Loading

Is a Lexus just a fancy Toyota?

In short, no, a Lexus is not simply a fancy Toyota. While Lexus is the luxury division of Toyota, the two brands have distinct differences in terms of design, engineering, and overall positioning in the automotive market.


The Relationship Between Lexus and Toyota


Lexus was established by Toyota in 1989 as its luxury vehicle division, with the goal of competing with other premium automotive brands like Mercedes-Benz, BMW, and Cadillac. While Lexus vehicles share some underlying platforms and components with Toyota models, they are engineered and designed to a higher standard, with more premium materials, advanced technologies, and a greater focus on performance and refinement.


Key Differences Between Lexus and Toyota



  • Design: Lexus vehicles typically have a more distinctive and upscale exterior design compared to their Toyota counterparts, with a focus on elegance and sophistication.

  • Interior Quality: Lexus interiors feature higher-quality materials, such as genuine leather, wood trim, and premium sound systems, creating a more luxurious cabin experience.

  • Performance: Lexus models often have more powerful engines, more advanced suspension systems, and a greater emphasis on driving dynamics and handling, providing a more engaging driving experience.

  • Technology: Lexus vehicles are equipped with the latest advanced safety and infotainment technologies, including features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and premium audio systems.

  • Dealer Experience: Lexus dealerships are designed to provide a more personalized and high-end customer experience, with amenities like complimentary valet service and lounge areas.


While Lexus and Toyota share some underlying components and engineering, the Lexus brand is positioned as a premium, luxury alternative to Toyota's more mainstream offerings. Lexus vehicles are engineered and designed to a higher standard, with a focus on delivering a more refined, sophisticated, and engaging driving experience.

What is so special about a Lexus?


Lexus is known for creating luxury vehicles with effortless and timeless styles that stand out on the road, perform well, and tend to be reliable and long-lasting.



Is a Lexus just an expensive Toyota?


In almost every case, a Lexus car will cost more than a Toyota. It's simply the because of the difference between luxury vehicles and those made for more cost-conscious buyers. If you want to stay on budget, Toyota has more accessibly priced vehicles.



What is the Toyota version of a Lexus is?


The IS was originally sold under the Toyota Altezza (Japanese: トヨタ・アルテッツァ, Hepburn: Toyota Arutettsua) nameplate in Japan from 1998 (the word Altezza is Italian for 'height' or 'highness'). The IS was introduced as an entry-level sport model positioned below the ES in the Lexus lineup.



Which car brand is most luxury?


Top 5 Most Expensive Car Brands in the World

  • Koenigsegg Automotive CC805. Koenigsegg Automotive. Swedish-based Koenigsegg is fanatical about performance.
  • Aston Martin Valkyrie. Aston Martin.
  • Bugatti Chiron. Bugatti.
  • Lamborghini Sian V12 Hybrid. Lamborghini.



What is the most reliable car brand?


The Scores:

RankBrandPredicted Reliability Score (100-point scale)
1Subaru68
2Lexus65
3Toyota62
4Honda59



Is Lexus a luxury version of Toyota?


The Lexus brand is the luxury division of the Toyota Motor Corporation, a Japanese automaker. Lexus vehicles were initially developed for the American market and debuted there to the enthusiasm of drivers before eventually being sold in other markets around the world.



Does Lexus count as Toyota?


Yes, the Lexus brand is owned by the Toyota Motor Corporation, which is headquartered in Japan. In many ways, however, the luxury vehicle brand operates independently from the Toyota Motor Corporation. Explore how Lexus came to be, and where the manufacturing of quality parts and vehicles takes place.



Is BMW or Lexus more expensive?


In this range, Lexus, BMW, and Mercedes are approximately equal. At the same time, the Germans are more expensive – the prestige of BMW and Mercedes, the quality of finishes, and the richness of trim levels are extremely high.



Is Lexus better than BMW?


BMW vs.
Not only is Lexus a more dependable brand, but its average annual maintenance costs are also lower than BMW's. On average, Lexus owners report spending approximately $550 per year on maintenance. Comparatively, BMW owners report spending an average of $1,000 to $1,700 per year to maintain their vehicle.



Where does Lexus rank in luxury cars?


Consumer Reports also ranks car brands using a combination of its road-test scores, predicted reliability, owner satisfaction data and safety scores. Judged in this way, Consumer Reports says BMW, Porsche and Lexus are the top three luxury brands overall.


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.