Lexus News: Lexus: Staying Out Of Entry-Level Lux, Baby RX?

[William Maley]

William Maley

Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com

February 24, 2012

Lexus is trying to gain back the crown of being the best selling luxury brand in the U.S. Their plan includes nine new models, including the new GS, three F-Sport models, and new RX. But they're saying no to the idea of an entry-level luxury car, like the upcoming Acura ILX.

"I don't think [entry-luxury] is a focus of ours right now. Other manufacturers have a reason for going there. Some might be customer demand; some might be government regulation," said Brian Smith, marketing vice president.

Instead, Lexus will focus on other products, like the GS.

We've learned over the years one of the worst things for a great launch is trickling out the product. And in this case, the remaining inventory of the previous-generation [GS] is virtually gone. There's no reason to worry about a sell-down. We just opened up the factory to produce as much as possible. We're probably going to get well over 1,000 [cars] retailed this month."

Moving on from the GS, Lexus will focus on expanding existing product lines to suit the needs of its customers. One of those lines could be the RX.

"There is room for that type of thing, [but] nothing that we can announce right now. I would love to see the RX family grow. We don't have specifics, but it's a very capable vehicle, and it's a broad section of the market."

Source: Kicking Tires

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[Blake Noble]

So Mr. Smith doesn't think Lexus builds or should build an entry-level luxury car?

Ohhhkayyyyyy then. Carry on.

[G. David Felt]

That is fine, let them continue with their bland boring so called quality luxury auto's. They truly live in a fantasy world.

[Drew Dowdell]

Instead, Lexus will focus on other products, like the GS.

Well after 10 years, it's about time. They are still at STS like sales rates.

[Drew Dowdell]

New Lexus ad points out 3 new techs on the GS that have been on GM cars for years, even decades. Heads-up, Blind Spot, Night Vision. Amusingly, the beginning of the Lexus ad talks about leaving old technology behind.

[ocnblu]

So, Lexus will bring a Yaris-based CUV to market to try and steal Encore's thunder?