If you’ve ever dreamt of cruising around town in a sleek, luxurious Lexus without breaking the bank, then you’re in for a treat. We’ve scoured the market and uncovered a hidden treasure trove of 10 bargain Lexus models that will leave you wondering if it’s your lucky day.
When it comes to combining luxury features with a good dose of wood and leather, a high-level of equipment, elegance, and dependability, Lexus is up there with some of the very best in automotive world. From their striking exterior designs to their plush interiors, these cars are designed to make heads turn while pampering you with unmatched comfort.
Now, I know what you’re thinking. Luxury often comes with a hefty price tag, right? Well, not this time! We’ve rounded up an assortment of these refined rides that won’t drain your wallet faster than a race car at the finish line.
Data such as reliability information based upon owner feedback on CarSurvey, where as prices, and model specs have been sourced from sites like Edmunds, and Motor Trend.
10 2011 Lexus CT 200h
Average Price: $16,000 to $19,000
The CT200h is Lexus’s premium compact hatchback, known for its luxurious features and hybrid technology. It is built on Toyota’s MC platform and is the first luxury compact and hatchback hybrid, based on the Toyota Prius drivetrain. The car made its debut at the March 2010 Geneva International Motor Show, shortly after the unveiling of the LF-Ch concept car. Notably, it was the first model in Lexus’s family to showcase the distinctive “Spindle Grille” design on its fascia.
The CT 200h features a 1.8-liter VVT-i four-cylinder gasoline engine, generating 98 horsepower. Combined with an electric motor, the hybrid system delivers a total output of 134 horsepower.
When the CT 200h was launched in 2011, Lexus demonstrated its foresight as it was years ahead of other premium carmakers in championing hybrid hatchbacks. At that time, hybrid technology in a compact luxury car was a rarity, but it has now become more commonplace in the industry.
Reliability Based On Owner Feedback
Customer feedback on the Lexus CT 200h reveals highly positive experiences. One owner, initially skeptical about hybrids, found the car reliable and efficient. They rated it a perfect 10/10 on reliability. Another owner praised the flawless performance, exceptional fuel efficiency, and superior comfort compared to his previously owned Honda Accord, rating the CT 200h 9/10 for reliability.
- Problems Owners Report: Navigation System Glitches
- Highest Mileage Reported On Carsurvey: 187,000 miles
9 2011 Lexus ES 350
Average Price: $10,000 to $13,000
The Lexus ES 350 is a luxurious midsize sedan that offers a refined driving experience. In its earlier generations, the ES used the Toyota Camry platform, while the later ones share a closer association with the Avalon. The ES 350 prioritizes comfort and elegance, boasting a plush cabin adorned with high-quality leather upholstery and exquisite wood trim.
With its 3.5-liter V-6 engine generating 268 horsepower and 248 pound-feet of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, the ES 350 delivers smooth and capable performance. The sedan impresses with its serene highway ride, where minimal wind, road, or engine noise intrudes. Its suspension system ensures a comfortable journey, effortlessly absorbing bumps and ruts on the road, ensuring passengers enjoy a tranquil and undisturbed experience.
Reliability Based On Owner Feedback
A Lexus ES 350 owner on CarSurvey rated the 10/10 on reliability. He bought the car used with 142,000 miles on the odometer and stated that the “car delivers on giving you the best bang for your buck.”
- Problems Owners Report: Sluggish throttle response
- Highest Mileage Reported On Carsurvey: 160,000 miles
8 2003 Lexus LS 430
Average Price: $9,000 to $11,000
The Lexus LS 430, a full-size luxury sedan, once proudly served as the flagship model of the Lexus brand. With its third-generation release, this vehicle introduced notable advancements in both performance and design. Notably, it featured a newly designed six-speed automatic transmission and a 4.3-liter V-8, enhancing the driving experience. The exterior also received a refreshing makeover, boasting revised styling that exuded elegance and sophistication.
The LS 430 also enjoyed impressive commercial success, surpassing the sales figures of its predecessor. Its popularity was evident, with production figures exceeding a remarkable 140,000 units. Part of its appeal stemmed from its meticulous engineering and aerodynamic design.
Tested in the same wind tunnel as Japan’s high-speed bullet trains, the LS 430 boasted a sleek and streamlined shape. Equipped with the available Air Suspension, it achieved an outstanding coefficient of drag (CD) of 0.25, the lowest among passenger sedans at the time. This greatly improved its smoothness on the road along with its fuel efficiency.
Reliability Based On Owner Feedback
In a CarSurvey review, an owner of a Lexus LS 430, who purchased the car with 180,000 miles on it, rated its reliability a perfect 10/10. They expressed their satisfaction by stating, “The reliability of this car, coupled with its ease of maintenance, has made it quite possibly the finest luxury vehicle for long-term ownership.” Another owner also awarded it a flawless 10/10 for reliability, praising its outstanding build quality and the remarkable Mark Levinson sound system.
- Problems Owners Report: Adaptive headlight failure
- Highest Mileage Reported On Carsurvey: 190,000 miles
7 2009 Lexus LS 460
Average Price: $11,000 to $13,000
The 2009 Lexus LS 460 is a luxury sedan that exudes elegance both inside and out. Its sleek and refined exterior design showcases a distinctive spindle grille, complemented by chrome accents and smooth lines, creating a captivating and luxurious presence on the road.
Step inside the LS 460, and you’ll be greeted by a world of opulence. The interior is a harmonious blend of sumptuous materials and ergonomic design. Sink into the plush leather seats that envelop you in comfort akin to resting on a cloud. The avant-garde elegance of the dashboard, with its flowing lines and intuitive controls, feels like a symphony of design, enhancing the overall luxurious experience.
Safety is a top priority in the 2009 LS 460, and it delivers without compromise. Equipped with advanced features like adaptive cruise control, it maintains a safe distance from the vehicle ahead. The blind-spot monitoring system keeps you informed of any vehicles lurking in your blind spots, ensuring confident and secure driving.
Not only does the LS 460 offer luxury and safety, but it also boasts reliability and durability. Built with robust engineering and meticulous craftsmanship, this vehicle has a solid reputation for going the distance without breaking a sweat. With the LS 460 by your side, you can rest easy knowing that it will remain a faithful companion for years to come.
Reliability Based On Owner Feedback
After driving the car for 25,000 miles an owner on CarSurvey gave the LS 460 a reliability rating of 10/10 stating that “The build quality is faultless, interior materials are top notch.”
- Problems Owners Report: Steering Column Noise
- Highest Mileage Reported On Carsurvey: 78,000 miles
6 2013 Lexus GX 460
Average Price: $19,000 to $20,000
The Lexus GX 460 is a luxurious mid-size SUV that exudes elegance. It first graced the stage in China at the Guangzhou International Automobile Exhibition in November 2009, making quite an impression.
This refined vehicle takes inspiration from the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado, inheriting its impressive off-road capabilities. How does it achieve this? Well, it boasts a sturdy body-on-frame construction, full-time four-wheel drive, an electronically controlled hi-lo transfer case, and a reliable Torsen center locking differential.
Additionally, the GX 460 shared the same robust V-8 engine as its larger counterpart, the LX 470. It’s an amalgamation of power and sophistication that truly defines the GX 460.
Reliability
RepairPal gives the GX 460 an above average reliability rating of 3.5/5 which ranks it 5th out of 14 for luxury midsize SUVs available in its price range.
- Problems Owners Report: low gas mileage
- Highest Mileage Reported On Carsurvey: —
5 2009 Lexus RX 350
Average Price: $8,000 to $9,000
The Lexus RX is widely regarded as the first luxury crossover SUV, and the 2009 Lexus RX 350 exemplifies the essence of this class. Built on a car platform, specifically the 2002-’06 Toyota Camry, this model showcases the successful fusion of luxury and utility.
Lexus unveiled the third-generation RX on November 19, 2008, and American sales of the RX 350 began in February 2009, as a 2010 model. Even when pitted against more modern rivals, the 2009 Lexus RX 350 remains a prime illustration of what a luxury crossover SUV should be.
True to Lexus’ reputation, the 2009 RX 350 boasts a refined and composed personality. Its 3.5-liter V-6 engine provides swift and quiet acceleration, complemented by a serene cabin ambiance. The interior design of this entry-level luxury SUV is so remarkable that it could be mistaken for Lexus’ flagship model. Featuring real wood and leather trim on the console, door panels, and steering wheel, lending an air of opulence.
Additionally, the optional Mark Levinson sound system surpasses expectations, rivaling the finest audio systems available. The voice-activated navigation system, another optional feature, stands out for its exceptionally user-friendly interface. Together, these elements elevate the driving experience in the 2009 Lexus RX 350 to new heights.
Reliability Based On Owner Feedback
An owner of a 2010 Lexus RX 350 gave the car an exceptional reliability rating of 8/10 in his review on CarSurvey. He purchased the vehicle with 18,000 miles on the odometer and, after driving it for an additional 4,000 miles, stated that “The Lexus RX 350 is very powerful, very fast, and has a very firm suspension.”
- Problems Owners Report: Transmission failure at 76000 miles
- Highest Mileage Reported On Carsurvey: 51,700 miles
4 2011 Lexus IS 250
Average Price: $10,000 to $10,000
The Lexus IS holds a prominent position as an entry-level sport model in the Lexus lineup, positioned below the ES. Serving as the brand’s response to competitors such as the Audi A4, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Infiniti G37, and BMW 3 Series, the Lexus IS lineup embodies the perfect balance of performance and luxury.
The third-generation IS made its debut at the Paris Motor Show on October 2, 2008, showcasing the evolution of this renowned model. Stepping inside the IS, one is greeted by a luxurious interior adorned with leather and wood accents. The available features include heated and ventilated front seats, driver seat memory, a 14-speaker surround sound audio system, Bluetooth connectivity, and navigation. These amenities contribute to a comfortable and technologically advanced driving experience.
In terms of safety, the IS line prioritizes the well-being of its occupants. Standard safety features include dual front airbags, front and rear side curtain airbags, and front seat-mounted side airbags. Furthermore, the IS comes equipped with four-wheel disc brakes, four-channel ABS (anti-lock braking system), electronic brakeforce distribution, brake assist, traction control, and stability control. These systems work together to ensure precise braking, optimal traction, and enhanced stability during various driving conditions.
Reliability Based On Owner Feedback
After driving it for 4,000 miles, an owner of the Lexus IS 250 gave the car a reliability rating of 10/10 on CarSurvey, stating that he “feels like it will last a century”. Another owner gave it a 9/10 and complimented the car’s handling and build quality.
- Problems Owners Report: Lacks power
- Highest Mileage Reported On Carsurvey: 30,700 miles
3 2003 Lexus LX 470
Average Price: $19,000 to $20,000
The Lexus LX 470, introduced in January 1996, is a full-size luxury SUV that holds the distinction of being Lexus’ largest and most expensive luxury SUV. It has undergone four generations of production, all heavily based on the renowned Toyota Land Cruiser SUVs.
The off-roader possesses a robust and solid appearance that conveys strength and durability, making it ideal for any adventurous endeavor. The front grille stands out with its confident and commanding presence, enhanced by chrome accents that lend a touch of sophistication, contributing to the overall polished look of the vehicle.
Stepping inside the LX 470, you enter a world of unparalleled comfort and luxury. The cabin serves as a haven of plushness and craftsmanship, boasting sumptuous leather seats adorned with wood trim and soft ambient lighting. When it comes to performance, the LX 470 delivers an impressive punch. Housing a mighty 235 horsepower 4.7-liter V8 engine beneath its hood.
Reliability Based On Owner Feedback
This SUV received an outstanding reliability rating of 10/10 from a satisfied owner on CarSurvey. According to their feedback, they described it as a smooth-riding vehicle that is both practical and visually appealing. Additionally, another owner on Edmunds gave it a perfect reliability rating of 5/5 stating that the LX 470 is “Rock solid in the snow and rain and very reliable.”
- Problems Owners Report: Exhaust rattle
- Highest Mileage Reported On Carsurvey: 54,000 miles
2 2002 Lexus SC 430
Average Price: $11,000 to $12,000
The Lexus SC 430, a grand tourer that graced our roads from 1991 until 2010, had a lot going for it. It was a front-engine, rear-wheel-drive roadster with room for up to four passengers. It proudly claimed the title of being the first convertible ever offered by Lexus.
The production version of the SC 430’s second generation made its debut at the New York Auto Show. With sweeping fender flares, a sculpted hood, and a broad-brushed grille, its exterior look bore a resemblance to the Audi TT, albeit on a slightly larger scale.
Step inside, and you’ll find that the interior of the SC 430 maintains the elegant and modern simplicity of its exterior. It’s like a symphony of real wood and leather, creating an atmosphere of refined luxury. And here’s something unconventional: many of the controls, such as the stereo, are cleverly hidden by spring-loaded wooden covers. It gives the console an uncluttered feel, almost like a hidden treasure waiting to be discovered.
Underneath that sleek hood lies the heart of the SC 430—a powerful 288-horsepower 4.3-liter 3UZ-FE V-8 engine that propels the car up to a top speed of 155 mph.
Reliability Based On Owner Feedback
An owner on CarSurvey that had acquired the car with 160,000 miles on the odometer gave the SC 430 a 9/10 reliability rating stating that the car was a “High quality, reliable grand tourer”. Another owner and Edmunds gave the car a 4/5 on its reliability. After driving it for 86,000 miles he stated that the car still “runs great and is still fun to drive.”
- Problems Owners Report: VVTI hub and power steering pump oil leaks
- Highest Mileage Reported On Carsurvey: 169,900 miles
1 2010 Lexus HS 250h
Average Price: $11,000 to $12,000
In January 2009, at the North American International Auto Show, the HS 250h was unveiled, captivating audiences with its eco-friendly prowess. It hit the Japanese market in July 2009, followed by the United States in August of the same year.
What made the HS 250h truly special was that it represented the first dedicated hybrid vehicle in the Lexus lineup. It also boasted the distinction of being the first to offer an inline-four gasoline engine. Talk about breaking new ground!
Underneath its sleek exterior, the HS 250h borrowed its powertrain from the Camry Hybrid, providing a boost in size and power compared to the Prius. With this setup, it could sprint from 0 to 60 miles per hour in a respectable 8.7 seconds, which was quite impressive for a hybrid vehicle.
But it’s not just about performance. Behind the wheel, the 2010 Lexus HS 250h effortlessly exuded upscale luxury. Its supple ride, quiet cabin, and competent handling elevated the driving experience to a whole new level.
When it came to technology, the HS 250h had plenty to offer. A pop-up navigation and infotainment system with a Remote Touch controller stole the show, making interaction a breeze. A Mark Levinson premium sound system provided a symphony for the ears. And let’s not forget about safety – the HS 250h came equipped with an array of advanced systems, including Intelligent Highbeam (IHB), Lane Keep Assist (LKA), and onboard cameras, ensuring peace of mind on every journey.
Reliability Based On Owner Feedback
On Edmunds, there was an owner who purchased an HS 250h with a previous mileage of 93,000 miles. Despite the higher mileage, the owner was extremely pleased with the car’s performance and gave it a perfect reliability rating of 5/5. In their review, they clarified that if you’re searching for a performance sports car, the HS 250h may not be the ideal choice. However, if you desire a luxurious vehicle that sips gas and offers a comfortable cruise around town, then this car is certainly the ticket.
- Problems Owners Report: Burns oil
- Highest Mileage Reported On Carsurvey: –
