
Lexus emerged in September 1989 when Toyota set out to break into the U.S. luxury market. The debut of the LS 400 stunned critics with its quiet V8, cutting-edge alloys and unrivaled refinement. Within months, J.D. Power named it the top-rated luxury sedan in initial quality. That early win cemented Lexus’ reputation for craftsmanship. In Japan, a handful of takumi masters still hand-inspect each vehicle. Their attention to detail became a hallmark that drew loyal buyers worldwide. Over the years Lexus pushed hybrid technology forward with the RX 400h in 2005, one of the first luxury SUVs to combine power with efficiency. The brand’s spindle grille and L-shaped LED lights reshaped automotive styling. Today its lineup spans the compact UX crossover to the flagship LS sedan, plus the fully electric RZ 450e and the new LBX subcompact. Lexus now aims for electrified vehicles to account for half its sales by 2025, blending sustainability with luxury.
Founding year & location
September 22, 1989
Nagoya, Japan
Headquarters
Shimoyama, Aichi
Japan
Parent company
Toyota Motor Corporation
Global sales figure
851,214 vehicles sold
Data not publicly disclosed (2024)