What is Lexus RX called in Japan?
The Lexus RX, a popular luxury SUV sold globally, is known by a different name in its home market of Japan. In Japan, the Lexus RX is called the "Toyota Harrier." This article explores the reasons behind the name change and the unique positioning of the Lexus RX in the Japanese market.
The Toyota Harrier: Lexus RX's Alter Ego in Japan
The Lexus RX, which has been a mainstay of the Lexus lineup since its introduction in 1998, is marketed under the Toyota brand in Japan as the "Toyota Harrier." This name change is a strategic decision by Toyota to cater to the preferences and perceptions of the Japanese domestic market.
In Japan, the Toyota brand is generally associated with more affordable and practical vehicles, while the Lexus brand is positioned as a luxury marque. By selling the Lexus RX under the Toyota name, Toyota is able to tap into the Japanese market's demand for a premium SUV without the higher price tag associated with the Lexus brand.
Reasons for the Name Change
There are a few key reasons why the Lexus RX is known as the Toyota Harrier in Japan:
- Brand Positioning: The Lexus brand is not as well-established in Japan as it is in other markets, such as the United States. Using the Toyota name helps to leverage the brand's strong reputation and familiarity with Japanese consumers.li>
- Pricing Considerations: The Lexus RX is positioned as a premium SUV, which can make it less accessible to some Japanese consumers. The Toyota Harrier name allows for a more affordable price point.li>
- Market Segmentation: The Toyota Harrier fills a specific niche in the Japanese market, catering to consumers who want a high-quality SUV without the luxury price tag of the Lexus brand.
By offering the same vehicle under a different name, Toyota is able to cater to the unique preferences and expectations of the Japanese market, while still providing the quality and features that Lexus is known for globally.
Conclusion
The Lexus RX's alter ego as the Toyota Harrier in Japan is a prime example of how automakers adapt their products to meet the specific needs and preferences of different markets. By leveraging the Toyota brand's strong reputation and pricing the vehicle more competitively, the Harrier has found success in the Japanese market, complementing the global success of the Lexus RX.
What is the Japanese version of the Lexus?
Lexus did not exist as a brand in its home market until 2005, and all vehicles marketed internationally as Lexus from 1989 to 2005 were released in Japan under the Toyota marque and an equivalent model name.
Is the RX 350 the same as a Highlander?
Is Toyota Highlander the same as Lexus RX 350? No, the Toyota Highlander is not the same as the Lexus RX 350. The RX offers advanced luxury, upgraded tech features, more horsepower, and luxurious materials, while the Highlander shines with seating, cargo space, and towing capability.
Is Toyota Harrier the same as Lexus RX?
In export markets, the Harrier was rebadged as the Lexus RX from March 1998 to December 2008. At this stage, Toyota had yet to retail the Lexus brand to its Japanese customers. The second generation (XU30) debuted in February 2003, along with the export Lexus version.
What is Toyota version of Lexus RX?
While the Lexus RX is a sleek and luxurious vehicle, it isn't the only SUV on the market. That's why we're looking at the Toyota Highlander – a larger yet less luxurious SUV. Both the Lexus RX and the Toyota Highlander have distinct strengths.
What is the Lexus RX 350 called in Japan?
Although the Lexus RX 350 was the third-generation model, it was the first to be marketed in Japan under the Lexus brand, the first- and second-generation models having been marketed in Japan in 1998 and 2003, respectively, under the Toyota Harrier name.
What do Japanese think of Lexus?
The majority of participants at 51% chose their dream car brand because they “like the design”. This was followed by 28% who said it “gives a sense of status” and 25% who “feel it has good performance”. While 37% of people chose Lexus because of its design, 46% chose it for its status value.
Is the Lexus RX 350 made in Japan?
Toyota Motor Manufacturing Canada, Inc. – Cambridge, Ontario, Canada —assembles the Lexus RX, as well as the Lexus RX Hybrid. Toyota Motor Kyushu – Miyawaka, Fukuoka, Japan — assembles the Lexus UX. Toyota Tahara Plant – Tahara, Japan — assembles the Lexus LS, IS, GX, LX, and RC.
What is the Lexus version of Harrier?
Lexus RX
The Lexus RX (Japanese: レクサス・RX, Hepburn: Rekusasu RX) is a luxury crossover SUV sold since 1998 by Lexus, a luxury division of Toyota. Originally released in its home market of Japan in late 1997 as the Toyota Harrier, export sales began in March 1998 as the Lexus RX.
What is the name of the Lexus GX in Japan?
The Lexus GX (Japanese: レクサス・GX, Hepburn: Rekusasu GX) is a mid/full-size luxury SUV sold in North American and Eurasian markets by Lexus, a luxury division of Toyota.
What Toyota platform is the Lexus RX built on?
The Toyota K platform, informally known as the Toyota Camry platform, is a front-wheel-drive automobile platform (also adaptable to four-wheel-drive) that has underpinned various Toyota and Lexus models from the mid-size category upwards since September 1999, starting with the Avalon (XX20).
