Traditionally Japanese attempts to produce up market luxury cars in the Jaguar/ Mercedes class had not met the much success in Europe. With the Lexus LS 400, owners Toyota were hoping to make a break from the past and change all that. In fact this model was marketed entirely separately from Toyota, which is an indication of how seriously the project was taken. The car was entirely new but conventionally engineered, with a 250 bhp multi valve V8 driving the rear wheels.
It was a fast car but, more to the point, a very refined one that could match the best Europe had to offer. The engine was virtually silent, the four speed automatic transmission seamless, and road noise never intruded. Inside executives could lounge on soft leathers enjoying the best everything: there were no options for the Lexus, just one specification that the ride beautifully, but it also handled well, feeling much smaller than it was.
All it lacked was character. The shape was admirably aerodynamic but rather bland which, to be fair, was always the makers intention. It was marketed from the start as a car in which the wealthy would be able to keep a low profile. The Lexus made friends instantly, despite being a completely unknown reliable, topping Americas important J.D. Power Customer Satisfaction Index for several years.
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