Here's What Lexus Model Names Really Mean
Turns out, there is meaning behind those letters and numbers.
What's In a Name?
Lexus has been building vehicles for some time now, each with its own distinctive name - even if the luxury brand's nomenclature has changed a bit over that time span. However, it's never really been clear what each model name actually stood for, at least until now, as Lexus has shed a bit of light on that particular mystery for us.
Photos: Lexus
Lexus IS
Since the arrival of the IS 200 in 1999, the Lexus IS range has always combined traditional Lexus qualities in a smaller, more mechanically dynamic package aimed at younger customers. Fittingly, IS stands for Intelligent Sports.
Photos: Lexus
Lexus NX
The Nimble Crossover - or Lexus NX marks the point at which a luxury mid-size saloon meets a capable off-road vehicle. Its smaller, more wieldy size endows it with a nimble nature that makes it a perfect tool for urban and country routes alike.
Photos: Lexus
Lexus UX
The arrival of the UX marks the first time Lexus has produced a truly compact luxury crossover. During development, Lexus aimed to embody a free-spirited style that would appeal to modern urban explorers – people who seek a fresh, dynamic take on a luxury lifestyle. Hence the name UX stands for Urban Crossover.
Photos: Lexus
Lexus RX
Arguably the most popular of all the Lexus model names, the RX stands for Radiant Crossover. The word Radiant represents the bright new future Lexus envisioned at the car’s launch at the start of the Millennium. The model was the first sports utility vehicle that marked a Crossover point between a luxury saloon and an off-roader.
Photos: Lexus
Lexus RC
The Lexus RC was designed to challenge perceptions about what a self-charging, petrol-electric hybrid should look like. As the first Lexus hybrid packaged in a premium two-door coupe shell, this Radical Coupe not only delivers impressive design, Lexus luxury and craftsmanship, but a refined and engaging driving experience, too.
Photos: Lexus
Lexus ES
Launched alongside the LS back in 1989, the mid-size Lexus Executive Sedan is one of Lexus’ most popular saloons, with the seventh generation of the ES launching back in 2019.
Photos: Lexus
Lexus LS
LS stands for Luxury Sedan. The original LS 400 – the car that launched Lexus back in 1989 – was the work of 60 designers, 1,400 engineers, 2,300 technicians and over 200 support workers. The Sedan part of the name refers to the model’s traditional four-door, two-box shape.
Photos: Lexus
