Lexus makes cars for people who want luxury but want to stay in the Toyota family…they know they are boring but they wont be nickel and dimed for the next 10-15 years
As a 33 year old male, I’ve owned 3 Lexus models (GS350 and currently a LS460 and RX330) I love them. They are a joy to drive to me because they are relaxing. I used to have a Infiniti M35, and that was very fun to drive. But it has so many issues I ended up trading it. Lexus isn’t boring, their priorities are just in places where it actually matters. And I say that as an auto enthusiast
Today, I think Genesis is the closest competition to Lexus. Genesis struggles with brand perception, especially since they share showroom space with Hyundai Elantras and Venues, but where Genesis shines in comparison is in the interiors. Lexus makes a great and reliable car, but the interiors are boring and the tech is lacking in comparison. If Genesis can create a separate dealer network that also provides the same service and upscale experience that Lexus has, they would be hard to beat. If Lexus steps up their game with their interiors and offer some more innovative and newsworthy tech, they would not seem so boring. Everyone knows they are good cars, but although they last, many luxury car buyers lease and want new cars every 3 years, and reliability isn’t a concern for those people. The people who keep them long term are usually older people, and that does not do anything to help them seem fun and exciting.
Hyundai is what happens when you all of a sudden get hot after summer vacation but someone always reminds you that you pee'd that one time in the 3rd grade. I think Lexus needs to swap platforms and make them RWD exclusive. But the Lexus interiors do get dated easily. Porsche holds its interiors the same for 2 cycles but it ages better.
I'd like to see Lexus go even more upmarket. Better designs. More timeless designs. No more ugly grills. I want to see Lexus have designs that can compete with Volvo, Genesis, Range Rover, Porsche, Maserati, Bentley, and even Mazda. Right now, Lexus' new designs like the TX is okay. I'm happy that Lexus didn't make the TX hideous, it actually looks decent. But I would like to see Lexus to be more luxury. Like the LS, LC, and LFA.
I personally haven't had the opportunity to drive one but i have definitely noticed most of the old luxury cars ive seen driving around are typically lexus and maybe a lincoln town car here and there
Also the twin-turbo V6 in the LS500 is the same engine as the Tundra sans machining debris. The best 2-liter turbo 4-cylinder luxury crossover is the NX200T and NX300.
I had to install a secondary entertainment system in my 2018 GX because it didn’t come with CarPlay. A luxury SUV in 2018. With no CarPlay…. Lexus, baby, what was you doing?
Car Play had a lot of functional issues when it first debuted - So Toyota was very hesitant to introduce it. Plus adding another layer of licensing, I'm sure costed more to produce unlike their Engage System. (I think that's what it was called)
11:31 The F Spprt models are not "ghetto". The range from just being an appearance packing to improving the handling & driving performance with the RX 500h F Sport Performance hybrid model
Lexus is best at making vehicles you don’t have to think about- you don’t have to think about pushing buttons, checking the oil, fixing parts, or worrying about resale value. The more they get away from that, which they are, the more they lose their touch.
I got a 2008 Lexus GS350 cash when a deer hit my Mazda 6 a few years ago. At 308,133 miles, IT STILL puts a Dodge Charger to shame when they try me on the interstate!! Great power! And little maintenance! I’ve become addicted and now I want a newer generation GS. I hate that they no longer have a bigger performance sedan. The IS is too small for me and the AWD ES is front drive bias 🥴
13:27 I feel personally attacked. 😂 I own both an MKZ and a Q50. I’ve had my Q50 since she had 23,500 miles on her (I’m the second owner). Now at 96k and very regular maintenance at the Infiniti dealership, they’re saying she needs a transmission. My MKZ is completely warranty backed with Lincoln for 130k miles, so anything goes wrong with her, I’m covered for some time. Funny enough, I was shopping for a ES when I got my Infiniti; probably wouldn’t be needing a transmission now if I had gotten it instead of the Infiniti.
LOL, No personal attacks. I'm surprised to hear about the Infiniti, cause they don't use the CVT for the Q50. The Lincoln should last as long as you take care of it.
I want a 6-speed manual IS300, since I failed to find one for sale, I'll stay away from any other Lexus. (With all do respect for people who love practical Lexus cars).
I never seen the appeal of newer Lexus just seems like a fancy Toyota is design and technology and performance. Only the Lc500 is good for is its looks the rest of the models can’t hold a candle to Germans Americans and Genesis. Tell Lexus buyers what’s different about that model and a fully loaded Toyota they will say we have leather on the dash. Wow that’s next level for 2004. But hey 😂😂😂
Lol To be fair, their sedans with the exception of ES - are RWD based platforms. So there is a difference. But most people buy the ES or the RX so that's why they can't tell the difference.
Lexus will be slightly quieter inside. Lexus is now moving to having more technology- stupid door handles and big screens. Not a big difference from Toyota but most people get it to stand out- unlike the reason people used to buy them.
I think part of it is that with the Americans improving interior quality, they ended up behind on materials. The current es has a problem where the airbag area on the passenger side can sink in, giving a hallow after thought. The doors also aren’t as well secured. And there’s a point where people use to a specific brand notice this when cross shopping. Most people I know who have a Lexus, have only had a Lexus. Most who don’t, have had many different luxury brands, including Lexus in the 2000’s. I think another part is the grill. It’s very polarizing
Most Car Companies have been suffering from QC - particularly because there's higher demand with more electrical mechanisms and more regulation compliant designs. And yes, the Spindle Grille got Lexus Canceled lol
Family has had a 2011 Malibu, 2007 Suburban, 2014 Cadillac crossover, Chrysler 300, and a few other cars. The 300 got wrecked, all others were given up on because they lacked reliability. Now we have a 2012 RX that was bought with 150,000 miles. After 2 years it had 200,000 miles and almost drives like new. Struts might be a little worn has it has a few things that need fixed- fog lamp fell out of housing & passenger seat sensor is bad, but the power train has been PERFECT. High mileage Lexus models are not a massive risk like most used vehicles.
@@djplonghead5403 appreciate the input! However, this was about interior fit and material quality. Though GM recently has gotten back down to their mid 2000s level again. The Cadillac at least has improved a few vehicles. Regardless though, American brands have slowly gained reliability in the engineering front. Just not yet at a Japanese level. I’m hard pressed to consider Chrysler even close to the luxury field. I will say everyone I know with a ford product of modern hasn’t really had issues aside from the sunroofs leaking. A couple are even near 200k. And one does have a current Lincoln Corsair with no issues yet. Not sure of mileage on theirs but they have made a couple trips from Chicago to San Jose California twice, and one trip to Vegas during August throughout the past year in a half.
I have always considered Lexus road appliances. Nothing exciting about them, aside from a few models. Numbness is on the road. Great cars just not for me. Team Acura/Honda!
Nice video! I don't really consider Lexus to have ever been an exciting brand per se. I will say that I think some of their older models were better styled. I also think their infotainment systems have been more complicated than necessary. From my perspective, Lexus seems to be very similar personality as Toyota being basically a Toyota with Even better materials which isn't a bad thing. The way I see models like the LS, I don't see them as a true leader in the segment but offering a very competent offering for those who want that type of luxury but more will built. I see Lexus trying to be the best built car in the luxury segment; whereas, The Germans focus more on providing the cutting edge of performance, technology, and interior; the Americans traditionally provided the most cushion and comfort and simplicity using a dress up Chevrolet Ford or Dodge as the basis for that luxury vehicle. I have no problem with Lexus not going for performance, cutting-edge technology and so forth. It's nice to have a manufacturer that builds a a Toyota wearing a suit in the case of models like the ES and RX. And a competent offering from the LS. Well I think it's good for them to offer models like the V8 powered IS and to attempt to make models with the f series, I think that highlights the core of the problem on any attempt to place all their chips in the enthusiast market. Lexus has been moving more and more into the performance direction and the enthusiasts as a whole respond to it thinking that Lexus has become boring. I think that the market has become saturated with luxury brands focusing More and more on performance trying to appeal to enthusiasts All trying to chase BMW But the question is is that the direction they actually need to go? Does everybody who has enough money to buy a brand new Lexus want such a vehicle? Does everybody want that definition of luxury? Is it possible that there are a set of consumers who want a luxury car that is a more traditional interpretation of luxury? In my opinion I think there is a market for people who want a softer suspension, a more thickly padded seat, simpler technology, and honestly want more isolation from the road. If a person lives with chronic pain, having a car with the biggest bolstered rock hard seats with the best cornering the latest technology and other such things is not what the person is looking for. They want to be able to travel as much as they can while feeling as little pain as possible. Currently, there's almost nothing on the market that offers that. Well I think it's good for Lexus to offer an f series, I think there's also a place for a c series for comfort.
Yes it’s boring, needs to be a little more lively. Yes I understand reliability. But I am still choosing a German car for the money over Lexus. It’s not beating BMW right now, nor Mercedes, maybe Audi. But depending on the models I’d take a higher trim Audi over lexus
Lexus makes cars for people who want luxury but want to stay in the Toyota family…they know they are boring but they wont be nickel and dimed for the next 10-15 years
Precisely. I hear the Service Department is bored cause all they do is Oil Changes.
I think the LC500 is absolutely gorgeous.
The body rigidity is a bit lacking, but my god it looks sexy.
It is sexy indeed
As a 33 year old male, I’ve owned 3 Lexus models (GS350 and currently a LS460 and RX330) I love them. They are a joy to drive to me because they are relaxing. I used to have a Infiniti M35, and that was very fun to drive. But it has so many issues I ended up trading it. Lexus isn’t boring, their priorities are just in places where it actually matters. And I say that as an auto enthusiast
Yep, they focus on sales and reputation over fun.
Today, I think Genesis is the closest competition to Lexus. Genesis struggles with brand perception, especially since they share showroom space with Hyundai Elantras and Venues, but where Genesis shines in comparison is in the interiors. Lexus makes a great and reliable car, but the interiors are boring and the tech is lacking in comparison. If Genesis can create a separate dealer network that also provides the same service and upscale experience that Lexus has, they would be hard to beat. If Lexus steps up their game with their interiors and offer some more innovative and newsworthy tech, they would not seem so boring. Everyone knows they are good cars, but although they last, many luxury car buyers lease and want new cars every 3 years, and reliability isn’t a concern for those people. The people who keep them long term are usually older people, and that does not do anything to help them seem fun and exciting.
Hyundai is what happens when you all of a sudden get hot after summer vacation but someone always reminds you that you pee'd that one time in the 3rd grade.
I think Lexus needs to swap platforms and make them RWD exclusive. But the Lexus interiors do get dated easily.
Porsche holds its interiors the same for 2 cycles but it ages better.
@@BrkDownMedia you are right! 😂 you get a new G90 and people are like, I had a Hyundai Excel in high school. Oh wait… I did have one in high school. 😂
Time for an LFA 2
I'd like to see Lexus go even more upmarket. Better designs. More timeless designs. No more ugly grills. I want to see Lexus have designs that can compete with Volvo, Genesis, Range Rover, Porsche, Maserati, Bentley, and even Mazda. Right now, Lexus' new designs like the TX is okay. I'm happy that Lexus didn't make the TX hideous, it actually looks decent. But I would like to see Lexus to be more luxury. Like the LS, LC, and LFA.
The Spindle Grill was as dynamic as it got if I'm being honest... and the people hated it.
I personally haven't had the opportunity to drive one but i have definitely noticed most of the old luxury cars ive seen driving around are typically lexus and maybe a lincoln town car here and there
the towncars are owned by octogenarians who own a 30 year old car with 4000 miles on the odo. That is why they are still around.
Well in all fairness, the 4.6L is very durable being it was used in the Crown Victoria.
Also the twin-turbo V6 in the LS500 is the same engine as the Tundra sans machining debris. The best 2-liter turbo 4-cylinder luxury crossover is the NX200T and NX300.
Toyota still hasn't solved that problem which is crazy.
What about the 2.4L turbo 4 engine in the NX 350?
I had to install a secondary entertainment system in my 2018 GX because it didn’t come with CarPlay. A luxury SUV in 2018. With no CarPlay…. Lexus, baby, what was you doing?
my 2017 lexus doesn’t have it either it sucker
Car Play had a lot of functional issues when it first debuted - So Toyota was very hesitant to introduce it. Plus adding another layer of licensing, I'm sure costed more to produce unlike their Engage System. (I think that's what it was called)
And because of the lack of technology it has a lack of technology… aka, big old power train that people want.
@@BrkDownMediaYou're close. It was called Entune & Lexus called it Enform
10:30 45 years? 😂
4 to 5 Years Lol.
11:31 The F Spprt models are not "ghetto". The range from just being an appearance packing to improving the handling & driving performance with the RX 500h F Sport Performance hybrid model
“Ghetto” is a colloquialism for underwhelming by comparison of the Full blown “F” models that most enthusiasts prefer.
Lexus is best at making vehicles you don’t have to think about- you don’t have to think about pushing buttons, checking the oil, fixing parts, or worrying about resale value.
The more they get away from that, which they are, the more they lose their touch.
I got a 2008 Lexus GS350 cash when a deer hit my Mazda 6 a few years ago. At 308,133 miles, IT STILL puts a Dodge Charger to shame when they try me on the interstate!! Great power! And little maintenance! I’ve become addicted and now I want a newer generation GS. I hate that they no longer have a bigger performance sedan. The IS is too small for me and the AWD ES is front drive bias 🥴
I'm not kidding when I say, I love that Gen. The Wood Grain Steering Wheel is pinnacle Lexus.
13:27 I feel personally attacked. 😂 I own both an MKZ and a Q50. I’ve had my Q50 since she had 23,500 miles on her (I’m the second owner). Now at 96k and very regular maintenance at the Infiniti dealership, they’re saying she needs a transmission. My MKZ is completely warranty backed with Lincoln for 130k miles, so anything goes wrong with her, I’m covered for some time.
Funny enough, I was shopping for a ES when I got my Infiniti; probably wouldn’t be needing a transmission now if I had gotten it instead of the Infiniti.
LOL, No personal attacks. I'm surprised to hear about the Infiniti, cause they don't use the CVT for the Q50. The Lincoln should last as long as you take care of it.
I want a 6-speed manual IS300, since I failed to find one for sale, I'll stay away from any other Lexus. (With all do respect for people who love practical Lexus cars).
You can always check out Cars and Bids - The first gen is more likely to have a manual than a 2nd gen.
I’m going to check out some Lexus LS models on Autotrader…
would be nice to drive one to Wilmington, Delaware for BIG fun! 😌
Biiiiigggg Fun. I check out cars on AutoTrader often. Lol.
I never seen the appeal of newer Lexus just seems like a fancy Toyota is design and technology and performance. Only the Lc500 is good for is its looks the rest of the models can’t hold a candle to Germans Americans and Genesis. Tell Lexus buyers what’s different about that model and a fully loaded Toyota they will say we have leather on the dash. Wow that’s next level for 2004. But hey 😂😂😂
Lol To be fair, their sedans with the exception of ES - are RWD based platforms. So there is a difference. But most people buy the ES or the RX so that's why they can't tell the difference.
Lexus will be slightly quieter inside. Lexus is now moving to having more technology- stupid door handles and big screens.
Not a big difference from Toyota but most people get it to stand out- unlike the reason people used to buy them.
I think part of it is that with the Americans improving interior quality, they ended up behind on materials. The current es has a problem where the airbag area on the passenger side can sink in, giving a hallow after thought. The doors also aren’t as well secured. And there’s a point where people use to a specific brand notice this when cross shopping. Most people I know who have a Lexus, have only had a Lexus. Most who don’t, have had many different luxury brands, including Lexus in the 2000’s. I think another part is the grill. It’s very polarizing
Most Car Companies have been suffering from QC - particularly because there's higher demand with more electrical mechanisms and more regulation compliant designs. And yes, the Spindle Grille got Lexus Canceled lol
Family has had a 2011 Malibu, 2007 Suburban, 2014 Cadillac crossover, Chrysler 300, and a few other cars.
The 300 got wrecked, all others were given up on because they lacked reliability.
Now we have a 2012 RX that was bought with 150,000 miles. After 2 years it had 200,000 miles and almost drives like new. Struts might be a little worn has it has a few things that need fixed- fog lamp fell out of housing & passenger seat sensor is bad, but the power train has been PERFECT. High mileage Lexus models are not a massive risk like most used vehicles.
@@djplonghead5403 appreciate the input! However, this was about interior fit and material quality. Though GM recently has gotten back down to their mid 2000s level again. The Cadillac at least has improved a few vehicles.
Regardless though, American brands have slowly gained reliability in the engineering front. Just not yet at a Japanese level. I’m hard pressed to consider Chrysler even close to the luxury field. I will say everyone I know with a ford product of modern hasn’t really had issues aside from the sunroofs leaking. A couple are even near 200k. And one does have a current Lincoln Corsair with no issues yet. Not sure of mileage on theirs but they have made a couple trips from Chicago to San Jose California twice, and one trip to Vegas during August throughout the past year in a half.
I think they do need to make their cars look a little more different than the Toyota counterpart.
The TX and Grand Highlander are way too similar.
I have always considered Lexus road appliances. Nothing exciting about them, aside from a few models. Numbness is on the road. Great cars just not for me. Team Acura/Honda!
Yeah, they are. I'm going back American! Lol
@@BrkDownMedia LMAO
Yes
You're welcome
But they make a heck of a car.
Nice video! I don't really consider Lexus to have ever been an exciting brand per se. I will say that I think some of their older models were better styled. I also think their infotainment systems have been more complicated than necessary. From my perspective, Lexus seems to be very similar personality as Toyota being basically a Toyota with Even better materials which isn't a bad thing. The way I see models like the LS, I don't see them as a true leader in the segment but offering a very competent offering for those who want that type of luxury but more will built. I see Lexus trying to be the best built car in the luxury segment; whereas, The Germans focus more on providing the cutting edge of performance, technology, and interior; the Americans traditionally provided the most cushion and comfort and simplicity using a dress up Chevrolet Ford or Dodge as the basis for that luxury vehicle. I have no problem with Lexus not going for performance, cutting-edge technology and so forth. It's nice to have a manufacturer that builds a a Toyota wearing a suit in the case of models like the ES and RX. And a competent offering from the LS. Well I think it's good for them to offer models like the V8 powered IS and to attempt to make models with the f series, I think that highlights the core of the problem on any attempt to place all their chips in the enthusiast market. Lexus has been moving more and more into the performance direction and the enthusiasts as a whole respond to it thinking that Lexus has become boring. I think that the market has become saturated with luxury brands focusing More and more on performance trying to appeal to enthusiasts All trying to chase BMW But the question is is that the direction they actually need to go? Does everybody who has enough money to buy a brand new Lexus want such a vehicle? Does everybody want that definition of luxury? Is it possible that there are a set of consumers who want a luxury car that is a more traditional interpretation of luxury? In my opinion I think there is a market for people who want a softer suspension, a more thickly padded seat, simpler technology, and honestly want more isolation from the road. If a person lives with chronic pain, having a car with the biggest bolstered rock hard seats with the best cornering the latest technology and other such things is not what the person is looking for. They want to be able to travel as much as they can while feeling as little pain as possible. Currently, there's almost nothing on the market that offers that. Well I think it's good for Lexus to offer an f series, I think there's also a place for a c series for comfort.
Agreed. That's why I said "Boring" isn't a bad thing and everything can't be exciting to drive - because the average consumer doesn't care.
Lexus has always been boring. Thank you for the clickbait.
Nah. For the first 10 years, they had a point to prove. The 2nd Gen GS had a detuned Supra engine. They got boring towards the entrance of the RX300.
I think they need a design change theyve been looking the same since i was about to start middle school and im an adult now
Yeah I think the TX & RZ were supposed to be taste tests for the incoming fleet.
@@BrkDownMedia damn i wasnt paying attention to them so tells ya they arent doing too much
Yes it’s boring, needs to be a little more lively. Yes I understand reliability. But I am still choosing a German car for the money over Lexus. It’s not beating BMW right now, nor Mercedes, maybe Audi. But depending on the models I’d take a higher trim Audi over lexus
Yeah, I think those brands still (somewhat) cater to the enthusiasts whereas the Japanese brands still focus on efficiency and reliability.
Uh when was Lexus EVER exciting? 🤣 That occasionally look cool IS300 & LC500 but that's about where it stops.
Always were
Lexus is boring thats there appeal its a fancy toyota. Lexus people are the middle management of the luxury car world.
Yeah, unfortunately you may have a point.
@BrkDownMedia why it's there whole point of Lexus a nicer boring toyota it's what normal people like.
Lexus has always bin boring.
Not always but definitely lately.