Best Used Lexus: Top 10
Lexus is a luxury car brand of Toyota Motor Company. First introduced in 1989 in the United States, Lexus is now sold in more than 70 countries. In 2018, Lexus global sales increased 4.9% to 701,000 vehicles. The largest market is the United States, accounting for 42% of sales, and the fastest growing markets were China, Japan and Taiwan.
The brand is dynamic and here are just the latest of its achievements. In 2020, Lexus celebrates the 10th anniversary of the LFA and passes the milestone of one million sales in Europe. In the same year, the impressive LC convertible, the first all-electric Lexus UX 300e car is unveiled in Europe.
Lexus passed the milestone of 2 million global electrified vehicle sales in 2021 and announced a plan to sell only electric vehicles globally by 2035, and in Western Europe, the U.S. and China by 2030. The second-generation NX was unveiled, including Lexus' first-ever plug-in hybrid, the NX 450h+, which sets new standards in the segment for range and efficiency. Also on display was the hydrogen-powered ROV concept, designed for exciting and eco-friendly adventures.
Now let's move on to a more detailed description of Lexus cars to figure out which used Lexus is best to buy on the aftermarket.
Top 10: Best Used Lexus Models
Our rankings will include:
- Lexus RX (AL10) 2008-2015
- Lexus ES (XV40) 2006-2012
- Lexus IS (XE30) 2013-2020
- Lexus GS (L10) 2011-2020
- Lexus LS (XF40) 2006-2017
- Lexus NX (AZ10) 2014-2021
- Lexus GX (J150) 2009-2020
- Lexus CT (A10) 2011-2022
- Lexus LX (J200) 2007-2021
- Lexus RC (XC10) 2014-2021
Let's take a closer look at each model to choose the best used Lexus you can buy on the aftermarket.
Lexus RX (AL10) 2008-2015
Lexus continues to focus on hybrid technology more than diesel engines for its vehicles. This is the third generation of the RX sports SUV and the second to be offered with hybrid drive.
Lexus' insistence on gasoline-electric powertrains is due to lower emissions and a smoother ride than diesel rivals. The 2008 model has significantly lower fuel consumption than the latest Range Rover Sport TDV6, and less than some small cars. This means the vehicle is subject to low tax.
Choosing which RX packages to buy comes down to two things: whether you want steel springs or air suspension, and how much equipment you need - though even the base models are well-equipped.
Combining a 3.5-liter V6 gasoline engine with an electric motor in a hybrid powertrain, the Lexus RX450h is not only one of the most environmentally friendly large SUVs, but also one of the fastest. Acceleration to 100 kilometers per hour takes just 7.8 seconds, putting it on par with the BMW X5 30d. The Lexus is also great at overtaking thanks to battery support just when you need it. It can drive on electric power alone for short distances at speeds of up to 40 kilometers per hour, True, one of the drawbacks of the RX users consider its variator (CVT), which can make the powertrain hum quite loudly when accelerating.
Lexus ES (XV40) 2006-2012
The first Lexus ES, codenamed V20, debuted alongside the V8 Lexus LS 400 for the 1990 model year, powered by a V6 engine. It was intended to rank below the flagship model and compete with the Acura Legend. The Lexus ES was based on the Toyota Camry, as were subsequent generations. The first ES model was produced for only two model years, and the second generation Lexus ES was introduced for the 1991 model year, remaining on the market for five years.
It was succeeded by the third generation XV20 in 1997, followed by the fourth generation XV30 in 2002. Like the third generation, the XV30 also had a restyling before the fifth generation XV40 appeared in 2006. After that, there were two more generations of the Lexus ES, right up to the present, where the premium midsize sedan is available with a variety of powertrain options, including hybrids.
The main thing about this sedan is luxury, not performance. This premium entry-level car offers a cozy interior with high-quality leather upholstery, wood accents and good noise and vibration isolation to satisfy anyone who craves peace and quiet.
Its V6 engine runs smoothly and, for most drivers, proves to be powerful enough for a luxury sedan that doesn't aspire to sporty records. However, the ES has one major drawback - its price becomes high when options are added.
The car's closest competitors in terms of performance and comfort levels are the Buick LaCrosse and Hyundai Genesis, although they are more responsive if you like dynamic driving. Also worth considering are the Acura TL and Volvo S60, which are even sportier. These models are worth considering, but the 2006-2012 Lexus ES continues to be a great choice for those looking for a luxury sedan.
Lexus IS (XE30) 2013-2020
The third generation of the model retained the same popularity as the first two generations. But when it was launched in 2013, Lexus made the bold and potentially risky decision to drop the diesel version and offer only gasoline and gasoline-electric hybrid models, believing it would be the best solution for the future.
Two gasoline versions were offered: IS200t with a 2.0-liter engine and 245 hp, as well as IS250 with a 2.5-liter engine and 204 hp. However, they are very rare on the secondary market. The hybrid version IS300h is much more widespread.
Under the eye-catching but traditional body of the IS300h four-door sedan is a 2.5-liter gasoline engine linked to an electric motor and driving the rear wheels through a continuously variable transmission (CVT). The total output of the powertrain is 181 hp.
In driving, the Lexus IS is crisp and reliable. Both versions are quite quiet on the move, with the hybrid being electric-only for short distances. The interior of the vehicle may not be as refined, but its build quality and use of high quality materials are beyond reproach. The vehicle is well-equipped, and its safety and security systems are top-notch.
The 2020 Lexus IS still stands out among other entry-level luxury models with its stylish looks and sporty pretensions. While this sedan doesn't quite live up to all the expectations you imbue when looking at the car's bold design, the ride and handling are a pleasure to drive. The interior of the IS is as recognizable as the exterior, with a driver-oriented layout and quality materials.
For the 2020 generation, Lexus has made minor changes to the 2020 IS300 and IS350 models following engine updates and the addition of new options for 2019. The IS lineup now includes a Blackline variant with dark exterior elements and blue interior accents.
Lexus GS (L10) 2011-2020
The Lexus GS is a car that is perfect for your daily commute. It is easy to drive and has excellent performance. Luxurious trim, comfortable seats make traveling in it pleasant and not burdensome.
The base model in the GS sedan series is the 300. Its turbocharged four-cylinder engine provides a good combination of fuel efficiency and good acceleration. The GS 300's suspension also strikes a good balance between comfort and handling. And another advantage is its competitive price.
The GS has been on the market for a while, so it's unlikely to attract the attention of others. Also, Lexus' difficult-to-use infotainment system is one of the least appealing in the luxury car segment. Still, the GS 300 is a sedan worth considering for purchase.
The Lexus GS 350 is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine with 303 horsepower and a six-speed automatic transmission with manual mode. All-wheel drive is available. The V6 engine is quite responsive and accelerates the car 100 km/h in an impressive 5.7 seconds.
The Lexus GS 450h is a hybrid equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine with two electric motors. It is the fastest of the GS sedans, accelerating to 100 km per hour in 5.2 seconds.
The Lexus GS 460 is powered by a 4.6-liter V8 engine with 342 horsepower and an eight-speed automatic transmission. To enhance performance, the eight-speed transmission has a sport mode that allows you to manually shift gears using a lever on the console.
The GS 350 AWD features an all-wheel drive system with a quick-clutch inter-axle differential that, under normal conditions, sends 70 percent of the power to the rear wheels, giving the car sporty dynamics. When wheel sensors detect slippery road surfaces, up to 50 percent of engine power is sent to the front wheels.
For the 2020 model year, Lexus has discontinued the rear-wheel-drive versions of the GS300 and GS300 F Sport.
Lexus LS (XF40) 2006-2017
Few premium brands can boast such a rich heritage in hybrid technology as Lexus. The Lexus brand's first gasoline-electric vehicle was launched in 2005, and the flagship LS was the first limousine model to feature this innovative powertrain. After a 2006 restyling, the sedan got a fresh look, and the top-of-the-line Premier versions were equipped with many standard features.
The luxurious Lexus LS is available in two wheelbases and with two engine options: A 4.6-liter V8 in the LS 460 and a 5.0-liter V8 in the LS 600h hybrid version, equipped with an electric motor and batteries. The hybrid can run on electricity alone, but more often than not, the electric motor assists the gasoline motor, and power is sent to all four wheels via a CVT automatic transmission.
The LS 460 is rear-wheel drive and uses a conventional eight-speed automatic transmission. On highways, the car shows excellent results: the interior is quiet, and the air suspension absorbs all road irregularities. In the city, the Lexus is also very quiet, although the interior is more affected by bumps from road irregularities.
The interior is incredibly comfortable, with spacious rear seats with massage function and a passenger entertainment system. However, diesel rivals offer better fuel economy and the Lexus interior doesn't have the same casual elegance as its main rivals - Mercedes, Jaguar and Audi.
Lexus NX (AZ10) 2014-2021
Lexus' best aftermarket model, which remains the original choice in a premium large SUV market dominated by German brands. It really stands out, and this first-generation model (2014-2021) has a few trumps up its sleeve - one of which is incredible reliability.
Unlike most modern SUVs, there is no diesel version of the NX. Instead, Lexus decided to release a hybrid model of the NX 300h. A total of two engine options were available. The second was the gasoline turbocharged NX 200t, which was discontinued in 2016 due to low sales.
The Lexus NX is the first model of the brand to feature pre-emergency safety and adaptive cruise control as standard in all trims. Also for the first time, Lexus offered a wireless charging pad for smartphones and a new Remote Touch interface with a touchpad, replacing the inconvenient mouse-like controller; however, these innovations are available only in higher versions.
For 2015, the NX 200t model was added to the lineup with a new turbocharged 2.0-liter 235-hp gasoline engine equipped with a six-speed automatic transmission. This version is available in the F Sport package, which provides more performance.
Lexus GX (J150) 2009-2020
The 2009 Lexus GX combines sleek design and luxury in an off-road-ready package. At the time of release, this combination delighted reviewers, but most buyers found the luxury crossover better suited to their daily lives.
Based on the 2009 Toyota 4Runner platform, the 2009 Lexus GX 470 combines Lexus luxury with Toyota character. The GX can seat up to eight people when equipped with an optional third row of seats, and has excellent off-road capabilities.
The 2009 Lexus GX 470 is built on a truck base, providing excellent towing and off-road capabilities. The GX has poor fuel economy compared to most midsize SUVs. Its third row of seats is less comfortable than many competitors, and it lacks the same amount of cargo space. Overall, the Lexus GX 470 is an excellent choice for those looking for a good combination of luxury and off-road capability.
Standard features on the 2009 Lexus GX 470 include an adaptive suspension system, leather upholstery, heated front seats, dual-zone climate control and a sunroof. Additional options included an upgraded audio system, navigation, Bluetooth and a rear passenger entertainment system.
The 2020 Lexus GX is an aging midsize luxury SUV. It stands out in this segment with its rugged frame construction and impressive off-road abilities, handling steep trails and rocky gorges with ease. It's still a vehicle with a quiet interior, a reasonably smooth ride and plenty of amenities.
The 2020 model lineup has received many improvements. The exterior features a new grille, as well as a redesigned hinged tailgate with emblem and license plate trim. Triple LED headlights are standard, and a shade of Atomic Silver has been added to the exterior color palette. The interior gets new trim pieces on the steering wheel and gear lever, as well as two new USB ports for rear passengers. The Lexus Safety System+ driver assistance features are now standard on all models.
Lexus CT (A10) 2011-2022
The Lexus CT, which utilizes many of the hybrid technologies from the iconic Toyota Prius, doesn't satisfy everyone with its handling. Its 1.8-liter engine and electric motor combined with a variator (CVT) provide mediocre performance, and the car becomes noticeably noisy under acceleration. Yes, it can get around town on electric power alone, but not for long, and when the engine kicks in, the noise level rises dramatically. Add to this significant road noise and stiff suspension, which on some configurations with large wheels becomes simply uncomfortable, and all the advantages of CT are quickly lost.
The interior offers a quality build, and most materials look and feel like high quality, but competitors from Audi and BMW still outclass the car in terms of fit and finish. There's plenty of room in the front, but taller passengers in the back will feel cramped. The trunk allows you to carry decent cargo, but it has serious competitors in its class.
The CT is a fairly expensive car even in the aftermarket. So the model offers many of the advantages of a premium compact hatchback, but in everyday use its powertrain somewhat limits your options, and it can't always match more versatile rivals.
Lexus LX (J200) 2007-2021
The 2021 Lexus LX is one of those rare vehicles that combines unprecedented off-road performance and luxury. It shares a platform and technical details with the Toyota Land Cruiser, which confirms its off-road abilities, but it's dressed in an ironed tuxedo, not jeans. It has a powerful V-8 under the hood, but don't expect dynamism and maneuverability.
The Lexus' comfortable ride is on par with other luxury SUVs like the Land Rover Range Rover and Infiniti QX80. The interior is chic, but if you're looking for the latest solutions, you may be disappointed with the LX.
Lexus' biggest SUV for 2021 gets a definite upgrade. The new sporty version is based on the three-row model and features unique exterior styling, including 21-inch wheels and a choice of Eminent White Pearl, Black Onyx or Atomic Silver body colors.
Inspiration Series Package #2 is available for the three-row model, which adds black exterior trim pieces, 21-inch black wheels, blacked-out lenses for the lighting elements, black badges, and Rioja Red leather seats. A Glazed Caramel-colored interior is now available, and the LX's infotainment system is now compatible with Amazon Alexa.
Lexus RC (XC10) 2014-2021
The ultimate Lexus for those who want to be a road lord. It's not without its flaws, but one look at the 2021 Lexus RC is enough to make you want to try it out on a twisty two-lane road. The truth is, behind the wheel, this sporty coupe doesn't live up to all expectations. It comes standard with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine and rear-wheel drive. A V-6 and all-wheel drive are also available. Acceleration is acceptable, but not best-in-class, and the RC lacks the precise handling of some competitors.
On the other hand, this two-door offers the refined comfort typical of all other Lexus models. There's plenty of room in the front seats even for large passengers, but the rear seats will be cramped. A number of technological features come standard, including an infotainment system with Wi-Fi hotspot and a suite of driver assistance systems.
For 2021, the RC Black Line Special Edition becomes available, which includes black exterior details and ash wood interior trim. A limited edition RC F Sport model is also available. Otherwise, the changes are minor: blind spot monitoring has become a standard feature, and parking sensors have been added to the Premium package.
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