5 Ways Lexus is Underrated (5 Ways Lexus is Overrated)

Intro

Lexus has been around for about 35 years now. And while that may not make it the oldest automotive company in the world, it is no longer the new kid on the block. And now that Lexus has over three decades of history behind it, people have formed general feelings about the company and the vehicles it makes. Some of these feelings are the result of some rather obvious Lexus accomplishments. The LFA is one of the best super cars of this century. We all know that. Lexus builds extremely reliable vehicles. We all know that as well. We are not here today to talk about the obvious. We are here to talk about five ways that Lexus may be overrated and five ways that Lexus may be underrated.

So, we put aside the obvious points about such things as the LFA and Lexus reliability. We instead focus on areas that may surprise folks a bit for better or for worse about the current Lexus ownership experience. Do you agree with this list? If not, let us know what you would change about it.  

Overrated #5 – Underwhelming Base Models

Some folks may expect to open the door of any Lexus and be blown away by deep pile carpeting, and yards of supple leather. That is simply not the case with many Lexus base trim level models. It is not like they are penalty boxes to sit in, but there are likely more plastic and other lower grade materials than some people might expect given the badge and price point. The same goes for the power plants. Not every Lexus model is lighting quick and makes a ton of horsepower. A 2024 UX 300h makes less than 200 horsepower. This doesn’t mean these vehicles are not worth the price, but buyers need to understand that just because it is a Lexus doesn’t mean that you will be getting the best of everything unless you are willing to pay for it.

Underrated #5 – Dealership Experience

Many folks don’t factor in the dealership experience when shopping for a new car, but it is an important part of the equation. A poor dealership experience can turn you sour on even the best car.  But thankfully Lexus dealers have a reputation for providing exceptional owner experiences. Thanks to the well-known reliability of Lexus products, you will not be visiting your dealership often, but when you do, you are likely to enjoy the experience.

Overrated #4 – Lexus Maintenance Costs

For a luxury brand Lexus maintenance costs are actually quite reasonable, when compared to the likes of Audi and Mercedes. But many major components in a Lexus are shared with Toyota, yet maintenance at a Lexus dealer will be significantly more expensive compared to a Toyota dealership. That wonderful Lexus dealership experience isn’t free. So, while you may enjoy your Lexus dealership experience, you will not enjoy paying for it.

Underrated #4 – Styling

Many Lexus models play it safe in the styling department. But the company also offers some stylish options. The LC models have been out for several years now, yet they still have stunning, concept car-like styling that turns heads. The new GX is a tough looking SUV. It manages to look both luxurious and rugged at the same time. The IS 500 is full of sporty design cues like quad exhausts and a bulging hood. The point is that Lexus does offer some vehicles with standout from the crowd styling that people may not expect.

Overrated #3 – Lexus Stigma

Lexus makes some fast cars, and some rugged SUVs. However, the Lexus brand seems to be saddled with the stigma that they are vehicles for older people. The golf club and winery set are the only ones that would consider buying a Lexus, right? This stigma is likely due to the fact that while Lexus does offer tough and sporty models, the vast majority of vehicles they sell are luxurious, and reliable, but uninspiring sedans and SUVs. Their top-selling model is the RX SUV. A wonderful vehicle for sure, but not exactly a dream vehicle for anyone in the coveted 18-to-34 age bracket.  

Underrated #3 – Body-On-Frame SUVs

When people think of Lexus, they think of luxurious and efficient vehicles. Vehicles that will provide reliable and drama-free travel for many years to come. But Lexus still makes tough body-on-frame SUVs as well. The LX and GX models are body-on-frame models that those that want on old school, off-road-oriented SUV would be quite happy with. It is rare for automakers to offer body-on-frame SUVs in 2024 due to their reduced efficiency. Many people would probably assume that a company like Ford, which specializes in big trucks and SUVs would offer more body-on-frame SUV options. But that is not the case. Ford only offers one body-on-frame SUV and that is the Expedition.

Overrated #2 – Sportiest Models Don’t Have Enough Sport

Lexus pulls punches a bit on their top sport models. For example, the IS 500 is a great car around town and sporty enough for most situations. But, if you are looking for a full boar sports car that you want to take to the track, the Lexus falls short and will be bested by the likes of the BMW M3. Track rats are not a core Lexus demographic, but it would be nice if Lexus would give us a no-holds-barred sports car that prioritizes lap times over luxury.  

Underrated #2 – Sport Performance Suspension Options

While it is a bit disappointing that Lexus doesn’t offer a track focused model, they do offer sporty versions of nearly every model that they do offer. Even the SUVs like the UX 300h and RX 500h are available in a F Sport trim levels which includes a sport-tuned adaptive variable suspension. Choosing this or any of the F Sport packages on any Lexus models will not transform the vehicle into a race car. But if you do want a sharper handling model with associated sporty design elements, you can get it on just about any Lexus model.  

Overrated #1 – Toyota Platform Sharing

In some cases, it can be hard to justify the price premium for a Lexus model over a similar Toyota. For example, the Lexus LX over the Toyota Sequoia. Lexus LX has more luxury features for sure. But the Toyota Sequoia is more powerful, more efficient, has a greater towing capacity, more cargo room, more passenger room, and is less expensive. An automobile purchase is often more emotional than rational. And that is probably a good thing for Lexus, because in some cases, the less expensive Toyota product is so good, that paying more for the equivalent Lexus sometimes does not make rational sense.

Underrated #1 – V8 Engine Options

The naturally aspirated V8 engine is disappearing from the automotive landscape. Even the V8-loving brand Dodge has killed the Hemi V8 engine. There are still some American muscle holdouts such as the Corvette and Mustang, but finding a V8 engine is getting more and more difficult. However, it may surprise some to learn that Lexus is still proudly offering a naturally aspirated V8 in several models. The LC, IS 500, and RC F all still come with a powerful V8 that performs and sounds in a way that reminds us of why we love the V8 in the first place. Lexus may have a reputation for building sedate luxury people movers, but if you want a raucous V8, they have you covered there too.

Images: Lexus