

Lexus is awesome. I've owned a 99' & 04' Lexus LS and they've done well. Looks so much better than an S-class and so much more classy. I get major compliments by the people at work. my boss who drives a mercedes-crap is a boring person.

"ErichHartmann"

Lies!!!!!!!!!

Lexus sales increasing in the UK due to the introduction of the new IS series, LS flagship, and GS/RX hybrids, Lexus has emerged as a European second-tier luxury brand with substantial growth potential. Total Lexus Europe sales increased 72% in 2006 to over 50,000 vehicles, making Lexus one of the fastest growing makes on the continent.

Lexus sales have grown by 84% while in Scandinavia they shot up by 325%, a wake up call to Germany's premium auto makers.

Um, Silver1?

Reading a gussied up Lexus press release will give you a false impression of what really is happening.

Lexus sales in the UK are mostly in London. Most of these cars are hybrids. Now if you put two and two together you will find out that London has a congestion charge from which hybrids WERE exempt (not anymore). There are many wealthy people in London who would like to try new things - so they try a Lexus. This is common in the premium market where people try new brands. Just because they bought a Lexus won't mean their next car won't be a Lexus as they could equally go for a BMW or a Jaguar or a Ford Focus or Toyota Corolla for whatever reason.

Let's not forget that there are many Americans working in London and they most likely feel very comfortable buying a Lexus over there. That's right. It's not necessarily the British who are buying these cars but "foreigners" (Americans and Canadians perhaps). Just a suggestion and thought: and one that makes sense.


And that part about Lexus sales in Scandinavia is hilarious. It looks like Lexus really tried making it look like they're a smashing success over there. How big is the Scandinavian luxury market? I'll tell you. It's very small and luxury cars are incredibly expensive due to various taxes - even Lexus. Now, add to the fact that Lexus offers no fuel-efficient cars in Europe with the exception of the IS220d and you'll soon enough come to the conclusion that most of the Lexus sold in those countries are IS220d's or IS250's and a few other Lexus models. Hardly something to brag about.

The German brands are much better positioned in Europe than Lexus offering more appealing trim, engine and option choices that suit a wide variety of consumers. And unlike Lexus, they also enjoy great resale values.

Let's not forget that Lexus has the best retention rate than an luxury brand in the world.

Please tell me why once these people get into their Lexus they don't want to go to another luxury brand since your so smart?

"Let's not forget that Lexus has the best retention rate than an luxury brand in the world."

In the world? Or in the US? Because last time I checked the world doesn't care much for Lexus. People with money tend to buy brands with a name.



"Please tell me why once these people get into their Lexus they don't want to go to another luxury brand since your so smart?"

What do you want a "smart guy" like me to tell you here? Brand loyalty is a powerful thing, but there are thousands of Lexus owners that feel the need to change brands and buy a BMW or an Audi or a Lincoln. It happens and it happens more often than you would like to think.

My wife currently drives an Infiniti FX45 and we were looking at the new Toyota Landcruiser as her next car. Isn't that a potential change? Going from a premium car to a high-end mainstreamer? It happens.

I know people in my life that have owned Toyotas and gone over to VW or Nissan or other brands. There are people in my neighborhood that have owned Lexus and gotten tired of them and gotten something else. It happens.

Retention rate is one thing, but even satisfied people may switch brands. Like I've said here often, IT HAPPENS.

Prestigious: having a good influence and reputation.


Based on that definition, several cars would get my vote. I think the most deserving would go to Mercedes and Lexus.

Mercedes is prestigious because of their influence. Basically everything cars have nowadays was an invention of Mercedes'.

Lexus is prestigious because of their reputation. It has the reputation as being the most reliable, best selling, and one of the best deals in the luxury market.

Now that's a comment I can respect. See how we can all get along when there's mutual respect? lol.

I would say the most prestigeous brand is hands down:

Daimler-Benz

A look at their history and achievements and the endless list of innovations and dedication to safety as well as their pioneering spirit (not only in technology) all make them the brand that stands out the most. These guys have done more for the automotive world than anyone else, and they rightly deserve credit for this.

Rolls Royce and Bentley are prestigeous brands based on top exclusivity and quality workmanship and some motorsport involvement, but they're not as famed for innovation or technological advancement as Mercedes-Benz is.

Another way of measuring how prestigeous a brand is is through "desire". A Mercedes is a car people aspire to own, as is a Rolls Royce or a Bentley. If you ask someone on the street which car they think is the most presitgeous, chances are they'll most likely say Mercedes, Rolls Royce, Bentley, perhaps Jaguar, BMW and maybe even Cadillac (based on Cadillac's past history).


So for me, this is how it works:

Top highest overall brand prestige: Mercedes-Benz
Second highest overall brand prestige: Rolls Royce, Bentley
Third highest overall brand prestige: BMW, Jaguar
Fourth highest overall brand prestige: Audi, Lincoln, Lexus
Fifth highest overall brand prestige: Acura, Infiniti


*Note: I left out brands like Porsche and Ferrari for the sake of simplification.

And I forgot to add Cadillac to the list! Cadillac, based on past history and its effect on prestige would be grouped together with BMW and Jaguar in "Third highest".

I think Lincoln would be in a lower tier than #4. American companies rebadge their cars worse than any other car company so a Lincoln is a rebadged Ford. There's barley a difference.

Lincoln's weren't rebadged Ford's in the past. They might have shared a few components but they generally were their own products meaning they had a genuine Lincoln chassis etc.

Based on past history and desire, Lincoln should be where I placed it in my opinion.

I could argue that Lexus still shares many parts with Toyota's. For example, I recently sat in the new Toyota Landcruiser (looking for a new car for my wife to replace the FX45) and I couldn't help noticing that the seat controls at the sides of the seat were the same as those found in the LS460 / LS600h.

You're welcome, Erich Hartmann.

Bill

Well written post.

I think Lincoln has lost its old image of Cadillac'a main arch-rival as Toyota stepped up and created Lexus. They just tanked and went in to entry level luxury, as Cadillac tried and trying to compete.

In order for Lincoln to climb back in a ladder of luxury, they'll have to do a lot of work. First and most important thing is, they'll have dig themselves out of Limo-Taxi image here in north east part of US. That image alone put X marks on many of the Lincoln models.

So based of achievement or contributions as you say, Audi is easily Tier 3. Obviously, you do not know much about Audi's 100 plus year history. Stick to MB.

ATTENTION EVERYONE:

Please actually click and read the article. It's very funny. Everyone is arguing about the list which is of itself a joke.

This "study" consisted of asking 30 (that's right thirty) people their opinions.

In the real world a sample size of thirty gets you....nothing. It's not representative of anything.

Posting/writing that article in the first place was stupid. Re-posting it at autospies as a "news" piece is sad.

Whatever you beleive to be the most prestigious, you can't use this "data" to support it.

Thanks!!!

So this study is very much more reliable.....

1. Porsche
2. Lexus
3. Mercedes

Luxury Institute Survey:
Wealthy U.S. Consumers Rate Most Prestigious Luxury Automobile Brands:

Porsche, Lexus and Mercedes

NEW YORK, NY--(Marketwire - May 7, 2008)
- High net-worth consumers rated Porsche the most prestigious luxury automobile in the 2008 Luxury Brand Status
Index (LBSI) survey from the independent New York City-based Luxury Institute.

Respondents who would recommend Porsche say,"They are world-class sports cars for the true connoisseur," and, "They have a good reputation for performance." Lexus and Mercedes ranked second and
third respectively.

"In a world ridden with blatant commercial bias, the Luxury Institute's surveys are impartial and objective," said Milton Pedraza, CEO of the Luxury Institute.

"We conduct our surveys with independent panels of wealthy consumers with results tabulated by external analytical firms. We have no consulting projects with the brands rated nor do we have advertising dependencies with them. As far as we are aware, this is the only consumer-based survey that can make those claims. Our surveys inform luxury CEOs on the health of their brands in no uncertain terms so they can take action to enhance relationships with prospects and customers. Today more luxury brands rely on the accuracy of the Luxury Institute's survey data than
any other research."

Following are the 12 luxury automobile brands that were rated (alphabetical order):

1. Acura
2. Audi
3. BMW
4. Cadillac
5. Infiniti
6. Jaguar
7. Land Rover
8. Lexus
9. Lincoln
10. Mercedes
11. Porsche
12. Volvo

The proprietary Luxury Brand Status Index (LBSI) survey is the only measure of the prestige of leading brands among wealthy Americans. A national sample of 1,642 wealthy American consumers, with an average income of $349K and average net-worth of $3.7 million, was surveyed online. Survey results are weighted to match demographic and net worth profiles of the same audience according to the latest Survey of Consumer Finances from The Federal Reserve.

lolz just because your mad that it wasn't ranked the way you want don't mean you gotta hate. by the way if you read :D it says review not labeled news piece haha.

That study is actually pathetic in my opinion. The people surveyed remind me of my neighbor. She thinks brands are prestigeous if they you offer you a well-equipped car for decent value. Not true.

Brand prestige is created by history. It has to be earned and is the highest form of respect. Lexus hasn't earned it, at least not on the same level as the European luxury brands. Sometimes brand prestige is bought - that's how Lexus did it. They've sold their cars mainly through marketing and the reputation for reliability, but that automatically doesn't make them a prestigeous luxury brand.

I'm happy that this survey reflects just the way some ignorant people in the United States think. The rest of the world wouldn't even place Lexus in the top ten.

See, I'm not mad though.

I don't give a crap what others think of the things I like.

But what I can't stand is people dogpiling on Lexus for no reason. The German-only fanboys and their silly comments are bad enough, but when an agent posts stuff just for starting yet another dumb argument I get really pissed.

People: like what you like, but don't you dare tell other people what they should like/think.

RESPECT ALL!

My point, Answer, is that if we're comparing brand history and achievement here, then Lexus cannot compete. Look at the history of Daimler-Benz and their achievements. Their achievements in passenger cars, commercial vehicles, marine and aircraft engines, motorsports, safety, diesels, alternative fuel/propulsion methods etc. If you look at all of this, all of it, and then compare it what Lexus has done in these areas, then you'll see what I am talking about. Plus other important aspects like global appeal or desire. Lexus ranks very poorly on those for the most part.

Contrary to what you might think of me, I am not a Lexus hater. I respect Lexus, but dislike how they've very overrated in terms of brand prestige. Given how Mercedes and BMW had to struggle to get where they are without any major financial benefactors, I feel that too many people ignore the Toyota aspect (the money) behind the success of Lexus.

So these "dumb surveys" do not reflect the truth, from a history standpoint. Because there is no way Lexus has more brand prestige over Mercedes-Benz. Are we simply to ignore what Mercedes-Benz has done for the automotive world? Their achievements in those many fields has given them the right to call themselves, if they wish, the most brand prestigeous car company in the world way above everyone else.

Hey Bill,

Although I disagree with you quite often, I think you are a pretty smart guy and have some knowlege behind your opinions. (That makes you a unique member of the autospies community).

Only the super-crazy-Lexus#1 fanboys would argue that Lexus has a more impressive history than Merc.

Mercedes has not only been around a long time, but they've done amazing things in that time.

So if you base prestige solely on history, Lexus will be near the bottom.

I think my problem is that people use the fact that Lexus lacks historical prestige as a jumping point for all their "Lexus sucks" attacks.

Like I said, I don't give a rat's ass what others think of my cars, But I hate the illogical arguments being made here.

I honestly was drawn to Lexus for it's lack of relative prestige and "snob appeal" in the first place.

"Bill"

Where have you been since 1989 since Lexus came out?

When Lexus was release they had among the lowest drag coefficients of any production vehicle (Cd 0.29), record a quiet 58 dB of cabin noise at a cruising speed of 62 mph (100 km/h), and exhibit lower levels of vibration than rival sedans.
The F1 design's new 4.0 L V8 engine produced 250 hp, had a maximum speed of 155 mph (250 km/h), and avoided the U.S Gas Guzzler tax and was then the fastest Luxury automobile in the world.

Over a period of five years, a team of over 3,900 engineers, technicians, and other F1 personnel built some 450 flagship prototypes and 900 engine prototypes.
The prototype F1 vehicles were driven over a total of 4.3 million kilometers on testing locations ranging from the autobahn in Germany, deserts in Arizona, Australia, and Saudi Arabia, to U.S. highways and wilderness areas. To ensure quality, more precise manufacturing standards were developed to produce higher levels of fit and finish in the new sedan.
Toyota's Tahara plant, a highly automated facility, was selected as the site of production. Materials selection tests examined multiple types of leather and scrutinized 24 different kinds of wood for use in the passenger cabin. Total costs for the project exceeded $1 billion.

Mercedes was the past of Prestige, it's now Lexus. You didn't think mercedes was going to be the most prestige forever did u?

I went to my statistics book in ordder to make sure that what I was going to say was correct about what consitutes a large number of random samples. However I was suprised to find that according to Statistics for Engineers and Scientists by Navidi n>30 is a large random sample. Frankly, I don't remember it being that way, but there you have it. Technically it is not a large sample, however, because it is close you really shouldn't expect that the ruth is radically different.

Hi Answer,

Thanks for the compliments and the informative post.

I've never really noticed the snob appeal of a Mercedes or other European luxury brands partly because I've always wanted to own their cars not because of status but more because of my fascination with history. I was, after all, a history teacher.

My emotional connection to Mercedes and other European brands comes from their history and achievements and of course classic cars, which simply create a lusting for the brand. I've always thought that owning a Mercedes would be, well, "cool", because I felt that I was driving a car from this marque that is very, very powerful and respected globally.

I'm don't feel like a show-off when I drive my Mercedes (S550). I simply enjoy it and I've enjoyed the Mercedes' I've owned in the past ('85 300D Turbodiesel and '98 E420) as well. I guess I am just passionate about the brand in general and hence my appreciation for their history and achievements paint this picture in my head that they're at the top in this matter.

Lexus is a good brand with a lot of potential to grow if they also adapt to other markets (something they're not doing at the moment) but in terms of brand prestige I simply see an empty box. I don't have an emotional connection to Lexus or a desire to own one because of their history. I feel that I would be getting a car that is simply sterile and has never really adapted or evolved over the years. I would feel like I am getting a car that built with the sole purpose of generating more profits for Toyota, not because of passion (like in MB's case when they started out).

Silver1,

Thanks for that PRESS RELEASE, I yawned at it. Why not post some FACTS that prove how prestigeous Lexus really is. Everyone knows the LS400 was an awesome car (despite being a Toyota Celsior in Japan).

I'm talking about inventing new technology or developing a new safety system out of the blue. These are things Mercedes' has done many times over in many areas.

How about motorsports? Mercedes' was and still is a very dominating force here. Where's the motorsport history of Lexus? A: Doesn't exist. No prestige points here for you...

Classic cars are a great means of obtaining and building brand prestige. And Mercedes' has hundreds of models that are considered classics, ground-breaking, innovative and are desired. Not the case with Lexus.

Do you know what else creates prestige? You won't believe me, but here goes: efficient engines. In other parts of the world a luxury car with an efficient and small motor is nothing to be ashamed about.

And the LS400 was the fastest luxury car in the world in 1989? A European-spec Mercedes 560SE (SEL) and BMW 750i (iL) could reach 250 km/h (155 mph) as well. Mercedes-Benz also had the 560SEC which was LIMITED to 155 mph.

And how does a quiet engine add to brand prestige? It's simply a feature that adds to the comfort of the car, but not brand prestige.

Oh, and the LS400 interior was on the same quality level as that of the Mercedes W126 and Jaguar XJ. In fact those two European cars had visually more pleasing interiors with character, not that sterile plastic heaven the LS400 had. I honestly fail to see what is so special about the interior materials of the original LS400. I never found them to be particularly special.

In my mind this question is easy, but others may find it an evasion of the concept because the company does not exist anymore.

Duesenberg

Only 667 Duesenbergs were built. Every Duesenberg is unique as evey one was coachbuilt. In terms of its original price relative to tier 1 cars now, Duesenberg would be tier 0. They were in some cases significantly more expensive than the Rolls-Royces, Bentleys an Maybachs of the time, with prices going up to around $25,000 at the time. The Duesenberg chassis alone cost more than some Bentleys.

At auction they fetch quite a bit of money. I personally have never seen a Duesenberg auction for less than $1 million dollars- although I am sure it has happened.

Last year, this car which was formerly owned by Jay Leno, a 1935 Duesenberg SJ Towncar with a body by Bohmer & Schwartz, sold for $4.4 million (with commission) at auction. I believe that puts it in the top 10 most expensive cars ever auctioned- but I might be wrong.(I kind of just want to test if this works)

<a href="http://cdoke.myautospies.com/users/159/Front-Page/duesenberg%20SJ%20towncar.JPG" class="highslide" onclick="return hs.expand(this, {captionId: ''})"><img src="http://cdoke.myautospies.com/users/159/Front-Page/duesenberg%20SJ%20towncar.JPG" style="width: 540px; border: solid 1px #000000;" alt="" /></a>

Hell. Oh well.

+1.
I add Maybach to that. I followed one one I-95 for about 50 miles, and it had such presence.

i agree with this article for the most part but here in America i would swap Lexus for Audi...in the US Audi isnt as prestigious as Lexus, or BMW, or Mercedes, or even Jaguar. maybe in other parts of the world but not here......AUDI even thinks so take a look at the Audi A5 commercial where it sums up what 3 luxury brands people think of most prestigious Mercedes, BMW, and Lexus

"Bill"

3 Questions:

1st, Has mercedes achieve what Lexus did in their first 20 years of birth?

2nd, Could you imagine Lexus another 20 years from now and Mercedes another 20 years from now? If so, where?

3rd, If Mercedes was born in 1989 like Lexus, who do you think will be the prestigious brand if both were born in 1989-2008 and why?

"1st, Has mercedes achieve what Lexus did in their first 20 years of birth?"

Did Benz/Daimler have a "sugar daddy" that gave them huge cashchecks whenever they needed money? No.

That question you're asking is ignorant and stupid. The world in 1886 was totally different than the world is today. In 1886 there was no such thing as a car market and its associated features. Automotive consumers (there were hardly any around in 1886 anyway) didn't have any expectations of brands - because they didn't exist yet.

Let me put it to you this way. Soon after in 1886, Benz and Daimler were building highly advanced engines, chassis, steering and suspension systems and were winning customers left and right. In the late 19th century and early 20th century Benz and Daimler began competing and participating in so-called endurance races - with spectacular results. The first Grand Prix's came at the beginning of the 20th century, and Benz and Daimler enjoyed many successes here.

I believe it was in 1902 when Mercedes' (Daimler) introduced the SIMPLEX - the most advanced car on earth at the time with such novel features as low-placed-chassis for better handling and chain-driven-sprocket that powered the rear wheels for example.

I could care less what Lexus has done in 20 years. It's not the same as the challenges that faced Benz and Daimler in 1886 and the early 20th century. The major flaw here is that Lexus has had it easy with Toyota pumping money into them. With money anything is possible. Not to mention that Lexus shamelessly copied Mercedes' in philosophy and technology in some cases. Wow, I am impressed with what Lexus has done in 20 years. NOT.



"2nd, Could you imagine Lexus another 20 years from now and Mercedes another 20 years from now? If so, where?"

This is a hard question to answer but both brands have a great future ahead of them. That's all I am going to say.


"3rd, If Mercedes was born in 1989 like Lexus, who do you think will be the prestigious brand if both were born in 1989-2008 and why?"

Another difficult (or impossible) question to answer. I DON'T KNOW.

Question#2:

Math Madness: Who Will Be The Premium Market Leaders in 2010 and to 2030?

http://www.autospies.com/news/Math-Madness-
Who-Will-Be-The-Premium-Market-Leaders-in-
2010-and-to-2030-22884/

Mercedes
Year: 2007 Units 255,026
2010 277,054
2015 318,075
2020 365,170
2025 419,238
2030 481,312

Lexus:
Year: 2007 Units 335,976
2010 380,112
2015 466,928
2020 573,573
2025 704,575
2030 865,498

By the year 2030 as you can see Lexus numbers will double the amount of Mercedes.

Let me tell you how this “article” came about…

Day 1:

HIGH-INCOME EARNERS polled about their opinions of what they consider prestigious. Lexus came in SECOND behind Porsche.

Day 2:

Results were published.

Day 3:

Some aging, irrelevant schmoe (AIS) reads results. Cries…no, weeps. Finds results offensive – appalling in fact. “This goes against all convention” thinks AIS, “Lexus besting the brands we and our ancestors grew up believing were the best. Not a chance. Way, too radical. Something HAS to be done about this”. But what. How? With memory failing, AIS struggles for a plan.

Day 4:

During Friday night bingo at the AIS’ place of residence (i.e. nursing home), an idea was hatched. Invites 30 of his shriveled, arthritically damaged buddies out on to the street. Polls them. Not even knowing what Lexus was, and thoroughly disappointed when explained that it was not a pill to cure ED but an auto brand, the gang of 30 ranked it at the bottom of the list. AIS smiles a smile of contentment.

Day 5:

Publishes results of his “poll”. Exhibits delusions that his poll actually holds more relevance than the poll results he so desperately wants to refute. “Aaaah, the sweet smell of success!” he mutters to himself, completely unaware the old bag next to him passed gas just moments earlier.

Day 6:

Autospies “agents”, being of the same demographic as AIS posts the results of this “credible” poll. Feels good about itself. Autospies posters (the majority of them), also of the same demographic, agree. Everything is right with the world again.

LOL!!!!!!

flozel1

Day 3:

Some aging, irrelevant schmoe (AIS) reads results. Cries…no, weeps. Finds results offensive – appalling in fact. “This goes against all convention” thinks AIS, “Lexus besting the brands we and our ancestors grew up believing were the best. Not a chance. Way, too radical. Something HAS to be done about this”. But what. How? With memory failing, AIS struggles for a plan

LOL! It's like old school verus new school

High school kids and middle school kids now a days believe in Lexus, when back in my days it was Mercedes and my Parents days it was Cadillac in the movie "DreamGirls", I love that song "Go Me A Cadilliac"

Wow, you really never give up. You're throwing more fuel into the fire here trying to make Lexus appear prestigeous without mentioning FACTS. All you do is post Lexus press releases and Wikipedia articles (which anyone can change, mind you) boasting about a awards that enhance the brand, but don't add the same kind of prestige than the achievements of the European brands have done.

You really must be fourteen years old...

Most Prestigious Cars

1902-1980 Cadillac
1981-1997 Mercedes
1998- ---- Lexus

Here in Middle East it's quite different. Something like:

Rolls Royce and all that famous Exotics like Ferrari, Lambo are in the top most tier. Lesser known brands like Maybach, Maserati...etc are not that prestigeous.

Then comes MB, BMW and Lexus (from a year or two onwards) tier.

Audi, Jagaur are considered lesser than MB or Lexus...etc and they along with Infiniti makes the last tier.

On Suvs, Land Rovers and Land Crusiers are the most favourite and prestigeous SUVs.

JUGNU

From History, It would be Duisenberg or Cord.

Packard was nice too.

Stupide. Were are Maserati, Ferrari, etc. Tier one and tier two and tier three, he!. And what you say ''ErichHartmann'' about LEXUS in Germany in not true at all. Remember that you're not the only one in this site who comes from DE. I'm german and know that people consider LEXUS at least on same level as MB. And specialy LEXUS in Germany has the reputation to have better quality than MB. But we try to not buy it beacause we're excessively patriotiste. And you know that very well if your realy German. Come out from you're dream and see the reality.

"ErichHartmann"

Nein, Sie sind ein jeolous, und Sie können nicht mit der Tatsache leben, dass Lexus jetzt mehr Prestige ist als Lexus. Lebend damit. Aber es ist nett zu sehen, dass Sie stehen werden, bis zum Ende aber hat das Ende kam und vorbei. Lexus hat jetzt mehr Prestige als Mercedes. Dachten Sie, dass Mercedes dabei war, in diesem Punkt zu bleiben, für immer machen POS Autos?

"Ich meinte, dass Lexus jetzt mehr Prestige ist als Mercedes"

Stimmt. Danke dir Silver1.

oh yeah, I live in Germany and your talking crap...

I'd be willing to bet that this article's author, "Mark Y.", and agent63 are one in the same.

Writing a blog with the supposed thoughts of 30 random folks, and then submitting it as news here, is very sad indeed.

LOL!

So this also goes to people like Tyra Banks, Paul McCartney, Tiger Woods, Bill Gates, etc.. who all bought a Lexus???

im a lexus fan as u can see but i can agree to that. lexus is a teenager compared mercedes and bmw so they have lots yet to prove to the world. traditionalist will always pick mercedes. that 3 point is iconic to the auto industry. the lexus L will never but as long as it's popular in the us it will keep the company going.

but i been to europe.. i ahve to admit that is where prestige is and they know it. in japan when i went to kyoto i saw a lexus ls but i suppose the surrounding and the people driving it make it look so average.

thats the good thing about it. average joes can drive a lexus. an average joe who drive a merc doesnt fit. lexus suits anyone so it give the warm welcoming feel. merc you need to be balling out of control and have the glam. its what they have always been. very rarely do you see artists having a lexus in their music video

Bently is what a car should be.

sadly, America decided to go cheap, and get way from great craftsmanship.

what platform engineered, with alot of shared parts, than marked up to hell, because of the name.....that sounds like alot of cars

heres my list for most prestigeous brands:

Mercedes-Benz
Volvo
Porsche
Land Rover
Jaguar
Cadillac (back on their feet again!!)


let the flaming begin!!! (oh dear, not again...)

I don't think silver1 is truly being a fanboy. I think he actually does have a twisted sense of reality. And no, I'm not hating--that's what's going on.

silver1 actually thinks Lexus is the most prestigious brand.

It isn't.

There is no better way to get it across than by saying that.

Listen, we all have our lists. My list is no better than yours so I won't even argue with what sort of ranking system you used to rate these brands. Anyway, I'm sure most are based on subjective reasoning rather than objective.

But just like you and I, the rich (i.e. those folks that have the financial resources to buy just about anything they damn well please) have their opinions too. Their opinion, subjective or objective they may be, is that the top 3 prestigous brands are as follows:

1. Porsche
2. Lexus
3. MB

Unless you talk to those "30" dudes that were polled.

i think lexus is popular here is because of its good pricing and it reminds the americans of cadillac. it's japanese version of cadillac except with better styling and more reliability so for them its a better choice.

plus lexus was made for the us market in the beginning to target buyers of cadillac more than any german car. lexus may not be big as mercedes but they are big in the us. they worked hard over the past 1

i think lexus is popular here is because of its good pricing and it reminds the americans of cadillac. it's japanese version of cadillac except with better styling and more reliability so for them its a better choice.

plus lexus was made for the us market in the beginning to target buyers of cadillac more than any german car. lexus may not be big as mercedes but they are big in the us. they worked hard over the past 17 years to promote this brand so its been long enough for them to embedd a message to the american buyer that lexus is just as good as the german.

my fav car is the ls460. maybe it doesnt have the look of a prestige car but we have reliability. as long as we have that its ok.

toyotas never looked stunning like a mercedes so i dont expect lexus to copy them. many say they copied mercedes and i can see some similar traits but thanks to mercedes lexus was even created. otherwise we wouldnt be here arguing over a silly topic of prestige.

i pay respect to mercedes they are beautiful cars for those who can afford it. lexus is for people with money but people who trust japanese product.

sometime it not even the car itself but customer service. my dad has a gs and his only reason of keeping the car is because of service. they are very good.

perhaps sometimes people view prestige as a service and how well it is dished out to the owners..

some food for thought

Lexurious -

I don't know what kind of "extra" service you get from Lexus but I did own several other brands including Lexus and there's no difference in their service when ever I go and get my car serviced.

Tell us that doesn't get that service, what is so special about the service you get from Lexus then Rolls/Bentley/Mercedes/BMW/Audi/Infinity/Acura?

One more thing...
Have you seen the price of Lexus?
You don't save as much as you did like in early 90s.

Tier 1
Rolls-Royce
Maybach
Bentley

Tier 2
Mercedes-Benz
BMW
Audi

Tier 3
Jaguar
Lexus
Acura
Infiniti
Cadillac
Etc.....

why is lexus mentioned here? If it is, so should be Volvo.

Tier 1
Bently
RR
Maybach
Benz
ferrari
Mesarati
BMW
Porsche
AUDI
Aston
Lambo
Jag
Range Rover

Tier 55

lexus/camry

Audi is not an acronym. So it is Audi, not AUDI.

And this is why Lexus is so prestigious. Look at all the haters... Why so many people hate on this car? More people envy this car than anything else... Is Lexus really that Great?

They scare!

They make good cars. That's why I also have an LS. But it doesn't make it more "prestigious" than a MB. It's no where as classy as my Merc but it's "technically brilliant". Is that a fair comment?

I don't hate Lexus, I just don't think they are more prestigious then Tier 1 and 2 brands. There should be no question that Toyota build some reliable cars, and it is luxurious. But same can be said for other domastic and foreign brands these days, reliablity of many brands are catching up to quality of those from Lexus/Toyota (or is Toyota falling?). Base on your claim, what if other brnads from domastic or foreign cars catch up reliablity of Toyota/Lexus and start to sell more? Are they more prestigious then tier 1 or Tier 2 brands?

Brand royalty if one thing, but fan boys illogical belief in their brands, that their brand is next slice of bread is just dumb.

1.Porsche
2.LEXUS
3.MB

Point.

Audis ? The company that uses the same guy to design Skodas, VW's, Audi's. and probably uses the same parts in some of the ranges across the brands within VW group !!

And sample of 30 people ?? Did they sample 30 German Tourists ?

If they were Japanese would you have argued?

Another winner on this site. Are you sure these people are automotive enthusiasts. Dude, ignorance is bliss on your part I guess.

I would say in this order:

1) Rolls Royce
2) Bentley
3) Maserati
4) Mercedes
5) Jaguar
6) BMW
7) Audi
8) Lexus
9) Volvo/Saab
10) Infiniti/Acura

I can agree to that one. But if you mention Volvo & Saab you might as well mention Cadillac because of their history.

I'm not sure about Saab but Volvo's an under-rated company in my opinion. They do quite a bit in terms of business but most of the fan don't see the big picture.

I’d put BMW atop, because BMW 135i auto, the Ultimate Carpool Machine, blessed with two propellers in the front and the rear, with a superb gas mileage, lease-able at $450/month, accommodates four super-belly-fat-ass Americans munching super-sized burgers with a cell phone plugged on their little head. BMW One Series, the 21st Century American dream visualized.

Rolls Royce
Bentley
Jaguar
Aston Martin
Ferrari
Lambourghini
Lotus


Then the rest follow...

for $450 a month ! i think BMW tries to mass sell it yet wants exclusivity .. which is it they want ? they can't have both because BMW is now common as muck.. RR, Bentley, Aston. Ferrari,Lambourghini, these only should be in tier 1, the rest follows

You guys are crazy.
My dad is amongst the 10 richest canadians and let me tell you smthing. He knows almost 15 billionaires and a lot of millionaires and I never saw any of them nor my dad even consider to buy a Lexus, Acura or Infinity.
The way I see it, there are 3 categories:
High ends (Rolls Royce, Buggatti, Aston Martin, bentley, ferrari, maserati, Lamborghini, Maybach, Porsche)
Luxury cars (Audi, BMW, Mercedes, Jaguar, Land Rover)
Low-luxury cars (Lexus, Acura, infinity, cadillac, lincoln, Rover and even recently id add Volkswagen)
My dads friends often own Aston martins, Bentleys, Land Rovers, ferrari, maseratis, Porsches, Audis, Benz, BMWs. He has 2 friends that have a Buggatti, 7 friends that have Rolls Royces and 1 that has a lamborghini (but it really is a "new rich car". My dad currently owns an Audi S5, a Bentley mulsanne and a Continental Gt, a Aston DB9 and a Mercedes S550 and a SLS AMG. He also has a BMW X5 witch I drive and a jaguar XF for my mom. Back in the 1950 my family used to own cadillac and lincoln limousines because they were extremly prestigious back then. We also had Mercedes and jaguars back then.
If someone would come to my golf course in a Lexus people would ask if its the pizza delievry guy.

Btw excuse my english, English is only my second language after french. But seriously. Lexus, Acura and Infinity are not really luxury brands. You see, one of my dads good friend is a Libanese guy that owns over 30 car dealerships of all sorts. When he first considered building a Lexus dealership back in the early 90', he was really sceptical that people would buy a "70 000$ toyota" (as he said). He was very surprised that one year later, his lexus dealership was bringing in big bucks. So he wanted to know what made people buy a Lexus when they could get a Benz for almost the same price. He went to his dealership and asked the dealerships boss and he told my dads friend that people who bought lexus were people who wanted a luxury car but that didnt knew much about cars and that saw lexus commercials and that had seen reviews saying that they were reliable cars. So then he understood why he had so much sales with that particular dealership. But as he said to me "Lexus made its name by intense marketing and I want the marketing genius that made their name to work for me right now. Who thought people would pay 70 G for a toyota that looks a bit like a Mercedes. Lets face it, Lexus are not classy cars, they dont have any brand history and they are not good looking at all. In fact, I asked two clients that were in the dealership when I went to visit it last time and asked them if they knew that Lexus was made by Toyota. Both of them said that no and one of them just got out of the dealership and never came back and the other one cancelled his order." The "lexus-phenomenon" is trying to be created by Hyundai right now. Maybe in 10 years easily-influenced people will argue that Hyundai is a luxury car.