Master Mechanic Reveals Important Used Car Shopping Info

Worth the Jump?

It's no secret that Lexus is the luxury arm of Toyota, which means that its vehicles are based on versions that are cheaper and less luxurious. This is the case with most every luxury brand out there in the world, which means that many will openly wonder if it's worth spending the extra money for one. This is one big question that a Toyota Master Diagnostic Technician seeks to answer in this video from YouTuber The Car Care Nut, and it's undoubtedly an interesting conversation.

Photos: Lexus

Glorified Toyota?

The video kicks off as the tech discusses what makes Lexus so special, which mainly centers around the brand's pursuit of perfection from the very beginning. While Lexus and Toyota shared a lot in common in the early days, the luxury arm is now its own separate entity with its own design and engineering teams. Regardless, our host notes that Lexus is essentially a glorified Toyota, though that isn't a bad thing by any means.

Photos: Lexus

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Same, but Different

While Lexus vehicles may share structures, architectures, and drivetrains with Toyota vehicles, we are talking about an automaker with a stellar reputation for quality and reliability. Plus, when you place a Lexus next to its Toyota twin, virtually no one will be able to tell that they're essentially the same car underneath, which often happens in the world of rebadged luxury cars.

Photos: Lexus

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Justifying the Cost

Much of what makes Lexus special also boils down to materials. The things you see and touch are far nicer than anything Toyota uses, and as our host points out, Lexus vehicles feature far more insulating materials than Toyota vehicles. This makes them quieter and adds a distinct luxury feel, which more than justifies the greater cost.

Photos: Lexus

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Other Differences

Lexus also places a large emphasis on the way its cars drive and handle, while Toyota is more focused on things like ride quality over sportiness. Unlike many of its German counterparts, however, Lexus maintenance costs aren't incredibly high, thanks in part to the fact that its vehicles are very easy to work on and far less complex than the competition, mechanically speaking.

Photos: Lexus

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Appealing Factors

Much of that is thanks to the fact that Lexus shares the bulk of its mechanical components with Toyota, and it doesn't change them very often. Toyota's powertrains are tried and true, with many years of refinement designed to make them as reliable as possible. Couple that with the fact that parts are readily available and cheap, and it's easy to see why Lexus has so much appeal compared to its European rivals.

Photos: Lexus

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Worth It?

Regardless, it's still worth wondering if paying a premium for a Lexus product is worth it, seeing as how they share so much in common with Toyota vehicles. Our master mechanic says yes, and suggests that anyone seeking a quiet, comfortable, and the reliable luxury car should seek out a Lexus. While a Lexus may not be quite as thrilling in terms of ultimate performance when compared to some of its German competition, it's ultimately worth the trade-off given the long-term reliability and maintenance savings costs one will incur.

Photos: Lexus

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Check out the how-to sections of ClubLexus.com for help keeping your car in great shape.