What is the Lexus RX 350 called in Japan?
The Lexus RX 350 is a popular luxury SUV known for its reliability, comfort, and advanced features. However, did you know that this vehicle goes by a different name in Japan? In this article, we’ll explore the Japanese market equivalent of the Lexus RX 350 and provide some context about why automakers often use different names for the same vehicle in different regions.
The Japanese Name for the Lexus RX 350
In Japan, the Lexus RX 350 is sold under the same name, "Lexus RX." Unlike some other vehicles that are rebranded or renamed for specific markets, Lexus maintains a consistent naming convention for the RX series globally. This consistency aligns with Lexus's strategy to establish itself as a premium global brand, ensuring that its vehicles are easily recognizable no matter where they are sold.
Why Do Some Cars Have Different Names in Different Markets?
While the Lexus RX retains its name in Japan, many vehicles are renamed for various reasons when sold in different countries. Here are some common reasons automakers choose to rename their vehicles:
- Language and Cultural Sensitivity: A name that works well in one language might have an unintended or negative meaning in another.
- Branding Strategy: Automakers may use different names to align with local branding strategies or to appeal to specific market segments.
- Trademark Issues: In some cases, the original name might already be trademarked in a particular country, requiring a change.
- Market Preferences: Names that resonate with customers in one region might not have the same appeal elsewhere, prompting a rebranding effort.
Conclusion
The Lexus RX 350, known simply as the "Lexus RX" in Japan, exemplifies the brand's commitment to maintaining a unified identity across global markets. While some vehicles undergo name changes to suit regional preferences, Lexus has chosen to keep its RX series consistent worldwide, reinforcing its reputation as a luxury automaker with a global presence.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the name of the Lexus in Japan?
Lexus (レクサス, Rekusasu) is the luxury vehicle division of the Japanese automaker Toyota Motor Corporation.
What is Lexus RX called in Japan?
Toyota Harrier
What does RX 350 stand for?
RX 300, RX 350 & RX 450h | RX 350L & RX 450hL
RX stands for Radiant Crossover. Although this is rarely mentioned, the term can be interpreted as reflecting a bright new future for the Lexus brand as the RX was the Lexus' first sports utility vehicle (SUV) marking a crossover between luxury saloon and off-roader.
What is the Toyota equivalent of the Lexus RX 350?
Toyota Highlander
Two of the most popular SUVs available are the Lexus RX 350L and Toyota Highlander. These vehicles are a little bit different with the Lexus RX 350 offering much more upscale materials and a more sporty ride, but the Highlander is a top options for a three-row SUV.
How to tell if Lexus IS made in Japan?
First position: country of manufacture
In the case of a Lexus, the first digit indicates the country in which the vehicle was manufactured. If your Lexus has the numbers 2 or 5, it was assembled in North America—either Canada or the United States. Japan is indicated by the letter J.
When did Lexus stop making the IS350?
2006-2013 IS 350
The IS 350's 306-horsepower, 3.5-liter V-6 engine and tidy rear-wheel-drive layout made it one of the most powerful and athletic models in the Lexus lineup at.
What do Japanese think of Lexus?
A foreign car was once a major status symbol, but a recent survey in Japan found that people of all ages rate the Japanese Lexus as their dream drive.
What does RX stand for in Lexus?
Radiant Crossover
The RX model name stands for Radiant Crossover. The word Radiant represents the bright new future Lexus envisioned at the car's launch at the start of the Millennium. The model was the first sports utility vehicle that marked a Crossover point between a luxury saloon and an off-roader. Explore the RX.
What is the IS350 called in Japan?
They call them the Lexus IS250 and Lexus IS350.
Which is bigger, the Toyota Highlander or the Lexus RX 350?
The Toyota Highlander is a little longer, at 194.9 inches, compared to the Lexus RX 350, measuring 192.5 inches long. However, both models ride on a 112.2-inch wheelbase, providing these SUVs with ample passenger space.
