Used Lexus buying guide
- CT 200h
- ES 250
- ES 300h
- ES 350
- GS 200t
- GS 300
- GS 350
- GS 450h
- GS F
- GX 460
- GX 550
- IS 200t
- IS 250
- IS 300
- IS 350
- IS 500
- IS F
- LC 500
- LC 500h
- LS 460
- LS 500
- LS 500h
- LS 600h
- LX 570
- LX 600
- LX 700h
- NX 200t
- NX 250
- NX 300
- NX 300h
- NX 350
- NX 350h
- NX 450h+
- RC 200t
- RC 300
- RC 350
- RC F
- RX 350
- RX 350h
- RX 450h
- RX 450h+
- RX 500h
- RZ 300e
- RZ 350e
- RZ 450e
- RZ 550e
- TX 350
- TX 500h
- TX 550h+
- UX 200
- UX 250h
- UX 300h
About Lexus
Lexus is the upmarket sub-brand of Toyota, offering all the versatility the parent brand is known for in a high-end premium package. Expect to find upscale interior finishing, a smooth and quiet ride, and a variety of powertrain options — including hybrid and electric — across the range of sedans, SUVs, coupes, and convertibles. Signature models include the IS and LS sedans, the RX SUV, the LC and RC sports coupes, and the RZ EV.
What CarMax customers like
Ride and Handling
Reliability
Power
What CarMax customers don’t like
Fuel Economy
Technology and Entertainment
Cost to Maintain
Lexus FAQs
Lexus models are known for comfort, luxury, and long feature lists. Even the base models offer a wealth of tech features and premium, spacious cabins. The brand offers a variety of models, so take a look at which one is best for your needs. When shopping used, it's also important to consider factors such as mileage vs maintenance.
Lexus models overall score a reliability rating of 4.0 out of 5.0 on RepairPal, which puts them seventh out of 32 car brands. Many models score 4.0 out of 5.0 or higher, and models like the CT200h and RX450h rank number one for reliability in their respective categories. Take a look at RepairPal's website to find out more.
While lower mileage might mean there's more life left in a used car, it isn't the only factor to consider. As well as mileage, look at the age of the vehicle and its maintenance history. Want to know more? Read our article on mileage vs maintenance.
Since 2020, there have been three main Lexus IS models to choose from. These include the base-level IS 300; the mid-range IS 350 with a 3.5L turbocharged V6 engine; and the top-line IS 500, featuring a powerful 5.0L V8 engine.
The Lexus RX is a highly sought-after model. Many people are attracted to the RX for its roomy and comfortable cabin, well-appointed and feature-rich interior, and selection of frugal powertrains. Other top models for Lexus include the NX SUV and the ES sedan.
It depends on what you are looking for. If you want a vast and luxurious SUV for taking friends and family out on adventures, check out the RX or GX models. If you're after a balance of everyday comfort and thrilling performance, you'll want the IS 500 sedan or the RC coupe.
1. Lexus RX 450h
CarMax owner rating
Pros
Plenty of rear passenger space
A quiet and comfortable interior
A capable hybrid powertrain
Cons
Trunk space is smaller than competitors
Touchpad infotainment controls are a distraction
Slower acceleration than most hybrids
2. Lexus NX 200t
CarMax owner rating
Pros
Smooth powertrain delivery
Generous passenger dimensions
Great tech
Premium interior feel
Cons
Smaller than expected cargo area
Touchpad control function is distracting
3. Lexus RX 350
CarMax owner rating
Compare used Lexus Models
The Lexus ES and LS are high-end sedans originally released for the 1990 model year. The LS (Luxury Sedan) is Lexus' flagship full-sized sedan and competitor to the Mercedes-Benz S-Class and BMW 7-Series. The fifth-generation LS features a 3.4L twin-turbocharged V6 (416 hp). 2026 is the final model year, with only 250 LS Heritage Edition units planned.
The ES (Executive Sedan) is Lexus' entry-level, mid-sized sedan with a 3.5L V6 (302 hp), offering a spacious, comfortable ride ideal for daily commuting. The ES feels nimble in city driving, while the LS prioritizes passenger comfort with advanced driver-assistance features. Choosing the best Lexus luxury sedan for you depends on whether you want the pinnacle of luxury or if a comparably sized, well-appointed executive sedan will meet your driving needs.
Want to see how these Lexus models stack up to other luxury sedans? Use our car comparison tool to find your next ride.
The Lexus NX and RX are both premium midsize SUVs. The NX is sporty and agile, while the RX provides a more spacious, car-like ride on the highway. The NX is a compact option, making it a great fit for tight parking in city environments with 23 cu-ft. for your gear. The RX is a midsize SUV that offers a 30-cu-ft cargo area for your golf clubs and more room for your passengers. Fold the rear seatbacks down, and the NX offers 47 cu-ft of storage to the RX’s 46. Both models include available all-wheel drive and a long list of driver-assistance features. Both SUVs are equipped with four-cylinder gasoline or hybrid engine options, with a turbocharged option pushing 275 hp. If you prioritize fuel economy over power, you can find NX SUVs with a four-cylinder, 203-hp engine. Whether you need a compact crossover or a roomy family vehicle, these highly rated SUVs deliver on style and performance.
Take a deeper dive into comparing these Lexus SUVs and other used vehicles with our car comparison tool.
The Lexus RX and GX are midsize SUVs that were purpose-built for markedly different lifestyles and driving priorities. The RX features a unibody design for a smooth highway ride and prioritizes comfort and efficiency for your errands. The GX, however, is a rugged adventurer with a body-on-frame foundation and 4WD. The five-seater RX excels at hauling groceries and the family in a plush cabin. The GX is ready for off-roading and features a third row to accommodate up to seven passengers. It is powered by a twin-turbo 349-hp V6 with four-wheel drive, while the NX has a 275-hp turbo V6 under the hood. Your choice should come down to whether you prefer car-like serenity and maneuverability for navigating city streets. Or maybe country roads often call your name, and you need rugged capability for your weekend adventures.
Discover the vehicle that best fits your lifestyle with our car comparison tool. Explore more highly-rated SUVs here.
Deciding between a Lexus UX and an RZ isn’t quite as simple as choosing between an EV and a hybrid, but it’s close. Some rare UX models are gasoline or electric-powered. UX SUVs are subcompact hybrid crossovers powered by a 2.0L four-cylinder gas engine supported by a few electric motors. They aren’t as quick off the line as rival luxury subcompact SUVs, but they offer a comfortable interior appointed with premium materials.
The Lexus RZ is the brand's all-electric SUV that has a quiet ride. Both vehicles feature sleek designs and standard driver-assistance features. If you need a nimble hybrid for parking in small spots, the UX is a great fit; however, if you want the instant torque of an electric vehicle, the RZ is a good choice. You will be rewarded with many standard driver-assist and infotainment features, whichever option you choose.
Use our car comparison tool to compare these and other vehicles. Or read our reviews of the best luxury hybrid SUVs.
The Lexus GX is a great midsize SUV for trails in the country, and its cousin, the TX, is designed for refined rides on city streets with your entourage. Both SUVs are equipped with three rows of seating. The GX is a classic, rugged SUV with four-wheel drive and a V8 engine, making it a strong choice for towing. In contrast, the Lexus TX is a midsize SUV with available all-wheel drive. It's designed with passenger volume and a smooth highway ride in mind. While the GX is built for adventure, the TX provides a comfortable cabin for your crew. Both models feature Apple CarPlay® and Android AutoTM Bluetooth® device integration and a six-speaker sound system or higher. Your decision depends on whether you need a trail-ready workhorse or a spacious family cruiser.
Check out our list of highly-rated SUVs and use our car comparison tool to see which fits your lifestyle.
Ready to find your used Lexus?
RepairPal reliability ratings
RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2008-2022 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features. RepairPal Reliability Ratings are provided by RepairPal and CarMax is not responsible for their accuracy. These ratings are based on RepairPal Reliability data as of August 2023. Learn more about RepairPal reliability ratings.
Unless otherwise noted, information related to these featured vehicles comes from third-party sources, including manufacturer information. We make every effort to provide accurate information, but please verify before purchasing. Product and company names may be trademarks or registered trademarks of third-party entities. Use of them does not imply any affiliation with or endorsement by these entities. We hope you found this information helpful. This content is intended to inform and is not meant to indicate that a particular vehicle is currently available or recommended for you.
RepairPal Reliability Ratings are provided by RepairPal and CarMax is not responsible for their accuracy. These ratings are based on RepairPal Reliability data as of 3/18/2025. Learn more at repairpal.com/reliability.
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Various factors may impact towing capacity, including weight of passengers, cargo, and options/accessories.
We hope you found this information helpful. This content is intended to inform and is not meant to indicate that a particular vehicle is currently available or recommended for you.
Statements of fuel economy or EV range are based on EPA and other third-party estimates for vehicles when new. Fuel economy and EV range will degrade with time and vary based on age, driving conditions, vehicle history, and other conditions. See fueleconomy.gov for more info.
Unless otherwise noted, information related to featured vehicles comes from third-party sources, including manufacturer information. Product and company names may be trademarks or registered trademarks of third-party entities. Use of them does not imply any affiliation with or endorsement by these entities. By clicking on any video links, you will be taken to a third-party site maintained by YouTube, Inc.
We make every effort to provide accurate information, but please verify before purchasing.