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Lexus LX 470 Receives Top Spot In 1999 APEAL Study

16 September 1999

Lexus LX 470 Receives Top Spot Among Luxury SUVs In J.D. Power and Associates' 1999 APEAL Study

    TORRANCE, Calif., Sept. 15 -- In its first year of
eligibility, the Lexus LX 470 premium sport utility vehicle (SUV) was ranked
the most appealing luxury SUV in the 1999 J.D. Power and Associates' APEAL
Study.  Additionally, the Lexus RX 300 finished second to the LX 470 in the
same category.
    The APEAL Study measures owners' satisfaction with the features and design
of their vehicle after 90 days of ownership.  In addition to rating components
such as the engine, transmission and seats, the study also garners opinions on
exterior styling, comfort and convenience and ride and handling.  In all,
eight separate categories are measured.
    "The Lexus LX 470 really is the ultimate SUV and we believe this study
reflects that," said Bryan Bergsteinsson, Lexus group vice president and
general manager.  "Whether customers use the LX 470 to traverse through the
mountains or cruise on city streets, it offers the best in technology and
luxury."
    With the LX 470 and the RX 300, Lexus is the only luxury make with two
completely different SUVs in its line-up.  The popularity of its SUVs is a key
reason Lexus currently is the No. 1 luxury brand in the U.S.  For the year,
LX 470 sales are up 71.3 percent over 1998 while the RX 300 is up 97.4
percent.  Overall Lexus sales are 24 percent ahead of last year.