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How much was a Lexus in 1995?

In 1995, a Lexus generally ranged from about $25,000 for the ES300 to roughly $45,000–$50,000 for the LS400, with mid-range GS and SC models falling in between. Prices varied by trim, options, and regional factors.


Context: The Lexus lineup in 1995


By 1995, Lexus offered a four-model lineup in the United States: the entry-luxury ES300, the mid-size GS300, the flagship LS400, and the luxury sport coupes SC300 and SC400. The price ladder reflected both the model’s position in the range and the level of equipment chosen. Dealers could also apply regional incentives or adds-on that shifted the final sticker price slightly, so the exact amount paid could differ from the base MSRPs.


Model-by-model pricing


Here are typical approximate MSRPs for common 1995 Lexus models. These figures come from period automotive guides and dealer literature and exclude taxes, destination charges, and optional equipment.



  • ES300 (entry-luxury sedan): around $25,000

  • GS300 (mid-size sport sedan): around $37,000

  • LS400 (flagship full-size luxury sedan): around $45,000–$50,000

  • SC300/SC400 (luxury sport coupes): around $40,000–$50,000


Prices varied with trim levels, optional features (such as leather interiors, premium sound systems, and navigation), and regional tax or dealer charges. The figures above capture typical starting points rather than every possible configuration.


Summary


Looking back at 1995, Lexus positioned its lineup across a broad price spectrum—from the ES300’s entry point in the mid-$20k range to the LS400 and SC models approaching the $50k mark. The GS sat in the upper-$30k range, illustrating Lexus’s strategy of offering a tiered ladder of luxury with increasing levels of equipment and performance as buyers moved up the lineup.

What was the top selling car in 1995?


The most popular car in the United States in 1995 was the Ford Taurus, which sold 366,266 units, making it the best-selling sedan for the fourth year in a row. In the broader vehicle market, the Ford F-Series truck was the best-selling vehicle overall, with over 691,000 units sold.
 
Best-selling car (sedan)

  • Ford Taurus: Sold 366,266 units, continuing its streak as the top-selling passenger car. 

Best-selling vehicle overall
  • Ford F-Series: Sold 691,452 units, making it the best-selling vehicle in the U.S. for the 14th consecutive year. 

Other popular cars
  • Honda Accord: Came in second among passenger cars, with 341,384 units sold.
  • Toyota Camry: Was close behind the Accord, with 328,600 units sold.
  • Ford Explorer: Was the best-selling SUV, with 395,227 sales. 



How much did a 1995 Lexus LS400 cost?


$52,680
1995 Lexus LS Pricing

Original MSRPKBB Fair Purchase Price (national avg.)
LS 400 Sedan 4D$52,680$3,322



How much was a new car in 1995?


In 1995, the average new car cost around $17,959, with a range of prices depending on the model, from the cheapest, like the Geo Metro at about $6,995, to more expensive models. 

  • Average cost: The average price for a new light vehicle was approximately $17,959, according to the Department of Energy. 
  • Cheapest car: The Geo Metro was the cheapest new car, available for about $6,995. 
  • More expensive cars: Prices varied significantly. For example, a 1995 Honda Civic CX Hatchback started at a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $10,130, while a 1995 GMC Yukon could be purchased for under $24,000. 



How much was a Lexus in the 90s?


When the very first Lexus LS went on sale in the United States, for the 1990 model year, the price tag was a mere $35,000… at a time when a new Mercedes-Benz 560 SEL sedan bore a sticker price of $73,700 (that's $75,360 and $158,685 in 2021 dollars, respectively).


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.