What is the best Lexus car to buy?
For most buyers, the 2024–2025 Lexus RX offers the strongest overall value and practicality. If your priorities skew toward performance, luxury seduction, or electrification, other models in the lineup—such as the LC for driving dynamics, the LS for flagship comfort, or the RZ 450e for an electric option—may better fit your needs.
How to decide what “best” means for you
Defining the best Lexus depends on your lifestyle, budget, and what you’re willing to trade off. Below are the categories where buyers commonly focus their consideration: value and reliability, space and versatility, performance, and propulsion type (gas, hybrid, or electric).
The following list highlights standout Lexus models across representative needs.
- Best overall value and practicality — Lexus RX: a spacious, comfortable SUV with strong resale, broad dealer network, and available hybrid options.
- Best luxury sedan — Lexus ES: refined ride, quiet cabin, and solid reliability; available as a hybrid for improved efficiency.
- Best flagship sedan — Lexus LS: the apex of Lexus luxury with premium materials, advanced tech, and serene highway manners.
- Best performance — Lexus LC (LC 500 or LC 500h): striking design and engaging dynamics for enthusiasts seeking a grand-touring experience.
- Best electric — Lexus RZ 450e: the brand’s first dedicated EV, bringing modern electric drive to Lexus’s luxury lineup.
- Best three-row family SUV — Lexus GX: capable off-road and seating for seven; a strong value for buyers needing space and practicality.
- Best flagship SUV — Lexus LX: full-size luxury SUV with premium interior refinement, advanced tech, and substantial presence.
In practical terms, the RX remains the default pick for most buyers seeking a well-rounded daily driver, while the LS/LX appeal to those prioritizing maximum luxury and space. The LC serves enthusiasts, and the RZ targets shoppers who want an electric Lexus experience. The GX provides three-row capability at a more accessible price point than the LX.
Practical buying criteria
Use this checklist to align your choice with your budget and lifestyle. The following factors help you pick the right Lexus model quickly.
- Budget and ownership costs: Consider the upfront price, ongoing fuel or charging costs, insurance, maintenance, and resale value. Hybrid models typically offer lower fuel costs and strong resale.
- Space and body style: Do you want a sedan or an SUV? If an SUV, is two rows enough or do you need a three-row option?
- Powertrain preference: Gasoline engines, hybrids, plug-in hybrids, or a dedicated electric? Factor real-world range and charging availability for EV options.
- Interior technology and features: Evaluate infotainment usability, driver assistance, seating comfort, and cabin materials at your price point.
- Driving dynamics and reliability: Decide whether you value a serene ride, engaging handling, or strong long-term reliability and service support.
Using this framework, compare trims and schedule test drives of your top picks to determine which Lexus best fits your daily routine and budget.
Current lineup highlights (2024–2025)
Key updates reflect Lexus’s push toward electrification and premium comfort across the range. The lineup emphasizes reliability, refined interiors, and advanced safety tech, while expanding electrified options.
- The RZ 450e marks Lexus’s first dedicated electric model, expanding the brand’s electrified options beyond hybrids.
- Hybrid variants are available across several models, including RX and NX, delivering improved efficiency without sacrificing comfort.
- The ES and LS remain core sedans for luxury and comfort, with ongoing tech upgrades and safety features.
- For large SUVs, the LX continues to provide top-tier luxury and off-road capability, while the GX offers three-row practicality at a lower entry price.
These highlights illustrate how Lexus balances traditional comfort with new electrified options and broader family-friendly space as the lineup evolves.
Summary
Lexus’s lineup is designed to cover a broad spectrum of needs, from value-driven daily drivers to flagship luxury and performance models. If you want a versatile, well-priced all-rounder, start with the RX. For more space and luxury, consider the GX or LX, with the LS as the pinnacle of comfort and tech in a sedan. If driving dynamics are your priority, the LC delivers a compelling experience, and if you’re ready to go electric, the RZ 450e is the brand’s current entry into EV ownership. The best Lexus car to buy is the one that aligns with your personal priorities, and the right choice comes down to a careful comparison and a thorough test drive.
