Debuting as a stylish SUV that combines the strengths of a sedan.LexusRX. Its third generation, the new RX (North American specification), was unveiled at the Los Angeles Motor Show on November 19th and has been on display since December 5th at Lexus direct showrooms, including the 'Lexus International Gallery Aoyama' in Minato-ku, Tokyo. While this model is familiar in the North American market, it was previously sold in Japan under the Toyota Harrier name, making the new RX Lexus's first SUV model. The 'RX350,' equipped with a 3.5-liter engine, is scheduled for release starting in Japan from January 2009, followed by a gradual rollout in other countries and regions worldwide. The hybrid model 'RX450h,' featuring a 3.5-liter V6 engine paired with an electric motor, will also be launched sequentially from spring 2009, beginning in Japan.

Lexus International Gallery Aoyama
2-5-8 Kita-Aoyama, Minato-ku, Tokyo
9:30–19:00 (10:00–19:00 on Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays)
Tel. 03-5786-2711

Exhibited Vehicles:
RX350 (North American specification) December 5, 2008 (Fri) – January 4, 2009 (Sun)
RX450h (North American specification) January 5, 2009 (Mon) – January 18, 2009 (Sun)


BRAND HISTORY
Toyota launched its luxury car brand LEXUS in the American market in 1989. The aim was to offer a new value proposition that set itself apart from luxury cars from America and Germany, leveraging Toyota's renowned technological prowess, superior quality, and exceptional customer service.

Upon the introduction of the 'LS400' (domestic name: Celsior) and 'ES250' (domestic name: Camry) to the American market in September of that year, the LS400 quickly earned the title of Best Import Car by February 1990. Subsequently, Lexus's reputation continued to grow, and with an expanding lineup, it solidified its position as a luxury automotive brand.

Following its success in America, Lexus expanded into Europe in 2004 and announced its business development in Japan in May of the same year. In August 2005, it launched its luxury car business in its home country. Initially, the lineup lacked a flagship model, consisting of the 'GS' (successor to Toyota's Aristo), 'SC' (successor to Toyota's Soarer), and 'IS' (successor to Toyota's Altezza). However, with the introduction of the long-awaited new LS in September 2006 and its hybrid variant, the 'LS600h/LS600hL,' in May 2007, Lexus met the expectations of the luxury sedan market.


Meanwhile, Lexus has focused on cultivating a sporty image, announcing the sports model 'IS F' in October 2007 and entering the prototype sports coupe 'LF-A' in the Nürburgring 24 Hours race in May 2008. Further expansion in popularity is anticipated.