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Lexus
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Lexus, the luxury vehicle division of the Japanese automaker Toyota, is a brand synonymous with opulence, innovation, and unparalleled quality. Since its inception in 1989, Lexus has not merely followed the paths laid by its European rivals but has carved its own, uniquely luxurious route through the automotive landscape. This journey has been marked by a relentless pursuit of perfection, a philosophy that permeates every aspect of the brand, from design and engineering to customer service.
Lexus's story began in the mid-1980s when Toyota embarked on a top-secret project, codenamed F1 ("Flagship One"), with an ambition to create the world's best car. This project culminated in the launch of the Lexus LS 400 in 1989, a vehicle that stunned the automotive world with its smooth performance, whisper-quiet interior, and impeccable build quality. The LS 400 set new standards for luxury sedans, challenging established European brands and marking Lexus's entry into the luxury automotive market.
At the heart of Lexus is the philosophy of "Omotenashi," a Japanese concept that translates to "hospitality and polite service." Lexus applies this principle not only to its customer service, where it leads the industry in customer satisfaction, but also to its approach to car manufacturing. Lexus vehicles are designed and engineered with meticulous attention to detail, ensuring that every aspect of the car anticipates and fulfills the needs and desires of its driver and passengers.
Lexus has consistently been at the forefront of automotive innovation. The brand was one of the first to embrace hybrid technology, introducing the RX 400h in 2005 as the world's first luxury hybrid SUV. This commitment to innovation extends beyond drivetrains to include advancements in safety, comfort, and performance. Lexus's suite of safety technologies, Lexus Safety System+, is a testament to the brand's holistic approach to innovation, offering a comprehensive package of active safety features designed to protect occupants and pedestrians alike.
Lexus vehicles are instantly recognizable, thanks to their distinctive design language. The brand's signature spindle grille, introduced in the 2010s, encapsulates Lexus's bold and progressive approach to design. This commitment to striking aesthetics is matched by an equal focus on the interior, where Lexus combines traditional Japanese craftsmanship with modern luxury, using materials like bamboo, aluminum, and hand-pleated leather to create environments of unparalleled comfort and sophistication.
Lexus offers a wide range of vehicles, from sleek sedans and versatile SUVs to high-performance sports cars like the LFA. The brand's lineup continues to evolve, with a growing emphasis on electrification and environmentally friendly technologies. Lexus aims to include electrified variants of all its models by 2025, a reflection of its commitment to sustainable luxury.
Whether through the quiet confidence of the LS sedan, the pioneering spirit of the RX hybrid, or the breathtaking performance of the LFA, Lexus continues to chart its unique course through the automotive world, inviting drivers to experience luxury on a whole new level.
Lexus Company Basics
Founded: 1989
Founder: Eiji Toyoda
Headquarters: Nagoya, Japan
Area served: Worldwide
Parent: Toyota Motor Corporation
Did You Know?
Early on, Toyota considered names like "Alexis" for their new luxury brand. They settled on "Lexus" ultimately, a name some believe is a combination of "luxury" and "elegance."
Lexus employs "Takumi" master craftspeople with decades of experience who perform rigorous quality control on vehicles, including testing paint with their fingertips!