Lexus LS500/Mark Levinson Reference

[Sal Collaziano]

I seriously DO wonder - do those "sport" versions REALLY outsell regular models? Or are they making extra bucks on price? I don't get it.

I wonder the same. It all started with BMW and their 7-Series had a lot of followers - mainly driving enthusiasts. I just can't imagine all that many driving enthusiasts wanting or needing a full size premium luxury sedan. However, those who do, the 7-Series was the only option. So they had that part of the market cornered. Cadillac died trying to follow it. They're still here, but they're really dead. I wouldn't be surprised if Cadillac just went away eventually. Lincoln will be the new luxury king in America soon enough - if they aren't already.

Cadillac chased BMW and Lexus was born. Lexus chased BMW and Genesis was born...

When the first Hyundai Genesis Sedan came to market, the suspensions were stuff specifically to appease the car magazines... Unfortunately, sometimes that's what it takes to get your name/brand out there. But, generally, people who want a luxury car don't want a stiff ride. As long as the car handles well enough to where it's safe in the event of hard cornering at a high speed, it's fine. It doesn't need to ride on rails.

 

[Backslack]

Lexus to Genesis is like Rolex to Seiko….so let’s be real. Genesis is a good car….and cheaper…..but that does not substitute for Lexus legendary...Period.

Is that what you tell yourself in your Toyota Avalon Lexus ES?

Lexus nowadays is nothing more than mediocre rebadged Toyota products, barring the LS500 which was a flop critically and commercially. The fact that the decade-old IS is still alive via a second refresh is outright embarrassing.

 

[iSOBigD]

Is that what you tell yourself in your Toyota Avalon Lexus ES?

Lexus nowadays is nothing more than mediocre rebadged Toyota products, barring the LS500 which was a flop critically and commercially. The fact that the decade-old IS is still alive via a second refresh is outright embarrassing.

I would argue the LC500 is their only great car right now, and the LS if you can put up with the exterior looks and you're into the more unique interior. Most of their vehicles are arguably ugly and forgettable, despite their age or redesigns.

 

[Backslack]

I would argue the LC500 is their only great car right now, and the LS if you can put up with the exterior looks and you're into the more unique interior. Most of their vehicles are arguably ugly and forgettable, despite their age or redesigns.

I agree about the LC500, but it's a total outlier to the brand much like the NSX is to Acura. It's a car with such niche appeal and low sales that quite frankly I'm amazed modern conservative Lexus bothered to make it at all considering how their recent mantra has been to basically kill anything that isn't shared with a Toyota.

Even then, the LC makes mistakes typical of Toyota. Not offering it with AWD when it's available on pretty much every other GT car on the market, the pathetic and anemic hybrid V6 version (also shared with the LS500h), and of course the unusable infotainment.

Lexus has become such an afterthought to Toyota that they sacrificed the next generation GS to turn it into a Toyota hydrogen car where they have to give it a 50% discount and free fuel to get people to even look at it.

The 2021 Toyota Mirai Is Already Available With $20,000 In Incentives | Carscoops

Toyota is also selling the 2021 Mirai with up to $15,000 worth of complimentary hydrogen

www.carscoops.com

 

[Westpat]

The LS430 was boring - but solid. Not really something you can "love" - but a great automobile...

I agree 100%. Moving up to 2010 4.6 from 2004 LS430. The LS430 was the more comfortable ride, but really to the point that you were insulated from the act of driving. Plus, LS430 is not even close in the looks department. The Genesis is more athletic and allows me to relax and cruise, or to have a more connected and responsive driving experience. I wanted to try a sports sedan, without the headache of a BMW, and I am quite pleased with my choice.
David

 

[Sal Collaziano]

I wanted to try a sports sedan, without the headache of a BMW, and I am quite pleased with my choice.

Definitely... You made a great choice.