Explained: Lexus

Welcome to the latest instalment of our #EXPLAINED series, where we break down the model nomenclature of your favourite manufacturers. This week we’re looking at the names behind the different Lexus models.

Most Lexus’ models are made up of two-letters and three-numbers, for example, the LC 500 or the IS 350. The two-letters denote the shape and size of the car, while the numbers describe the engine.

The first of the two-letters signify the size of the vehicle, with ‘C’ being the entry-level size, all the way up to the biggest ‘L’ models. The model sizes, in ascending order, are C, E, I, N, R, G and L. One of the few models to break this rule was the Lexus LFA, the V10-powered coupe that put Lexus on the supercar map back in 2009.

The second letter describes the model shape, with ‘T’ for hatchbacks, ‘S’ for sedans, ‘C’ for coupes and ‘X’ for SUV’s and crossovers. So, when you see a CT-model, you’re seeing Lexus’ entry-level hatchback, and when you see an LC-model, you’re seeing the biggest coupe that Lexus has to offer.

The three numbers that accompany the model-designation letters relate to the engine that powers that specific model. The numbers come from the engine displacement multiplied by 100. Using the LC 500 as an example again, the 500 means that the car is powered by a 5.0-litre engine. Similarly, a 350 model will be powered by a 3.5-litre model and so on.

Now let’s compare a few models to their German counterparts to put everything into perspective. The CT-model would rival an Audi A3, while the LS-model rivals the Mercedes S-Class. On the SUV side, the RX-model competes with the BMW X3 and the LX-models compete with the Mercedes GLS-Class and when it comes to coupes, the RC-models compete with the Audi A5 Coupe and the LC-model would go head-to-head with the upcoming BMW 8-Series.

That’s not all. Just like BMW has their M-vehicles, Lexus has their own high-performance models, which are usually denoted by an ‘F’, inspired by the Fuji Speedway, after their two-letters. The RC F, for example, is Lexus’ high-performance mid-size coupe. There are also F-Sport models which come with slightly more aggressive styling, like M-Performance models. Lexus is also fond of their petrol-electric hybrid models, which are usually denoted by an ‘H’ in their model names. The Lexus CT 200 H, for example, is powered by a 2.0-litre hybrid engine.