Lexus Reports Year End Sales
5 January 1998
Lexus Sales Set All-Time Record in '97
TORRANCE, Calif., Jan. 5 -- Lexus sales in 1997 surpassed the
luxury make's previous record, totaling 97,593 luxury cars and sport
utilities, an increase of 20 percent over calendar year 1996 sales.
The luxury division of Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A, also maintained hot
monthly sales, setting a record for December with 8,968, an increase of 20
percent over the same period a year ago and the second best December in Lexus
Division history.
All Lexus models enjoyed robust sales in 1997, led by the ES 300 near-
luxury sedan at 58,430, an increase of 31 percent from 1996 calendar year, and
the best year in the ES 300's history. The ES 300 also posted its best
December ever.
The hot new GS 400 and GS 300 models, recently recognized as Motor Trend's
Import Car of the Year, sold a total of 7,718 in just three months since
launch, with demand exceeding supply.
"Lexus passenger cars enjoyed the fastest '97 sales growth of any luxury
make, improving by 20 %," said Lexus Senior Vice President and General Manager
Jim Press. "When this virtually all-new car lineup is joined by our two new
SUVs in '98, Lexus will be positioned for the fastest growth in our history
with a 50% increase forecast over just two years."
The flagship LS 400 sold 1,525 in December and totaled a strong 19,618 for
the year despite shorter supplies due to a new model changeover in the fall.
Lexus SC 400 and SC 300 sport coupe sales remain steady, with a total of
5,042 sold in '97, up slightly from 1996. LX 450 sales of 6,785 declined
slightly from 1996 as potential customers await the V8-powered LX 470 to be
introduced in March, 1998.
(Figures include Hawaii)
Dec. '97 1997 Total
LS 400: 1,525 19,618
GS 400: 1,203 3,893
GS 300: 1,308 3,825
ES 300: 4,694 58,430
SC 400: 70 2,043
SC 300: 46 2,999
LX 450: 122 6,785
Total Lexus: 8,968 97,593
SOURCE Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A.
