AutoSpies.com Officially Puts You In Charge: If You Ran Lexus, What Would YOU Do Differently?

I would do nothing different. The badge whores however, will try to convince people that everything Lexus does is wrong. Even though in the toughest auto market in the world (USA) where there is a slump, it is still the # 1 selling luxury brand, again.

Change the name to "Toyota" and just add a luxury package option to every car produced.

#1 selling luxury brand is a meaningless statement...

what price point is luxury?
which vehicles are considered luxury?
and since when does volume equal #1?

let's talk FACTS: who sells at a premium price to competitors? who sells the most on the high-end vs. entry level luxury? etc. etc.

Focus on selling cars that old people and soccer moms can operate. Stay out of the European sport segment by trying to make cars that compete with the 3 series. Stop selling the exact same model rebadged as a Lexus (ie LX570 and Land Cruiser). Bring a new SC convertible. Convince clients of 3k mile oil changes to get they're service money and then up sell everything else you can get them to pay for. Keep building Taj Mahal style dealerships that people love to visit because of coffee bars, personal DVD players, WiFi and massages. Even better, make every dealership a Super Center ala Walmart. Offer groceries, and a pharmacy so that they're core consumer only needs to go to one place every day. Brilliant if I do say so myself.

Which makes the LC extremely overpriced.

Right, Doenst the LC get deep in the $70's?

Like Acura, fire 75% of the designers... and develop a V10... Trash the LX Model. thats about it...

1) Distinct corporate grill. Audi and BMW, and to a lesser extent, Mercedes, all have elegant and distinctive grill's. Lexus has yet to make one.

2) Fix the ES/GS nonsense. The ES should not be based on the Camry, rather the platform the GS is based on. The GS should become a 4D Coupe, a-la CLS.

3) Get rid of 4Runner based GX. Replace that with a true X5/Q7 competitor, based on the GS' platform.

4) Get better styling. The GS to this day remains one of my favorite sedans in terms of design. I especially love the front (so distinctive until the new E-Class comes out) But other than that, Lexus' entire design language is garbage. The LS and ES share an unmistakable resemblence to the Camry. The LS itself is not even in the same leagues in terms of design as the 7 or S. It lacks the elegance, poise, and distinctive styling that the two just ooze. The LS is a handsome vehicle, but it's too plain, and to Toyota-ish.
I really wish Lexus would hire/acquire an Italian firm to design their cars, because then it would help shed the image of Toyota.

5) Bring out coupes Lexus. I'd love a CL or 6 rival. The IS Convertible should've been an IS Coupe.

6) Experiment. I love that about BMW, with the X6 and the PAS, they aren't afraid to try new things. Same goes for Mercedes with the CLS. Lexus however, plays it far too cautiously.

Sadly I'm not sure how much of this is going to happen. I only hope the HS250h is not as hideous as the render previewed.

thats the most unbiased opinion ive ever heard

HEY, LEXUS!!! YOU REMEMBER ME? I'M A LEXUS FAN!!!
...and guess what?! I agree to most of the negative comments about you!

Let me start with something positive...very dreamy but feasible:

Hybrid marque:
Nothing wrong with completely changing the powertrain but keeping the name, right? I mean...how about experimenting with 4 independent electric motors controlling each wheel - and the spinning of the wheel also makes the energy! lol
That way, there would be a lot of space saving, and Lexus can now provide more amenities to account for the price jump. Think about this: if Toyota gets things right, the whole powertrain setup can be very compact yet powerful (electric engines should have 100% torque at "0 rpm") ...and light too. Then the extra space can allow for a bigger trunk and a place to hide a TV, fridge, etc. The roof can be stretched to add more interior room, and the hood can be raised to reveal two simple seats surrounded by a polished wooden platform with placeholders for champagne and champagne flutes ...or with a really nice battery...a large TV and with a few compact seats that can be easily assembled (and heaters w/ other luxuries too). x]

lol I'm too much of a dreamer.

OK...now the negatives. Let me see...:

I'm down to using the fact that your potential to be perfect as my reason of still being a fan.

IS - great car...now make it better. The exterior is pretty clean, which means that it requires a complete overhaul for the next generation, and the interior needs to step up into an entirely new league (Take a look at the Cadillac CTS).

ES - very sleek and beautiful. I'd like to see the panoramic roof as a standard option w/o extra charge (make it more compact if possible). The design around the nav is perfect, but the rest of the interior requires more attention. RWD + IS 350's engine should be the base for the next model - best if it doesn't share platforms with the GS.

GS - I'd like the next generation to be much more aggressive - the LF-Xh is a great concept to base the exterior designs on.

LS - Really really really really REALLY really needs more attention to details. Interior needs: more wood, more semi-aniline leather, more stitching, more chrome accents, less black plastic shared with Toyota's (turning stalk for example). I'm pretty sure Lexus knows how to give its customers more luxury ammenities (still needs more of that), but I think the Lexus' biggest problem is its lack of attention to design details.

SC - make it an LF-A but with aluminum instead of carbon fiber to be more "mass-produce-able" and cheaper (just below 100k mark). While the LF-A concept's interior is pretty acceptable for a super sportscar trying to break a record on the Nurburgring, the standard SC's interior should have more attention to design details [more chrome accents, semi-aniline leather, stitching, and wood (no carbon fiber)] ...just to name a few.

RX - I'm starting to find the appeal of the car for its buyers, but

WHOA...my comment was too long x]

RX - I'm starting to find the appeal of the car for its buyers, but the interior is awful. the dash and center console is full of nasty looking plastics. I do like the whole "idea" the design team was striving for.

GX - The new GX should stay true to its off-roading capabilities, but instead of forcing Lexus into making another SUV for the F marque, Lexus should just apply all the designs onto the next GX - an exact carbon copy. Then, the GX can be the ultimate SUV where sports apply to both on-road and off road. The Japanese shouldn't have any problems if they actually put their minds into it. Just think about it. The GX has been a great seller - it's big but not too big; it has utility; it's a great family car for parents and vacationers. Yes...and work on a its interior too...don't like the idea of the GX as a baby LX.

LX - PLEASE take this vehicle more seriously. Maybe the designs should be left to a small group of Lexus' best designers - ...to design the perfect SUV that can do anything for the small group that are most likely owners of an LS too. I'm glad to learn that the vehicle performs great off-road...I was so scared Lexus gave that idea up. Now, I just want the vehicle to have a better design inside and out. The outside is slow to like, even when one sees it in person. The insides is warm and inviting, but it really lacks the craftsmanship the car really needs to be where and what it is. The dimensions and proportions of the current model are all off. If Toyota really is that good, why don't they make the LX THE best it can be...seats that disappear into the floor while retaining the same suspension set up for off-road purposes for example - best materials, best options, and more details!!!

F-marque:
The IS F looks great in person (great wheels and wonderful exhausts), but with the sports marque set up, the whole company should now participate. The next generation of F models should include the IS, GS, LS, and the GX. Simply put, the F models should look much more exclusive design-wise yet more "well-put". Other than that, performance should include great handling like a BMW, but at the same time, lots of tire smoke like the current IS F.

I keep saying to myself...the Lexus brand has POTENTIAL, but it just doesn't show it...just doesn't live up to its slogan. Sit in the new LS, and you'll realize that it doesn't have as much hype as the first generation did when it first came out.

Despite all the extra luxury amenities that Lexus lineup falls short of, it seems to me that nothing can get better unless the whole brand rethinks its designs.

If I ran Lexus, I would shoot my self. Then, since I've gone to hell for producing such sinful soulless vehicles, I would ask satan to help me annihilate the entire Lexus lineup and also make disappear every Lexus in existence.

Merry Christmas Autospies!!!!!

All these "if you were in charge" threads are so lame.

But anyways, here are some of my humble suggestions:

1) Decide what route Lexus really wants to take. Do they want to continue producing boring luxury "appliances" like the ES350 and LS460 or do they want to produce cars that are more performance and driver orientated like the IS-F? I feel like they are lost in between right now with no direction.

2) Kill the long in the tooth and extremely ungainsly SC430. This "boulevard cruiser" was ugly when it came out and it continues to be an eye sore for the brand.

3) Stop hyping the L-Finesse design. Most consumers who buy Lexus (ie people who don't know about cars) have no idea what L-Finesse is. Don't hype a silly design theme, instead just make a Lexus look like a Lexus.

4) Put a stick in the IS350. I know the units sold with a 6MT would be extremely small, but this is the only way for this sedan to ever get any street cred with the 3-Series and G37 as a true sports sedan.

5) Immediately kill the LF-A. We are in a world recession and creating a car to compete with Ferrari, Lamborghini, Porsche, AMG, and Aston Martin is just absurd. If Ferrari is supposedly having trouble selling the best supercars in the world, how is Lexus going to fare? Poorly. The LF-A was an answer to a question nobody asked.

Chuck, you are making my commments look bad just by responding to them. In response to your thoughts:

1) The G37 is a great sports coupe and sedan, but AGAIN it is not the end-all-be-all of cars you make it out to be. It isn't even the benchmark in its class. Just because this is the first nice car you have ever owned doesn't make it the best car in the history of mankind. Chill and just enjoy driving a nice sports coupe. You don't have to prove anything to us.

2) The VQ engine is an extremely versatile engine and has been a great success for Nissan. HOWEVER, read almost any review of the G35/G37 and you will find most auto journalists comment about its harshness when pushed. When the VQ is near red line, you certainly know it from the vibrations and noise (not good noise) it makes. Please just drive a BMW I6. If you weren't looking at the tach, you wouldn't even know the car is approaching redline because it is so smooth.

3) I will agree with you the IS is often driven by females (usually on the cell phone). Here is CT, it is also commonly driven by guidos from NY state as well. However, the IS doesn't need street cred against the GT-R, R8, Gallardo, or Vette. These cars are not in the same league. The IS needs to get street cred with the G37 and 3-Series. Let's be realistic here guy.

Kaner,
I agree that comfort is the main goal of the LS. HOWEVER, this doesn't mean you have make the driver completely isolated from driving. Drive a 7-Series or S-Class and you will find you get pretty much the same amount of luxury and features, but in a car that is pretty fun to drive (for such a big luxury sedan). The LS puts even the driver to sleep.

IS-F did pretty much accomplish its goal of performance. BUT, this really is the only car that is performance or driver orientated in the entire line up (IS350 is a distant second). The rest of the line-up is for people who want an upscale driving experience similiar to that of a Buick. Rather than producing such limited edition F models, they should try to make the entire line up a little more performance orientated.

Chuck-when they were all 3.5, the lexus was the fastest..faster than the g35..faster than the g35 sedan with the same hp..altima coupe..even faster than 350z (auto). Ive raced a few g37s in my IS and its about dead even. Handling, Infiniti is better though

What I would change about Lexus

-stop making the sc430
-offer an IS coupe instead of the convertible
-put a manual option in the 350
-make all the ISs handle like the ISF

Does this guy get paid every time he types the letters V and Q in that sequence? No matter the topic it’s the same crap every day. WTF?

Lexus you are doing a great job if you weren't you wouldn't of gotten this far!

Now what should you do to improve the brand?


??: give us an entry level sedan/sports car (1series/Baby G)

IS: Give us a manual/coupe & hatchback like before
GS: with your next redesign give us a big coupe
SC: don't kill it just give it some balls!
LS: keep up the good work!

ISF & GSF: make them better in performance & design
Prius Hybrid: do your thing and add a sports car

LF-A: bring it!

Oh yeah: start losing some of your big suv's and make an awesome station wagon & crossover for soccer moms and the likes....start to lead in the industry :)

I would shut down the company completely

Doucheland

yeah, don't you wish!

krautmobiles had it easy until lexus came on the scene. they've had to get off their fat asses and start making decent cars, ever since. (and STILL can't make any with reliable electrics and power eqpt.)

oh yeah, and they couldn't get away so easily charging way overinflated prices for mediocre cars either. (not that they don't still TRY.)

Let's talk about profit for The big "L" and how it's made.... Lexus's leases while profitable-SUCK....I would raise the base price of every model BUT lower the lease payment. This makes sense as more people are moving away from leases and towards buying. I would scrap the GX/LX...make ONE "ute" that is bigger and more luxurious than the RX but not too bog and is of course a hybrid...IS- increase HP to 330 right now to compete with G37/335i....GS and LS-no changes for now...but for $*&!@% sake put in a decent stereo! Forget Mark Levinson- up the wattage and use Harmon Kardon....if you Levinson lovers want your classical music then it will be that much more vibrant.....

I would immediately hire Lotus to tune my suspensions on all cars. Stop making the big utes and make one big cross over to replace both.

First and foremost, create a new SC. Not a hardtop convertible, but a fixed roof coupe. Make it a sexy spiritual successor to the original SC.

Seperately, offer a coupe version of the LS.

Ditch the GX completely.

Make the LX a hybrid only.

Get more bold with interior color and trim choices.

Ditch the "one for all" L-finese design.

Get rid of the quality issues that have been creeping up as of late (ES especially).

All Lexus interiors (and to a lesser extent exteriors) should be futurist in design.

Main point of near-future endeavors should be to NOT try and be all things to all people.

Lexus was pretty damn succesful without a focus on sports/sporty cars. Why make such a large effort into BMW competitors, when there is no need?

I wouldn't cchange a thing. There has got to be a cheap luxury car for the ladies.

:-\

It's called Buick

Your real estate firm is bankrolled by the National Association for the Mentally Ill.

Go back to basics. Focus on being just a luxury car company; forget about performance cars, that market is too crowded. Lexus now wants to be all things to all buyers wasting money on a performance division that only a handful of Lexus fanatics care about.

Why Lexus wants to be BMW I will never understand. Lexus never stole market share from BMW or Mercedes Benz, look at the number, they have sold more cars since Lexus debuted and made BMW and Benz better companies along the way. Who sales have shrunk? Buick, Cadillac, Lincoln, and Mercury that’s who. Lexus needs to realize they are a pure luxury car and there is nothing wrong with that, that their market and that where the focus should be.

IS - Nothing
GS - Nothing
ES - Nothing
LS - Nothing
LX - Nothing
RX - Nothing
I think Lexus need to begin offering diesel alternatives though then again they have hybrids. Actually, when you think about it, Lexus is the most problem-less brand. Bravo.

Though every brand has its darker moments, and for Lexus it was definitely the SC. I don't think it is as people keep saying but it is a failure and doesn't really have any competition. I also think that the IS250C should replace the SC and that they should make a coupe IS250 also.

Definitely make the GS more sportier, faster, handle, and perform as good/better than BMW. Bring the Lexus LF-A into production but bring the price down to $160k-$190k.

Make the next Generation IS,GS, LS, ect all have LED headlight/DRL king of like the Audi. I think it look really futuristic and cool

Other than that Lexus won in the realiability, luxury, interior department.

Actually, Infiniti was the only Japanese luxury brand to actively use simulated wood. Both the flagship Q45 and the I35 sedans sported Nissan tacky plastic. At least Acura made an effort and use Camphor.

Have you drive or otherwise experienced a first or second generation FX or last generation Q? It's evident Nissan didn't use its top engineering/design teams when designing the cabins of those 'high-end' vehicles.

I don't think Nissan/Infiniti has ever properly executed a convincingly luxurious interior.

Make the RX a rear wheel drive and not increase the price. Start putting some wider tires on all cars.

The center console on the new RX could use a 'mild' redesign.

As Lexus CEO, I would address two main points: marketing and vehicle line.

Marketing: I would ditch the current pretentiously hip ad and print commerical campaign. I would return to the technical commercials first seen at Lexus' introduction.

Vehicle Line: I would introduce better material selections. Instead of simulating brushed metal surfaces with silver paint, I would use authentic metals. I would also take design cues from high end watch faces and devices. Also, vinyl surfacing would be replaced with hand-stiched leather.

where is this vinyl surface you speak of?

Compared to the LS 460 or even the LS 400, the ES 350 does have a rather downscale ambience. If it isn't comprised of vinyl then the dash and doors are trimmed in some synthetic, unappealing material.

The ES 350 still looks stunning in jet black, though.

Get rid of the ES, This model has always been the ugliest model Lexus has had. Replace the LX w/ an SUV that isn't a rebadged Land Cruiser.

Other than that that's all I would change all the other models are great vehicles. I like the IS and GS alot, the interior is good quality, lots of standard features that won't cost an arm and leg compared to other brands.

Okay, if Lexus ditched the LX, what would it have to compete with the Escalade (ugh), Range Rover and GL? Keep the LX, but make the interior even more higher-end.

I don't think its possible to make the LX interior any more high-end. Have you been in an LX570? I have never seen a nicer interior in an SUV, its gorgeous.
As for ditching the LX/GX, HECK NO. With these two vehicles, Lexus has something going, however I would would change the fact that the LX/GX have only one engine type. If you look at all the other SUV makes, they all have at least 3 varieties of engines, giving them a wide market type. There is the entry level all the way up to the high-end sport editions, where-as Lexus has only one choice for engines. If Lexus where to put some more variety in their LX/GX models, they would sell more IMO

there's absolutely NO NEED to be ashamed of the Land Cruiser being base on which the LX is built.

the LC has an established rep ACROSS THE PLANET as the most reliable go-anywhere vehicle money can buy. lexus owners deserve their own version.


likewise, the camry is the country's favorite family sedan. rwd has NO advantages over fwd for family sedans that never see track days. and real DISadvantages in the winter, and with general packaging and costs to produce.

again, no reason why Lexus customers can't have a version too. sports oriented buyers still the choice of IS and GS.

ES - redesign. Something inspiring. Simple so it will still appeal to their audience, but not so boring.

IS - nothing

GS - redesign.

SC - REDESIGN

LS - nothing

LX - put to rest!

RX - bring the redesign out now.

GX - nothing

GS - Lighter, Powerful, more Visceral.

SC - Replaced with LF-A-esque roadster/GT

ES - Introduce less 'floaty' driving characteristics. Move it to new entry-level platform.

All Lexus vehicles: Further differentiate from the Toyota line with higher quality fixtures and switch gear. I want to see increasing integration of higher quality surfacing materials. Honestly, I would like for Lexus to return to its fastidious early 1990s mindset.

I'd like to see the development of more Lexus-specific platforms, especially for a dedicated hybrid sedan. That 'Lexus Prius' floating around is just grotesque and serves as critical fodder for the Euro peanut gallery.

IS - Good!

ES - Redesign now!

GS - Redesign. Vehicle is very bland, the worst seller of the sedans!

LS - Get rid of the hybrid and introduce a 12-cylinder variant.

SC - Kill off or redesign or be replaced with a new model!

RX - Nothing. Bring out the new model!

GX - Completely kill off!!!!!!

LX - Lower price of admission, not worth the $80 grand

Finally seperate the Lexus nameplate and make it look as something more than a glorified Toyota!

Stop producing cars like the GS or SC or even the pointless soccermum car RX. Redesign, Re-Engineer, and get a new marketing strategy that doesnt make them look cheap.

Bottom line: Toyota is the worlds top automaker,period. The competition has to compare its product to a Toyota or Lexus as the benchmark. This phenominom did not happen over night or by chance. The recent set backs have surfaced during their rapid expansion and growth explosion. However, you can bet the Toyota and Lexus of the 90's will return. These 6 things will an enthusiast love, yea the 7th will be the fate of the competition. 1) The ES350 should become RWD. Leave the FWD cars in your Toyota line-up. 2) IS350 needs to smoke the competition in straight line performance,increase driving dynamics and top them in MPG. 3) SC430 Don't kill it,just give it a more angular look. 4) LS460/600 needs to smoke the competition in straight line performance,seriously icrease driving dynamics and top them in MPG. 5) GS350/450h/460 Bring the F on the V8,smoke the competition in straight line performance,seriously increase driving dynamics and top them in MPG. 6) Get rid of all bland apeal and perception of bordom. 7) LF-A Bring the Halo King to the world! This is the most beautiful exotic concept car the world has ever seen and is the envy of the automotive world. It must achieve world class performance status such as: 0-60 times under 3 sec,1/4 mi 130mph+,top speed over 225mph. Conquer the Corvette and it will be over. Cost should be around $350,000. This will be the end of the competition and the begining reign of the Lexus LF-A

If the ES becomes RWD it'll become even more redundant, competing directly with the RWD sports-oriented (in comparison) IS. The ES outsells the IS 4 to 1 as a safe luxury cruiser, its FWD setup will not change.

Lexworld,

Toyota and Lexus the benchmark? LOL!

Your post clearly explains why each model isn't the benchmark. The areas where each Lexus model is weak, there are vehicles from competing brands that are strong in those areas. And that's what you call the "benchmark"?

The IS gets smoked by the 335i. Please tell me where the IS350 is superior to the 335i? Reliability? Please... And every time I see a Lexus ES on the road it is being driven by a geezer. Hardly the stuff of legends.

What Lexus needs to do is build cars that aren't just glorified Toyotas (or re badged Toyotas). I'm sorry but Lexus is in Acura/Infiniti territory, not BMW/MB territory. They've been trying for almost 20 years now and they've still yet to build a car that beats out any BMW in driving dynamics. "Benchmark"?

What Lexus should do, in my opinion
IS - Make a coupe version to join up with the upcoming convertible, also offer the convertible in the IS350 not IS250.

GS - I actually don't mind it it's a good car.

ES - The Toyota Camry needs ... - oh I mean Lexus ES needs to be redesigned and look less like the Camry.

LS - Good job

RX - Good job

LX - A bit expensive. Come on.

GX - ?

SC - PLEASE STOP PRODUCTION! REPLACE IT WITH THE IS250C PLEASE!


Generally, Lexus also need to separate themselves more from Toyota, particularly with the ES (Honda needs to do this too with Acura) - try to stop people from saying "A Lexus? You mean a Toyota, don't you?"

CEO of the luxury toyota

IS - more models, more power

ES - bread n butter, wont change

GS - more power, add F model

LS - the car that topple the benchmark, out sell its comp in the richest country, i wouldnt change nothing beside put an v12 600hl

SC - more power, redesign ASAP, make it bigger

RX - bread n butter, wont change

GX - what is that??? redesign to an FX/x5 fighter

LX - i have no clue, the best rebagded/SUV on the market, i wont change sh!t

The question states that Lexus is losing customers and have fallen in prominence. Lexus has two problems - a)the current economic slowdown and b) a bland product line. Of course Lexus sells to wealthy people, but their bread and butter sales leaders are the ES and RX. Middle class people buy those vehicles. They need to make their luxury vehicles compellingly affordable.

Making Lexus Luxury Within Reach
--------------------------------
1. Offer lower displacement engines on some of the more expensive models (GS,LS) like Mercedes and BMW (eg. S280, S300, etc.) does in Europe.
2. Decontent lower priced models on future redesign of IS,ES,RX. Eliminate features customers wouldn't miss to keep price point low.
3. Offer creative financing up to 72 months for vehicles with adjustable rate interest or balloon payments.

Making Lexus Luxury Prominent
-----------------------------
- Continue offering two groups of vehicles - luxury class and performance class.
1. IS - Make it part of the Lexus F-Performance class vehicle. Offer F-Performance color schemes on base models. Keep IS Coupe. Kill the IS convertible.
2. ES - Ensure same boulevard ride dynamics as the LS and group it as part of the Lexus Luxury class vehicles.
3. GS - Group it as part of the Lexus F-Performance class vehicle. Offer F-Performance color schemes on base models. Offer smaller displacement engine GS250 to lower price.
4. LS - Group as the flagship of the Lexus Luxury class vehicles. Offer lower displacement engine LS350 for a lower price.
5. SC - Improve the terrible ride to near LS quality. Make it part of Lexus luxury class vehicle. Redesign the SC coupe into a modern version of the classic 1990's Raymond Louie SC300/400 design. Offer smaller displacment engine SC250 for lower price.
6. RX - Decontent RX SUV at lower price levels and have options extend into GX pricing.
7. GX - Kill it off to simplify product line and prevent canibalization with RX/LX.
8. LX - Decontent LX SUV to lower price levels to GX price territory.
9. LFA - Put on hold until world economy strengthens.
10. HS - NO COMMENT ON THIS POS. This is a bad move for Lexus image.

IS - Bring few mechanical options from the IS-F down the the IS 250/350, to improve the entry-model's dynamics. Offer manual and AWD (already in the GS) on the 350 .

ES - Add a much needed hybrid model. Shape the ES with more flowing lines with prominent resemblence to the Lexus family than with the Camry. Offer ES with notable mechanical upgrades different from the Camry chassis (ie: better hybrid powertrain, AWD)

GS - Offer select premium features (better brakes, anti-sway bar, etc) from the GS-F. Improve handling dynamics and offer AWD/manual in limited quantities.

LS - Needs dramatic styling inside and out. Add a touring model to add to the improved dynamics of the LS 460 AWD. Improve efficiency reduce premium of hybrid model.

RX - Make sure RX 450h bests other mid-size fuel miser SUVs (ML Bluetec, X5/6 ActiveHybrid). Match performance of X5 M with the RX 460.

GX - If it stays an off-road vehicle, offer the 5.7L V8.

LX - Hybrid version of this truck would be more difficult, as to limited space to accommodate batteries in fully-boxed frame construction.

LF-A - Introduce it after the GS-F, then offer an entry-level with the 5.0L from the IS-F and call it the new SC.

SC - Entry-level LF-A with the 5.0L V8; SC 600h to be introduced with the LS AWD powertrain.

HS250h - Make sure it gets better economy than the larger 2010 Ford Fusion hybrid.

Take the body shape in a new direction to differentiate the brand. Drop the dated Jelly-bean shape and go with something more elegant. Lexus no longer needs areodynamics to cut into passenger and cargo space with the advent of the 8-speed gearbox.

Replace the cheap black trim with chrome. Black fades in the sun, chrome does not.

Chrome should only be used to accentuate exterior body trim. Lexus should introduce higher quality leather for cabin surfaces.

Stop spending money on advertisement and pour all the money into design and engineering. The product will then get free advertisement from word of mouth. Look at google!

im not a fan of the luxury camry, but i see alot of people bash it, for what? its not sporty? it shares platforms? its bland? what? maybe because it makes MONEY :)

DO THE MATH...it out sells, the Germans, American and Japanese mid size and flagship sedans/coupes and suv...FACT

DO THE MATH...check the launch date of the luxury camry to 2008 sales, add it up.....as CEO of Lexus, ill buy your favorite brand...FACT

Thought their cars don't appeal to everyone, I would not change a thing.

Try to make a cool car! For once!

I would turn the direction a little bit and focus on maintaining the reliability and quality products from Lexus instead of trying to gain points for being the most prestigious or luxurious cars in the world. There is no way Lexus will top Mercedes-Benz in brand recognition and beat a Rolls Royce, Bentley, or Maybach in the uber luxury segment but I feel if they focus on what their known for is known for, which is a good alternative to European cars, they should do fine. Their more affordable than Mercedes so that should be a selling point on its own and many have switched over from various brands because of that. As the brand is in essence an American-Japanese brand I would continue to focus mainly in the US market rather than European, Russian, and Chinese markets. With the recession in full stride it would be dumb to put ad campaigns in other countries.

1) Hire a new design team with a great understanding of the L-Finesse design philosophy.
2) Find suppliers who produce even higher grad plastics and wood grain.
3) Order the marketing team to target the younger consumer because the ES, GS and LS are seemingly attracting the more mature to elderly.
4) Mainly focus on the US market
5) To cut cost during recession, to share even more of Toyota's parts bins to save money while not sacrificing off the quality, (although some Toyota plastics in the Prius are horrific, but those won't be used!).
6) Perhaps start a project to work on a mid-size coupe based on the GS platform and offer the same engines and eventually offer an GS-F coupe in the range to start a trend of Lexus GT cars.
7) Get rid of the SC430 and create a proper GT coupe-roadster that can be comparable to a BMW 6 or benchmark MB SL.
8) Move more Lexus production into Toyota manufacturing plants in North America and fly quality control inspectors to ensure the quality is the same grade.

Merry Christmas! Now go back to sleep.

1) They should bring back a coupe like the 1st generation SC300/400. It should have great styling, be a driver's car, and have a manual or DSG tranny option. It should be in the price range of $40-$50K starting. With perhaps convertible options.

2) they should bring out the LF-A.

3) They need to widen the IS lineup, including dumping the IS250 and instead making a IS300 with the 3.0L 240bhp V6 from the GS a couple of years ago. both the IS300 & IS350 should have manual's available, should have AWD options, and should have 2-door hardtop convertible options.

4) The GS lineup needs to be bigger than the ES in size to further differentiate. The GS is currently too close in size to the ES. Again, like the IS, there should be a manual or DSG tranny available at least with the V6 engine and with a GS-F model.

5) the LS600h should get the ax. It's pointless. It's fractionally faster or slower than the standard LS460 and it's gas mileage is worse with the hybrid than the LS460. What's the point? They should go the route of making a LS400h with the 3.5L V6 from the GS and a hybrid powertrain. Would make much more sense.

6) They should dump the GX470 ASAP. and instead design a crossover SUV off the GS platform.

7) The LX570 should also be dumped. Pointless in this day and ago and off road capability matters to about 0.001% of the LX buyers in the US. Maybe they could make another larger crossover SUV off the LS platform.

I always imagined a crossover based on the LS platform. Damn that would just rock!

OH, I forgot clean diesel options for just about all models.

A lifelong Toyota-Lexus fan

Lexus has proven that they are leaders in the luxury field, from the original LS400 changing the way the Euros sell, price, and develop vehicles, to the Hybrid powertrains that outshine BlueTec diesels in performance and efficiency

The main problems I see with Lexus are that they don't court the younger affluent buyer enough. They have a limited appeal to people under 50.

The IS and GS should have stronger engines, with manual transmissions on the right engines, to attract a more diverse customer base.

And their styling should be much more aggressive and attractive than the LS and ES. They succeeded with the IS, but the base engine is too weak, and interior too small. The GS has never hit the styling nerve it needs to draw attention away from the 5-series and E-Class.

The E-Class will take a huge step back in style next year, so Lexus has an opportunity to make it's make as the hip, sexy alternative, make the E-Class look old and conservative.

Same goes for the Lexus coupe/SC. Aggressive styling and performance will balance out the conservative image of the volume ES/RX/LS.

The next RX will take a step back in style and performance, but will still hit it's market.

The GX needs to become a crossover, in the vein of the HPX.

A hybrid model HS is a great idea, if it offers something new besides the Camry Hybrid engine.

The LF-A needs to be here as soon as possible! It is the most aggressive, potent model they've ever made, and would be an instant hit, regardless of economic issues. They can sell 1000 a year, if priced below
$200k. It is automotive art, unlike the Acura or GT-R. And sounds great under fire! It represents what Lexus needs more of. Less volume, more exclusivity.

That's what the US wants out of Lexus. Be more aggressive and exclusive. Selling 350k units a year isn't exactly a good thing. Selling fewer vehicles may make Lexus better overall.

In closing, more aggressive styling in it's performance cars (IS/GS/Coupes). Higher perfomance engines and manual trannies in these models will attract new customers.

The brand needs more balance of virtues. Hybrid models are good ideas, but that can't be it. People will pay a premium for exciting models that make you want to drive.

Lexus provides certain luxuries the Euros don't, now show some BMW-style and performance on sporty models to balance out the portfolio. Show Lexus can be fun.

Even the IS-F won't do manual transmissions!

If I wanted the LS powertain, I'd get the LS.

DrFill

One more Ting

November 2008:

Lexus: 16k+ sales
BMW: 15k+
Mercedes: 14k+

The sky is falling just the same for ALL car makes. Lexus just had more sales to lose. When they stop leading, then worry.

DrFill

Lexsucks, there's one thing for sure and that is: There's something very special about owning a Toyota or Lexus product regardless of yr model. Driving dynamics is just one of the 10 factors in any vehicle purchase. The bottom line here is as we move more into the future, Toyota and Lexus will increase in consumer confidence,customer loyalty,satisfaction,refinment,performance and world dominance. "Oh and how long has BMW been around now?..."What at least a 100yrs"!...and the Japanese have already caught up and surpassed them in the most important area..Sales. I don't know where your head is bud? Acura and Infinitis all over the world are still chasing the IS350 because beyond that,the RL/TL/M35/M45 get out classed by their Lexus counterpart hands down. Ask any honest valet parkers. For all the Toy/Lex haters out there...."THE MORE YOU FIGHT US,THE STRONGER WE WILL BECOME". If I ran Lexus I would fire anyone stuck on the old way of doing business,including Wantanabe,and make Akio Toyota president. He's the heir,the enthusiast at heart, the driving force behind the IS-F and the driving force behind the LF-A. Finally, I would continue to respond to the needs and wants of those loyal Toyota and Lexus owners around the world. "THE DEFECTORS ARE COMING".................

1. stop trying to be all things to all people. is lexus about luxury? performance? design?

2. make ORIGINAL lexus cars. the majority of lexus cars (ES and RX) are just rebadged toyotas.

3. stop pretending to be anything other than really high quality, quiet, comfortable cars. lexus isn't about performance, get over it.

4. focus on the customers who love lexus...conservative, value-oriented buyers who prize reliability and service over everything else.

so the overall message is FOCUS.

Conquest is what it takes to grow a car company. If Lexus only marketed to Lexus customers, we couldn't grow the marquis, for a lesson in that failed mindset, see Cadillac.

If I was CEO of Lexus Cars my mantra would be "innovate or die trying". Lexus should not only be the "benchmark" for reliability, Lexus should strive be to be the "benchmark" for every facet of the industry.

The company launched in 1990 with 2 vehicles, one of which was a rebadged Camry. With a limited heritage, mostly built on cross platform sharing with Toyota, the company should immediately distance itself from the Toyota brand by eliminating platform sharing, and producing only those cars that have the heartbeat and bloodline of a Lexus.

As a 19 year sales professional in the automobile industry, I can tell you from first hand experience...

...Salesmanship starts when you throw the hood open on a lexus and it say's "Toyota" all over the place. If you are going to build a "Lexus" then build a "Lexus" damn it!

and under WHICH lexus hood do you see that?

in any case, when it comes to engines/drivetrains (esp 4wd/awd) there is arguably NO nameplate that inspires more confidence than TOYOTA for reliability.

now for performance, true, others surpass toyota. but i'm inclined to think most LUXURY buyers tilt a bit more toward reliability. (unless they're boyracer types, of whatever age.)

XYZZ, I just got up from my desk and checked all 8 cars on the showroom floor (it's really cold outside) "Toyota Motors Cars" was under the hood of all 8 vehicles. Are you going to ask me for a list now, or can we assume I'm being truthful?

ok, i'll take your word for it. tho' now i get the impression it's on just small I.D. plates.

or is toyota plastered all over the engine and valve covers (which is the impression i first got)?

in any case, it's NOT like seeing "VW ag" under audi hoods. ;) toyota does have a rep for near indestructability.

scotty's misuse of words is getting on my nerves, so here's a simple lesson:


MARQUIS is pronounced 'mar kee' or 'mar kwis' and is defined as:
1. A nobleman ranking below a duke and above an earl or a count.
2. Used as a title for such a nobleman.



MARQUE is pronounced 'mark' and is defined as:

A model or brand of a manufactured product, especially an automobile.



and lastly

MARK has been misused by scotty as well. Look it up for the correct use please.

America, (or should I day Kthor... seems like another aka for you)

Using words out of context is quite common. For instance check this out. If you google Marqis branding you get:
Results 1 - 10 of about 2,040,000 for MARQUIS BRANDING. (0.17 seconds)

How about that, over 2 million references to Marquis branding, hoo'd a thunk it?

1. stop trying to be all things to all people. is lexus about luxury? performance? design?

2. make ORIGINAL lexus cars. the majority of lexus cars (ES and RX) are just rebadged toyotas.

3. stop pretending to be anything other than really high quality, quiet, comfortable cars. lexus isn't about performance, get over it.

4. focus on the customers who love lexus...conservative, value-oriented buyers who prize reliability and service over everything else.

so the overall message is FOCUS.

Having worked for Porsche, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Volvo, Infiniti, and now Lexus, I can give some insight from the inside looking out.

1. If I wanted a car that looks good but breaks all the time, I'd buy a BMW. (owned 5 to date)

2. If I wanted a car that looks average and breaks all the time, I'd buy a Mercedes. (only needed to own one to learn that lesson)

3. If I wanted to live a life of celabacy, I'd drive a Volvo. (yup, got married, had a kid, got a Volvo, stopped having sex, only needed to do that once.)

4. If I wanted a car with no soul and never broke, I'd drive a Lexus. (great car to sell, not ready for one yet.)

5. If I wanted to drive a car with no soul that would be worthless the instant I drove it off the lot, I would buy an Infiniti. (knew better than to buy one.)

6. If I wanted the greatest car ever built, one that might need a new engine before the odo hit 20k miles, but got me all the a$$ I ever wanted, I'd buy another Porsche. (had 2 over the years. Know why divorce is so expensive?... Because it's worth it!)

interesting, but not sure why you had some many problems with BMW. i've had 3, never had a breakdown, in fact, the biggest problem i had was a CD player that malfunctioned and needed to be serviced. not much of price to pay for a car that's far more fun to drive than competitive product.

interesting, but not sure why you had some many problems with BMW. i've had 3, never had a breakdown, in fact, the biggest problem i had was a CD player that malfunctioned and needed to be serviced. not much of price to pay for a car that's far more fun to drive than competitive product.

Enthusiastx11, not only have I owned many BMW's over the years but I was employed (in various capacities) for BMW dealerships on and off for the better part of 16 years.

My experience with BMW was not limited to merely owning one, but that of product representative and sales manager. I hate to admit that far too often in the past, as a dealership employee I had to make excuses for poor quality and a general lack of attention to detail on behalf of the BMW nameplate. That being said I can still disagree with the powers that be and still have respect for the company as a whole. I have not owned or sold my last BMW, if the local dealer would dispatch with a certain GSM, I would consider returning to my past glory of being the best sales manager that company has ever had.

Heil to scottyroberts for the summary of the lineup. And to all you other idiots who just bash the badge, go out and learn something.

Yes Polska, Heil to Scottyroberts for the summary of the lineup TRUTH! No one is bashing BMW, Merc or Porsche and the likes. Don't you get it?..These cars are primarily made for the rich. They are not intended to be refined,reliable,durable,low maintenance,high quality automobiles...Period. You cannot beat the Japanese at their own game. Have you ever seen some of the things made from the Japanese culture. We're not talking about just cars and electronics here. It's their gift to mankind. Every race of people have been given gifts and talents of magnitude proportions. This is not belittling the Europeans,Italians,Caucasions or Koreans...it just happens to be what they are really good at. Meticulus detail and engineering. YOU ARE WHAT YOU EAT! If you buy and sell bull crap, that's what it is nothing more and nothing less. Question is?...Can the haters handle the truth.

"You cannot beat the Japanese at their own game. Have you ever seen some of the things made from the Japanese culture. We're not talking about just cars and electronics here. It's their gift to mankind."


definitely true!

symbolic of the whole culture with its attention to quality and details, is the samurai sword. CENTURIES ahead of european metallurgy and craftsmanship.

for all those why try to put down lexi as being just glorified toyotas: well toyotas themselves match the quality of build and reliability of ANY carmaker on the planet. simply using more upscale fitments would make them comparable to any 'prestige' brand.

(but that's the job for Lexus.)

to shut down once and for all, all the nitpicking about some lexus models being mere rebadges of toyotas, re-badge and export the Toyota Century as a Lexus!

and ONLY offer it with the v12, NO downmarket smaller engined models for this flagship, like the euro brands offer.