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What year did the Lexus 400 come out?


The Lexus 400, a groundbreaking model in the luxury automobile market, made its debut in 1989. This vehicle not only marked the entry of Lexus as a brand but also set new standards for luxury and performance in the automotive industry. In this article, we will explore the significance of the Lexus 400's launch and its impact on the luxury car segment.


Background of the Lexus Brand


Before diving into the specifics of the Lexus 400, it's essential to understand the context in which it was introduced. Lexus was created by Toyota to compete in the luxury vehicle market, which was dominated by established European brands. The goal was to offer a vehicle that combined luxury, reliability, and performance.


Key Features of the Lexus 400


The Lexus 400 was notable for several reasons, which contributed to its success:



  • Powerful Engine: The Lexus 400 was equipped with a 4.0-liter V8 engine, providing a smooth and powerful driving experience.

  • Luxurious Interior: The vehicle featured high-quality materials and advanced technology for its time, including leather upholstery and a premium sound system.

  • Innovative Design: The sleek and elegant design of the Lexus 400 set it apart from competitors, appealing to luxury car buyers.

  • Reliability: Built on Toyota's reputation for reliability, the Lexus 400 quickly gained a loyal customer base.


These features helped the Lexus 400 to stand out in a crowded market, attracting buyers looking for a blend of luxury and dependability.


Impact on the Automotive Industry


The introduction of the Lexus 400 had a profound impact on the automotive industry:



  • Setting New Standards: The Lexus 400 raised the bar for what consumers expected from luxury vehicles, influencing competitors to enhance their offerings.

  • Market Expansion: The success of the Lexus brand encouraged other manufacturers to enter the luxury market, leading to increased competition.

  • Consumer Perception: Lexus helped reshape consumer perceptions of Japanese automakers, showcasing that they could produce high-quality luxury vehicles.


Overall, the Lexus 400 not only established the Lexus brand but also transformed the luxury car market, paving the way for future models and innovations.


Conclusion


In conclusion, the Lexus 400, launched in 1989, was a pivotal moment in the automotive world. Its combination of luxury, performance, and reliability set a new standard for luxury vehicles and significantly impacted the industry. As we look back, the Lexus 400 remains a symbol of innovation and excellence in automotive design.


Frequently Asked Questions

How much was a Lexus LS 400 in 1997?


1997 Lexus LS Pricing

Original MSRPKBB Fair Purchase Price (national avg.)
LS 400 Sedan 4D$54,495$4,129



How much did a Lexus LS400 cost new?


At its U.S. debut, the redesigned LS 400 retained a pricing advantage over European competitors in its largest market, launching with a base price of US$51,000.



Was the Lexus LS 400 a luxury car?


In March 1990, the LS 400 was awarded the "Best Luxury Car" title in Motor Week's Drivers' Choice Awards.



What year did the Lexus LS 400 come out?


It's impossible to understate the importance of the Lexus LS and the impact it had on the American car market. When the original LS400 debuted in 1990, it changed the entire luxury car segment for the better.



What years to avoid Lexus LS 430?


Lexus has issued a recall for LS430 cars manufactured in 2004, 2005, and 2006 due to air bag assembly problems. According to the recall, the inflators used in the curtain, side, and knee air bags didn't have sufficient heating agents to properly deploy the air bags in the event of a crash.



Is the Lexus LS 430 expensive to maintain?


The average annual repair cost for a Lexus is $551, which means it has above average ownership costs.



How much horsepower does a Lexus LS 400 1995 have?


Engine: 4.0-liters, DOHC V-8, 32 valves, fuel injected, 260-horsepower, 270 foot-pounds of torque.



What does LS stand for in Lexus?


Luxury Sedan
LS stands for Luxury Sedan. The original LS 400 – the car that launched Lexus back in 1989 – was the work of 60 designers, 1,400 engineers, 2,300 technicians and over 200 support workers.



What is the life expectancy of a Lexus LS400?


A: You should be able to reach 200,000 miles in that car if you really take care of it. The LS 400 is a very reliable luxury sedan, but you should consider changing the timing belt because of its age.



What year of Lexus is most reliable?


According to various sources, the most reliable Lexus IS years include:

  • 2014 Lexus IS 300.
  • 2018 Lexus IS 350.
  • 2019 Lexus IS 350.
  • 2012 Lexus IS 250.
  • 2011 Lexus IS 250.


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.