Lexus Ranks First in J.D. Power and Associates Vehicle Dependability Study

2 April 1999

    TORRANCE, Calif., March 31 -- Lexus owners had fewer problems
with their vehicles than any other car or truck brand for the fifth year in a
row.
    J.D. Power and Associates announced today that the Lexus Division of
Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc. is the No. 1 nameplate in the 1999 Vehicle
Dependability Study (VDI) among all manufacturers.
    The VDI study reports the number of problems experienced by owners of 1994
model-year vehicles during the past year of ownership.  Earning the honor for
the fifth consecutive year, Lexus has been in the top spot every year for
which it has been eligible.
    All Lexus models included in the study made the list of the top 28 most
dependable l994 model-year vehicles, including the LS 400, ES 300, SC 300/400
and GS 300.
    "As we celebrate our 10th year in the luxury vehicle market, it's nice to
once again be recognized for having the most dependable vehicles in the
industry," said Bryan Bergsteinsson, Lexus group vice president and general
manager.  "When Lexus entered the market, we aimed to provide our customers
with luxury vehicles that could withstand the test of time.  Based on these
results, I'm proud to see we're meeting our goals."
    For the first two months of 1999, Lexus is the nation's leading luxury
brand with sales of 25,492 vehicles.  Total Lexus sales of 156,260 units in
1998 were up 60% over previous year.
    Lexus' efforts to ensure long-term dependability are apparent in its
certified pre-owned program.  Re-launched last year with added advantages for
consumers, the Lexus Certified Pre-Owned program is one of the most
comprehensive in the industry.
    A Certified Pre-Owned Lexus must pass more than 125 quality, maintenance
and appearance checks conducted by specially trained Lexus technicians.  Once
certified, the vehicle is backed by the Lexus Certified Warranty and Lexus'
renowned customer satisfaction efforts.
    Lexus adds this latest honor to nearly 40 J.D. Power and Associates awards
earned since 1990.  Last year, the luxury manufacturer earned six trophies
including best overall nameplate in both the Customer Satisfaction Study (CSI)
and VDI.  Individual models also were recognized, such as the LS 400 as Best
Premium Luxury Car in IQS and Most Appealing Premium Luxury Car in the APEAL
Study.  The ES 300 earned top honor in IQS as Best Entry Luxury Car.  Lexus'
newest model, the RX 300 mid-size sport utility vehicle, was ranked Most
Appealing Luxury Sport Utility in the APEAL study.