Best Lexus Cars: Sedans, Coupes & Convertibles

Apr 7, 2021

Lexus pioneered handcrafted comfort into the auto market 30 years ago. Today, it continues to redefine the ‘luxury car’ while adding a dose of adrenaline.

2021 Lexus ES-Photo by Lexus

It was over 30 years ago that the U.S. market got its first taste of Toyota’s new luxury brand, Lexus. In the early 1980s, rivals like Honda and Nissan were hard at work launching their own Acura and Infiniti luxury brands.

So Toyota embarked on a new effort to produce what could be considered the best car in the world. It was called the F1 project, short for “flagship one” and it resulted in the original Lexus LS 400 full-size sedan.

A shockwave was sent through European-dominated luxury car dealerships across the country. The LS was praised for its quiet elegance and available V8 engine that was priced to compete against the rivals’ six-cylinder versions. Lexus quickly added the midsize ES 250, and the second-generation updated ES 300, which were based on the Toyota Camry.

By the early 1990s, the lineup included the midsize sports GS sports sedan and the SC 400 sports coupe. It was clear that Lexus was here to stay, and the marque quickly became one of the best-selling luxury brands in the U.S.

During the early 2000s, Lexus continued their expansion and introduced the IS, a new compact sports sedan. The Lexus lineup of sedans remained fairly constant through the rest of the decade but ended with SC leaving the lineup in July 2010 after nine years of production.

Since then, Lexus added the new RC coupe in 2015, and the new LC coupe in 2018.

Over time, Lexus has also added hybrid versions, as well as a performance-focused “F” line to entice buyers. So, if you are in the market for a well-crafted sedan or coupe, Lexus has a lot to offer. Let’s take a look at some of their best cars!

Lexus Sedans

The current Lexus sedan lineup isn’t that different from the one that existed a decade ago. The top-spec LS, midsize ES, and compact IS span the sedan offerings for the 2021 model year. Gone is the Lexus GS sports sedan, which faded into the automotive sunset after the 2020 model year. Let’s explore the sedan lineup, past and present.

2021 Lexus IS F SPORT-Photo by Lexus

Lexus IS

Starting at the bottom, at least with regard to size and price, is the Lexus IS. The first-generation (XE10) car was very well received in the U.S. market when it arrived for the 2001 model year.

It was light, rear-wheel drive, and came with a punchy 2JZ-GE six-cylinder engine. First model year IS models (2001) run from $4,752 – $6,099 on the used market, while final year (2005) models are in the $6,617 – $8,604 price range. You could even get a cool SportCross wagon version!

Lexus updated the IS in 2006 for its second generation. The sleeker body style was available with a choice of V6 engines, including 2.5L (IS 250) and 3.5L (IS 350).

Even though it wasn’t quite as sporty as the first generation, the updated Lexus sold well. Looking for a solid used option? Second-gen IS sedans start around $8,207 – $9,854 for an early 2006 model, and $17,607 – $20,859 for the final model year, 2013.

If you want to go fast, look for the super cool Lexus IS F which features a big 5.0L V8 and 416 horsepower. The IS F ran from 2008 – 2014 and prices range from $19,092 to $40,534. This ride is worth the price of admission.

The very latest third-generation (XE30) Lexus IS debuted for the 2014 model year and represented a big update. Built on the Toyota New N platform, the new IS featured dynamic styling and a fully revised interior.

The base engine in the IS 250 was a fairly underwhelming 2.5-liter V6 with 204 horsepower and 185 lb.-ft. of torque. Look for the IS 350 which packed a 3.5-liter V6 generating a much more substantial 306 horsepower and 277 lb.-ft. of torque.

The Lexus IS continues to soldier through its third generation but received a decent refresh for the 2017 model year. There is no more IS F for the latest iteration, however, the F Sport lineup gives the IS a bit more of an aggressive look.

Of note, a new IS 500 F Sport Performance is in the works for 2022 and looks amazing. Prices for the 2014 – 2021 models range from just under $22,500 to just under $45,000, depending on the model year.

2014: Prices range from $22,460 – $26,329
2015: Prices range from $22,184 – $28,518
2016: Prices range from $27,132 – $31,388
2017: Prices range from $30,220 – $39,344
2018: Prices range from $34,386 – $42,937
2019: Prices range from $37,510 – $47,752
2020: Prices range from $40,598 – $50,097
2021: MSRP from $39,000 – $44,900

2019 Lexus ES 350 F SPORT-Photo by Lexus

Lexus ES

As noted in the intro, the Lexus ES has been around since the beginning of time. Or at least the beginning of Lexus’ time. Like the larger LS, the ES was one of the original Lexus vehicles that launched in the late 1980s and early 1990s.

Initial, and somewhat enduring, criticism of the ES was related to its Toyota Camry roots.

In fact, the two cars shared quite a bit under the skin through the first five generations. Older versions, such as the last model year of the fourth-generation Lexus ES (2001), will start at a relatively inexpensive $4,035 – $5,300.

If you want something a bit newer, the fourth-generation ES runs from 2002 – 2006 and will cost from $4,369 to $8,178, while fifth-generation ES models (2007 – 2012) will run from $8,373 to $16,758, depending on the year and trim level.

However, if it’s in the budget, you should definitely take a look at the sixth-generation 2013 – 2018 (XV60) or seventh-generation 2019 to present (XZ70) models because the Lexus ES now shares a platform with the larger and more luxurious Toyota Avalon.

In the latest two generations of the ES, you’ll find a stately midsize sedan with a choice of four-cylinder or six-cylinder power. There is even a hybrid option for 2013+ cars, and AWD is now an option for the 2021 model year.

Pricing ranges from just over $18,000 for the first year of the sixth generation, up to just over $40,000 for top-spec 2018 models. While the seventh, and most recent, generation starts at close to $39,500 and tops out at over $50,000.

2013: Prices range from $18,001 – $22,717
2014: Prices range from $19,553 – $23,566
2015: Prices range from $20,255 – $25,415
2016: Prices range from $25,906 – $30,761
2017: Prices range from $31,232 – $36,061
2018: Prices range from $36,282 – $40,093
2019: Prices range from $39,425 – $47,147
2020: Prices range from $44,126 – $50,522
2021: MSRP from $39,900 – $50,810

2019 Lexus GS 350-Photo by Lexus

Lexus GS

The Lexus GS may be gone from the 2021 Lexus lineup, but it’s not forgotten. While the first generation (S140) was designed by the legendary Giorgetto Giugiaro at Italdesign, it was bland and anonymous.

But, much like the IS 300 of the same era, the redesigned GS (S160) looked unique and sporty. It helped to solidify the GS as an “executive sports sedan” meant to compete with established cars like the BMW 5-Series and Audi A6.

While the GS 300, and its 225 horsepower six-cylinder wasn’t bad, it was the GS 400 and its 4.0L V8 with 300 horsepower and 310 lb.-ft. of torque that caught my attention at the time. Naturally, the second-generation car is quite inexpensive, the final model year ranges from $5,079 – $6,550.

The third-generation Lexus GS (2006– 2011) is pretty anonymous, but showed advancements in engine technology, including the option for a larger V8 as well as new hybrid powertrains.

However, the fourth-generation (L10) model, which ran from 2012 – 2020, definitely has something for everyone.

The last generation GS has a variety of powertrain options. A highlight is the 2017 – 2020 model year GS, which has options ranging from a 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder (GS 200t), a 3.5L V6 (GS 350), 3.5L V6 Hybrid (GS 350h), and the monster 567 horsepower GS F which is powered by a 5.0L V8 engine.

Pricing on the latest generation ranges from mild (just under $13,000), to a bit less mild (over $55,000). The GS is definitely worth a look though, it packs Toyota reliability in a handsome package with tons of tech and performance.

2013: Prices range from $12,972 – $15,119
2014: Prices range from $23,906 – $26,925
2015: Prices range from $29,667 – $33,058
2016: Prices range from $26,938 – $36,317
2017: Prices range from $28,732 – $45,158
2018: Prices range from $35,292 – $51,570
2019: Prices range from $43,510 – $49,609
2020: Prices range from $51,065 – $55,155

Meanwhile, the GS F commands a premium to this day. 2016 models ring in at $42,635 – $47,458, while the most recent 2020 GS started at $85,010!

2018 Lexus LS500h-Photo by Lexus

Lexus LS

Remember the “F1” project? Well the resulting LS is still basically the company’s flagship. Years ago, it was said that the cutting-edge technology found in the latest Mercedes-Benz S-Class will find its way into more pedestrian cars down the road. That list has expanded a bit over the years and most certainly now includes Lexus’ largest sedan, the LS. It truly is an exemplar of tech and luxury, so if you are a “spared no expense” buyer, the LS is quite impressive.

The big LS soldiered on from that 1st gen breakthrough with a fairly evolutionary second-generation (XF20) that lasted from 1995 – 2000. Our LS tour cruises through the 2001 – 2006 third-generation cars, and the long-running (if a bit dull) 2007 – 2017 fourth-gen cars, but it’s not really until you hit the latest fifth-generation (XF50) that you’ll find the latest and most impressive Lexus LS.

Featuring a much more radical front end (which buyers may either love or hate) the content under the skin is pretty impressive. The new car is long, with the base model coming in even lengthier than the outgoing long-wheelbase model.

The LS is at home at the valet, or on a long weekend to wine country. Powertrains include a 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 rated at 415 horsepower and 442 lb.-ft. of torque or a 3.5L V6 hybrid variant.

There is even a sportier F Sport variant for those who want a little attitude with their caviar. All this class isn’t cheap, prices range from just over $56,000 to near $83,000 for the latest top trim LS.

2018: Prices range from $56,272 – $67,166
2019: Prices range from $63,672 – $79,786
2020: Prices range from $73,074 – $83,577
2021: MSRP from $76,000 – $82,850

Lexus Coupes & Convertibles

Looking for something a bit sportier? Lexus has you covered. Their two-door history dates back to the original SC 400. The first-generation (Z30) from the early 1990s shared components with the Toyota Supra of the same era.

For its second generation, Lexus took a… different direction. The bubble-shaped 2001 – 2010 (Z40) SC got a V8 engine but was generally less performance-focused than its predecessor. It wasn’t until 2012 that Lexus added some serious two-door performance back to the lineup in a big way.

Enter the Lexus LFA. A true supercar, the LFA was intended to showcase what Toyota and Lexus could really accomplish. With a sticker price of $375,000, it said that they lost money on each and every delivery.

Power came from a 72-degree bank angle 4,805 cc V10 engine, with an output of 553 horsepower and 354 lb.-ft. of torque. It’s an amazing machine, and it paved the way for the current lineup of Lexus’ fast coupes.

2021 Lexus RC F-Photo by Lexus

Lexus RC

We’ll start with the Lexus RC, which is considered to be a “compact executive two-door coupé”. With a long hood and short rear deck design, it’s got muscle car looks and a Lexus interior.

Unveiled for the 2015 model year, power was initially available from a variety of engine options (similar to the Lexus GS) that included a 2.5L hybrid (RC 300h), a 255 horsepower 3.5L V6 (RC 350), and an impressive 5.0L V8 (RC F).

For 2016, you could opt for two new models, including the RC 200t which was powered by a turbocharged four-cylinder engine, and a new all-wheel-drive RC 300 which was powered by a 3.5-liter V6.

The latest 2021 RC comes with a turbo in-line four-cylinder making 241 horsepower, or you can opt for a 260 horsepower 3.5L V6, or the super coupe RC F which still packs a 5.0L V8.

The F model delivers on the performance with a cool “Fuji Speedway Edition” that packs carbon-fiber everything, and a 3.9 second 0-60 time.

Pricing for the RC starts at just under $30,000 up to near $51,000 for the latest model. The RC delivers a muscular coupe with tons of features and options, as well as drivetrains that range from “mpg-friendly”, to “track-ready”.

2015: Prices range from $29,952 – $32,819
2016: Prices range from $29,450 – $35,855
2017: Prices range from $32,229 – $42,476
2018: Prices range from $39,171 – $45,935
2019: Prices range from $41,150 – $49,183
2020: Prices range from $41,295 – $50,905
2021: MSRP from $42,120 – $51,130

For the high-performance RC F, you’ll need to add a premium to the price tag, but it’s worth it. The 2015 iteration ranges from $36,882 – $40,563, while the latest RC F goes for $65,875 – $96,675.

2021 Lexus LC-Photo by Lexus

Lexus LC

We’ve reached the end of our best Lexus cars list, and we’ve saved something special for last. When Lexus developed the LFA, they were showcasing what was possible. The RC further demonstrated that engineering know-how in a conventional coupe shape.

What came next was the breathtaking Lexus LC. The project dates back a full decade, to 2011, with a series of concepts like the LF-LC Concept. Over the next several years, Lexus went about adapting what they learned from the LFA into a jaw-dropping coupe and convertible, the LC.

The LC 500 delivers a 5.0L V8 with 471 horsepower which is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. The LC Hybrid is powered by a 3.5L V6 engine mated to a hybrid transmission and a lithium-ion battery pack.

That’s good for a combined 354 horsepower and 370 lb.-ft. of combined torque at 3000 rpms. The LC is about more than just performance though, just look at it.

The price of entry is steep, to say the least. I’ve spent a week with both the LC 500 coupe and convertible, and it’s an amazing machine.

2018: Prices range from $70,339 – $80,669
2019: Prices range from $77,163 – $87,846
2020: Prices range from $92,950 – $97,510
2021: MSRP from $92,950 – $101,000

Photos: Lexus

Frequently Asked Questions

Apr 24, 2022

What is the best Lexus sedan to buy?

Choosing the best Lexus sedan to buy depends on your budget and what you are looking for in a sedan. The ultimate Lexus sedan is the LS. These are known to last well over 200,000 miles and they are a full-size sedan that is a rival to the S-Class from Mercedes in terms of luxury and size. There are even LS sedans that have over a million miles on them, they are a great sedan choice. The downside to the LS is that they are expensive and hold their value well. This makes them the priciest option.

If you just need a long-lasting midsize sedan then I recommend the Lexus ES. Pretty much any year of these is reliable. They have been in production since 1989 and there are still original ES sedans out on the road today. The latest generation was introduced in 2018 and if you can find a used one they are a great value for money.

Lexus makes great vehicles, and at the heart of them, they are a Toyota so they are built to last a very long time and be exceptionally reliable.

What is the best used Lexus to buy?

The best used Lexus, based on owner reviews and the total number of complaints comes out to be the Lexus ES. This is a midsize sedan that is offered by Lexus and it essentially set the standard for what a midsize luxury sedan should be. There have been 7 different generations of them so you are sure to find one within your budget. These are long-lasting vehicles that are designed to be luxurious and comfortable.

If you are in the market for an SUV then the best used SUV option you can get would be either an LX 470 or LX 570. These are built on the same platform and in the same factory as the Toyota Land Cruiser and are designed to last well over 500,000 miles. Some people refer to them just as a "luxury land cruiser". When you get an LX you know that you are getting an SUV that will stand up against the test of time.

Lexus is typically known for being the most reliable luxury brand on the market. In general, if you find a used Lexus you like you should have it inspected to make sure it is in good condition, but for the most part these are reliable cars.

Is a Lexus worth the money?

Lexus vehicles tend to be worth the money. Lexus consistently scores highest in terms of overall owner satisfaction and reliability. They are some of the longest-lasting luxury vehicles out on the road.

At the core of every Lexus is a Toyota. The driveline components including the engine, transmission, and chassis are all pulled from Toyota models. Lexus then improves the exterior styling and the interior fit and finish and makes them more modern and luxurious. When you are buying a Lexus you are getting a much more luxurious version of a Toyota and that luxury is worth it.

The only place that Lexus falls short is in comparison to offerings from European brands. Many of the big European brands have more luxurious and exciting interiors in them. Lexus is still guided by Toyota's philosophy of keeping the designs simple, so inside they may not feel as luxurious as some competition. Where Lexus beats out the European brands though is the initial cost, reliability, and annual maintenance costs are much lower with Lexus.

Owner Reviews

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Amanda R on May 25, 2021

2016 Lexus LS provides luxury for families on a budget.

The vehicle drives very smooth and has easy turning radiance. The legroom for a sedan is amazing and is very comfortable for adults. The controls are easy to understand so it has a lot of luxury but not complicated. Lexus is an amazing brand if you want luxury and comfort. You will never go wrong with a Lexus. The safety is awesome for young drivers as well as older drivers. Lexus is a timeless brand and lives up to all the hype. The sound system is easily controlled from console or steering wheel. The system is very high quality and has a Bluetooth feature so you can be hands free while making phone calls. The ac and heating is also amazing and has vents for the back seats. We all love the air conditioning seats. We live in Florida so we do not use the heating element in the car.

Nicole B on April 21, 2021

Comfortable, sleek, powerful 2016 Lexus RC

The Lexus RC 350 F sport is the most comfortable car I have ever owned. The suspension is so good, driving feels like floating. There are so many computerized options to make the whole experience great. The leather heated and cooled seats are so comfortable. Everything inside the car is adjustable, as a somewhat short person, I can reach everything without leaning. The safety features are significantly better than other cars I have owned. The car feels solid, unlike some of the cheaply made cars I have owned. The horsepower allows you to pass easily on the interstate and the radar controlled cruise control helps with the long commute. I really love this car!

Janet L on May 23, 2021

Very safe and comfortable 2018 Lexus ES.

The car is supremely comfortable. The adjustments you can make seem limitless and you can save the settings you are happy with in case someone changes yours. I bought it primarily for the safety features. The car has sensors and reminders so that you would have to ignore everything to cause an accident. It also has great features to assist you in case another driver gets too close or passes to closely behind you. And the side mirrors have lights that show you if something is in your blind spot. The handling and quiet comfort are what one would expect of a vehicle of this caliber.

Ashley F on April 27, 2021

2018 Lexus LS is reliable, dependable, and gets the job done.

I currently do n out have any vehicle problems. The performance of my car is actually quite good. The reliability of my vehicle is great as well. The comfort of my leather seating is very nice. It is a soft leather. The features are mediocre compared to my previous Cadillac. I do not like how small my car is. I did not think about that when purchasing. I do not particularly like putting premium gas in my car either.

Adriana P on April 7, 2021

2018 Lexus IS 300 F Sport interior leaves me speechless.

I do not have any problems with my car so far. I love everything in this car, it is comfortable not only for me, but for the rest of the passengers with me. The interior is beautiful, I love how it gives you a great vibe and it is what I had always dreamed of. The outside of the vehicle is awesome as well, I do not usually like low cars, but this is one I really enjoy driving.

Stephanie A on May 17, 2021

2017 Lexus LS 460 F Sport is a nice safe car, with tons of safety features!

It is very comfortable, lots of safety features which I love because I have a young son. I love the leather seats and the seats also have heating and air. I love the center controls that is all touch screen. I also love the feature that keeps your car in the lane. There is lots of room. It drives really smoothly. The steering wheel also heats which is great in the winter.

James G on May 3, 2021

The interior of my 2016 Lexus RC is great.

I really love the fit and finish of the car. The interior is very luxurious. The media center is super easy to use while driving. Also the exterior is very stylish. The A/C keeps it cool in the summer. Also a sunroof is great for Texas heat. You can't roll down the windows but being able to see outside is great

Michelle C on May 18, 2021

The 2018 Lexus es 350 is the car you want to drive.

The Lexus es 350 is a comfortable car with ample space. I have never had any issues with this vehicle. The interior is great and the trunk space is fantastic. I highly recommend this vehicle to anyone that this thinking about getting a Lexus. Driving places will not be hassle in such a comfortable vehicle.

Yolanda P on April 26, 2021

My 2019 Lexus LC is a light blue color.

My car has never broken down in the year and half that I have had it. In the snow, it works really well and has never gotten stuck or slid. When I drive with other cars like a tesla the motion makes me car sick but not with my Lexus. It also has free radio with no ads for a year which is really nice.

Amanda E on May 19, 2021

The design of the 2018 Lexus GS 300! I love the look!

My car is amazing! It drives so smooth. I feel extremely safe when I am on the road! I haven't had any problems with my car so far! However I wish the car had a little more acceleration but the mpg I get has saved me a lot of money on gas! It does handle very well while I am driving around.

Julie K on May 26, 2021

Fun to drive, looks nice, great buy. 2015 Lexus RC 2dr Cpe RWD

No problems driving this car. Handling is great and get a great mileage on gas. Sports mode is fun to drive and the car looks great. Not made for 4 passengers. No issues with this car so far. I would recommend to others. Fun car to drive and comfortable even in long distance.

Jamie R on April 8, 2021

The 2018 Lexus LS is a well-rounded super luxury car.

T has a beautiful interior, seating upgrades, solid handling, and was completely redesigned, which i find stunning. It gets good gas mileage, and is extremely reliable. It's powerful, yet poised. Comfortable, with many high-end options, and useful upgrades. Magnificent beast.

Brian N on April 26, 2021

2015 Lexus RC. Very aggressive exterior styling. Sleek cockpit. Excellent acceleration. Quiet ride.

I have had no mechanical issues with this vehicle. It has a very comfortable ride and the cabin is laid out very well reminding you of a cockpit of a plane. This is my third Lexus vehicle and this Is Definitely one of my favorites. I would highly recommend this vehicle.

John F on April 18, 2021

2018 Lexus IS 300 F Sport is very quiet inside.

I really like it because it offers sleek look. The car really has a look that is special to it and not many cars are similar to it. I like how the driving with it is because you can be driving 70 and it feels like 40. This makes the interior very quiet on long drives.

Aryan S on April 17, 2021

Lexus lc 500 review 2020 v8: the best car for the money?

It is a really fast car. It handles like a dream. No car is like it for the price. You can get it used at around 66k. It's a really nicely built car. The interior is top quality. It is built like a high end performance hyper car. I love it and you guys should buy it.

Susan D on May 9, 2021

Luxury meets sporty all in one ride! 2018 Lexus LC 500

Performance is awesome and very reliable! Comfort could be a bit better but for a smaller car it is very luxurious and rides like a dream! Very sporty and has serious power. I love the modes you can switch between which are normal, comfort, sport, and super sport!

Janice M on April 19, 2021

Excellent vehicle with minor flaws: 2018 Lexus LS 500

I love the heated seats and the hands free phone but I do not love the navigation system. The navigation system is horribly inaccurate. The vehicle handles well and drive beautifully. The style is beautiful and the car has lots of room for passengers and cargo.

Tammy S on May 11, 2021

2016 Lexus LS Base with driving power to get you where you need to be.

My vehicle so far has not giving me any problems. It has a very strong engine, has modern technology and a very enjoyable ride. It has very comfortable seating for those long trips you might want to take and my Lexus is very stylish. I just love my vehicle.

Jennifer T on May 29, 2021

2018 Lexus IS 300 F SPORT is good for long drives but avoid snow.

Performs well. Lots of power. Very comfortable. Lots of options. Not good in snow, even with snow option. Great for long distance driving. I feel safe in the car and love it is safety features: side mirror alerts, backup camera, front end speed control.

Trevor A on April 18, 2021

2018 Lexus GS 350 could use more power and mpg.

No apple/android CarPlay is annoying but nothing that is a deal breaker. My two biggest wants would be more horsepower and better fuel economy. Ride comfort is there and the mouse to control the entertainment system is easy once you get the hang of it.

Jaime M on April 24, 2021

Rims are easily scratched on the 2015 Lexus RC.

So I have the rc-350 f sport. I love my red interior, ventilated seats, remote start, sunroof, push to start, and horsepower. I love how it looks, how it drives, and the temperature it can sustain.

Shirica T on May 12, 2021

My likes about my 2017 Lexus LS!

Drives very smooth and love the technology. Very comfortable and sleek interior. Almost everything you need is on the wheel so you don't have to remove hands to touch tha dashboard.

Faith I on May 28, 2021

2017 Lexus RC F safety features are unreal. Driver assist rocks!

It looks beautiful! I love the safety features. The back of cam is accurate so I can trust it. The sensors let me know when traffic is around. It's just very modern.

Dan Love on April 7, 2021

2019 Lexus LC lc-500 review.

Solid high end luxury in a sports car package. The horsepower/torque is more than sufficient.

Pat B on June 3, 2021

My 2018 Lexus RC F is the best car I have ever had.

Smooth ride, luxury car. Love the GPS, backup camera and the voice activation. No complaints.

William Byrd

William Byrd has been a professional automotive journalist for over 10 years. He has produced tons of high-quality content for a host of popular auto websites, including Autotrader, Jalopnik, Vehicle History, Hooniverse, CarMax, Right Foot Down, and others.