Press Release
Lexus Announces 1997 Prices
09/06/96
Lexus Announces 1997 Vehicle Prices TORRANCE, Calif., Sept. 4 via Individual Inc. -- Lexus today announced pricing for selected 1997 new models, including the next-generation ES 300 near-luxury sedan, solidifying its position as the overall value leader in the luxury market. Manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) of the LS 400 price remains $52,900 for '97. This year's LS 400 prestige luxury sedan adopts new standard side airbags integrated into the front seats, a first among Japanese nameplates. A new key-embedded microchip immobilizer system enhances vehicle security. The GS 300 luxury sport sedan price also remains unchanged for '97 at $45,700. Thanks to extensive engineering effort and manufacturing cost improvements, the redesigned ES 300 builds on its strengths and excellent value as the near-luxury segment's hot selling and highest quality sedan, surpassing its own benchmarks in virtually every measure. Manufacturer's suggested retail price for the 1997 ES 300 is $29,900. Well-appointed, a typically equipped ES 300 will sticker at less than $34,000. ES 300 specifications up the ante in every category. It provides more front headroom and total leg room than before, it's longer overall and rides on a longer wheelbase to provide more stability. Engine enhancements have increased output by 12 horsepower and overall vehicle weight is reduced for brisk acceleration and handling. New steering gear and revised suspension geometry provide exhilarating handling response and communicative road feel without sacrificing renowned Lexus ride qualities or the all-season traction of front-wheel drive. The ES 300's new body structure exceeds all foreseeable U.S. and Japanese crash safety standards through 1998, including frontal offset and side intrusion tests. Added safety features include front seat belt pretensioners, rear center 3-point belt and adjustable rear headrests. The new ES 300 offers convenience and technology uncommon in its class, such as an optional in-dash 6-CD changer, optional two-position memory power driver's seat, pre-wired glass-embedded cellular telephone antenna, power lumbar support adjustment and an optional Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) system. A semi-active damping system, AVS adjusts each wheel's damping level continuously over each bump, and permits the driver to select one of four different ride/handling combinations, from comfort to sport. The extensive equipment roster of the previous ES 300 is enhanced by numerous additional standard features such as a new 7-speaker sound system with a separately powered subwoofer, a multi-function remote entry with scanner-resistant rolling code transmitter, automatic dusk/dawn headlight control and a long list of other new in-cabin conveniences. Rounding out the Lexus lineup, the highly successful Lexus LX 450 luxury sport utility vehicle, introduced in January, will carry a 1997 MSRP of $48,450. Prices for the 1997 Lexus Coupes, the SC 300 and SC 400, will be announced at a later date. Destination and freight charges for all Lexus vehicles remain unchanged at $495. High overall value extends to every aspect of Lexus ownership, from initial purchase to resale. In addition to highly acclaimed driving performance, engineering and craftsmanship, Lexus vehicles lead the industry in initial quality and long term durability after five years of ownership, according to surveys conducted by J.D. Power and Associates. Lexus owner loyalty outpaces the two major European luxury makes, combined, and Lexus dealers provide the auto industry's highest sales satisfaction.