The Lexus brand evokes sophistication, craftsmanship, and cutting-edge technology. With a rich history of delivering top-of-the-line luxury vehicles, Lexus exemplifies outstanding elegance, superior performance, and the relentless pursuit of perfection.
By acquainting yourself with the range of Lexus vehicles, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your lifestyle and preferences. Whether you seek a stylish sedan, a versatile crossover, a cool coupe, or a powerful SUV, Lexus offers an extensive selection of rides.
Let‘s explore the different Lexus cars in detail, covering the current models, concept cars that offer a glimpse into the future, and forthcoming additions to the lineup.
A Brief History of Lexus
Before diving into the models, it‘s helpful to understand Lexus‘ origins. Lexus was founded as the luxury vehicle division of Toyota in 1989. The goal was to compete with leading European luxury brands like BMW and Mercedes-Benz.
The first Lexus, the LS 400 sedan, debuted in 1989 to critical acclaim. It offered unprecedented luxury, build quality, and value compared to European rivals. This set the stage for Lexus establishing itself as a world-class luxury brand over the coming decades.
Lexus soon added vehicles like the midsize ES sedan, three-row LX SUV, and the athletic IS sports sedan to round out its lineup. It also pioneered hybrid technology in luxury vehicles, an area it continues to lead. 30 years since its debut, Lexus has built a reputation for unparalleled customer service, industry-leading dependability, and technological innovation – on top of luxury appointments and dynamic performance customers have come to expect.
Crossovers
Lexus has one of the most extensive and versatile crossover lineups on the market spanning compact, midsize, and three-row options. Ranging from the urbane UX to the imposing LX with 3 rows of seats, Lexus crossovers are designed to blend luxury with lifestyle utility.
Key models include:
- UX – Compact crossover available as the UX 250h hybrid or UX 250 gas model. Contemporary styling and roomy interior.
- NX – Newly redesigned midsize crossover with available plug-in NX 450h+ hybrid alongside gas NX 350.
- RX – Best-selling midsize hybrid crossover focused on blend of style and flexibility. Offered as the RX 350 gas model or RX 450h hybrid.
- GX – Traditional midsize body-on-frame SUV with superb off-road abilities thanks to full-time 4WD.
- LX – Lexus‘ flagship 3-row large luxury SUV with room for up to 8 passengers. The all-new LX 600 debuts soon.
Lexus crossovers all come loaded with technology like smartphone integration, spacious interiors wrapped in premium materials, the latest infotainment like touchscreens with voice commands, and Lexus Safety System+ 2.0 driver assistance tech.
Lexus also pushes the efficiency envelope. For example, the NX 450h+ plug-in hybrid delivers an EPA-estimated 36 miles of all-electric driving – allowing commutes and short trips sans gasoline. Expect more plug-in hybrids and even all-electric Lexus crossovers on the horizon as the brand leads the luxury space towards electrification.
Similarities and Differences:
Despite falling under the crossover umbrella, Lexus crossovers have distinct personalities. Shoppers choosing between models should weigh priorities like size, efficiency, off-road performance, and so on.
The UX strikes a more stylish tone similar to a hatchback while the LX emphasizes power and capability befitting its heritage as a descendant of the iconic Land Cruiser. So while the crossover designation connects models, Lexus is careful to imbue each vehicle with its own flavor.
The Takeaway:
Lexus crossovers expertly straddle the line between roomy practicality and luxury appointments. There‘s a size and powertrain to accommodate every need – especially as hybrids become more prominent. Expect the sophistication Lexus is renowned for along with the latest tech that simplifies life on the move.
Lexus Types: Sedans
Lexus sedans exude poise and refinement in a range spanning the sporty IS to the flagship LS. Rear-wheel drive underpinnings and potent engine options give these four-doors an athletic edge. And the spa-like interiors beautifully blend leather, woods, metallic accents and more for environments centered around driver and passengers.
The current sedan lineup includes:
- IS – Compact sport sedan delivering exhilarating performance.
- ES – Best-selling midsize sedan praised for striking the optimal balance of comfort, quality and driving dynamics.
- LS – Full-size flagship sedan serving as the zenith of Lexus largess and attention-to-detail.
Lexus employs an array of powertrains across its sedan family – including gas, hybrid and high-performance options. One example is the IS 500 F Sport Performance model and its muscular 5.0-liter V8 pumping out 472 horsepower. On the opposite end of the spectrum, the ES 300h hybrid sedan achieves an EPA-estimated 44 MPG combined fuel economy, demonstrating Lexus‘ mastery of both power and efficiency.
The Takeaway:
Lexus sedans coupe the brand‘s signature comfort and quality with styling ranging from conservative elegance to aggressive flair based on the model. The line also illustrates Lexus‘ powertrain expertise – applying sophisticated V8s, hybrid systems and more depending on priorities like performance or efficiency.
Lexus Types: Coupes
For those desiring style, performance and grand touring abilities in a sleek two-door package – Lexus coupes deliver. The current lineup consists of two exhilarating choices.
- RC – Compact luxury coupe available in gas RC 350 form or amped-up RC F Track Edition with carbon fiber accents and 472-hp V8.
- LC – Flagship coupe with show-stopping looks and a choice of potent V8 power or LC 500h hybrid powertrain.
Lexus coupes provide a vibrant expression of the brand‘s passion for dynamic design and meticulous craftsmanship with emotional shapes draped in artistic interior finishes.
The performance capabilities also take center stage thanks to sophisticated chassis tuning and driver-focused cockpits – allowing these cars to deliver thrilling winding road handling without abandoning long-haul comfort. For those that enjoy traveling in style, few vehicles can match the vibrancy and luxury afforded by Lexus coupes.
And options like the F SPORT performance line and available carbon ceramic brakes enable even higher levels of track-honed agility. Ultimately, Lexus coupes shine bright as paragons of what‘s possible when fashioning exotic performance cars rich in amenities.
The Takeaway:
The LC and RC possess breathtaking styling inside and out while capably balancing daily drivability with track-capable chops. Lexus coupes are carefully conceived to enchant both drivers and passengers through precision performance and bespoke cabin materials reserved for the most special of vehicles.
Lexus Types: SUVs
In addition to the crossover lineup outlined earlier, Lexus produces traditional body-on-frame SUVs underpinned by rugged truck platforms for unmatched capability. Whether craving Lexus indulgence or off-road mastery, these premium SUVs deliver.
- GX – A midsize SUV with room for up to 7 passengers aided by full-time 4WD adept at conquering off-road terrain
- LX – Lexus‘ flagship SUV leveragingLand Cruiser heritage for unmatched global expedition abilities.
Though sharing some crossover DNA, the GX and LX lean more towards heavy-duty trucks rather than car-based platforms. The benefit is body-on-frame toughness dialed-in after decades of proven Land Cruiser adventures paired with Lexus comfort – creating SUVs uniquely qualified to challenge the most demanding trails while ensconcing occupants in luxury.
Standard V8 power, intelligent 4WD systems with locking differentials and generous ride heights allow these SUVs to crisscross sand dunes, ford rivers or climb mountain passes thanks to carefully engineered fortification. Yet the inside remains unmistakably Lexus – surrounding passengers with lavish leathers, exotic woods and much more.
In an automotive landscape drifting away from rugged SUVs, the GX and LX proudly carry forth Lexus traditions for customers valuing ultimate go-anywhere talents. These SUVs provide a skill set beyond what crossovers can match.
The Takeaway:
Lexus SUVs leverage proven Toyota Land Cruiser credentials for unstoppable off-road talents cloaked in sophisticated Lexus trimmings. There are few vehicles built to last or journey further than the GX or LX – making them prizes for adventure seekers requiring dependability.
Lexus Types: Sports Cars
For those seeking visceral performance capabilities channeled into pure driving exhilaration, Lexus produces two standout sports cars catering expressly to enthusiasts craving track-worthy speed and racing spirit.
- RC F – Highly capable compact luxury sports coupe that‘s thrilling to push thanks to a muscular 472-hp V8, aerodynamic refinements and specially calibrated chassis systems.
- LC 500 – Lexus‘ flagship sports car leveraging a sophisticated V8 engine and meticulous tuning for stunning grand touring abilities.
These emotionally charged models generate incredible power and handle winding roads with telepathic responsiveness. Even amongst storied sports car circles, the RC F and LC 500‘s visceral engagement and spine-tingling acoustic talents make them quick favorites.
Backing up the formidable engines are intelligent differentials, performance suspension systems, massively grippy tires and more – all leveraged by engineers to produce lightning reflexes and unforgettable excitement. Make no mistake – the RC F and LC 500 proudly carry the sports car torch for Lexus.
Yet remarkably, these athletic models retain enough day-to-day civility for commuting in comfort when desired. It‘s a balance Lexus has perfected.
The Takeaway:
The RC F and LC 500 set Lexus apart with breathtaking sports cars marrying refined power with ingenious chassis advancements for intoxicating performance abilities. These passionate models showcase Lexus speed set to maximum – creating a thrilling atmosphere for driving enthusiasts.
Lexus Concept and Future Vehicles
Beyond its impressive portfolio of production vehicles outlined above, Lexus also uses intriguing concept cars to hint at future directions and innovations. These visionary prototypes appear at prominent auto shows, offering a glimpse at Lexus‘ explorations around styling, technology, performance and overall brand vision.
While merely conceptual, Lexus has translated some concepts into production – especially design cues previewed years earlier. Recent examples include:
- Electrified SUV Concept – a battery-electric luxury SUV previewing the 2025 Lexus RZ crossover.
- ROV Concept – a recreational off-highway vehicle signaling new Lexus models suited to outdoor adventures.
Lexus also confirmed plans for new EVs, PHEVs, sports cars and SUVs within the next several years – including ambitious carbon neutral goals for 2035. So concept cars serve an important role in the brand‘s future and unlocking innovations that will ultimately reach Lexus showrooms.
Exciting possibilities on the horizon span self-driving technologies, unorthodox zero-emissions powertrains, next-gen infotainment systems with augmented reality and materials science breakthroughs promising sustainable luxury. What won‘t change is Lexus using concepts to explore new boundaries – much as the brand itself did upon inception decades earlier.
So while production Lexus models already satisfy a wide spectrum of needs, the concepts assure something radical always incubates behind lab doors.
The Takeaway:
Lexus frequently unveils progressive concept cars as an avenue to test unconventional ideas and preview technologies migrating to production vehicles consumers can eventually enjoy. These innovative concepts provide an electrifying glimpse at the brand‘s future.
Final Thoughts
Lexus continues leading the luxury category it helped establish decades ago with a diversified model range ably satisfying sedan, coupe, crossover, SUV and performance appetites. Buyers will discover cutting-edge engineering across Lexus showrooms – including powertrains spanning high-output gasoline engines to fuel sipping hybrids and next-gen plug-in hybrids or EVs.
Yet the deepest differentiator goes beyond sheer utility to usher owners into a richer world of customer service, creature comforts and design sophistication difficult replicating without Lexus‘ unique history and talents. Expect dealer experiences on par with 5-star hotels, liberal application of pleasing aromatherapy smells and even exotic cabin materials like bamboo or laser-cut dark wood accents.
Lexus vehicles ultimately excel at satisfying left- and right-brain perspectives equally – the logical and emotional – thanks to harmonious blends of engineering excellence with artisan craftsmanship. Future concept cars suggest even greater human-machine experiences likely to enter production. So those desiring luxury fused with technology spaning greener mobility breakthroughs find a welcoming home with Lexus and the finer things reserved exclusively for its owners.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Lexus crossovers stand out in the market?
Lexus crossovers differentiate themselves with a combination of luxury and efficiency. They offer hybrid powertrains like the UX 250h and NX 450h+ that deliver a perfect blend of performance and fuel economy.
Are there any upcoming Lexus concept cars?
Yes, Lexus has unveiled intriguing concept cars like the LF-Z Electrified, hinting at the brand’s upcoming electric luxury SUV, and the LF-1 Limitless, a performance-oriented luxury SUV concept.
Are there high-performance options available among Lexus sedans?
The IS 500 F Sport Performance is a remarkable high-performance sedan featuring a potent 472-horsepower V8 engine, offering thrilling acceleration and dynamic driving capabilities.
What advancements can be expected from future Lexus models?
The RZ 450e electric luxury crossover and LX 700 SUV will have cutting-edge technologies, improved performance, and enhanced luxury features to elevate the driving experience.
How does Lexus approach sustainability in its lineup?
Lexus demonstrates a commitment to sustainability through its hybrid powertrains, available in models like the ES 300h sedan and RX 450h crossover, offering reduced emissions and increased fuel efficiency without compromising luxury and performance.
