Which model of Lexus is made in Japan?
The Lexus LFA is the model famously built in Japan.
In the broader sense, Lexus manufactures vehicles at plants around the world, including several in Japan. The LFA stands out as the flagship example of a Lexus model assembled entirely in Japan, produced at the Motomachi plant in Toyota City, Aichi Prefecture from 2010 to 2012 in a limited run of 500 units.
The LFA: Japan-made flagship
Below is a concise look at the model that was produced in Japan.
- Lexus LFA — assembled 2010–2012 at Motomachi Plant, Toyota City, Aichi Prefecture; hand-built 4.8-liter V10; carbon-fiber construction; 500 units produced.
The LFA remains a standout in Lexus history as the only model built entirely in Japan for its production run. Most other Lexus models are assembled at facilities located outside Japan or in multiple regions to serve global markets.
Broader production footprint for Lexus
Beyond the LFA, Lexus operates a global manufacturing network that includes plants in North America, Europe, Asia, and China. Production locations for current models change over time based on demand, plant capacity, and supply-chain considerations. For example, some mainstream models are built in North America or China, while others are assembled in Japan to support domestic demand and export programs.
Notes on production locations
Manufacturing sites can shift between model years as automakers adjust to regulatory changes, new platforms, and regional demand. The LFA remains the highest-profile example of a Lexus model produced entirely in Japan, with no direct ongoing successor in the current lineup.
Summary
The Lexus LFA stands as the primary answer to which Lexus model is made in Japan. It was produced exclusively at the Motomachi plant in Japan from 2010 to 2012, in a limited run of 500 units. While Lexus continues to manufacture many vehicles worldwide, the LFA remains a unique, Japan-built artifact in the brand’s history.
How to tell if a Lexus is built in Japan?
You can tell if a Lexus was built in Japan by checking the first character of the VIN. A "J" at the beginning of the VIN indicates the vehicle was manufactured in Japan. Alternatively, you can look at the sticker in the driver's side door jamb, which may explicitly state the manufacturing location.
Using the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
- Find the VIN: The VIN is a 17-character serial number found on the dashboard (visible through the windshield) or on the driver's side door jamb.
- Check the first character: The first character of the VIN indicates the country of origin.
- Look for "J": If the VIN starts with the letter "J," the vehicle was assembled in Japan.
- Other letters: Other letters or numbers at the start of the VIN indicate manufacturing in other countries. For example, a "2" or "5" can mean the vehicle was assembled in North America (Canada or the U.S.).
Using the door jamb sticker
- Locate the sticker: Open the driver's side door and look for a sticker on the door jamb.
- Read the label: This sticker often contains a phrase like "Manufactured by Honda in Japan" or "Built in Japan by Honda," leaving no doubt about its assembly point.
Which Lexus models are made in the USA?
Lexus models made in the USA include the Lexus ES (Kentucky) and the Lexus TX (Indiana). These vehicles are assembled at different Toyota manufacturing plants within the United States.
- Lexus ES: Built in Georgetown, Kentucky, at Toyota Motor Manufacturing Kentucky (TMMK).
- Lexus TX: Assembled in Princeton, Indiana, at a plant that also produces the Grand Highlander.
Is the Lexus RX built 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.
Which Lexus is still made in Japan?
Lexus Manufacturing Plants: Locations & Models
Toyota Tahara Plant – Tahara, Japan — builds the Lexus LS, IS, GX, LX, and RC. Toyota Yoshiwara Plant – Toyota, Aichi, Japan — builds the Lexus LX.
