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Lexus is just a company and a trademark of Toyota Motor Corporation, this trademark is another advertisement of Toyota.
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#REDIRECT [[Toyoto]]
{{Otheruses}}
{{Infobox Company
|company_name = Lexus
|slogan = The Pursuit of Perfection
|company_logo = [[Image:Lexus division emblem.svg|225 px|alt=Circle-shaped logo with the letter 'L', above the word 'Lexus'.]]
|company_type = [[Division (business)|Division]]
|foundation = 1989
|founder = [[Eiji Toyoda]]
|location = [[Toyota, Aichi]], [[Japan]]
|locations =
|key_people =
Yasuhiko Ichihashi <small> ([[Managing director|CO]])</small><br/>Vince Socco<small> ([[Vice President|VP]], Asia Pacific)</small><br/>Andy Pfeiffenberger<small> ([[Vice President|VP]], EU)</small><br/>Mark Templin<small> ([[Vice President|VP]], USA)</small>
|area_served = Worldwide
|industry = [[Automotive industry]]
|products = [[Automobiles]]
|parent = [[Toyota|Toyota Motor Corporation]] ({{tyo|7203}})<br/>({{nyse|TM}})
|divisions = [[Lexus F|F marque]]
|homepage = [http://www.lexus.com/ Lexus.com]<br/>[http://www.lexus.eu/ Lexus.eu]<br/>[http://lexus.jp Lexus.jp]<!-- These are 3 main portal sites; if adding please use external links below, thanks. -->
}}
'''Lexus''' is the [[luxury vehicle]] division of [[Japan]]ese automaker [[Toyota|Toyota Motor Corporation]]. First introduced in 1989 in the [[United States]], where Lexus has ranked as the highest-selling maker of luxury cars, as of 2006 Lexus vehicles are sold in 68 countries and territories worldwide. In 2005, the division launched in [[Japanese domestic market|Japan]], becoming the first Japanese luxury car [[marque]] to be introduced in its [[country of origin|home market]]. The Lexus marque has since debuted in additional [[export]] markets as part of the division's ongoing global expansion.

Lexus originated from a clandestine [[flagship car|flagship]] sedan project that began in 1983. This effort developed into the original [[Lexus LS]], which was the first vehicle to wear the Lexus marque upon its launch in 1989. In following years, Lexus added [[sedan (car)|sedan]], [[coupe]], [[convertible]], and [[Sport utility vehicle|SUV]] models. In 2005, a [[hybrid vehicle|hybrid]] version of the [[Lexus RX|RX]] crossover debuted, and additional hybrid models were subsequently introduced to the Lexus lineup. In 2007, Lexus launched its [[Lexus#F marque|F marque]] performance division with the arrival of the [[Lexus IS F|IS F]] sport sedan.

From the start of production, Lexus vehicles have been consistently produced in Japan, with manufacturing centered in the [[Chūbu]] and [[Kyūshū]] regions, and in particular at Toyota's [[Tahara plant|Tahara]], [[Aichi Prefecture|Aichi]], Chūbu and [[Miyata, Fukuoka|Miyata]], [[Fukuoka Prefecture|Fukuoka]], Kyūshū plants. Assembly of the first Lexus built outside the country, the [[Ontario]], [[Canada]]-produced RX 330, began in 2003. Following a corporate reorganization from 2001 to 2005, Lexus operates its own [[automotive design|design]], [[automotive engineering|engineering]], and manufacturing centers, solely responsible for the division's vehicles.

Since 1989, Lexus has developed a reputation for vehicle [[Reliability engineering|reliability]] and [[customer service]], as measured by independent surveys. Consumer ratings firm [[J.D. Power and Associates]] has named Lexus the most reliable brand in the U.S. fourteen times, most recently in 2008,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.jdpower.com/corporate/news/releases/pressrelease.aspx?ID=2008115|title=Lexus Ranks Highest in Vehicle Dependability for a 14th Consecutive Year|date=2008-08-07|accessdate=2008-11-16|publisher=[[J.D. Power and Associates]]}}</ref> based on its Vehicle Dependability Survey of over 53,000 vehicle owners and problems experienced in the first three years of ownership.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.jdpower.com/corporate/news/releases/pressrelease.aspx?ID=2006133|title=Lexus and Toyota Models Each Rank Highest in Four Segments|date=2006-08-09|accessdate=2007-05-06|publisher=J.D. Power and Associates}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.jdpower.com/corporate/news/releases/pressrelease.aspx?ID=2007130|title=Buick and Lexus Brands Tie for Highest Rank in Vehicle Dependability|date=2007-08-09|accessdate=2007-08-09|publisher=J.D. Power and Associates}}</ref> Through 2008, ''[[Consumer Reports]]'' has also named Lexus among the top five most reliable brands in its Annual Car Reliability Surveys of over one million vehicles across the U.S.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.consumerreports.org/cro/cu-press-room/pressroom/archive/2006/04/eng0604rel.htm|title=Consumer Reports Annual Survey Ranks Lexus First in Predicted Reliability for 2006 Models|date=2006-03|accessdate=2008-07-30|work=[[Consumer Reports]]}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/27341890/|title=Scion Tops Consumer Reports Reliability Study|date=2008-03|accessdate=2008-10-23|publisher=[[Associated Press]]}}</ref>

The Lexus slogan is "''The Pursuit of Perfection.''"

==History==
===The F1 project===
[[Image:Ls 400 mk1a.JPG|thumb|220px|The first LS 400 flagship sedan debuted in 1989, introducing Lexus to the world.|alt=Side profile view of a sedan parked on a street.]]
In 1983, Toyota chairman [[Eiji Toyoda]] summoned a secret meeting of company executives, to whom he posed the question, “Can we create a luxury vehicle to challenge the world's best?”<ref name=m43>May, Matthew E. (2006) "The Elegant Solution: Toyota's Formula for Mastering Innovation", p. 43. Free Press, NY. ISBN 0743290178.</ref> This question prompted Toyota to embark on a top-secret project, code-named F1 (“Flagship” + “No. 1 vehicle”).<ref>May 2006, p. 42.</ref> The F1 project, whose finished product was ultimately the [[Lexus LS|Lexus LS 400]], aimed to develop a luxury car that would expand Toyota’s product line, giving it a foothold in the premium segment and offering both longtime and new customers an upmarket product.<ref name=pr>{{cite web|url=http://www.autolinedetroit.tv/autoline/watch.php?stream=927|title=How Lexus Was Successful in the U.S. (interview)|year=2006|type=WMV|last=Press|first=Jim|accessdate=2006|publisher=Auto Line Detroit}}</ref> The F1 project followed the success of the [[Toyota Supra]] sports car and the luxury [[Toyota Cressida]] models.<ref>White, John. New Route for Japanese Cars: Luxury. ''[[The Boston Globe]]''. (1989-10-23)</ref> Both the Supra and Cressida were [[rear-wheel drive]] cars with a powerful [[Toyota M engine#7M-GE|7M-GE/7M-GTE engine]]. The U.S. launch of the [[Acura]] marque by [[Honda]] three years prior also influenced Toyota in its plans for a luxury division.<ref name=d109>Dawson 2004, p. 109.</ref> Around this same time, [[Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.|Nissan]] would unveil plans to create its own luxury division, [[Infiniti]], while [[Mazda]] also considered developing a luxury division, to be called [[Mazda#Marques|Amati]].<ref name=d72>Dawson, Chester (2004). "Lexus: The Relentless Pursuit", pp. 72, 116. John Wiley & Sons (Asia) Pte Ltd., Singapore. ISBN 0470821108.</ref>

Toyota researchers visited the U.S. in May 1985 to conduct [[focus group]]s and [[market research]] on luxury consumers.<ref name=d35>Dawson 2004, pp. 35, 41.</ref> That summer, several F1 designers rented a home in [[Laguna Beach, California]] to observe the lifestyles and tastes of American upper-class consumers.<ref name=d35/> Toyota’s market research concluded that a separate [[brand name|brand]] and sales channel were needed to present its new luxury flagship, and plans were made to develop a new network of dealerships in the U.S. market.<ref>Morgan, James M. & Liker, Jeffrey K. "The Toyota Product Development System: Integrating People, Process and Technology", p. 121. Productive Press, NY, ISBN 1563272822.</ref>

===Brand development===
[[Image:Lexus IS 220d grille.jpg|thumb|The grille of a Lexus IS, featuring the Lexus emblem.|alt=Car front fascia, partial view, with trapezoid grille, right headlight, and bumper.]]
In 1986, Toyota’s longtime advertising agency [[Saatchi & Saatchi]] formed a specialized unit, Team One, to handle marketing for the new luxury brand.<ref name=d109/> Image consulting firm [[Lippincott Mercer|Lippincott & Margulies]] was hired to develop a list of 219 prospective names; Vectre, Verone, Chaparel, Calibre, and Alexis were chosen as top candidates.<ref name=m57>Mahler, Jonathan (2004). "The Lexus Story: The Behind the Scenes Story of the #1 Automotive Luxury Brand in America", pp. 56-57. DK Melcher Media, NY. ISBN 0971793573.</ref> While Alexis quickly became the front runner (also associated with the [[Alexis Carrington]] character on the popular 1980s primetime drama [[Dynasty (TV series)|''Dynasty'']]) and later morphed to Lexus,<ref name=m57/> the name has been attributed to the combination of the words "luxury" and "elegance,"<ref name=flex>{{cite web|url=http://www.forbes.com/facesinthenews/2005/07/26/toyota-lexus-autos-cx_cn_0726autofacescan02.html
|title=Watanabe's Toyota Rolls Out Lexus In Japan|date=2005-07-26|work=[[Forbes]]|last=Noon|first=Chris|accessdate=2008-06-05}}</ref> and another theory claims it is an acronym for "luxury exports to the U.S."<ref name=flex/> According to Team One interviews, the name has no specific meaning and simply denotes a luxurious and technological image.<ref name=m57/>

Just prior to the release of the first vehicles, database service [[LexisNexis]] obtained a temporary [[injunction]] forbidding the name Lexus from being used as they stated it might cause confusion.<ref name=d130>Dawson 2004, pp. 128-30.</ref> The injunction threatened to delay the division's launch and marketing efforts.<ref name=d130/> Upon reflection, a [[U.S. appeals court]] lifted the injunction, deciding that there was little likelihood of confusion between the two products.<ref name=d130/>

The original Lexus slogan, developed after Team One representatives visited Lexus designers in Japan and noted their obsessive attention to detail, became "''The Relentless Pursuit of Perfection.''"<ref>Dawson 2004, pp. 113-14.</ref> The Lexus logo was developed by Molly Designs and Hunter Communications.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.mollydesigns.com/history.html |title=Molly Designs history, Lexus logo design|publisher=Molly Designs|accessdate=2007-05-06}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://web.archive.org/web/20030407153800/http://huntercommunications.com/HCmain/company/lexus.html|title=An Enduring Symbol of Excellence|publisher=Hunter Communications|accessdate=2009-09-25}}</ref>
The final design for the Lexus logo featured a stylized “''L''” within an oval, and according to Toyota, was rendered using a precise mathematical formula.<ref name=m57/> The first teaser ads featuring the Lexus name and logo, designed by Team One, appeared at the Chicago, Los Angeles, and New York auto shows in 1988.<ref>Dawson 2004, p. 115.</ref>

===Launch===
[[File:Lexus Balance ad.jpg|thumb|In 1989, Lexus showcased the smoothness of its V8 engines by placing champagne glasses on the hood of a revving LS 400.|alt=Car front view, halfway lit, with 15 champagne glasses stacked on the hood to form a triangle.]]
In 1989, after an extended development process involving 60 designers, 24 engineering teams, 1,400 engineers, 2,300 technicians, 220 support workers, around 450 prototypes, and over [[US$]]1-billion in costs, the F1 project was completed.<ref>Dawson 2004, p. 24.</ref> The resulting flagship, the Lexus LS 400, had a unique design that shared no major elements with previous Toyota vehicles, with a new 4.0 L [[V8]] [[Four-stroke cycle|gasoline engine]] and [[rear-wheel drive]].<ref>Dawson 2004, pp. xxi, 69.</ref><ref name=m31>Mahler 2004, p. 31.</ref> Testing locations for the LS 400 included the German [[autobahn]].<ref name=ed>{{cite web|url=http://www.edmunds.com/lexus/history.html|title=Edmunds.com Lexus Overview|publisher=[[Edmunds.com]]|accessdate=2008-06-20}}</ref>

The LS 400 debuted in January 1989 at the [[North American International Auto Show]] in Detroit.<ref name=d72/> The following September, Lexus vehicles officially went on sale at a network of 81 new Lexus dealerships across the U.S.<ref>May 2006, p. 47.</ref> The LS 400 was sold along with a smaller sibling, the [[Toyota Camry]]-based [[Lexus ES|ES 250]].<ref name=ed/> The launch of Lexus was heralded by a multimillion dollar advertising campaign in both television and print media.<ref name=d118>Dawson 2004, pp. 117-18.</ref> Lexus subsequently began exports to the United Kingdom, Switzerland, Canada, and Australia, starting in 1990.<ref name=ed/><ref>Long 2001, pp. 41-42.</ref>

The LS 400 was widely praised for its quietness, well-appointed and [[ergonomic]] interior, engine performance, build [[Quality (business)|quality]], [[aerodynamics]], [[Fuel economy in automobiles|fuel economy]], and value,<ref name=ed/><ref name=d68>Dawson 2004, pp. 68-76.</ref> although it was criticized by some automobile columnists for derivative styling and a [[suspension (vehicle)|suspension]] regarded as too compromising of handling for ride comfort.<ref name=d72>Dawson 2004, pp. 72-6.</ref><ref name=ed/> The LS 400 debuted at US$38,000 in the U.S. (in some markets, it was priced against midsize six-cylinder [[Mercedes-Benz]] and [[BMW]] models)<ref name=com>{{cite web|url=http://www.edmunds.com/insideline/do/Features/articleId=115368|title=Lexus LS 400, LS 430 and LS 460 Generations: Setting the Standard in the Most Comfortable Way Possible|accessdate=2007-04-08|publisher=Edmunds.com|date=2003-03-13}}</ref> and was rated by ''[[Car and Driver]]'' magazine as better than both the US$63,000 Mercedes-Benz [[Mercedes-Benz W126|420 SEL]] and the US$55,000 BMW [[BMW E32|735i]] in terms of ride, handling, and performance.<ref name=zen>{{cite web|url=http://www.time.com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,971153-1,00.html|title=New Kid on The Dock|date=1990-09-17|accessdate=2007-04-29|last=Detroit|first=S.C. Gwynne|work=[[Time Magazine]]}}</ref> The LS 400 also won major [[Lexus LS awards list|motoring awards]] from publications including ''[[Automobile Magazine]]'' and ''[[Wheels Magazine]]''.<ref>Davis, David E. 1990 All-Stars, ''[[Automobile Magazine]].'' (1990-01).</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wheelsmag.com.au/wheels/site/articleIDs/C40CA2CB6C8577F1CA257285001E7302?open&template=domWheels|title=Wheels' COTY the real McCoy|last=Gable|first=Chris|work=[[Wheels Magazine]]|2006-12-04|accessdate=2007-05-15}}</ref> Lexus' debut was generally regarded as a major shock to the European marques; BMW's and Mercedes-Benz's U.S. sales figures dropped 29% and 19%, respectively, with BMW executives accusing Lexus of [[Dumping (pricing policy)|dumping]] in that market.<ref name=zen/>

[[File:Lexus SC '92.jpg|thumb|left|The first Lexus SC coupe debuted in 1991.|alt=Front quarter view of a coupe parked on a street.]]
In December 1989, Lexus initiated a voluntary recall of all 8,000 LS 400s sold to date, based upon two customer complaints over defective [[wiring]] and an overheated [[brake light]].<ref name=zen/> In a sweeping 20 day operation which replaced the parts on all affected vehicles, Lexus sent technicians to pick up, repair, and return cars to customers free of charge, and also flew in personnel and rented garage space for owners in remote locations.<ref name=zen/> This response was lauded in media publications and helped establish the marque's early reputation for customer service.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.autonews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20060327/SUB/60322012/1003|title=How a recall earned Lexus a top reputation |work=[[Automotive News]]|accessdate=2009-02-19|last=Denove|first=Chris|date=2006-03-27|coauthor=Power, James}}</ref><ref>Long 2001, pp. 38-39.</ref> In 1990, during its first full year of sales, Lexus sold 63,594 LS 400 and ES 250 sedans in the U.S.,<ref name=d139>Dawson 2004, pp. 139-41.</ref> the vast majority being the LS model.<ref name=d139/> In 1991, Lexus launched the [[Lexus SC|SC 400]] coupe, which shared the LS 400’s V8 engine and rear-wheel drive design, followed by the [[Lexus ES#Second generation (1992-1996)|ES 300]] sedan, which succeeded the ES 250 and became Lexus' top seller.<ref name=dw141>Dawson 2004, pp. 141-46.</ref> That same year, Lexus received first place in J.D. Power’s studies on initial vehicle quality, customer satisfaction, and sales satisfaction.<ref>Dawson 2004, p. 75.</ref>
{{clear}}

===Growth and expansion===
[[Image:Lexus-RX400h Crystal White Mica.jpg|thumb|right|The 2005 Lexus RX 400h, the first hybrid version of Lexus' best-selling vehicle.|alt=Front quarter view of an SUV parked next to a beach.]]
In 1991, Lexus became the top-selling luxury import in the U.S.,<ref name=msntl>{{cite web|url=http://autos.msn.com/browse/Lexus.aspx|title=Overview: The Lexus Story|year=2008|publisher=MSN Autos|accessdate=2008-12-25}}</ref><ref>Long 2001, p. 51.</ref> with sales reaching a total of 71,206 vehicles.<ref name=d139/> In 1993, the marque launched the [[Lexus GS|GS]] series, based on the [[Toyota Aristo]], which had sold for two years prior in Japan.<ref name=dw141/> That same year, Lexus also became one of the first marques to debut a [[certified pre-owned]] program, with the aim of improving trade-in model values.<ref>Dawson 2004, p. 149.</ref> In 1994, the marque introduced the second generation LS 400, a complete redesign of its flagship model.<ref>Long 2001, p. 89.</ref> In May 1995, sales were threatened by the U.S. government's proposal of 100 percent [[tariff]]s on Japanese luxury cars in response to the widening U.S.-Japan [[trade deficit]].<ref name=tar>{{cite web|url=http://www.autonews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20071029/ANA03/710290340/1128/ANA03&Profile=1128|title=Bold moves halt tariff stalemate, save Lexus brand|work=Automotive News|accessdate=2009-02-02|date=2007-10-29|last=Treece|first=James}}</ref> Normal sales operations resumed a month later when the Japanese auto manufacturers collectively agreed to greater American investments, and the tariffs were not enacted.<ref name=tar/>

In 1996, Lexus added its first luxury sport utility vehicle, the [[Lexus LX|LX 450]].<ref>Long 2001, pp. 105-07.</ref> Two years later, Lexus debuted the first luxury [[crossover SUV]], the [[Lexus RX|RX 300]]; the second generation of the GS 300 and GS 400 sedans; and a new entry-level sedan, the [[Lexus IS|IS 300]]. The RX quickly became the marque's best-selling model, displacing the ES, its previous best-seller.<ref name=d172>Dawson 2004, pp. 171-72.</ref> In 1999, Lexus recorded its one-millionth vehicle sold in the U.S. market,<ref name=msntl/> and was ranked the top-selling luxury automobile make in the U.S. overall.<ref name=d172/> In 2001, Lexus introduced its first convertible, the SC 430, and the third generation LS 430.<ref>Mahler 204, pp. 27, 196.</ref> The second generation RX 330 debuted in 2003.<ref>Dawson 2004, p. 189.</ref> In 2004, Lexus recorded its two-millionth U.S. vehicle sale.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://wardsdealer.com/ar/auto_millionth_lexus_customer/|title=2-Millionth Lexus Customer|quote=RX 330 owner Steven Sandman, trip winner|date=2004-06-01|work=Ward's Dealer|}}</ref><ref>Dawson 2004, p. xxiv.</ref>

In 2005, Lexus debuted the first production hybrid luxury SUV, the [[Lexus RX 400h|RX 400h]].<ref name=hy>{{cite web|url=http://www.dailynews.com/search/ci_3076458|title=Lexus introduces first luxury hybrid SUV|date=2005-10-26|publisher=Associated Press|last=Job|first=Ann|accessdate=2008-06-21}}</ref> The vehicle used a [[Lexus Hybrid Drive]] system which combined gasoline and electric motors for increased power, fuel efficiency, and lower emissions relative to gasoline-only equivalents.<ref name=hyh>{{cite web|url=http://www.businessweek.com/autos/content/mar2006/bw20060308_999129.htm |title=Hybrid Heaven in a Lexus|last=Petersen|first=Thane|work=[[BusinessWeek]]|date=2006-03-08|accessdate=2007-05-06}}</ref> In 2006, Lexus unveiled the [[Lexus GS#Third generation (2006-present)|GS 450h]], a [[V6]] hybrid performance sedan.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.businessweek.com/autos/content/sep2006/bw20060912_991505.htm?chan=search
|title=2007 Lexus GS 450h|date=2006-09-13|work=BusinessWeek|last=Peterson|first=Thane|accessdate=2008-06-21}}</ref> That same year, the marque premiered the fourth generation flagship [[Lexus LS#Fourth generation (USF40 / USF41)|LS series]], comprising both standard- and long-[[wheelbase]] V8 (LS 460 and LS 460 L) and hybrid (LS 600h and LS 600h L) versions.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.thestar.com/comment/columnists/article/126053
|title=Quiet crown contender|date=2006-09-17|work=[[The Star (Malaysia)]]|last=Tojiagic|first=Mark|accessdate=2008-06-21}}</ref> The LS 600h L subsequently went on sale as the most expensive luxury sedan ever produced in Japan, with a sticker price of approximately US$125,000.<ref name=ult>{{cite web|url=http://www.nextautos.com/countriesmarkets/japan/lexus-ls600hl-to-displace-toyota-century-as-japans-priciest-auto
|title=Japan Report: Lexus LS600hl To Displace Toyota Century As Japan’s Priciest Auto|date=2007-05-08|work=[[Winding Road]]|accessdate=2007-10-01}}</ref> In 2006, Lexus sales reached 475,000 vehicles worldwide.<ref name=global/>

[[Image:Lexus LF-A Coupe 2007.jpg|thumb|left|The F marque Lexus LF-A concept premiered in 2007.|alt=Front quarter view of a coupe on a metallic turntable.]]
In 2007, Lexus announced a new [[Lexus#F marque|F marque]] performance division, which would produce racing-inspired versions of its performance models. The first of this line, the IS F, made its debut at the 2007 North American International Auto Show,<ref name=F>{{cite web|url=http://www.thecarconnection.com/autoshownews/1010188_lexus-confirms-f-performance-cars|title=Lexus Confirms “F” Performance Cars|date=2006-12-11|publisher=The Car Connection|last=Padgett|first=Marty|accessdate=2007-05-06}}</ref> accompanied by a [[supercar]] concept, the [[Lexus LF|LF-A]]. By the end of 2007, Lexus' annual U.S. sales had risen to 329,177 vehicles,<ref name=07s>{{cite web|url=http://www.businessweek.com/lifestyle/content/feb2008/bw20080222_305511.htm|title=The Top Dogs of the Automotive Pack|date=2008-02-22|last=Henry|first=Jim|work=BusinessWeek|accessdate=2008-12-25}}</ref> and total worldwide sales reached 500,000 vehicles.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.autoblog.com/2006/09/19/lexus-targets-500-000-units-for-2007/|title=Lexus targets 500,000 units for 2007|publisher=[[Autoblog]]|last=Waterman|first=Stuart|date=2006-09-19|accessdate=2007-05-06}}</ref> In 2008, amidst the [[late-2000s recession]], sales dropped 21% in the U.S.,<ref name=08l>{{cite web|url=http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601100&sid=aE7P22QvyOuI|title=BMW, Mercedes, Lexus Car Sales May Drop to 13-Year Low in U.S.|date=2009-01-09|publisher=[[Bloomberg L.P.|Bloomberg]]|last=Green |first=Jeff|coauthor=Ramsey, Mike|accessdate=2009-01-11}}</ref><ref name=luxs>{{cite web|url=http://online.wsj.com/article/SB122782355321662353.html?mod=googlenews_wsj|title=Luxury Cars Sit As Both Money, Mood Slip Away|date=2008-11-28|work=[[The Wall Street Journal]]|last=Linebaugh|first=Kate|accessdate=2008-12-08}}</ref> with an annual total of 260,087,<ref name=08s>{{cite web|url=http://www.autonews.com/assets/PDF/CA5945419.PDF|title=U.S. car and light-truck sales by make - 12 months 2008|work=Automotive News|accessdate=2009-03-20|date=2009}}</ref> and global sales fell 16% to 435,000.<ref name=gazoo>{{cite web|url=https://gazoo.com/NEWS/NewsDetail.aspx?NewsId=7ba4ecf2-5277-4b43-9485-0012ebfda71e|title=2009 Lexus sales|language=Japanese|publisher=Gazoo/レクサス
|accessdate=2009-04-22|date=2009}}</ref> In terms of volume, Lexus was the number-one-selling luxury car marque in the largest [[automotive industry|automotive market]] for the past eight years consecutively<ref name=08l/><ref name=sales>van Loon, Jeremy (2007-05-04). "BMW Luxury Lead Threatened by Lexus, Stagnant Margins." Bloomberg. Retrieved on 2007-05-06.</ref> and the fourth-largest luxury car brand in the world by volume.<ref name=sales/> In 2009, the marque debuted the [[Lexus HS|HS 250h]], a dedicated hybrid sedan,<ref name=hs>{{cite web|url=http://autos.canada.com/2009detroit1/story.html?id=ab0a6063-8d73-4391-8821-0d3da7eae485&p=1|title=Full details on Hybrid Lexus HS 250h|publisher=Driving.ca|date=2009-01-11|accessdate=2009-07-18}}</ref> and the US$375,000 production [[Lexus LFA|LFA]] supercar.<ref name=bwl>{{cite web|url=http://www.businessweek.com/autos/autobeat/archives/2009/10/introducing_the_1.html|title=Lexus launches $375k LFA|work= BusinessWeek|accessdate=2009-10-23|last=Rowley|first=Ian|date=2009-10-21}}</ref>
{{clear}}

===Global development===
{| class="wikitable" table align="right" style="margin-left: 1em"
|+ Total sales and production<ref name=gazoo/>
|-
! style="background:#DCDCDC;" | Global sales, 2008
! style="background:#DCDCDC;" | Units
|-
|Japan||26,000
|-
|Europe ||45,000
|-
|North America||276,000
|-
|Other regions||88,000
|-
| style="text-align:right;" | '''Total'''||'''435,000'''
|-
! style="background:#DCDCDC;" | U.S. sales, 2008
! style="background:#DCDCDC;" | Units
|-
|[[Passenger vehicles]]<ref name=08s/>||151,567
|-
|[[Sport utility vehicles]]<ref name=08s/>||108,520
|-
| style="text-align:right;" | '''Total'''||'''260,087'''
|-
! style="background:#DCDCDC;" | <!-- 2007 Japan: 414,400; Total: 492,470--> Line production, 2008
! style="background:#DCDCDC;" | Units
|-
| Japan production<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.toyota.co.jp/en/about_toyota/in_the_world/pdf2009/production_en.pdf|title=Number of Vehicles Produced in Japan by Model|type=PDF|publisher=Toyota.jp|accessdate=2009-07-18|date=2009}}</ref>||277,580
|-
| Canada production<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.toyota.ca/cgi-bin/WebObjects/WWW.woa/7/wo/Home.TMMC-NMMwjKOf6B0TfA6FlY1apg/16.7?t121000e%2ehtml|title=Cambridge Plant Quick Facts|publisher=TMMC Inc|accessdate=2009-07-18|date=2009}}
</ref>|| 69,630
|-
| style="text-align:right;" | '''Total''' || '''347,210'''
|}
In 2005, Lexus completed a full organizational separation from parent company Toyota, with dedicated design, engineering, training, and manufacturing centers working exclusively for the division.<ref>Dawson 2004, pp. 199-00.</ref><ref name=lown>{{cite web|url=http://www.autofieldguide.com/articles/090601.html|title=Lexus Comes Into Its Own|publisher=''Automotive Design & Production''|last=Vasilash|first=Gary|year=2006|accessdate=2007-05-06}}</ref><ref name=ain>{{cite web|url=http://www.findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m3012/is_11_183/ai_110404995|publisher=''Automotive Industries''|title=The pursuit of higher sales: new Lexus managing officer|date=2003-11|accessdate=2007-05-06}}</ref> This effort coincided with Lexus' launch in its home market of Japan and an expanded global launch of the brand in major world markets.<ref name=ain/> Executives aimed to grow the marque's sales outside of its largest market in the U.S.<ref name=ain/><ref name=nk>{{cite web|url=http://www.nni.nikkei.co.jp/AC/TNKS/Nni20080226D26JFF01.htm
|title=Lexus to increase production capacity by 35%|date=2008-02-26|publisher=''Nikkei Business Daily''|accessdate=2008-02-27}}</ref> The next generation IS, GS, and LS sedans were subsequently designed as "global models" for worldwide markets.<ref>Dawson 2004, p. 210.</ref> Lexus launched in China in 2005,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_hb5562/is_200503/ai_n22716187
|title=Toyota Launches first Lexus 4S Store in China|date=2005-03|publisher=Asia Info|accessdate=2008-06-21}}</ref> Malaysia in 2006,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_qn6207/is_20070101/ai_n24910922|title=Lexus launched in Malaysia|date=2007-01-01|publisher=''Malaysian Business''|last=Razif|first=Muhd
|accessdate=2008-06-21}}</ref> Indonesia in 2007,<ref>"Toyota Indonesia plans to introduce Lexus vehicles". Reuters. 2007-02-21.<!--asia.news.yahoo.com/060221/3/2g5ps.html --> Retrieved on 2008-06-21.</ref> Chile in 2008,<ref name=LexusChile>{{cite web|url=http://www.latercera.com/contenido/665_120257_9.shtml|title=Lexus: Año uno en Chile|work=[[La Tercera]]|accessdate=2009-05-04|date=2009-04-18|language=Portuguese}}</ref> and the Philippines in 2009.<ref name=lexusmanila>Mendoza, Al (2009-01-22). "Lexus unleashed in historic glory". ''Business Mirror.''<!--businessmirror.com.ph/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=4977:lexus-unleashed-in-historic-glory&catid=39:motoring&Itemid=72.--> Retrieved on 2009-02-02.</ref> Plans called for an expansion from a total of 68 countries in 2006 to 76 worldwide by 2010.<ref name=lexglobal>
{{cite web|url=http://jp.reuters.com/article/topNews/idJPJAPAN-27671120070831|title=Lexus targets expansion to 76 countries by 2010|publisher=Reuters|language=Japanese|date=2007-08-31|accessdate=2009-02-02|date=2007-12-26}}
</ref> The largest 2007 sales markets, in order of size, were the U.S., Japan, the UK, China, Canada, and Russia.<ref name=global/> In 2008, sales growth was limited by a weakened luxury car market in major world regions, including [[North America]], [[Asia]], and [[Europe]].<ref name=08l/><ref name=luxs/>

====Japan====
Lexus' arrival in the Japanese market in July 2005 marked the first introduction of a Japanese luxury marque in the domestic market.<ref>"Toyota Opens Lexus Dealerships in Japan". CBS News. 2005-08-30. Retrieved on 2008-06-21.</ref> The IS, GS, and SC models became available in Japan in 2005. Sales were initially slower than expected,<ref name=LexJP>{{cite web|url=http://www.businessweek.com/autos/content/feb2006/bw20060215_597701.htm|title=Lexus Sales Sputter at Home|work=BusinessWeek|last=Rowley|first=Ian|date=2006-02-15|accessdate=2007-05-06}}</ref> but increased the following year.<ref name=ljp>{{cite web|url=http://wardsdealer.com/latest/lexus_progressing_japan/|title=
Lexus Slowly Progressing in Japan|last=Schreffler|first=Roger|coauthors=Chrysler, Mack|date=2007-12-28|accessdate=2007-04-18|publisher=''Ward's Dealer Business''}}</ref> In particular, the introduction of the LS 460 in September 2006 exceeded expectations, with over 12,000 orders in its first month on sale.<ref name=ljp/> Lexus Japan's network of 143 new dealerships became profitable in 2007.<ref name=ljp/> The marque's Japanese debut ended domestic sales of previous generation Toyota-equivalent models;<ref name=d193>Dawson 2004, pp. 192-93.</ref> right-hand drive versions of the LS, SC, RX, IS, and GS were previously sold in Japan under Toyota's Celsior, Soarer, Harrier, Altezza, and Aristo nameplates, respectively. With next generation models, these nameplates were no longer used and new models realigned to Lexus Japan dealerships.<ref name=d193/> The dramatic price increase (from [[¥]]1-million and up) on new Lexus models was considered a main reason for initial slow Japanese sales,<ref name=LexJP/> along with the overall contraction of the domestic auto market.<ref name=ljp/> In 2009, the HS 250h became the marque's top-selling sedan in Japan.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.greencarcongress.com/2009/08/hs250h-triple-20090808.html|title=Toyota to Nearly Triple Production of Lexus HS 250h Hybrid by October|work=Green Car Congress|accessdate=2009-09-25|date=2009-08-08}}</ref>

[[Image:Lexus IS250 silver.jpg|thumb|left|The Lexus IS series added a diesel engine in 2006.|alt=Front quarter view of a compact sedan parked on a street.]]

====Europe====
In the European market, Lexus has long struggled with smaller brand recognition; perceived lack of prestige compared to domestic luxury brands; minor market share; and the absence of an independent dealership network.<ref>Dawson 2004, p. 195.</ref><ref>"Lexus Magic Fails to Capture Europeans". ''Detroit News''. 2005-11-23. Retrieved on 2006.<!--url=detnews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20051123/OPINION03/511230428/1148/AUTO01--></ref> After [[import quota]]s were relaxed in 1998, the marque remained a small player on the continent.<ref>Dawson 2004, p. 194.</ref> In 2005, Lexus announced plans to introduce its first hybrid and diesel vehicles and expand the number of dedicated dealerships in Europe.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/business/4309743.stm|title=Toyota targets Europe's urban youth|date=2005-03-01|publisher=[[BBC News]]|last=Madslien |first=Jorn |accessdate=2008-06-21}}</ref> In 2006, the newly-introduced diesel IS 220d accounted for UK sales increases;<ref name=ukh/> hybrids comprised a quarter of total sales and outsold their petrol counterparts.<ref name=global>{{cite web|url=http://www.detnews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070908/AUTO01/105280001|title=Lexus aims to conquer globe with luxury sales|work=Detroit News|last=Tierney |first=Christine|date=2007-08-07|accessdate=2007-09-28}}</ref><ref name=ukh/><ref>Hughes, Steve. (2006-10-06) Successful Mix. ''[[Daily Record (Scotland)|Daily Record]]'', Retrieved on 2007-09-28.</ref> The [[London congestion charge]] has added incentive by excluding hybrid vehicles.<ref name=lexushybrid>{{cite web|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/business/7291323.stm
|title=Lexus hybrid woos Sainsbury's chief|date=2008-03-16|publisher=BBC News|last=Madslien|first=Jorn|accessdate=2008-05-28}}</ref> An emerging market for Lexus Europe is Russia, where the marque ranked fourth in luxury car sales in 2007,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://b-ru.com/economics/general/170-sales-results-foreign-cars-russia-2007/|title=Sales' results of foreign cars in Russia in 2007 |date=2008-01-15|publisher=InvestExp|last=Association of European Business in Russian Federation|accessdate=2008-09-30}}</ref> and received its largest sales increases on the continent that year.<ref name=emerging>{{cite web|url=http://blogs.motortrend.com/6217330/editorial/lexus-is-f-plus-jim-chris-farley/
|title=Lexus IS F, Plus Jim & Chris Farley|date=2007-09-27|work=[[Motor Trend]]|last=St. Antoine |first=Arthur|accessdate=2007-10-01}}</ref> Total Europe sales increased 72% in 2006 to over 50,000 vehicles;<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.businessweek.com/globalbiz/content/jan2007/gb20070119_132541.htm?chan=globalbiz_europe_today's+top+story|title=Europe's Car Market: The '06 Report Card|work=BusinessWeek|last=Edmundson|first=Gale|date=2006-02-19|accessdate=2007-05-06}}</ref> held flat in 2007, and dropped 27.5% in 2008.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.acea.be/index.php/news/news_detail/passenger_cars_european_market_posts_fifteen_year_low_in_2008_78|title=ACEA Passenger Cars - European Market Posts Fifteen Year Low|publisher=[[ACEA]]|accessdate=2008-08-04}}</ref> In 2009, Lexus announced plans to become a hybrid-only marque in the UK.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.motortrader.com/industry-news/car-dealer-news/29338-lexus-network-set-for-overhaul-as-brand-goes-hybrid-only.html|title=Lexus network set for overhaul as brand goes hybrid-only|publisher=Motortrader|accessdate=2009-09-25|date=2009-09-18}}</ref>
[[Image:Lexus LS 600h front.JPG|thumb|The fourth generation LS 460/LS 600h was launched globally in 2006.|alt=Front quarter view of a sedan parked on a street.]]

====Asia and Oceania====
In South Korea, with sales of the [[Lexus ES|ES]] leading its lineup, Lexus was ranked as the top-selling import in 2005;<ref>"Toyota's Lexus Remains Best-Selling Foreign Car in Korea". ''[[The Korea Times]]''. 2007-01-05. Retrieved on 2007-01-07.<!--times.hankooki.com/lpage/biz/200701/kt2007010514232811910.htm--></ref> in Taiwan, Lexus also became the top-selling luxury import in 2005.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://cens.com/cens/html/en/news/news_inner_3938.html|title=Lexus #1 Luxury Import in Taiwan|date=2006-01-19|publisher=''Taiwan Economic News''|accessdate=2007-05-06}}</ref> In 2007, Lexus captured the import sales lead in the China's emerging luxury car market,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gasgoo.com/autobiz/3393/Lexus-knocks-out-Mercedes-in-China-s-high-end-car-market.html
|title=Lexus knocks out Mercedes in China's high-end car market|date=2007-09-24|publisher=Global Auto Sourcing|last=Jiu|first=Joanne|accessdate=2007-09-28}}</ref> which along with Russia saw higher per-dealership sales than any other region.<ref name=emerging/> The number of Lexus dealerships in China expanded to 23 in 2007,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gasgoo.com/auto-news/2683/Lexus-sales-to-see-40-000-units-next-year.html|title=Lexus sales to see 40,000 units next year|date=2007-07-23|publisher=Global Auto Sourcing|last=Jorvan|accessdate=2008-09-30}}</ref> and increased demand for luxury SUVs contributed to sales growth that year.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.edmunds.com/insideline/do/News/articleId=124401|title=Lexus LX 570 Enters China Market|date=2007-01-17|publisher=Edmunds.com|last=Jin|first=Vivian |accessdate=2008-09-30}}</ref> In Australia, Lexus ranked third in luxury car sales through the late 2000s, with the RX model generating the greatest demand.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.drive.com.au/Editorial/ArticleDetail.aspx?ArticleID=57554|title=Convertible Lexus to take on the Germans|work=[[Sydney_Morning_Herald#Overview|Drive]]|accessdate=2009-05-20|last=Blackburn|first=Richard }}
</ref><ref>"Australia Vehicle Sales - 2006 YTD". Driving Australia. 2006-12. <!--fcai.com.au/sales.php/2006/12/sales.html. -->Retrieved on 2007-05-06.</ref>

====Latin America====
Lexus officially launched sales in Brazil in January 1998,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.estadao.com.br/suplementos/not_sup342035,0.htm|title=Em busca de notoriedade|work=[[Estadao]]|language=Portuguese|accessdate=2009-06-08|date=2009-03-20}}</ref> making its debut in [[South America]]'s most populous country. The Brazil model lineup consisted of the LS and ES sedans, and sales operations subsequently grew to 14 dealerships nationwide.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://diariodonordeste.globo.com/2000/03/19/050002.htm|title=Tecnologia é destaque no Lexus ES 300 |work=Diário do Nordeste|accessdate=2009-06-08|language=Portuguese|date=2000-03-19}}</ref> The marque has also been marketed in Costa Rica via regional distributor Purdy Motors S.A.,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nacion.com/ln_ee/2006/octubre/27/economia874532.html|title=Firmas automotrices realizan inversiones|language=Spanish|accessdate=2009-05-29|work=[[La Nación (San José)]]|date=2006-10-27}}</ref> with the country being one of the first in [[Central America]] to receive the brand. During the Santiago Auto Salon in 2006, Lexus officials announced plans to begin sales in Chile in mid-2007.<ref name=chile>{{cite web|url=http://diario.elmercurio.cl/detalle/index.asp?id={008baab8-a618-44cd-a5ff-0ecdef6f3502}|title=Lexus en Chile ya es oficial |work=[[El Mercurio]]|accessdate=2009-05-04|date=2008-03-29|first=Alejandro|last=Manríquez|language=Portuguese}}</ref> After an apparent delay, the marque officially launched in Chile in April 2008 with the opening of its first salesroom in [[Las Condes]], [[Santiago Province, Chile|Santiago]],<ref name=chile/> with models sold including the IS, GS, LS, SC, RX and LX vehicles.<ref name=chile/>
{{clear}}

==Corporate affairs==
[[Image:Lexus College1.jpg|thumb|Fuji Lexus College, the training facility for Lexus dealers in Japan.|alt=Rectangular windowed building, with landscaping and a sign in front labeled 'Lexus'.]]
As of 2009, coordination of global Lexus Division product strategy involves Yasuhiko Ichihashi, chief officer, and Kiyotaka Ise, general manager, of the Lexus Development Center in Japan.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.toyota.co.jp/en/news/08/0624.html|title=Toyota Announces Executive and Organizational Changes|publisher=Toyota.jp|accessdate=2009-03-20|date=2008-06-24}}</ref><ref name=exec>{{cite web|url=http://www.toyota.co.jp/en/news/07/0622.html|title=Toyota Announces Executive and Organizational Changes|date=2007-06-22|publisher=Toyota.jp|accessdate=2008-06-21}}</ref> Ise, a managing officer in Toyota Motor Corporation's executive leadership, succeeded previous general manager Takeshi Yoshida, who was promoted to senior managing director on the Toyota board in June 2007.<ref name=exec/> Other Lexus Japan executives include Yoichiro
Ichimaru, senior managing director of Lexus Japan Sales and Marketing, and Toshio Furutani, managing officer at the Lexus Product and Marketing Planning Division.<ref name=exec/>

In the U.S., Lexus operations are headed by Mark Templin, group vice president and general manager of the U.S. Lexus Division.<ref name=lexusus>{{cite web|url=http://www.reuters.com/article/pressRelease/idUS169538+07-Jan-2008+PRN20080107|title=Toyota Motor Sales Announces Management Changes|date=2008-01-07|publisher=Reuters|accessdate=2008-06-21}}</ref> In Europe, Lexus operations are headed by Andy Pfeiffenberger, vice president of Lexus Europe. Lexus Japan headquarters are located in [[Toyota, Aichi]], Japan. Companion Lexus design facilities are located in [[Southern California]]<ref>Sexy Lexus is a huge hit. ''[[Sunday Mail (Scotland)]]'', Glasgow (2004-09-26)</ref> and Toyota, Aichi.<ref>State to Get Acura Site for Design (separate design center for Lexus). ''[[The Los Angeles Times]]'', p. C2 (2006-01-09)</ref>

Financial data of Lexus operations are not disclosed publicly.<ref name=amplify>{{cite web|url=http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601101&sid=aJNPURUsO0Kg&refer=japan|title=Toyota’s U.S. Pain Amplified by Falling Lexus Sales |publisher=Bloomberg|date=2009-04-06|last=Ohnsman|first=Alan|accessdate=2009-04-19}}</ref> However, automotive analysts estimate that the Lexus Division contributes a disproportionate share of Toyota's profits, relative to its limited production and sales volume.<ref name=amplify/> Interviews with retired division officials indicate that depending on sales volume, vehicle [[product development]] cycles, and [[exchange rate]]s, Lexus sales have accounted for as much as half of Toyota's annual U.S. profit in certain years.<ref name=amplify/> In 2006, Lexus entered [[Interbrand]]'s list of the [[BrandZ|Top 100 Global Brands]] for the first time, with an estimated [[brand equity#Measurement|brand value]] of approximately US$3 billion annually.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.interbrand.com/images/studies/BGB06Report_072706.pdf|title=The 100 Top Brands 2006|year=2007|work=[[Interbrand]]|accessdate=2007-09-28}}</ref> In 2009, responding to industry-wide sales declines, U.S. division executives opted against increasing price [[incentive]]s to match those of rival brands, with the stated goal of maintaining [[profit margin]]s rather than sales volume.<ref name=amplify/>
{{clear}}

==Vehicle lineup==
{{further|[[List of Lexus vehicles]]}}
The Lexus lineup includes five sedans, namely the [[Compact executive car|compact]] IS and HS models, [[Mid-size car|mid-size]] ES and GS models, and the [[Full-size car|full-size]] LS flagship, along with two convertibles, the IS C and SC. Three SUVs are produced, increasing in size from the crossover RX, the mid-size GX, to the full-size LX. Hybrid models include the HS sedan and variants of the GS, LS, and RX.<ref name=plant/> The F marque line produces a variant of the IS sedan and the LFA supercar.<ref name=plant/>
{{Lexus}}

==Nomenclature==
Lexus production models are named [[alphanumeric]]ally using two-letter designations followed by three digits. The first letter indicates relative status in the Lexus model range ([[ranking]]),<ref name=lnam>{{cite web|url=http://money.cnn.com/2004/09/07/pf/autos/car_name_decoder/|title=Car name decoder|date=2004-09-11|publisher=[[CNN]]|accessdate=2009-02-01|last=Valdes-Dapena|first=Peter}}</ref> and the second letter refers to [[car body style]] or type<ref name=lnam/> (e.g. LS for 'luxury sedan'). The three digits indicate [[engine displacement]] in liters multiplied by a factor of one hundred (e.g. 350 for a 3.5 L engine).<ref name=lnam/> A space is used between the letters and numbers. The same letter may be used differently depending on the model; 'S' can refer to 'sedan'<ref name=lnam/> or 'sport'<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nihoncar.com/en/review-292-Lexus+IS250+Test+Drive,+HDTV.html|title=Lexus IS250 Test Drive|publisher=Nihoncar.com|date=2006-08-06|accessdate=2009-02-01}}</ref> (e.g. in LS and SC), while 'X' refers to '[[sport utility vehicle|luxury utility vehicle]]' or SUV.<ref name=lnam/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.businessweek.com/autos/content/feb2007/bw20070214_857806.htm|title=Sales of Foreign Autos Climb|work=BusinessWeek|date=2007-02-14|accessdate=2009-02-01}}</ref> On hybrids, the three digits refer to the combined gas-electric output.<ref name=hyh/> For certain models, a [[lower case]] letter placed after the alphanumeric designation indicates powerplant type ('h' for hybrid, 'd' for diesel),<ref name=ukh/> while [[capital letter]](s) placed at the end indicates a class subtype (e.g. 'L' for long-wheelbase,<ref name=lown/> 'C' for coupe, 'AWD' for [[all-wheel drive]]). On F marque models, the two-letter designation and the letter 'F' are used with no numbers or hyphens (e.g. IS F).<ref name=ukh/>
{{clear}}

==Design and technology==
[[Image:Lexus Navigation System.jpg|right|thumb|Lexus touchscreen navigation system.|alt=Dashboard panel, with navigation screen, air vents, and controls.]]
Lexus design has traditionally placed an emphasis on targeting specific luxury vehicle standards.<ref>Dawson 2004, p. 33.</ref> Since the marque's inception, design targets have ranged from aerodynamics and [[ride quality]] to interior ergonomics.<ref name=d68/><ref>May 2006, pp. 42-43.</ref> The backronym "IDEAL" ("Impressive, Dynamic, Elegant, Advanced, and Lasting") is used in the development process.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://response.jp/issue/2005/0623/article71881_1.html|title=Lexus IS & GS news|publisher=Response.jp|accessdate=2009-05-20|date=2005-06-23|language=Japanese}}</ref> Each vehicle is designed according to approximately 500 specific product standards, known as "Lexus Musts," on criteria such as [[leather]] seat stitching.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.autofieldguide.com/articles/100502.html|publisher=''Automotive Design & Production''|title=Introducing the '06 IS|last=Vasilash|first=Gary|year=2006|accessdate=2007-05-06}}</ref><ref name=star>{{cite web|url=http://www.star-motoring.com/news/story.asp?file=/2008/11/2/motorsupp/2320867&sec=motorsupp|title=Craftsmanship rules the roost|date=2008-11-02|publisher=''The Star''|accessdate=2008-12-25}}</ref> Design elements from the marque's concept vehicle line, the [[Lexus LF|LF series]] (including the 2003 [[Lexus LF#LF-S|LF-S]] and 2004 [[Lexus LF#LF-C|LF-C]]), have been incorporated in production models.<ref>Dawson 2004, p. 206.</ref><ref>Geneva debut, Lexus finesses next IS sedan. ''[[AutoWeek]]'' (2005-03-07)</ref>

Vehicle cabins have incorporated [[touchscreen]] navigation system interfaces (through the 2009 model year),<ref name=tech>{{cite web|url=http://www.businessweek.com/magazine/content/07_30/b4043103.htm|title=One Long, Lean Lexus |date=2007-07-23|work=BusinessWeek|accessdate=2008-06-19}}</ref> a [[advanced key|smart key]] entry and startup system, SmartAccess,<ref name=tech/> and [[electroluminescence|electroluminescent]] Optitron gauges.<ref name=d71>Dawson 2004, p. 71.</ref> In 1989, Lexus became among the first luxury marques to equip models with premium audio systems, in partnership with stereo firm [[Nakamichi]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nytimes.com/1989/06/11/business/what-s-new-in-car-stereos-in-the-auto-sound-race-detroit-speeds-ahead.html|title=What's New in Car Stereos|work=[[The New York Times]]|accessdate=2009-05-20|last=Bloom|first=Craig|date=1989-06-11}}</ref><ref name=caud>{{cite web|url= http://www.laaudiofile.com/newcar.html|title=Surveying The Best New Car Sound Systems|last=Nakano|first=Roy|publisher=LA Car|year=2004|accessdate=2007-05-06}}</ref> Since 2001, optional [[surround sound]] systems are offered via [[high-end audio]] purveyor [[Mark Levinson]].<ref name=caud/> For reduced cabin noise, the first LS 400 introduced sandwich [[steel]] plating,<ref name=d71/> and later models added [[Insulated glazing#Glass coatings|acoustic glass]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.theglobeandmail.com/servlet/story/RTGAM.20050224.wxwhhybrids24/BNStory/specialMegawheels/|title=Lexus RX 400h review update|date=2005-02-24|work=[[The Globe and Mail]]|last=Cato|first=Jeremy|accessdate=2008-06-19}}</ref> In 2006, the LS 460 debuted the first ceiling [[air diffuser]]s and [[infrared]] body temperature sensors in a car.<ref name=sae/><ref name=wcoty>{{cite web|url=http://www.wcoty.com/media/?release=32&year=2007|title=Lexus LS 460 - WCOTY|accessdate=2007-04-08|publisher=World Car of the Year|date=2007-04-05}}</ref> For the 2010 RX and HS models, the [[Remote Touch]] system, featuring a [[computer mouse]]-like controller with [[haptic feedback]], was introduced.<ref name=hs/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2817,2341432,00.asp|title=Hands On: Lexus' Remote Touch Beats iDrive|work=[[PC Magazine]]|accessdate=2009-02-24|last=Howard|first=Bill|date=2009-02-20}}</ref>

[[Image:Lexus IS F 08.JPG|left|thumb|The eight-speed automatic transmission in the Lexus IS F.|alt=Cutaway car transmission, with exposed gears and internal machinery.]]
In 2006, Lexus incorporated the first production eight-speed [[automatic transmission]] in an automobile with the LS 460,<ref name=sae/> and the gearbox was later adapted for the GS 460 and IS F models. [[Continuously variable transmission]]s, [[regenerative braking]], and electric motors have been used on all Lexus hybrid models.<ref name=hyh/> In 2007, Lexus executives signaled intentions to equip further models with hybrid powertrains,<ref name=ukh>{{cite web| url=http://www.motortrader.com/industry-news/archives/24829-lexus-plans-for-growth-on-the-back-of-its-hybrid-models.html|title=Lexus GB plans for growth on the back of its hybrid models|publisher=Motortrader|accessdate=2007-04-18|date=2007-04-18}}</ref> catering to demands for a decrease in both [[pollution|carbon pollution]] and [[Oil depletion|oil reliance]].<ref name=ph>{{cite web|url=http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=newsarchive&sid=ai1kb.oIY_nE|title=Toyota's Lexus May Add High-Performance U.S. Hybrids |date=2007-09-27|publisher=Bloomberg|last=Ohnsman|first=Alan|accessdate=2007-09-28}}</ref> Hybrid models have been differentiated by separate badging and lighting technology; in 2008, the LS 600h L became the first production vehicle to use [[Light-emitting diode|LED]] [[headlamp#LED light sources|headlamps]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://compoundsemiconductor.net/cws/article/news/26866|title=Lexus is first to deploy LED-based car headlamps|publisher=Compound Semiconductor|date=2007-01-19|accessdate=2009-06-08}}</ref>

Safety features on Lexus models range from stability systems ([[Vehicle Stability Control]] and [[Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management]])<ref name=safety>{{cite web|url=http://www.theglobeandmail.com/auto/lexus-takes-a-new-design-direction/article306040/|title=Lexus takes new design direction|date=2004-12-09|work=The Globe and Mail|last=Law|first=Alex|accessdate=2009-06-08}}</ref> to backup cameras, swivel headlights, and sonar warning systems. The [[Precrash system|Lexus Pre-Collision System]] (PCS) integrates multiple safety systems.<ref name=safety/> In 2007, Lexus introduced the first car safety systems with infrared and pedestrian detection capabilities, [[lane departure warning system|lane keep assist]], a [[Driver Monitoring System]] with [[facial recognition]] monitoring of driver attentiveness, and rear pre-collision [[whiplash (medicine)|whiplash]] protection, as part of the LS 460 PCS.<ref name=sae>{{cite web|url=http://www.sae.org/servlets/pressRoom?OBJECT_TYPE=PressReleases&PAGE=showRelease&RELEASE_ID=548|title=Automotive Engineering International - LS 460 2007 Best Engineered Vehicle|Society of Automotive Engineers|date=2007-04-10|publisher=SAE International|accessdate=2007-05-06}}</ref> As a safety precaution, Lexus [[Automotive navigation system|GPS navigation systems]] feature a motion lockout when the vehicle reaches a set speed; to prevent distraction, navigation inputs are limited, while voice input and certain buttons are still accessible. This safety feature has attracted criticism because passengers cannot use certain functions when the vehicle is in motion.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.csmonitor.com/2004/0806/p01s01-usgn.html|title=New peril in driver's seat|date=2004-08-06|work=[[The Christian Science Monitor]]|last=Evarts|first=Eric|accessdate=2007-10-01}}</ref> Pre-2007 models came with a hidden manufacturer override option.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wikihow.com/Override-Lexus-Navigation-Motion-Lock|title=How to Override Lexus Navigation Motion Lock|year=2007|publisher=WikiHow|accessdate=2007-09-28}}</ref>

[[Image:Lexus GS 450h powertrain cutaway.jpg|thumb|Lexus Hybrid Drive display at Toronto, Ontario, Canada.|alt=Cutaway hybrid car showing electrical connections; auto show display backdrop.]]
New Lexus vehicles in development include convertibles, crossovers, and dedicated hybrids.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.autoweek.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20060815/FREE/60814017/1041|title=Future Products – Lexus|date=2006-08-15|work=AutoWeek|accessdate=2007-05-06}}</ref><ref name=wings>{{cite web|url=http://www.goauto.com.au/mellor/mellor.nsf/story2/59D124ADF8528A6CCA2572C90016B851|title=Future Models - Lexus to spread its wings |date=2007-04-26|publisher=GoAuto|last=Mathioudakis|first=Byron|coauthors=Pettendy, Marton|accessdate=2007-10-01}}</ref> Lexus officials have indicated the marque's intentions to produce future production models using further dedicated [[Automobile platform|platforms]],<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.leftlanenews.com/lexus-es-2010.html|title=Leaked image reveals 2010 Lexus ES|date=2009-05-01|publisher=Leftlane News|last=Johnson|first=Drew|accessdate=2009-06-08}}</ref> as is the case for the LS flagship.<ref name=m31/> The entry-level Lexus ES, in particular, had been chided for being too similar to the Toyota Camry, its shared platform cousin, in both styling and powertrain design.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://cars.ign.com/articles/607/607487p1.html|title=IGN Car Review - 2005 Lexus ES 330|date=2005-04-25|publisher=IGN.com|last=Kaehler|first=Justin|accessdate=2007-10-01}}</ref> Lexus prototypes have been spotted testing at the [[Nürburgring]] test track in Germany.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.leftlanenews.com/lexus-lf-a-caught-in-testing-on-nurburgring-circuit.html|title=
Lexus LF-A caught in testing on Nurburgring circuit|date=2005-10-31|publisher=Leftlane News|accessdate=2007-10-01}}</ref>

===L-finesse===
{{see also|Lexus LF}}
Lexus introduced a new [[design language]] known as "L-finesse" with its LF series concepts and later with the 2006 Lexus GS.<ref name=lfin>{{cite web|url=http://car-reviews.automobile.com/news/lexus-l-finesse-design-analysis-is-is-it/1450/|title=Lexus L-Finesse Design Analysis: IS is IT!|last=Yarkony|first=Jonathan|date=2005-09-26|publisher=''American Auto Press''|accessdate=2007-05-06}}</ref><ref name=lap>{{cite web|url=http://www.automobear.com/WhatThe2006LexusISIsAndIsnt.html|title=What the 2006 Lexus IS is, and isn't|publisher=AutomoBear.com|date=2005-03-07|accessdate=2007-05-06}}</ref> L-finesse is represented by three Japanese [[kanji]] characters which translate as "Intriguing Elegance, Incisive Simplicity, and Seamless Anticipation".<ref name=lap/> Design characteristics, including a [[fastback]] profile, lower-set [[grille]],<ref name=own>Rechtin, Mark. Lexus Finally Gets a Design of its Own. ''Automotive News'', 2003-10-27.</ref> and the use of both convex and concave surfaces,<ref name=own/> are derived from Japanese cultural motifs (e.g. the phrase ''[[kirikaeshi]]'' in arrowhead shapes).<ref>Morrison, Mac. Mountain Climber: Lexus unveils the next IS sport sedan. ''AutoWeek'', 2005-03-21.</ref> While earlier Lexus models were criticized for reserved and derivative styling, and often mistaken for understated domestic market cars,<ref name=own/> [[automotive design]] analyses described L-finesse as adding a distinctive nature and embrace of Japanese design identity.<ref name=lfin/><ref name=lap/> Opinions varied for L-finesse's debut on the 2006 GS; ''[[Sports Car International]]'''s analysis praised the vehicle's in-person appearance;<ref>Coates, Del. Design Matters. ''[[Sports Car International]]'', 2005-09.</ref> ''Automobile Magazine'' criticized the daring of its forward styling,<ref>Cumberford, Robert. Not There Yet But Getting Closer. ''Automobile Magazine''. (2004-05).</ref> and later suggested that the [[Jaguar XF]] was designed with similarities to the GS.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.automobilemag.com/reviews/jaguar/2009_jaguar_xf/index.html|title=2009 Jaguar XF - Design|year=2007|work=Automobile Magazine|last=Conway|first=Gavin|accessdate=2007-10-01}}</ref> L-finesse exhibitions were presented at the [[Milan]] Design Week from 2005 through 2009.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.greencardesign.co.uk/site/item.php?id=1209596679&category=city_watch&subcat=|title=Milan Design Week '08 Auto|date=2008-04-30|publisher=''Green Car Design''|accessdate=2008-12-25}}</ref>
{{clear}}

==Production==
[[Image:Lexus Automobile Lineup 2007.jpg|thumb|Lexus models produced by the Tahara plant in Japan.|alt=Car showroom displaying three sedans, the nearest on a glass turntable, in front of a reception counter and windows.]]Many Lexus vehicles are manufactured in Toyota's flagship [[Tahara plant]], a highly sophisticated, computerized manufacturing plant in Japan.<ref>Tierney, Christine (2004-02-22). "Robot-filled Tahara sets standard for Toyota, World".<!--detnews.com/2004/specialreport/0402/22/a15-70498.htm.-->''Detroit News''. Retrieved on 2007-05-06.</ref><ref name=plant/> Lexus production techniques include methods and standards of [[quality control]] that differ from Toyota models.<ref name=d88>Dawson 2004, pp. 88-94.</ref><ref>Mahler 2004, p. 90.</ref> At the Tahara plant, separate [[assembly line]]s were developed for Lexus vehicles,<ref name=d88>Dawson 2004, pp. 88-95.</ref><ref name=m78>Mahler 2004, p. 78.</ref> along with new molds and specialized manufacturing equipment.<ref name=m78/> [[Welding]] processes, [[body panel]] fit tolerances, and paint quality requirements are more stringent.<ref name=d88/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://query.nytimes.com/gst/fullpage.html?res=9C0CE6DE163EF930A35752C0A966958260&sec=&spon=&pagewanted=1|title=Japan's Luxury-Car Gains Pose New Threat to Rivals|date=1990-01-03|work=The New York Times|last=Sanger|first=David|accessdate=2008-06-19}}</ref> Lexus plant workers, typically veteran technicians, are identified via repeated performance evaluations and ranked according to skill grade, with limited applicants accepted.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.iht.com/articles/ap/2007/06/29/business/AS-FIN-Japan-Toyota-Lexus.php|title=At Lexus 'dojo' plant workers train on virtues to keep up quality, build elite team|date=2007-06-28|publisher=Associated Press|last=Kageyama|first=Yuri|accessdate=2007-08-26}}</ref> The highest level ''[[takumi]]'' (Japanese for "artisan") engineers are responsible for maintaining production standards at key points in the assembly process, such as testing engine performance.<ref name=star/> Production vehicles are given visual inspections for flaws, individually test-driven at high speeds, and subjected to [[vibration]] tests.<ref name=d88/>

The North American-market RX 350 (since the 2004 model year) is produced in the city of [[Cambridge, Ontario|Cambridge]], in Ontario, Canada, which is the first Lexus production site located outside of Japan. In addition to the Tahara factory, Lexus vehicles have been produced at the Miyata plant (Toyota Motor Kyushu) in [[Miyawaka, Fukuoka]], Higashi Fuji plant (Kanto Auto Works) in [[Susono, Shizuoka]], and Sanage plant ([[Toyota Boshoku]]; Araco) in Toyota, Aichi.<ref name=nk/><ref name=plant>{{cite web|url=http://lexus.com/about/corporate/manufacturing.html |title=Lexus Manufacturing|publisher=Lexus.com|accessdate=2007-05-06}}</ref> As of 2008, most sedan and SUV production occurs in Japan at the Tahara plant in Aichi and Miyata plant in Fukuoka.<ref name=nk/>

In 2005, J.D. Power and Associates bestowed its Platinum award for worldwide plant quality on the Tahara plant, stating that it has the fewest defects of any manufacturing plant in the world.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.jdpower.com/corporate/news/releases/pressrelease.aspx?ID=2005069|title=Toyota, GM Garner Most Awards in 2005 Initial Quality Study|date=2005-05-18|accessdate=2007-05-06|publisher=J.D. Power and Associates}}</ref> It was the fourth consecutive year that the Tahara plant captured this award. In 2006, J.D. Power named the Miyata plant, then the site of ES and IS model production, as its recipient of the Platinum award for worldwide plant quality,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.jdpower.com/corporate/news/releases/pressrelease.aspx?ID=2006082|title=Lexus and Toyota Together Capture 11 of 19 Initial Quality Model Awards|date=2006-06-07|accessdate=2007-05-06|publisher=J.D. Power and Associates}}</ref> and in 2009 the Higashi Fuji plant, site of SC production, received the same recognition.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.jdpower.com/corporate/news/releases/pressrelease.aspx?ID=2009108|title=Import Nameplates Capture 15 of 22 Segment Awards
|publisher=J.D. Power and Associates|accessdate=2009-07-06
|date=2009-06-22}}</ref>

{| class="wikitable" table align="left" style="margin-left:"'
|-
! colspan=4 style="background:;"| Assembly sites by model<ref name=nk/><ref name=plant/>
|-
|'''Plant'''||'''Owner'''||'''Location'''||'''Model(s)'''
|-
|Tahara||Toyota Motor Corp.||[[Tahara, Aichi|Tahara]], [[Aichi Prefecture]]||LS, GS, IS, GX
|-
|Miyata ||Toyota Motor Kyushu, Inc.||[[Miyawaka, Fukuoka|Miyawaka]], [[Fukuoka Prefecture]]||ES, HS, IS, RX
|-
|Motomachi||Toyota Motor Corp.||[[Toyota, Aichi|Toyota]], [[Aichi Prefecture]]||LFA
|-
|Higashi Fuji ||Kanto Auto Works, Ltd.||[[Susono, Shizuoka|Susono]], [[Shizuoka Prefecture]]||SC
|-
|Sanage ||Toyota Boshoku Corp.||[[Toyota, Aichi|Toyota]], [[Aichi Prefecture]]||LX
|-
|Cambridge ||Toyota Canada, Inc.||[[Cambridge, Ontario|Cambridge]], [[Ontario]]||RX
|}
{{clear}}

==Service==
[[Image:Lexus of Glendale.jpg|thumb|Interior of a Lexus dealership in the U.S.|alt=Car showroom with an SUV and customers, along with a metal waterfall fixture and paintings.]]Lexus has become known for efforts to project a luxury image, particularly with service provided after the sale. The waiting areas in service departments are replete with amenities, ranging from refreshment bars to indoor [[putting green]]s.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2007/12/12/AR2007121200142_pf.html|title=Amenities Enliven Auto Dealerships|date=2007-12-12|publisher=Associated Press|last=Sainz|first=Adrian|accessdate=2008-06-19}}</ref><ref name=nex>{{cite web|url=http://www.forbes.com/forbes/2004/0621/068.html|title=The Lexus Nexus |date=2004-06-21|work=Forbes|last=Fahey|first=Jonathan|accessdate=2008-06-19}}</ref> Dealerships typically offer complimentary loaner cars and free [[car wash]]es,<ref name=nex/> and some have added on-site cafes and designer boutiques.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ocregister.com/ocregister/homepage/abox/article_897974.php|title=Luxury battle looming|date=2006-12-17|last=Gittelsohn|first=John|work=[[The Orange County Register]]|accessdate=2007-05-06}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.signonsandiego.com/uniontrib/20060720/news_1mi20lexus.html|title=Lexus airs plans for an eatery, fountains|last=Lee|first=Booyeon|date=2006-07-20|work=[[The San Diego Union-Tribune]]|accessdate=2007-05-06}}</ref> Service bays are lined with large [[Window#Picture window|picture windows]] for owners to watch the servicing of their vehicle.<ref>Dawson 2004, p. 122.</ref> In 2005, Lexus also began reserving [[parking lot]]s at major sporting arenas, entertainment events, and shopping malls, with the only requirement for free entry being the ownership of a Lexus vehicle.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.businessweek.com/magazine/content/05_29/c3943008_mz003.htm#ZZZEW0N2VAE|title=The Real Reason To Buy A Lexus|last=Gerdes|first=Lindsey|work=BusinessWeek|date=2005-07-18|accessdate=2007-05-06}}</ref> An owner publication, ''Lexus Magazine'', features automotive and lifestyle articles and is issued quarterly online.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.dmnews.com/Lexus-revamps-branded-magazine-and-Web-site/article/108558/|title=Lexus revamps branded magazine and Web site|date=2008-04-01|last=Bell|first=Lauren|publisher=''DMNews''|accessdate=2008-12-25}}</ref>

Since 2002, Lexus has scored consecutive top ratings in the ''[[Auto Express]]''<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.motortrader.com/industry-news/24880-lexus-car-dealers-are-britains-best.html|title=Lexus car dealers are Britain's best|publisher=Motortrader|date=2007-04-27|accessdate=2007-05-06}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.autoexpress.co.uk/carreviews/driver_power_2007/207909/lexus_rx.html|title=Auto Express Driver Power 2007 Survey|date=2007-03|work=[[Auto Express]]|accessdate=2007-09-18}}</ref> and 76,000-respondent ''[[Top Gear (magazine)|Top Gear]]'' customer satisfaction surveys in the UK.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.topgear.com/content/features/stories/2005/11/stories/01/3.html|title=Top Gear Survey 2005|date=2005-11-01|publisher=''Top Gear''|accessdate=2007-05-06}}</ref> Lexus has also repeatedly topped the 79,000-respondent J.D. Power Customer Service Index<ref name=service>{{cite web|url=http://www.jdpower.com/corporate/news/releases/pressrelease.aspx?ID=2006119|title=Lexus Ranks Highest in Customer Satisfaction with Dealer Service|date=2006-07-20|accessdate=2007-09-18|publisher=J.D. Power and Associates}}</ref> and [[The Luxury Institute|Luxury Institute]], New York surveys in the U.S.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.theautochannel.com/news/2006/01/19/207880.html|title=Wealthy Rate Lexus #1 in Customer Experience|date=2006-01-19|publisher=The Luxury Institute|accessdate=2007-05-06}}</ref> As a result of service satisfaction levels, the marque has one of the highest customer loyalty rates in the industry.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.jdpower.com/corporate/news/releases/pressrelease.aspx?ID=2005249|title=Lexus Ranks Highest in Customer Retention|date=2005-12-08|accessdate=2007-05-06|publisher=J.D. Power and Associates}}</ref> To improve customer service, employees are instructed to follow the "Lexus Covenant," the marque's founding promise (which states that "Lexus will treat each customer as we would a guest in our home"),<ref>Mahler 2004, p. 61.</ref> and some dealerships have incorporated training at upscale establishments such as [[Nordstrom]] department stores and [[Ritz-Carlton]] hotels.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://wardsdealer.com/ar/auto_lexus_kicks_service/|title=Lexus Kicks Up Service|publisher=''Ward's Dealer''|last=Schweinsberg|first=Christie|date=2005-09-01|accessdate=2009-06-08}}</ref>
{{clear}}

==Motorsport==
[[Image:Lexus Telmex 1.jpg|thumb|In 2006, 2007, and 2008, Lexus won the Rolex Sports Car Series Manufacturers' Championship.|alt=Forward angle view of a racecar on a track; the car is labeled '01', 'Lexus', and 'Telmex'.]]
Lexus first entered the motorsport arena in 1999 when its racing unit, Team Lexus,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.motorsport.com/news/article.asp?ID=210355&FS=ALMS-LEMANS|title=Team Lexus driver line-up announced|publisher=Motorsport.com|date=2006-02-21|accessdate=2009-05-20}}
</ref> fielded two GS 400 race vehicles in the [[List of motorsport championships#Touring car|Motorola Cup]] North American Street Stock Championship [[touring car]] series. In its 1999 inaugural season, Team Lexus achieved its first victory with its sixth race at [[Road Atlanta]].<ref name=tlex>{{cite web|url=http://web.archive.org/web/20070821224559/http://www.teamlexus.com/team_stats.htm|title=Team Lexus Stats|year=2006|publisher=Team Lexus|accessdate=2007-05-06}}</ref> Led by [[Sports Car Club of America]] and [[International Motor Sports Association]] driver Chuck Goldsborough, based in [[Baltimore, Maryland]],<ref name=lawson>{{cite web|url=http://www.crash.net/MotoGP/News/72072/1/lawson_to_race_lexus.html|title=Lawson to race Lexus|publisher=Crash.net|accessdate=2009-05-20|date=2003-04-29}}</ref> Team Lexus capitalized on the debut of the first generation Lexus IS by entering three IS 300s in the third race of the 2001 [[Grand-Am Cup]] season at [[Phoenix, Arizona]].<ref name=va>{{cite web|url=http://www.motorsport.com/news/article.asp?ID=69033&FS=GRANDAM*|title=Lexus Virginia Festival of Speed race report|publisher=Motorsport.com|accessdate=2009-05-20|date=2001-07-01}}</ref> Team Lexus won its first IS 300 victory that year at the [[Virginia International Raceway]].<ref name=va/> In 2002, Team Lexus' competitive efforts in the Grand-Am Cup ST1 ([[KONI Sports Car Challenge#Vehicles|Street Tuner]]) class achieved victories in the Drivers' and Team Championships,<ref name=tlex/><ref name=lawson/> as well as a sweep of the top three finishes at [[Circuit Mont-Tremblant]] in [[Quebec]], Canada.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.motorsport.com/news/article.asp?ID=106126&FS=GRANDAM*|title=Grand-Am arrives at historic Mont-Tremblant|publisher=Motorsport.com|accessdate=2009-05-20|date=2002-09-13}}</ref>

[[Image:Lexus SC 430 SuperGT.jpg|thumb|left|Lexus SC 430 at the Fuji Speedway Super GT series.|alt=Overhead view of a racecar surrounded by personnel.]]After the release of the Lexus brand in the Japanese domestic market in 2005, Lexus sanctioned the entry of four SC 430 coupes in the [[Super GT]] series of the [[All Japan Grand Touring Car Championship]] in the [[GT500]] class. In the first race of the 2006 series, an SC 430 took the chequered flag,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://supergt.net/supergt/2006/06r01/0601race_en.shtm|title=TOM'S SC 430 (Wakisaka-Lotterer) Clinch Season Opener|publisher=SuperGT.net|date=2006-03-19|accessdate=2007-05-06}}</ref> and drivers [[André Lotterer]] and [[Juichi Wakisaka]] raced the SC 430 to capture the GT500 championship for that year.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://supergt.net/supergt/2006/06r09/0609race_en.shtm|title=EPSON NSX puts up long-awaited win; SC430 captures series title|publisher=SuperGT.net|accessdate=2009-05-20|date=2006-11-05}}</ref> In 2007, another SC 430 won the GT500 opening round race.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.247motoring.com/article.php?id=1660|title=Super GT Rd. 1 Suzuka Race Results|date=2007-03-22|publisher=247Motoring.com|accessdate=2007-05-06}}</ref> In 2006, Lexus raced a hybrid vehicle for the first time, entering a GS 450h performance hybrid sedan in partnership with [[SARD|Sigma Advanced Racing Development]] at the 24 Hours of Tokachi race in [[Hokkaido]], Japan.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://response.jp/issue/2006/0718/article83972_1.html|title=Lexus GS 450h in 24 Hours of Tokachi|language=Japanese|publisher=Response.jp|accessdate=2009-05-20|date=2006-07-18}}</ref> Lexus Canada also entered the GS 450h in 2007's [[Targa Newfoundland]] event.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.yorkregion.com/Leisure/article/44774|title=Lexus tests hybrid power |year=2007|last=Robinson|first=Beintema|publisher=''York Region''|accessdate=2008-06-22}}</ref>

Lexus' participation in [[endurance racing]] further includes the [[24 Hours of Daytona|Rolex 24 Hours of Daytona]], sanctioned by the [[Grand American Road Racing Association]]. After entering the [[Rolex Sports Car Series]] in 2004, Lexus has won over 15 Rolex Series event races.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.motorsport.com/news/article.asp?ID=231504&FS=GRANDAM-GRANDCUP|title=Lexus race report|date=2006-09-02|publisher=Motorsport.com|accessdate=2007-05-06}}</ref> In 2005, Lexus was runner-up, and in 2006, it won the championship.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://autos.msn.com/as/minishow/article.aspx?contentID=4024549&s=Daytona2007|title=2007 Rolex 24: Preview|publisher=autos.msn.com
|accessdate=2009-05-20|last=Meredith|first=Mike|date=2007}}</ref> Although Toyota has won this race in the past, it was the first time that its luxury arm emerged as the winner. In 2007, six Lexus-powered Daytona prototypes were entered in the Rolex 24 Hours of Daytona event at the [[Daytona International Speedway]]. Lexus was a repeat winner of the event, with a Lexus-[[Riley Technologies|Riley]] prototype driven by [[Scott Pruett]], [[Juan Pablo Montoya]], and [[Salvador Durán]] of [[Chip Ganassi Racing]] finishing first; Lexus-Riley prototypes also took three of the top ten spots.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/print?id=2746664&type=story|title=
Rolex 24 at Daytona final results|date=2007-01-28|accessdate=2007-05-06|publisher=Associated Press}}</ref> In 2008, Lexus won its third consecutive win at Daytona.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.usatoday.com/sports/motor/2008-01-27-rolex-24-hours_N.htm|title=Ganassi wins three in a row at Daytona|date=2008-01-28|work=[[USA Today]]|last=DeCotis|first=Mark|accessdate=2008-06-22}}</ref> The LF-A prototype also competed in [[VLN]] endurance races on the Nürburgring in 2008 and 2009.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ts-vln.com/valuation/2008-4-classes.html|title=Rennwertung "39. Adenauer ADAC Rundstrecken-Trophy" nach Klassen-Plätzen|accessdate=2009-10-23|date=2008-05}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.vln.de/newsausgabe.de.php?id=1654|title=BFGoodrich Langstreckenmeisterschaft Nürburgring - Chronologie 56. ADAC Westfalenfahrt|accessdate=2009-10-23|date=2009-04-04}}</ref>
{{clear}}

===F marque===
{{main|Lexus F}}
[[Image:Lexus F-division logo.png|thumb|Emblem of the Lexus<br>F marque division.|alt=Logo in the shape of the letter 'F'.]]
In December 2006, Lexus announced its new F marque division.<ref name=F/> The name refers to the [[Fuji Speedway]] in Japan, whose first corner, 27R, inspired the shape of the "''F''" emblem.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.goauto.com.au/mellor/mellor.nsf/story/EE775C71EC94A9A5CA257300001FC985?OpenDocument&Highlight=2,Lexus|title=IS-F, TRD power-plays |date=2007-06-21|publisher=GoAuto|last=Pettendy|first=Marton|coauthors=Martin, Terry|accessdate=2007-08-27}}</ref> The first F badged vehicle, the Lexus IS F, subsequently premiered at the North American International Auto Show in January 2007.<ref name=F/> Media reports suggested that the IS F sedan would be followed by a [[Lexus GS|GS F]] sedan<ref>{{cite web|url=http://paultan.org/archives/2007/04/03/lexus-gs-f-artists-impression/|publisher=paultan.org|title=Lexus GS-F Artist Impression|accessdate=2007-05-17|date=2007-04-03}}</ref> and IS F coupe.<ref name=F/> An earlier in-house tuning effort, the [[Toyota Racing Development|TRD]]-based L-Tuned, had offered performance packages on the IS and GS sedans in the early 2000s.<ref>O'Dell, John. Toyota Turns Its Tuners Loose on the Lexus. ''The Los Angeles Times''. (2000-02-23)</ref> In 2007, Lexus entered the IS F in the 2007 [[SEMA|Specialty Equipment Market Association]] show, offering a factory-sanctioned F-Sport performance accessory line in conjunction with the debut of its F marque division.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.autoblog.com/2007/10/31/sema-2007-lexus-f-sport-performance-accessories/
|title=SEMA 2007: Lexus F-Sport performance accessories|date=2007-10-31|publisher=Autoblog|last=Ramsey|first=Jonathan|accessdate=2008-06-21}}</ref> The second production F marque model, the LFA, debuted at the [[Tokyo Motor Show]] in 2009.<ref name=bwl/>

F marque models have been targeted at rivals from Mercedes-Benz's [[Mercedes-AMG|AMG]] and BMW's [[BMW M|M]] divisions.<ref name=F/> Historically, past versions of the SC and GS models have received favorable reactions from sport luxury buyers,<ref>Dawson 2004, pp. 141-47, 163-65.</ref> while other Lexus models have been characterized as favoring comfort at the expense of sporty performance.<ref name=d72/> Automotive reviewers have also given some of Lexus' European rivals higher marks for road feel and handling,<ref name=motorweek>{{cite web|url=http://www.cars.com/go/video/motorweek/videoPopup.jsp?makeid=27&year=2007&modelid=8237&location=MW_L_2007_BEST_CARS.flv&aff=cg|title=Motorweek Lexus LS 460 test drive|year=2007|accessdate=2007-04-09|format=FLV|work=[[MotorWeek]]}}</ref> especially during racetrack testing. The F marque line has been seen as an effort to further bolster Lexus' performance credentials.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.businesscar.co.uk/story.asp?storyCode=1182
|title=Lexus ISF proves Japanese brand can do sporty|date=2007-03-16|publisher=''BusinessCar''|accessdate=2007-10-01}}</ref>
{{clear}}

==Marketing==
[[Image:Lexus 2054 Minority Report concept1.jpg|thumb|right|The [[Lexus 2054]], a concept model produced for the film ''Minority Report.''|alt=Futuristic two-door concept car displayed in front of a banner labeled 'Minority Report.']]
From its inception, Lexus was advertised to luxury consumers using specific [[marketing strategies]], with a consistent motif used for the marque's advertisements. Beginning in 1989, television ads were commonly narrated by film and television actor [[James Sloyan]] (who was the voice of "Mr. Lexus" from its launch),<ref>Dawson 2004, p. 117.</ref> and accompanied by vehicles that performed unusual stunts onscreen.<ref name=d119>Dawson 2004, p. 119.</ref> The first decade of commercials (1989–99) consisted primarily of disjunctive verbal descriptions, such as "relentless," "pursuit," and "perfection,"<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.edmunds.com/insideline/do/Features/articleId=122621|title=First Look: 2008 Lexus IS-F|date=2007-09-23|publisher=Edmunds.com|last=Huffman|first=John Pearley|accessdate=2008-09-16}}</ref> while vehicles were used to claim superiority in precision, idling, and interior quiet and comfort on camera.<ref name=d119/> Newer ads have included descriptions of novel features,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.vfxworld.com/?sa=adv&code=3631a5a1&atype=news&id=18636|title=Boxer Films Knocks Out New Lexus Spot|publisher=VFXWorld|accessdate=2009-05-20|date=2006-08-15}}</ref> or a narration of the events onscreen. Since 2001, an annual "December to Remember" campaign features scenes of family members surprising loved ones with the gift of a new Lexus.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://query.nytimes.com/gst/fullpage.html?res=9B0CE4DB1F31F936A25751C1A9639C8B63|title=A Lexus for Christmas? It Happens|work=The New York Times|accessdate=2009-05-20|date=2005-12-15|last=Peters|first=Jeremy}}</ref> In 2009, after twenty years of featuring James Sloyan, Lexus hired actor [[James Remar]] for ad voice-overs.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://adage.com/adages/post?article_id=135239|title=Lexus Trades in Sloyan for New Set of Voice-Over Pipes|work=[[Advertising Age]]|accessdate=2009-03-19|last=Halliday|first=Jean|date=2009-03-13}}</ref>

Industry observers have attributed Lexus' early marketing successes to higher levels of perceived quality and lower prices than competitors, which have enabled the marque to attract customers upgrading from mass-market cars.<ref name=pr/><ref name=zen/> A reputation for dependability, bolstered by reliability surveys, also became a primary factor in attracting new customers from rival luxury makes.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.guardian.co.uk/business/2004/nov/07/germany.theobserver|title=Vorsprung durch Technik? Not any more|work=[[The Guardian]]|last=Caulkin|first=Simon|year=2004-11-07|accessdate=2009-06-08}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wheels24.co.za/Wheels24/News/0,,1369-1372_1939381,00.html |title='Why I ditched Merc for Lexus'|publisher=[[Agence France-Presse]]|accessdate=2007-05-05|date=2006-05-26}}</ref> Lexus has since grown to command higher [[premium pricing|price premiums]] than rival Japanese makes,<ref name=lal>{{cite web|url=http://www.automobear.com/LexusInTheLapOfLatentLuxury.html|title=Lexus (in the lap of latent luxury)|publisher=AutomoBear.com|date=2004-09-23|accessdate=2007-04-09}}</ref> with new models expected to further increase in price;<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.businessweek.com/autos/content/jan2006/bw20060109_789752.htm|title=A Lexus Aimed at Mercedes' S-Class|work=BusinessWeek|last=Welch|first=David|date=2006-01-09|accessdate=2007-05-06}}</ref> the 2008 LS 600h L becoming the first Lexus to be advertised in the US$100,000+ ultra-luxury category long dominated by rival European marques.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.edmunds.com/insideline/do/Drives/FullTests/articleId=120486|title=Full Test: 2008 Lexus LS 600h L|date=2007-04-19|publisher=Edmunds.com|last=Pearley Huffman|first=John|accessdate=2007-11-21}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.iht.com/articles/2006/04/16/business/Lexus.php|title=Lexus enters ultra-luxury arena|date=2006-04-17|work=[[International Herald Tribune]]|last=Maynard|first=Micheline |accessdate=2007-11-21}}</ref>

[[Image:Lexus GS 450h US Open.jpg|thumb|left|Lexus GS hybrid at the U.S. Open in Flushing Meadows, New York.|alt=Sedan on a pedestal in front of trees. The pedestal reads 'GS 450h Hybrid', 'Lexus', and has a photo of a tennis player.]]
Automotive analysts have also noted Lexus' relative newcomer status as a marketing challenge for the brand,<ref name=lsr>{{cite web|url=http://research.cars.com/go/crp/research.jsp?revid=51083&makeid=27&modelid=8237&year=2007&revlogtype=20&section=reviews|title= 2007 Lexus LS 460 Review|date=2007-03-15|publisher=Cars.com
|last=Hanley|first=Mike|accessdate=2007-09-28}}</ref> although some have debated the requirement of a long history.<ref name=lal/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://motorshow.cars.uk.msn.com/motorshow/geneva2007/Article.aspx?cp-documentid=3840028|date=2007-06-03|title=Lexus Launches Big Three|publisher=MSN Cars UK|last=Laban|first=Brian|accessdate=2007-09-28}}</ref> European rivals have marketed their decades of heritage and pedigree,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nytimes.com/2007/07/27/business/worldbusiness/27showroom.html|title=BMW’s Shrine to Horsepower|date=2007-07-27|work=The New York Times|last=Landler|first=Mark|accessdate=2007-09-28}}</ref> whereas Lexus' reputation rests primarily upon its perceived quality and shared history with parent company Toyota.<ref name=lal/> Several analysts have stated that Lexus will have to develop its own heritage over time by highlighting technological innovations and producing substantial products.<ref name=global/><ref name=lsr/>

Lexus' marketing efforts have extended to sporting and charity event sponsorships, including the [[US Open (tennis)|U.S. Open]] tennis Grand Slam event since 2005,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://promomagazine.com/eventmarketing/news/lexus_usopen_083006/|title=Lexus Drives Promos Courtside for US Open|date=2006-08-30|last=Scott|first=Andrew|accessdate=2007-05-06|publisher=''Promo''}}</ref> and the [[United States Golf Association]]'s [[U.S. Open (golf)|U.S. Open]], [[U.S. Women's Open (golf)|U.S. Women's Open]], [[United States Senior Open|U.S. Senior Open]], and [[United States Amateur Championship (men's golf)|U.S. Amateur]] tournaments since 2007.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.sportsbusinessdaily.com/article/109085|title=Luxury Drive: USGA Signs Lexus As First Automotive Partner|date=2007-01|work=Sports Business Daily|accessdate=2009-06-08}}</ref> Lexus has organized an annual Champions for Charity golf series in the U.S. since 1989.<ref>Lexus Golf Tourney Benefits Charities. ''[[The Oregonian]]'', 1997-06-14.</ref> Endorsement contracts have also been signed with pro athletes [[Andy Roddick]], [[Annika Sörenstam]], and [[Peter Jacobsen]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.sportsbusinessdaily.com/article/101191
|title=Lexus Replaces Mercedes As Sorenstam’s Automotive Sponsor|date=2006-03-14|publisher=''Sports Business Daily''|accessdate=2008-12-25}}</ref>
{{clear}}

==See also==
{{col-begin}}
{{col-break}}
* [[Balance (Lexus)]]
* [[Ball Bearing (Lexus)]]
* [[Lexus Centre]]
* [[Lexus Chase]]
* [[Lexus Cup]]
* [[Lexus Gauntlet]]
{{col-break}}
{{Portal|Japanese Car}}
* [[Lexus Link]]
* [[Lexus Song Quest]]
* [[List of hybrid vehicles]]
* [[List of Japanese cars]]
* [[The Championship by Lexus]]
* [[Toyota Century]]
{{col-end}}

==References==
===Notes===
{{reflist|3}}

===Bibliography===
* Dawson, Chester. ''Lexus: The Relentless Pursuit.'' 2004: Jon Wiley & Sons, NJ. ISBN 0-470821-10-8.
* Long, Brian. ''Lexus: The Challenge to Create the Finest Automobile.'' 2001: Veloce Publishing, Cardiff. ISBN 1-901295-81-8.
* Mahler, Jonathan. ''The Lexus Story: The Behind the Scenes Story of the #1 Automotive Luxury Brand in America.'' 2004: DK Melcher Media, NY. ISBN 0-971793-57-3.
* May, Matthew E. ''The Elegant Solution: Toyota's Formula for Mastering Innovation.'' 2006: Free Press, NY. ISBN 0-743290-17-8.
* Morgan, James M. & Liker, Jeffrey K. ''The Toyota Product Development System: Integrating People, Process and Technology.'' Productive Press, NY. ISBN 1-563272-82-2.

==External links==
{{commons|Lexus}}
* Official sites for [http://www.lexus.com.au Australia], [http://www.lexus.ca/ Canada], [http://www.lexus.cl/ Chile], [http://www.lexus.com.cn/ China], [http://lexus.jp/ Japan], [http://www.lexus.com.ph/ Philippines], [http://www.lexus.co.uk/ UK], [http://www.lexus.com/ USA]
* {{dmoz|Recreation/Autos/Makes_and_Models/Lexus/|Lexus}}

{{Lexus cars}}
{{Toyota}}
{{Japanese Automobile Industry}}

[[Category:Lexus|*]]
[[Category:Toyota]]
[[Category:Car manufacturers]]
[[Category:Japanese luxury motor vehicle marques]]
[[Category:Companies established in 1989]]
[[Category:Automotive companies of Japan]]
[[Category:Companies headquartered in Aichi]]

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