When most Americans think of luxury cars, they think of beautiful interiors, buttery-smooth rides, and advanced technology.
But with those comforts often comes the downside of expensive repairs and steep maintenance bills. Lexus, however, is a rare exception.
Toyota’s luxury arm has built a reputation for crafting vehicles that marry refinement with legendary reliability.
That means you can enjoy premium comfort without worrying about your mechanic’s next vacation being funded by your repair bills.
Lexus cars have consistently topped dependability rankings from J.D. Power, Consumer Reports, and RepairPal, often outlasting German luxury rivals like BMW, Audi, and Mercedes-Benz by tens of thousands of miles.
Here are ten Lexus models that provide long-term luxury without the high upkeep whether you’re shopping used or considering a new daily driver.
1. Lexus ES 350
The Lexus ES 350 is perhaps the textbook definition of affordable luxury. Built on a Toyota Camry platform, the ES 350 offers a silky V6 engine, plush ride quality, and a whisper-quiet cabin.
Owners frequently report low repair costs, and the drivetrain is known to easily surpass 250,000 miles with basic maintenance.
It uses a conventional automatic transmission rather than a CVT or dual-clutch setup, keeping service straightforward and inexpensive.
Brake pads, fluids, and filters are usually all that need attention. For anyone wanting a Lexus that’s all comfort and zero drama, the ES 350 is a top pick.
The 2025 Lexus ES delivers a smooth and relaxing driving experience, emphasizing comfort above all else. Its softly tuned suspension absorbs bumps and imperfections with ease, allowing the sedan to glide effortlessly over uneven roads without any harsh vibrations or jolts.
However, this plush ride quality also contributes to a somewhat uninspiring drive when the road straightens out. The handling feels loose and less controlled, while the steering lacks the precise feedback that driving enthusiasts might expect.
Under the hood, the standard 203-horsepower four-cylinder engine performs adequately for city driving, providing enough power for daily commutes and errands.
Yet, it begins to feel strained at higher speeds or during highway passing, where acceleration becomes more labored. For drivers seeking a livelier performance, the ES 350 offers a 302-horsepower V6, which adds a welcome boost in power and responsiveness.
Both engine options are paired with a smooth eight-speed automatic transmission, known for its quick and well-timed gear shifts.
The ES 250 variant comes standard with all-wheel drive, enhancing traction in poor weather, while the more powerful ES 350 remains front-wheel-drive only, catering to those who prioritize efficiency and comfort over spirited performance.
2. Lexus RX 350
The RX 350 remains America’s best-selling luxury SUV for good reason. It offers Lexus-grade comfort and practicality without the maintenance headaches of European competitors.
Its 3.5-liter V6 engine is nearly bulletproof, and the eight-speed automatic transmission is smooth and durable. Owners praise its low repair frequency, and parts are affordable thanks to shared Toyota components.
With proper care, RX models from the mid-2010s can easily reach 200,000 miles without major issues. It’s the go-to choice for luxury SUV buyers who want to avoid high service bills while enjoying every mile.
For five generations, the Lexus RX has maintained its reputation as a dependable five-passenger compact luxury SUV, celebrated for its smooth ride, solid construction, and supremely comfortable seating.
Offered in both gas-only and hybrid versions (the hybrid reviewed separately), the 2025 Lexus RX 350 is powered by a turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 275 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque. This setup delivers a calm and composed driving experience, ideal for those who prioritize refinement over excitement.
However, drivers seeking a more dynamic feel might gravitate toward performance-oriented competitors like the Porsche Macan or Maserati Grecale.
While the RX excels in comfort and craftsmanship, the Genesis GV70 edges ahead in terms of modernity and sophistication. Still, loyal Lexus fans will find plenty to appreciate in the latest version of this consistently reliable SUV.
Under the hood, the 2025 RX 350 carries a 275-hp turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive, with all-wheel drive available as an option.
When Lexus redesigned the RX two years ago, it had an opportunity to transform the SUV’s driving dynamics, but the brand chose to stay true to its comfort-first philosophy.
As a result, the latest RX maintains its soft suspension tuning and luxury-oriented ride, ensuring serenity for long-distance cruising. While this approach satisfies loyal Lexus owners who value refinement over excitement, it’s less likely to win over driving enthusiasts seeking sharper handling or sportier feedback.
3. Lexus GX 460
The GX 460 is unique a body-on-frame luxury SUV that blends off-road toughness with Lexus refinement. Underneath the leather and wood trim lies the same robust chassis found in Toyota’s Land Cruiser Prado.
Its 4.6-liter V8 engine is understressed, reliable, and rarely troubled by major mechanical faults. Maintenance costs are higher than a sedan but far lower than comparable Mercedes GLE or BMW X5 V8s.
It’s also known for long-term durability, with many owners reporting 300,000+ miles on the odometer. For families who want rugged capability without high-end headaches, the GX 460 is an unbeatable choice.
Also Read: 12 Cars That Shock Drivers With Unstoppable Reliability
4. Lexus IS 350
The IS 350 blends athletic handling with Lexus dependability, making it one of the few luxury sport sedans that can actually age gracefully.
Its naturally aspirated V6 doesn’t rely on turbos or complex hybrid systems, which means fewer expensive components to fail. The IS also uses high-quality interior materials that resist wear better than many rivals.
RepairPal and Consumer Reports both rate it highly for dependability, and its maintenance schedule remains simple oil changes, spark plugs, and brake service. It’s a luxury car that loves to be driven hard without punishing your wallet.
The Lexus IS 300 has long been considered an attractive option in the small luxury sedan segment, offering premium comfort and quality at a lower price than its European rivals. On paper, it seems like an ideal blend of style, refinement, and value.
However, earlier versions of the IS 300 fell short in key areas, suffering from unrefined driving dynamics, a frustrating infotainment system, and a cramped interior that limited its overall appeal.
Recognizing these shortcomings, Lexus introduced a refreshed version of the IS 300 for the 2021 model year, a soft reset that focused more on substance than style.
While the exterior received only minor updates, the most significant improvements were made beneath the surface and inside the cabin. The body gained additional reinforcements and welds to increase rigidity, resulting in sharper steering response and more confident handling.
Suspension components were also made lighter to reduce unsprung mass, improving both ride comfort and stability. Inside, Lexus addressed one of the car’s biggest complaints by replacing the clunky, mouse-like infotainment controller with a more intuitive touchpad interface.
The addition of touchscreen functionality and smartphone integration through Apple CarPlay and Android Auto further modernized the system. Although the rest of the interior design remains familiar, the build quality and materials continue to reflect Lexus’s reputation for craftsmanship and durability.
These updates collectively make the 2021 Lexus IS 300 a much-improved version of an already appealing luxury sedan. It may not dethrone segment leaders like the BMW 3 Series, Audi A4, or Genesis G70, but it now delivers a more balanced and comfortable driving experience at a compelling value.
The 2021 IS 300 comes in two trims: RWD and AWD. The rear-wheel-drive model uses a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 241 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission.
The all-wheel-drive version swaps in a 3.5-liter V6 with 260 horsepower and 236 lb-ft of torque, mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. The RWD setup caters to drivers who prefer a sportier, lighter feel, while the AWD version offers added traction and stability, making it ideal for challenging weather conditions.
Overall, the 2021 Lexus IS 300 doesn’t completely reinvent the formula but successfully refines it, offering improved driving dynamics, a more user-friendly cabin, and the same hallmark reliability and comfort that Lexus owners have come to expect.
5. Lexus LS 460
The LS 460 may have been Lexus’s flagship sedan in the 2000s and early 2010s, but it’s shockingly affordable to maintain compared to rivals like the Mercedes S-Class or BMW 7 Series.
The LS was engineered for long-term smoothness and reliability traits that have become part of the brand’s DNA. Its V8 engine is known to be one of the most durable ever fitted to a luxury car.
While it does require premium fluids and occasional suspension attention, the frequency and severity of repairs are much lower than in comparable German sedans. A well-maintained LS 460 is a long-term luxury bargain.
6. Lexus NX 300h
For those seeking hybrid efficiency without hybrid headaches, the NX 300h delivers. Sharing much of its hardware with the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, this compact luxury crossover achieves excellent fuel economy while maintaining Lexus refinement.
Its hybrid system has proven to be exceptionally reliable, avoiding the battery and inverter failures that sometimes plague other brands.
Maintenance costs are minimal even the hybrid battery is known to last well over 150,000 miles. If you want to save on both gas and repairs, the NX 300h is the smart luxury buy.
In the increasingly competitive world of small luxury SUVs, the Lexus NX stands out as a well-rounded and practical choice. Designed for comfort, style, and everyday usability, the NX offers a refined experience that caters to luxury buyers who prioritize serenity over sportiness.
Inside, the cabin is beautifully crafted, featuring plush, softly cushioned seats and premium materials throughout. The layout is both modern and distinct, reflecting the bold and angular aesthetic seen on the NX’s eye-catching exterior.
Under the hood, a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine delivers sufficient power for city driving, while the optional hybrid variant offers impressive fuel efficiency for those who value economy.
While its handling dynamics may not thrill driving enthusiasts, the NX compensates with a smooth, quiet ride and a long list of standard features that enhance convenience and safety.
For 2018, Lexus refreshed the NX lineup with several updates to improve both style and functionality. The exterior received a redesigned grille, revised front and rear bumpers, and updated taillights, giving the SUV a sharper and more cohesive look.
Both the NX300 and the NX300h hybrid models benefit from a retuned suspension for a more comfortable and composed ride. Lexus also added more standard technology, including automated emergency braking, an onboard Wi-Fi hotspot, and power-folding side mirrors
. Inside the cabin, the infotainment system and control layout were refined for better usability. The Luxury package now features auto-dimming side mirrors with memory functions, while the Comfort package includes heated and ventilated front seats.
Additional options such as a power rear liftgate with a foot-activated sensor and blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert further enhance convenience and safety.
The NX300’s 235-horsepower turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and comes with either front- or all-wheel drive.
It delivers brisk, confident acceleration suitable for daily driving but lacks the athletic punch of competitors from BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Infiniti. Meanwhile, the NX300h’s hybrid powertrain prioritizes efficiency, trading off some performance for smoother, quieter operation and better fuel economy.
On the road, the NX’s light steering makes it a breeze to maneuver through tight urban spaces, though its higher center of gravity gives it a slightly top-heavy feel during cornering.
The NX remains one of the most comfortable and well-equipped options in its class, appealing to those who value luxury, reliability, and everyday practicality over sheer driving excitement.
7. Lexus GS 350
The GS 350 is a driver’s sedan that never forgot its Lexus roots. With a rear-wheel-drive platform, available AWD, and a responsive V6, it competes dynamically with the BMW 5 Series yet with far fewer long-term issues.
Lexus engineered the GS for durability, using proven transmission and suspension designs. Electronics are simple and reliable, and interior quality has stood the test of time.
Routine maintenance is affordable, and the GS’s components are shared with other Lexus and Toyota models, keeping parts availability high. It’s a luxury sedan that feels premium without feeling fragile.
Lexus has long perfected the art of creating vehicles that embody refinement and composure, and the 2020 Lexus GS is a prime example of that philosophy.
This mid-size luxury sedan offers a smooth, poised driving experience, maintaining its calm demeanor even over rough or uneven road surfaces. The GS excels in practicality as well, featuring a spacious trunk that enhances its day-to-day usability.
Inside, Lexus equips the GS with an impressive range of standard features, including modern driver-assistance technologies designed to make each journey safer and more convenient.
For those who crave a sportier edge, the GS F Sport variant adds a sport-tuned suspension that enhances handling without sacrificing comfort.
Altogether, the GS strikes a balance between luxury, comfort, and performance, appealing to buyers who value sophistication and reliability. Notably, 2020 marks the final year of the GS lineup, ending on a high note with the limited-edition Black Line special model.
For 2020, Lexus made some changes to streamline the lineup, retiring the rear-wheel-drive GS300 and GS300 F Sport trims. The range now centers around the GS350, which comes in both rear-wheel-drive (RWD) and all-wheel-drive (AWD) configurations.
Interestingly, the GS350 AWD serves as the base model and is priced slightly lower than its RWD counterpart, offering great value without compromising on luxury.
It comes well-equipped with features such as automatic LED headlights, LED taillights, and heated, power-folding side mirrors with auto-dimming functionality.
Inside, the GS350 AWD provides 10-way power-adjustable front seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, simulated leather upholstery, and a power-adjustable tilt-and-telescoping steering column.
In terms of safety, Lexus includes driver-assistance technologies like blind-spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control as standard, ensuring a secure and stress-free driving experience.
Pricing for the 2020 Lexus GS starts at $52,090 and goes up to $55,530 depending on trim and options. The GS350 AWD and GS350 RWD models form the core lineup, while the F Sport trims add enhanced styling and sportier performance tuning.
Under the hood, all 2020 GS models are powered by a robust 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 311 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. Rear-wheel-drive models pair with an eight-speed automatic transmission, while the AWD versions use a six-speed automatic gearbox.
In performance tests, the GS350 F Sport managed a 0–60 mph sprint in 5.8 seconds, a respectable figure, though slightly behind quicker rivals like the Audi A6 (4.8 seconds) and BMW 540i xDrive (4.5 seconds). Still, the GS’s emphasis lies more in balanced comfort than outright speed.
The suspension tuning delivers a smooth, controlled ride, ideal for daily commuting and long highway drives. Lexus also includes three selectable drive modes, Normal, Eco, and Sport, allowing drivers to tailor the car’s behavior to their preferences.
Refined, reliable, and gracefully understated, the 2020 Lexus GS remains a fitting farewell to a nameplate that defined Lexus’s luxury sedan heritage for decades.
Also Read: 5 Luxury Sedans That Age Well And 5 That Implode After Warranty
8. Lexus RX 450h
The RX 450h is the hybrid version of Lexus’s top-selling SUV and has earned a reputation as one of the most dependable hybrid crossovers ever built. Its hybrid powertrain is smooth, efficient, and surprisingly simple compared to newer plug-in systems.
Owners frequently report decade-long reliability with only minor repairs. Even the hybrid battery is robust, and replacement costs have dropped as the system has proven its longevity.
For luxury buyers who want a hybrid that actually saves money long-term, the RX 450h is a standout.
Among Lexus’ diverse SUV lineup, the RX stands out as one of the most balanced and well-rounded options. It may be slightly smaller than some of its competitors, but it makes up for that with an attractive price point, excellent comfort, and a sense of simplicity that many luxury SUV buyers appreciate.
The RX has always been known for its refined ride quality and serene driving experience, and it continues to deliver those same strengths in its 2025 model year.
Following its major redesign in 2023, the RX has seen few changes, maintaining the same sleek design, premium interior, and overall sense of sophistication that have long made it one of Lexus’ best-selling models.
One of the RX’s biggest strengths is its wide range of powertrain options. The lineup includes the standard gas-powered RX 350, the fuel-efficient hybrid RX 350h, the plug-in hybrid RX 450h+, and the sporty hybrid RX 500h.
This variety ensures there’s an RX for nearly every type of driver, whether you prioritize fuel savings, want limited electric-only driving, or crave extra performance and sportiness.
Regardless of which version you choose, each RX model delivers the smooth and quiet ride that has become synonymous with Lexus luxury.
In terms of value, the RX also remains a strong contender. With lower pricing compared to many of its European rivals, it offers an accessible entry point into the luxury SUV segment without compromising quality.
That said, shoppers might also want to consider alternatives like the Mercedes-Benz GLE, which is regarded as the benchmark for midsize luxury SUVs thanks to its advanced technology and refined performance.
The BMW X5 is another excellent choice for those seeking a more dynamic driving experience, while models like the Acura MDX, Genesis GV80, and Land Rover Defender cater to buyers who prioritize space, features, or off-road capability.
Still, for those who want a luxury SUV that prioritizes comfort, reliability, and everyday usability, the 2025 Lexus RX remains one of the most well-rounded and appealing options in its class.
9. Lexus CT 200h
The CT 200h might be one of the most underrated Lexus models ever sold in the U.S. It’s essentially a luxury version of the Toyota Prius, using the same reliable hybrid drivetrain but wrapped in a sportier, more upscale package.
The CT excels in urban driving, delivering excellent fuel economy with a high-end interior and top-tier reliability.
While it’s no rocket ship, its simple mechanical layout and hybrid system make it a long-term winner for those who value economy, comfort, and low maintenance costs. Used examples often run well past 200,000 miles with minimal repair history.
10. Lexus UX 250h
The UX 250h is Lexus’s entry-level hybrid crossover, but there’s nothing “cheap” about how it’s built. With a refined interior, intuitive tech, and Toyota’s proven 2.0-liter hybrid powertrain, the UX 250h is both efficient and durable.
It’s particularly attractive to younger professionals and retirees who want a low-maintenance luxury vehicle for city or suburban driving.
The hybrid system is less complex than plug-in rivals, and its battery cooling design contributes to long-term reliability. Owners praise its low running costs and minimal repair frequency a modern Lexus that delivers value as much as it does style.
In a world where luxury often comes at the cost of reliability, Lexus remains an exception that proves the rule. Each of these ten models combines craftsmanship, comfort, and engineering discipline with Toyota’s reputation for longevity.
Whether you prefer a hybrid crossover, a sporty sedan, or a full-size SUV, there’s a Lexus that delivers high-end refinement without the high-end repair bills.
For drivers in the U.S. who want a dependable luxury experience that truly lasts, Lexus stands as the gold standard of affordable elegance.
