New Lexus LS steals the luxury show in Detroit

1989-Lexus has upped the anti in the luxury car market with introduction of LS400.

2006-Lexus done it again with new LS460 by upping anti in the luxury car market all over again, only this time there aren't even rivals or competitors to challenge new LS600h!!!!

Truely amazing job, Lexus and Thank You Autospies for this article!

1989-Lexus has upped the anti in the luxury car market with introduction of LS400.

2006-Lexus done it again with new LS460 by upping anti in the luxury car market all over again, only this time there aren't even rivals or competitors to challenge new LS600h!!!!

Truely amazing job, Lexus and Thank You Autospies for this article!

Lexus did not take any risks with styling, it is vanilla to the 745's rocky road. It used to be just a Mercedes clone, then just recently they took a different road than Mercedes. Let's face it, the LS was always chasing the big Benz and the 7. Audi only started making the A8 in 1997 and that same year, the Q45 fell off the face of the planet and the Jag is for a different kind of car buyer altogether.

This car will be a big seller. No doubt about that. It gives you all the features of the other cars in it's class with just as good or better quality without over-done styling, and makes you look smart for not paying too much for it.

High Output V8, World's First Eight-Speed Transmission

The LS is powered by an all-new highly advanced 4.6-liter V8 engine that produces 380 horsepower and 370 pound-feet of torque. Combined with an eight-speed automatic transmission, a world-first, the LS 460 will travel from zero-to-sixty miles per hour in less than 5.5 seconds. With that level of performance, the new LS achieves an estimated combined city/highway mileage in the mid-20s. Lexus is targeting an Ultra-Low Emissions Vehicle II (ULEV II) rating for the LS 460.

The new LS is built on a sophisticated platform that maintains a delicate balance between ride comfort and responsive handling. The completely redesigned multilink suspension system includes an electronic power steering system and a next-generation Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) system.

VDIM is an advanced stability system that integrates and manages a new Electronically Controlled Brake (ECB) system, Electronic Power Steering (EPS), Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Antilock Braking System (ABS), Brake Assist (BA), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and engine torque via the electronically controlled throttle.

Monitoring a variety of sensors, the system is designed to anticipate the onset of a vehicle skid or slide and then help correct the situation with a combination of braking, throttle and steering control in a way that is essentially transparent to the driver. Data is gathered from more sources and processed earlier and faster than in previous designs, helping to make VDIM less obtrusive and even more effective.

Luxury, Redefined by Lexus

Intelligent technology and emotionally evocative design is clearly evident throughout the beautifully appointed cabin of the new LS sedans. Extra luxury and comfort touches include a heated steering wheel and seats swathed in one of four tones of semi-aniline leathers matched to one of three coordinating wood-grain trims.

Rear occupants can relax and enjoy power reclining seats equipped with power leg rests and even a massage feature. The new LS even offers body-heat sensors that help maintain the perfect temperature for all occupants. A fold-away table matched to the interior wood grain provides ample work space for rear passengers. The LS also features a nine-inch headliner-mounted rear-screen monitor along with an all-new 19-speaker Mark Levinson® audio system that provides a true theater-level entertainment experience. Additional luxury convenience features include a power rear-door closer and an automatic-powered opening/closing trunk lid.

Lexus LS600h = 400hp engine + 100 electric motor.

High Output V8, World's First Eight-Speed Transmission

The LS is powered by an all-new highly advanced 4.6-liter V8 engine that produces 380 horsepower and 370 pound-feet of torque. Combined with an eight-speed automatic transmission, a world-first, the LS 460 will travel from zero-to-sixty miles per hour in less than 5.5 seconds. With that level of performance, the new LS achieves an estimated combined city/highway mileage in the mid-20s. Lexus is targeting an Ultra-Low Emissions Vehicle II (ULEV II) rating for the LS 460.

The new LS is built on a sophisticated platform that maintains a delicate balance between ride comfort and responsive handling. The completely redesigned multilink suspension system includes an electronic power steering system and a next-generation Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) system.

VDIM is an advanced stability system that integrates and manages a new Electronically Controlled Brake (ECB) system, Electronic Power Steering (EPS), Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Antilock Braking System (ABS), Brake Assist (BA), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and engine torque via the electronically controlled throttle.

Monitoring a variety of sensors, the system is designed to anticipate the onset of a vehicle skid or slide and then help correct the situation with a combination of braking, throttle and steering control in a way that is essentially transparent to the driver. Data is gathered from more sources and processed earlier and faster than in previous designs, helping to make VDIM less obtrusive and even more effective.

Luxury, Redefined by Lexus

Intelligent technology and emotionally evocative design is clearly evident throughout the beautifully appointed cabin of the new LS sedans. Extra luxury and comfort touches include a heated steering wheel and seats swathed in one of four tones of semi-aniline leathers matched to one of three coordinating wood-grain trims.

Rear occupants can relax and enjoy power reclining seats equipped with power leg rests and even a massage feature. The new LS even offers body-heat sensors that help maintain the perfect temperature for all occupants. A fold-away table matched to the interior wood grain provides ample work space for rear passengers. The LS also features a nine-inch headliner-mounted rear-screen monitor along with an all-new 19-speaker Mark Levinson® audio system that provides a true theater-level entertainment experience. Additional luxury convenience features include a power rear-door closer and an automatic-powered opening/closing trunk lid.

Lexus LS600h = 400hp engine + 100 electric motor.

Have any one of you visited the site recommended by LJ? http://www.thetruthaboutcars.com/content/11350239991324407406/index.php <br><br>
It is full of nothing but biased comments about Lexus cars in general. Who are these guys???<br><br>
This is what they had to say:<br><br>
<br><br>
Lexus GX470-Lousy Lexus<br><br>
Lexus GS 300-Poster child for brand betrayal<br><br>
Lexus IS350-Lexus loses its mojo again.<br><br>
<br><br>
I cant wait for the obvious comment that they are going to make when once the New LS hits the test track.<br><br>
<br><br>
These guys must not know what they are talking about.<br><br>
<br><br>
Lexus gets the most blog on this site. For that to happen, the must be doing something right to make other luxury car owners/companies nervous.<br><br>
<br><br>

This Lexus vs. the world argument has been beaten to death. They are good cars, but lack any passion. That car is just boring looking........if you disagree with that you are blind or challenged. Technology might be there, reliability might be there, but I bet it drives like a tank. I can picture a grandpa behind the wheel, which is probably the market it is aimed for. Either way it's a nice car, no doubt, but not exciting in the least.

MB and Lexus continue to fight for bloated boat supremacy, Audi and BMW goes for performance. They all have the luxury "basics", so it all comes down to preference in this class.

As long as the industry continues to "borrow" ideas from one another while pushing the boundaries of luxury and performance, we customers benefit.

The new Lexus and MB will be more favorable in person, I feel.

I actually enjoy your responses, as much as we disagree at least you don't bash. Either way, they do lack passion, and I do get great enjoyment from saying it......almost rolls off the tongue. That car looks boring, it just does, looks like an old man mobile, but if you like it more power to you. I'm not a fan of the 7 series styling either in case you weren't aware, it's nice, but not my cup of tea, but much better than the styling of that, externally at least. Interior looks plush and I'm certain it's a quality car, it's just nothing I'd be excited to get behind the wheel of. Disagree?

OK - I got rid of an 03 MB E500 for a 2004 LS430 so I hope to offer a view from both sides. Was the E500 a better driver's car? Yes! Was it more stylish than the Lexus, Yes! Was it a luxury to have it in the shop 6 times in 24 months not counting the scheduled maintenance? NO! I was leaning towards the A8 after the MB but with similar options as the Lexus, it was another $10K. And I bought the Ultra Lux version of the 430. And, yes, it has Bluetooth standard - all 430's after 2004 with Nav have it.
Yes, the 430 does lack some "passion" but until the 750i and new S550 came out with HP bumps the LS gave them a run for the money according to C&D. It's no slouch if you jump on it. Oh, and 16K miles and only oil changes and free washes.

This will be 45th blog entry!

"Kirikaeshi is a kendo exercise, combining the practice of attacking and receiving strikes and is meant to develop physical strength, spirit, and vigor".

This will be 45th blog entry!

"Kirikaeshi is a kendo exercise, combining the practice of attacking and receiving strikes and is meant to develop physical strength, spirit, and vigor".

"LEXUS L-finesse" -Modern Japanese art meets automotive design-

In ¡ÆMilan Design Week¡Ç, the world biggest design exhibition, Toyota Motor Corporation and TMME(Toyota Motor Marketing Europe S.A./N.V.) located in Brussels, Belgium holds a joint design art exhibition entitled "LEXUS L-finesse"-Modern Japanese art and automotive design- the theme of which is the design philosophy of LEXUS, ¡ÆL-finesse; the beauty of the most advanced and the finest¡Ç.

LEXUS promotes its design philosophy ¡ÆL-finesse- the beauty of the most advanced and the finest¡Ç, believing that the charm of beauty that appeals to our sensibility and intelligence is something indispensable for the global premium brand of the 21st Century.
This exhibition is Toyota¡Çs collaborated project with artists and architects that approve the ideas of ¡ÆL-finesse¡Çwith a view to seeking for its new future possibilities. By expressing its spirituality and worldview with art synthesized with them, this exhibition will propose the image of L-finesse as a new premium brand.
The whole space of Teatro Alte annexed to La Triennale Di Milano, Italy is filled with mist to create the world of illusory impression . With its concept of space-design, ¡ÆTime in Design¡Ç, the space gives its visitors, while they walk from the entrance to the exit, the chances to feel and think about what Lexus Brand has been seeking for, that is, ¡ÆThe Beauty of the most advanced and the finest¡Ç, ¡ÆThe offering of the most wonderful time with excitement and calmness¡Ç and ¡Æthe quest for the true nature of high-classiness¡Ç .

"LEXUS L-finesse" -Modern Japanese art meets automotive design-

In ¡ÆMilan Design Week¡Ç, the world biggest design exhibition, Toyota Motor Corporation and TMME(Toyota Motor Marketing Europe S.A./N.V.) located in Brussels, Belgium holds a joint design art exhibition entitled "LEXUS L-finesse"-Modern Japanese art and automotive design- the theme of which is the design philosophy of LEXUS, ¡ÆL-finesse; the beauty of the most advanced and the finest¡Ç.

LEXUS promotes its design philosophy ¡ÆL-finesse- the beauty of the most advanced and the finest¡Ç, believing that the charm of beauty that appeals to our sensibility and intelligence is something indispensable for the global premium brand of the 21st Century.
This exhibition is Toyota¡Çs collaborated project with artists and architects that approve the ideas of ¡ÆL-finesse¡Çwith a view to seeking for its new future possibilities. By expressing its spirituality and worldview with art synthesized with them, this exhibition will propose the image of L-finesse as a new premium brand.
The whole space of Teatro Alte annexed to La Triennale Di Milano, Italy is filled with mist to create the world of illusory impression . With its concept of space-design, ¡ÆTime in Design¡Ç, the space gives its visitors, while they walk from the entrance to the exit, the chances to feel and think about what Lexus Brand has been seeking for, that is, ¡ÆThe Beauty of the most advanced and the finest¡Ç, ¡ÆThe offering of the most wonderful time with excitement and calmness¡Ç and ¡Æthe quest for the true nature of high-classiness¡Ç .

I'm not trying to cherry pick but this statement seem to be an overkill
"you will find that Toyota is having serious problems with its hybrid technology that could damage its reliability ratings."

This statement is bologna because there were total of 76 Toyota Prius recalls due to a minor Software glitch. Absoulutely nothing was wrong Mechanically. It caused Zero accidents and problems were fixed immediately by uploading a new software onto the car computer units.
(number could be higher than 76 but still)

let's practice integrity here.

I'm not trying to cherry pick but this statement seem to be an overkill
"you will find that Toyota is having serious problems with its hybrid technology that could damage its reliability ratings."

This statement is bologna because there were total of 76 Toyota Prius recalls due to a minor Software glitch. Absoulutely nothing was wrong Mechanically. It caused Zero accidents and problems were fixed immediately by uploading a new software onto the car computer units.
(number could be higher than 76 but still)

let's practice integrity here.

Thanks for the info. Number was nearly 170,000 recalls so you are correct.

Thanks for the info. Number was nearly 170,000 recalls so you are correct.

Interesting recent articles.

1) Many Lexus vehicles are manufactured in the Tahara, Japan plant, a highly sophisticated, computerized manufacturing plant awarded the title of the "best automobile manufacturing plant in the world".

2) Lexus is now considered one of the finest automobile makers in the world. Competitors Mercedes-Benz and BMW emphasize styling, safety, performance and innovation while Lexus maintains "core values of luxury, service, value and superior reliability".

3) Lexus has been the "number one selling luxury nameplate in the United States for the past 5 years".

Interesting recent articles.

1) Many Lexus vehicles are manufactured in the Tahara, Japan plant, a highly sophisticated, computerized manufacturing plant awarded the title of the "best automobile manufacturing plant in the world".

2) Lexus is now considered one of the finest automobile makers in the world. Competitors Mercedes-Benz and BMW emphasize styling, safety, performance and innovation while Lexus maintains "core values of luxury, service, value and superior reliability".

3) Lexus has been the "number one selling luxury nameplate in the United States for the past 5 years".

Lets be clear: Japan's car have the electronics in the world but while germans have the autobahns, no body will built Ultimate Driving Machines like them. And about materials. In my country (Panama in Central America) I can see very old Mercedes Benz and some old BMWs but not to old Lexus. After 5 or 6 years most of are extinct. May be is something related with materials and the thickness of the Steel but something laudable on Lexus is that when you see one (old) , all elctronics or electromchanics devices works fine. Yes it is true, lexus just started to build cars arrond 20 years ago but at this point any body can tell you that the security in accidents will be a lot better in a MB or in a Bimmer. Finish in europeans cars is not at the level of a lexus but defintly are better materials that will last longer, starting with ticknes of the sheet of metal.
Japanese rules the Elcetronics, OK, But I prefer to drive a secure car that last longer and drives better at higher speeds. Japanese are very eficient and if you like to buy a car that will not give you problems during the warranty period, buy a Lexus, If you like a car that will give some (or a lot) of problems like the I-drive or the MB Air suspension, but that will drive better With a lot of personality because it was designed By Human and optimize by a computer, then By a German car. If you prefer something "cold" like a computer that do not transmit any feelings..buy the Lexus. In Some sence, cars are like the persons If you do not have accent then you sound like a robot or worst like a book. That is ,may be, the main reason because Lexus still not caching the market that they want. NO ACCENT IS NO FEELINGS.

Yes you have to see the Lexus GS300, and even that one has a less boring design. Human Likes the to pay attention to the feelings and the emotions, computer does not, tha's why the Lexus fail in make us feel us something. Even if the MB or BMW are not as reliable as the Lexus (and I recognize that) Still , most of car lovers will chose europeans cars.

This car is ugly.

And there is still an image on an old man in it.

Regardless of technology and reliability, I wouldnt be caught dead in one of these.

That my opinion and yes I'm biased to German design and engineering.

And all you Lexus guys feel the same way about your brand and criticize mine in the same manner.

I dont think BMW or Audi or Mercedes drivers care at all about this car.

All these people saying theyre trading in their Germans for this....

What a crock.

Most people who are passionate about cars and engineering know whats most important.

And its not RELIABILITY.

That is all Lexus has going for it.

And to boot, Ive never had any issues with my BMWS.

NONE. NADA. Oil changes and fluids. Thats it.

I disagree with you because I am living in a city that is located beside the Pacific Ocean and most of japanese, asian and american cars gets very rusted but european will last longer, excluding the Italian cheap cars (of course most italians cars have one of the worst finish). The sun is another element that let you apreciate the quality of the materials and again the european cars win. Sorry but the top quality of Lexus is only related with the fit and finish and the electronics. Engine is very reliable, but drive hard in an autoban for 2 hours at 200 and + Kmph Against any BMW or Merc and then you will see how your Lexus does after a while, I will not be able to keep that pace....

I wonder why the entire USA has voted Lexus #1 best selling luxury brand for the last 6 years with their checkbooks?

It isn't like my customers; doctors, attorneys, engineers, large and small business owners and executives, etc., can't afford any car they want.

No other manufacturer has the quality, service and attention to detail that Lexus has. I have sold them for 6 years and Lexus as a company is wonderful to work for. They give 3+ year employes a $400 car allowance if they drive a Lexus and that is from the guy who washes cars to the office people and of course the sales and management folks. We are treated to ride & drives of our cars and competitors, given constant ongoing training and regularly encouraged by awards, bonuses, and 1st class treatment at all times and treated with respect, just like the "Treat your customers like a guest in your home" is requested by Lexus' mission statement.

It took a couple of years to get used to hearing my customers volunteer that they LOVE their Lexus.

I have had some defectors out of curiousity and over 75% of them come back; many very quickly with a near new low mileage other brand that they take a financial hit on.

AND..if Lexus just copies other manufacturers why do so many people buy them????????

Why don't other companies proudly state that they are relentlessly/passionately pursuing PERFECTION?

(compliment and respectful recognition if you compare Lexus to Toyota) LOL.

Damn, LEXUS BASHING CHILDRENS ARE COMPLETELY OUT OF GAS but still entertaining LOL. Amazing how things have changed so much LOL. Lexus Fans are hands down winners.
Go sleep kids.

(compliment and respectful recognition if you compare Lexus to Toyota) LOL.

Damn, LEXUS BASHING CHILDRENS ARE COMPLETELY OUT OF GAS but still entertaining LOL. Amazing how things have changed so much LOL. Lexus Fans are hands down winners.
Go sleep kids.

The current Lexus LS is one the blandest cars on the market.

The car looked good for a year then disappeared in the landscape.

This new LS will be the exact same.

The design is not timeless, original, creative or striking.

Its flat out boring to look at.

Lexus sales in the United States are growing daily. In October Lexus’ marketshare, according to the Power Information Network (PIN), a J.D. Power group, was 1.65 percent. In November the marketshare for Lexus jumped to 1.69 while Mercedes fell from 1.24 to 1.22. BMW stayed the same and Audi went from .45 to .46. According to PIN, Lexus Cars jumped to 14,001 units in November, from 10,214 in October; a 37.1% increase. Sales for the GS, IS and SC totaled 7,694 units in November in the United States.

Toyota sells Toyota, Scion and Lexus in the United States. The Scion xA and xB are marketed in Japan as Toyota products. Lexus is sold in many countries, but it was not sold in Japan til this year. Toyota holds 43% of the Japanese market, but not the luxury market. Mercedes-Benz, BMW and Audi all hold about 1 percent each in Japan, all in the luxury market. Cars that cost more than $45,000 account for about 60% of total imported sales. There were about 100,000 of them sold last year.

All Lexus sedans are made in Japan. The IS and GS models are the hottest cars in the United States. The IS and GS are built at the Tahara plant and the Kyushu plant in Japan. In August of 2005 Toyota started selling Lexus’ in Japan. In August, they sold 156 IS’, and in October they sold 2,985 IS’,GS’ and SC’.

Toyota always has a policy of not speaking of its competitors and they almost always project their numbers to the media lower than they actually sell. Toyota is hoping to sell around 10,000 units in the first year. Oh come on. They’ve already sold 4,548 Lexus’ in two months. They’re going to be able to sell the Lexus’ cheaper in Japan, because that is where they are made, so no shipping cost. My figures come out to about one-third of the luxury market if Toyota keeps up this pace. That would take Mercedes-Benz, BMW and Audi marketshare down in Japan.

Expect Toyota to keep up the pace. By May of 2006 Toyota will introduce the GS 450h (hybrid) in Japan and their LS flagship sedan (which sold 1,635 units in the U.S. in November) by September of 2006.

In the United States Lexus already sells; ES-Series,GS-Series,IS-Series,LS-Series,SC-Series, GX 470,LX-Series, and the RX-Series. Expect the Lexus LS 600h V-8 sedan in 2007.

And just six weeks after introducing the new IS 350 to the American market, Lexus announced today that it will enter the powerful luxury sport sedan in the American Le Mans Series (ALMS) GT2 class in 2006 with a two-car team. After all, the old adage is, race on Sunday, buy on Monday.

Lexus sales in the United States are growing daily. In October Lexus’ marketshare, according to the Power Information Network (PIN), a J.D. Power group, was 1.65 percent. In November the marketshare for Lexus jumped to 1.69 while Mercedes fell from 1.24 to 1.22. BMW stayed the same and Audi went from .45 to .46. According to PIN, Lexus Cars jumped to 14,001 units in November, from 10,214 in October; a 37.1% increase. Sales for the GS, IS and SC totaled 7,694 units in November in the United States.

Toyota sells Toyota, Scion and Lexus in the United States. The Scion xA and xB are marketed in Japan as Toyota products. Lexus is sold in many countries, but it was not sold in Japan til this year. Toyota holds 43% of the Japanese market, but not the luxury market. Mercedes-Benz, BMW and Audi all hold about 1 percent each in Japan, all in the luxury market. Cars that cost more than $45,000 account for about 60% of total imported sales. There were about 100,000 of them sold last year.

All Lexus sedans are made in Japan. The IS and GS models are the hottest cars in the United States. The IS and GS are built at the Tahara plant and the Kyushu plant in Japan. In August of 2005 Toyota started selling Lexus’ in Japan. In August, they sold 156 IS’, and in October they sold 2,985 IS’,GS’ and SC’.

Toyota always has a policy of not speaking of its competitors and they almost always project their numbers to the media lower than they actually sell. Toyota is hoping to sell around 10,000 units in the first year. Oh come on. They’ve already sold 4,548 Lexus’ in two months. They’re going to be able to sell the Lexus’ cheaper in Japan, because that is where they are made, so no shipping cost. My figures come out to about one-third of the luxury market if Toyota keeps up this pace. That would take Mercedes-Benz, BMW and Audi marketshare down in Japan.

Expect Toyota to keep up the pace. By May of 2006 Toyota will introduce the GS 450h (hybrid) in Japan and their LS flagship sedan (which sold 1,635 units in the U.S. in November) by September of 2006.

In the United States Lexus already sells; ES-Series,GS-Series,IS-Series,LS-Series,SC-Series, GX 470,LX-Series, and the RX-Series. Expect the Lexus LS 600h V-8 sedan in 2007.

And just six weeks after introducing the new IS 350 to the American market, Lexus announced today that it will enter the powerful luxury sport sedan in the American Le Mans Series (ALMS) GT2 class in 2006 with a two-car team. After all, the old adage is, race on Sunday, buy on Monday.

Luxury car manufacturer Lexus has been named the best motor vehicle in a recent British car magazine, beating out luxury car brands such as Jaguar, BMW, and Mercedes Benz. The survey was taken by BBC’s TopGear magazine, covering a total of 159 different cars. Czech car manufacturer Skoda came in second to Lexus, while Porsche, Jaguar, and BMW took in eighth, ninth, and tenth places. Mercedes Benz ranked in at a lowly 32nd place. The top model was the sporty Honda S2000 with the Lexus IS200/300 models second and the Lexus RX third, while the worst car was the Peugeot 807. The readers’ favorite manufacturer was Lexus, followed by Skoda, Honda, Mazda and Toyota.

Luxury car manufacturer Lexus has been named the best motor vehicle in a recent British car magazine, beating out luxury car brands such as Jaguar, BMW, and Mercedes Benz. The survey was taken by BBC’s TopGear magazine, covering a total of 159 different cars. Czech car manufacturer Skoda came in second to Lexus, while Porsche, Jaguar, and BMW took in eighth, ninth, and tenth places. Mercedes Benz ranked in at a lowly 32nd place. The top model was the sporty Honda S2000 with the Lexus IS200/300 models second and the Lexus RX third, while the worst car was the Peugeot 807. The readers’ favorite manufacturer was Lexus, followed by Skoda, Honda, Mazda and Toyota.

Lexus GX 470 honored for projected residual value
The Lexus GX 470 was honored today by Kelley Blue Book’s kbb.com with a “2006 Best Resale Value Award.” The luxury utility vehicle earned a Best Resale Value: Top 10 Award as one of the top-10 leaders in projected resale value overall, regardless of segment.

Toyota’s decision to use the Lexus brand name in Japan appears to have been a wise one. Japan Today reported that the number of orders for two Lexus models Toyota Motor Corp received in the first month of the luxury brand’s domestic debut came to 3.8 times its monthly sales goal, the automaker said Friday. Total orders for the GS sedan and SC sports car, both of which made a showroom debut Aug 30, stood at 4,600 units as of Wednesday, it said.

Lexus GX 470 honored for projected residual value
The Lexus GX 470 was honored today by Kelley Blue Book’s kbb.com with a “2006 Best Resale Value Award.” The luxury utility vehicle earned a Best Resale Value: Top 10 Award as one of the top-10 leaders in projected resale value overall, regardless of segment.

Toyota’s decision to use the Lexus brand name in Japan appears to have been a wise one. Japan Today reported that the number of orders for two Lexus models Toyota Motor Corp received in the first month of the luxury brand’s domestic debut came to 3.8 times its monthly sales goal, the automaker said Friday. Total orders for the GS sedan and SC sports car, both of which made a showroom debut Aug 30, stood at 4,600 units as of Wednesday, it said.

This is a nice little site to learn about car news etc, although one of many good sites (best sites, imho, are german). But it's amusing to me how these discussions of new cars turn into these big shouting matches. Why can't people just chill out and be civilized toward one another? Share information, perspectives, knowledge, fine. But Lexus haters won't convince Lexus lovers and vice versa. No point proving who's "right." Why spend so much effort trying to one-up each other? It's really quite childish.<br><br><br><br>
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Buying cars, as with everything in life, is a matter of choice. If you like the Lexus, buy it. If you don't, don't buy it, go for your MB or BMW etc and live a happy life. To each his own.<br><br><br><br>
<br><br><br><br>
Peace<br><br><br><br>
<br><br><br><br>
PS personally, I love this car. Great value, nice design and awesome features/technology. I also like Audis, but their telematics are a bit archaic. Overall, I like the understatement/restraint and clean aesthetics of these brands. BMW iDrive is quite fussy, and MB quality has been suffering. Bangle designs are also quite polarizing - i think it's a mixed track record, but maybe getting better/toned down.

if anyone is actually reading this whole blog and reading my message, here are my 2 cents...
When the new S-class information was released, I couldnt wait to see what new technology was in it and what it looked like. When I saw this article about the new LS460, all I cared about is what people are going to say. (Maybe that's why this blog is so long). I know MB will have cool, cutting edge stuff, and I know Lexus will have a boring design with nothing to get excited about, and this new LS460 proves it. You know what's worse then having a boring looking car like the LS460? The fact that it will last forever and you'll have to keep looking at it. Ugh. So what if the MB and BMW are not as reliable. I'd rather be driving something that turns heads, not something that blends in with the Camrys and Accords.

Rlk you stated "Lexus' European sales (a very important market if you want status) actually declined". <--bullshit.

Here is the FACT:
FRANKFURT (Reuters) - Toyota Motor Corp. aims to sell more than 1 million vehicles in Europe in 2006, the company said on Wednesday after reporting its ninth consecutive year of record sales in the region.

European group sales including its premium Lexus brand rose 5 percent in 2005 -- to 964,208 vehicles -- compared with a flat market, driven by demand for its Corolla and Corolla Verso.

Market share grew to an all-time high of 5.1 percent from 4.9 percent in 2004.

Lexus alone boosted its sales by 16 percent to 28,777 units thanks to a seven-fold rise in deliveries of its revamped GS full-size model.

In April 2005, Lexus Europe Vice President Karl Schlicht told Reuters in an interview that he was aiming to sell between 29,000-30,000 units for that full year, a figure that would rise to 65,000 by 2010.

Practice Integrity here, folks! Peace.

Rlk you stated "Lexus' European sales (a very important market if you want status) actually declined". <--bullshit.

Here is the FACT:
FRANKFURT (Reuters) - Toyota Motor Corp. aims to sell more than 1 million vehicles in Europe in 2006, the company said on Wednesday after reporting its ninth consecutive year of record sales in the region.

European group sales including its premium Lexus brand rose 5 percent in 2005 -- to 964,208 vehicles -- compared with a flat market, driven by demand for its Corolla and Corolla Verso.

Market share grew to an all-time high of 5.1 percent from 4.9 percent in 2004.

Lexus alone boosted its sales by 16 percent to 28,777 units thanks to a seven-fold rise in deliveries of its revamped GS full-size model.

In April 2005, Lexus Europe Vice President Karl Schlicht told Reuters in an interview that he was aiming to sell between 29,000-30,000 units for that full year, a figure that would rise to 65,000 by 2010.

Practice Integrity here, folks! Peace.

My opinion? You mignt not want or like my opinion, but I wish to give it anyway.

The new LS looks wrong. Ungainly, slab-sided, bland.

There is no arguement when design is concerned.

The dashboard is too fussy, not very luxury-car like, and it takes too many styling elements off BMW.

Opinion finished.

Thanks Cal for the kind words. You know, it occurs to me that Bill Gates drives a Lexus LS. I work on the same floor as Bill, and we use the same garage. He drives a 1998 Lexus LS as a daily driver, and didn't even bother getting the current shape car (he also had a 1990 Lexus, now being sold on ebay). Here is the richest guy in the world (supposedly, if you exclude the rulers of the Gulf States, who are much richer btw), and he drives a Lexus. Again, his personal choice. But how bad can these cars really be? The choice of Lexus is even funnier when one considers that Helmut Panke, CEO of BMW, is on Microsoft's board. I always wondered why Panke didn't get Gates a BMW 7 Individual (Individual is the bespoke division of BMW), instead of letting him drive an old Lexus...

Who cares what Bill Gates drives?

I suppose he is one of those guys who has so much frickin money that he can NOT show it off to stand out.

You fit your Lexus brand perfect... As you will look at what someone else is driving and then make YOUR decision based on his.

Great Everyone...Bill Gates has a Lexus.....They must be good!!!

This explains more and more about Lexus drivers.

P O S E R S

I know I bought my BMW after finding out that Al Pacino and Madonna own them too !!!!!

Listen to how blantly ignorant that sounds.

You guys are jokes

After carefully reading this entire blog and thoughtfully considering all of the various opinions, I have decided there is only one course for me to take. I am going to order the Mercedes S550 with option packages P1, P2, P3, panoramic roof, AMG body kit and the optional exclusive passion leather. HOWEVER, in order to placate the Lexus contingent, I will wait a year in order to minimize the potential for mechanical problems.

Whoa! Must be tough going through life with so much rage. I hope driving your BMW makes you feel better. Whatever helps you, brother.

Peace.

PS the point I was making about Gates and Lexus is that the brand seems to fit this understated image(like Audi, also). This appeals to a lot of people who have the wealth to drive whatever, but prefer a low key car that doesn't attract as much attention. It's the polar opposite of say, Lamborghini.

He used to drive a 2000 +/- 745i. I saw him drive it to an event about 1 1/2 years ago.



Also about sport stars not driving "lexus's" is total crap. There are a few of them at the seahawks camp, (more hummers and escalades of course). Also many clients of mine who are sport stars have a few lexus's in their stables. They just are not the "hey look at me I roll a benz with twankie twanks on it." When I goto miami I see tricked out Ls's and gs's all over the place, then again I see more bentleys and amg benzs there than anywhere else.

MasoodR- Say what you will. I have no rage. Just frustration.

With all this Lexus vs BMW crap. Seriously when will it end?

And to Dave anyone who says the word wanker is either 12 years old or just plain immature. I'm sure you fall into both.

You can hate me all you want and call me all the silly little childish names you please.

I'm simply voicing my opinion like the rest of you.

MasoodR- Say what you will. I have no rage. Just frustration.

With all this Lexus vs BMW crap. Seriously when will it end?

And to Dave anyone who says the word wanker is either 12 years old or just plain immature. I'm sure you fall into both.

You can hate me all you want and call me all the silly little childish names you please.

I'm simply voicing my opinion like the rest of you.

Praise to our new king.

This lexus discussions has braked all the previous autospies's records i think so,
my comment will be the 103.

Let's just buy this damm product.what else,nothing more just buy it.

New Lexus LS.....i believe this will be included in the top 10 ultimate creations of the century.For example Internet,space exploration....etc

Praise to our new king.

This lexus discussions has braked all the previous autospies's records i think so,
my comment will be the 103.

Let's just buy this damm product.what else,nothing more just buy it.

New Lexus LS.....i believe this will be included in the top 10 ultimate creations of the century.For example Internet,space exploration....etc

I think the new LS will create peace in the middle east, and reduce famine in africa.

I have been bashed recently for expressing my opinion about cars.

But point is....Thats what this site is all about.

Disagreeing is natural here.

People like this brand better than that brand.

And like life, its also normal to have little punks with nothing
better to do trying to pick fights and call names.

Sometimes its hard to ignore these ignorant people.

But in the end, they are always the ones who end up looking stupid.

I traveled to Europe And Asia. I love both continent for just about everything i.e. food and people:) As far as cars in Europe (Ireland, Germany, Italy and Cypruss) most cars that I've seen were small diesels to mid-size. Travel to Middle east and you'll see 90% of the cars on the streets are Japanese built. While, I was on a tour in Muscat, Oman every tour SUV's were the Toyota Landcruisers. Police cars in Kuwait is a Nissan Maxima! I've seen many older Japanese vehicles with 300k on average with sub-par maintanences still humming along in 130 degrees deserts in countries like Bahrain, Kuwait and United Arab Emeriates. Eastern European Pot-holes don't come close to what these cars are going through, I guarantee it. Also, not trying to cherry pick your blog but be honest here. Are you telling me MB is the only manufacturer with reliability problems? Apparently not. Take a look at Consumer Reports and you'd discover otherwise. Anyways, Jason is correct IMO. Good ole days in 1981..Most dependable trucks were Datsun kingcabs and Toyota 4-runners and best value truck sold were Mazda B-2000 $5995!!!:) Even in late 70's innovative Mazda's rotary engined cars were making names along with Camry, Celica, Maxima, RX-7, Accords, Civics, 4-runners etc..spreading rock solid reliability reputation around the world ever since.
Lexus is doing samething 30 years later.

I traveled to Europe And Asia. I love both continent for just about everything i.e. food and people:) As far as cars in Europe (Ireland, Germany, Italy and Cypruss) most cars that I've seen were small diesels to mid-size. Travel to Middle east and you'll see 90% of the cars on the streets are Japanese built. While, I was on a tour in Muscat, Oman every tour SUV's were the Toyota Landcruisers. Police cars in Kuwait is a Nissan Maxima! I've seen many older Japanese vehicles with 300k on average with sub-par maintanences still humming along in 130 degrees deserts in countries like Bahrain, Kuwait and United Arab Emeriates. Eastern European Pot-holes don't come close to what these cars are going through, I guarantee it. Also, not trying to cherry pick your blog but be honest here. Are you telling me MB is the only manufacturer with reliability problems? Apparently not. Take a look at Consumer Reports and you'd discover otherwise. Anyways, Jason is correct IMO. Good ole days in 1981..Most dependable trucks were Datsun kingcabs and Toyota 4-runners and best value truck sold were Mazda B-2000 $5995!!!:) Even in late 70's innovative Mazda's rotary engined cars were making names along with Camry, Celica, Maxima, RX-7, Accords, Civics, 4-runners etc..spreading rock solid reliability reputation around the world ever since.
Lexus is doing samething 30 years later.

"There is a lot that speaks of European cars having some of the best build quality in the business. Think about it,

Correct me if I am wrong someone but in Japan, people are "forced" to buy a new car after a few years because of stringent emission laws. Because of this, is there really an incentive to infuse good build quality into these cars when you know that their owners will sell them after 2-3 years and the car will most likely end up in some third world country?"


Google is your friend.

""There is no such law "requiring" engine replacement at a certain mileage. That is a urban myth propagated by importers and car owners who simply don't know or understand the situation in Japan. The high taxes (annually assessed), insurance premiums, gas costs, and especially the safety inspection/registration (occurs biennial) combine to keep turnover of vehicles high.

For example, the Safety inspection for your typical car (say Camry/Accord type) can typically cost $2,000....each time! New vehicles have a 3 year grace period before they are required to submit for the Safety Inspection. In other words, for a 10 year old car, you will have already paid over $8,000, in just Safety Inspection fees! Don't forget, gas over in Japan is also typically four times the cost of here in the U.S. Mileage is kept low on the vehicles as EVERYONE (unless your fabulously rich and patient) uses alternative transportation to get around. Most folks use the trains for local and medium distance traveling/commuting.

Far distances are taken by airplane and local transportation done by either bicycle or bus. In that society, your car tends to be a status symbol more than anything else. I hope this sheds a little more light for you!""

With that being said, it still has no bearin on the quality of Japenese cars. Toyota/lexus is rated #1 in dependability year after year after year. Honda is typically second. So if the japenese were building disposible cars and the europeans were not, why would they be on the top of the list?

Please We are here to have fun and enjoy the cars, do not go down to the level of people tha needs a a doctor. I have friends with lexus and friends MB and Bimmers and most of them are here. We are in other level do not go down talking with people that have nothing smart to say than ofensive words. Logan do not waste your time. You know about smart arguments so talk to the people with arguments, Smart and SANE people. I agree lexus is a great car and is very reliable but in my life y pay attentions to my feelings and emotions, is not enough for me to have a reliable car, I need more than that. That's why I like MB. Every human have diferent priorities and the reliability is one for me but not the main. Security is the main for ME, even if that means that I will have to spend some extra time to fix problems in me Super secure MB. Talk to me about security in the lexus with arguments. For now trust my family to MB and when I want to play like an adult I want 600+ HP engine, that will reach my heart noy only my mind.....

Lexus is the only carmaker that can polarize car owners and car enthusiasts in this way.

Way to go Lexus...By the way has anyone thought of the idea that Merc and BMW are rushing to bring their cars to the market after they have had wind of the design / innovations that Lexus is coming out with thus they copying Lexus rather than the other way round?..HMMM!!!!!

Makes me wonder...

As I already say that lexus is very good in electronics but life is not just the gadgets. Do you know that most of the world best security systems are coming from MB, BMW, Audi and Volvo?..
The new MB have pressurized doors that detects presure changes inside the door that will activate the airbags on that side of the car, That is something a lot better than the "Automatic parking system" Tell me something that will save my life in the Lexus and I will pay more attention to that Brand. Regarding the design, most of cars looks the same due everybody is modeling cars in wind tunels, but the details will make a diference , I.E. Active lighting (BMW 5 series and now MB CLS, and S) and the personalization. They can have almost the same profile but details will make a lot of diference but only the good observer will discover even the subtle diferences and defenitly the BMW is diferent from the simple and almost clean design of the Lexus. And talking about innovation and copppiiiing: I am inventor and few years ago (arround 1998-1999) I send one of my Ideas and one of my car designs to Lexus and MB, the Idea was an automatic sunvisor that you can pull down touching a button (not patented by me, my mistake) Lexus redisign the Idea and add a photosensor engaged to the electromechanic system that pull the sunvisor down automaticly, But Mercedes did not use the idea, Then the Car of Minoriry report is my design with very small variations and you will see that in scanned image tomorrow. Yes you can say that may be they already have the Ideas, but sadly very offten japanese explode the others Ideas. European designers in the other hand are revolutionary instead of evolutionary. The succes of Lexus is based in the japanese culture (discipline and hard work with out time to enjoy the life). Lexus is car designed by computers and made by robots, and of course they have ano idea about what art is in the life. The diference between a Casio watch and Bulgari is Art, and it is expensive. Every Human wants to reach the unreachable things, thats why GOD did create the heavens.
When robots lear about art , then I will by a Lexus for sure.

I have never seen a blog so long in my on Autospies before. For what? A lexus!!<br><br>

All these machines MB,AUDI,BMW,LEXUS etc.. are mechanically the same it's just a question of brand loyalty. Ever heard of Selective perception? its result is bias, that is what is happening here. Its just a question of choice that dictates what you finally decide to drive.


The fact that this blog is so long,shows that Lexus is the talk of the town,because if you european car snobs think that lexus is so inferior, then why do you come to these blogs to discuss your insecurities about it. the fact that you can so actively participate here means that you are noticing something about the car , whether you like the car or not, but it does spark some interest, becuase people never bother with whats not important to them.<br><br>
<br><br>
On a final note remember the balace of power is shifting, The british were once very snobbish about their brands , justifying it with tradition ,they were resistant to change & look where it got them.All former british companies are either American owned (eg Ford ,GM) or owned by some foreign company. All that remains of the then exiting British car industry is non existent,need i remind you of Rover (now chinese owned. Never say never as history has a nasty way of repeating itself.The balace of power is shifting to the east especially China & India and every Global business decision today revolves around them. The same could be said about the European Car industry. Remember the Romans once had an empire, what remains of it now? You decide. Arrogance & ignorance wont get you anywhere.