Is 2006 a good year for Lexus?

Yes. 2006 was a favorable year for Lexus, marked by solid sales momentum, a broader and more appealing lineup, and continued leadership in reliability and ownership value.

In-depth look: As the luxury auto market evolved, Lexus leveraged its reputation for quality, expanded its product range to address a wider range of buyer needs, and maintained strong resale value. The year also unfolded amid heightened competition from European brands and a growing emphasis on efficiency and hybrid technology, shaping Lexus’s strategic choices in 2006.

Performance and market reception in 2006

The following points summarize how Lexus performed in 2006 across sales, product strategy, and customer perception.

• Strong sales momentum in key markets, with Lexus continuing to outperform many rivals in reliability and owner satisfaction.


• Broadening the model lineup to appeal to a wider audience, including ongoing refinements to sedans, SUVs, and the brand’s hybrid offerings.


• Maintained competitive resale values and relatively low ownership costs, reinforcing the brand’s long-term value proposition for buyers.


• Recognition from industry observers and reliability surveys, which continued to place Lexus near the top of premium brands for quality and dependability.


• Strengthening dealer network and service experience, contributing to positive ownership impressions and repeat business.

These factors together helped 2006 solidify Lexus’s standing as a leading luxury brand with a reputation for durability and value, even as competition and market expectations evolved.

Context and strategic developments

This section highlights broader market dynamics and strategic moves that influenced Lexus in 2006, including competitive pressures and technology trends.

• Intense competition in the luxury segment from BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Audi, and others, which kept Lexus focused on quality, comfort, and total ownership experience as differentiators.


• Continued emphasis on efficiency and alternative propulsion, with hybrid options playing a growing role in the lineup as buyers sought more economical choices without sacrificing luxury.


• Global expansion and regional tailoring, with efforts to strengthen Lexus’s presence in Europe and Asia while maintaining its strong North American footprint.


• Product updates and refinements designed to address evolving consumer expectations for technology, safety, and luxury amenities.

Overall, 2006 served as a year of strategic reinforcement for Lexus: the brand leveraged reliability leadership, expanded appeal through lineup and technology updates, and prepared for the next phase of its product and market strategy amid a competitive landscape.

Summary

2006 was a positive year for Lexus, characterized by solid sales, a broadened and refreshed product lineup, and sustained reliability leadership that supported strong resale values. While market competition and evolving technology posed ongoing challenges, the year helped set the stage for future growth and strategic emphasis on efficiency and hybridization.

What is the best year to buy a used Lexus?

The best years for a used Lexus are often model years with excellent reliability scores, such as the 2018–2021 RX, the 2010–2015 RX, and the 2020–2022 models. Other top choices include the 2015 LS 460 for its high durability and the 2013–2018 ES 300h for its reliability as a hybrid. 
This video discusses some of the most reliable Lexus models for used car buyers: 1mThe Speed Freak ShowYouTube · Jun 26, 2025
Popular and reliable models

• Lexus RX:
  • 2018–2021: Offers a good balance of modern features and proven reliability. 
  • 2010–2015: Known for comfort and reliability, with the 2010 model earning a high score from J.D. Power. Be aware of early models' potential oil cooler line issue, which was fixed with a service campaign. 
• Lexus LS:
  • 2015: Identified as one of the most reliable models in its class, with some reaching very high mileage. 
  • LS 430 (2001–2006) & LS 460 (2007–2017): Both are praised for their bulletproof reliability. 
• Lexus ES:
  • 2013–2018 (specifically the 300h hybrid): The most reliable generation, lauded for its hybrid efficiency and low repair issues. 
  • 2010–2012: A solid choice, though later models with updated interiors might be preferable for some. 
• Other models:
  • Lexus GX (2020+): A highly reliable option for those who want a seven-seat SUV capable of handling trails. 

This video explains some of the best and worst Lexus models to buy used: 58sThe Car Care NutYouTube · Oct 30, 2021
Things to consider

• Maintenance records: Always check for a complete service history, regardless of the model year. 
• Avoid early models with complex systems: Steer clear of "Ultra Luxury" packages or air suspension systems on older cars, as they can be more costly to repair and maintain. 
• Check for recalls: Verify that all recalls have been addressed for the specific vehicle you are considering. 

You can watch this video to learn about unreliable Toyota and Lexus models: 59sThe Car Care NutYouTube · Aug 9, 2025

What are the common problems with a 2006 Lexus IS 350?

Top 2006 Lexus IS350 Problems

• The Inside Rear View Mirror May Become Discolored.
• Clicking Type Noise From Rear Suspension.
• Check Engine LIght With Code(s) P0751, P2714, or P0894.
• Lexus IS350 water leaking into cabin from evaporator requiring drain plug clearance.

Is the 2006 Lexus reliable?

Among the 455 owners who provided feedback on the 2006 Lexus IS for Kelley Blue Book, consumer sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, with 95% recommending the vehicle. As a whole, consumers found the vehicle's quality and reliability to be its strongest features and value to be its weakest.

How long will a 2006 Lexus last?

How many miles can a Lexus last with regular maintenance? Most Lexus vehicles can last between 250,000 to 300,000 miles or more with routine oil changes, fluid flushes, and timely part replacements.