Lexus just proved why it is still the most reliable luxury brand

It’s no secret that Lexus has long been praised for its industry-leading reliability. With a genuine commitment to quality and longevity, it is a name that the brand has worked hard to build for years. With the magical spread of Toyota’s bulletproof character, which weaves its way into every part that counts, and the strict quality control that comes with their vehicles, it is no wonder that Lexus has managed to cement a strong brand identity. There are several reasons why this is so, and we’ll investigate and discover how Lexus maintains the number one spot in luxury reliability.

Times are now more challenging than they have been in a long time when it comes to the long-term durability of a new car. With so many advanced systems and an abundance of technology, it’s harder than ever to keep everything in order in a landscape where there’s so much more to monitor. This problem is illustrated when we consider luxury cars; even more gadgets and functions controlled by a computer. Despite these modern twists, Lexus has pulled through. After being ranked by JD power As the most reliable car brand of the past three years, it’s clear that Lexus won’t be giving up its crown anytime soon.

The indestructible character of a Lexus IS

The 2025 Lexus IS is perhaps the flagship example of what makes a Lexus excellent and what makes it such a long-term investment. For these results we will use by J.D. Power renowned and accurate scoring system based on many independent and unbiased opinions from verified car owners. Not only does it score the highest of all compact premium cars in 2025, at a whopping 86 out of 100, but the IS also scores an incredible 91/100 for quality and reliability – truly class-leading results, putting it in the ‘best’ category.

The basis for 2025 the Lexus IS is done with such conviction. A serious, luxurious mid-size sedan that inherits Lexus’s most proven technical philosophy. While many manufacturers are at the front of the line with new, innovative technology, Lexus tends to stay out until there is a number of years of proven durability of the specific feature, ensuring they conduct their own internal testing to see if it meets their high standards. Their close integration with Toyota’s wider production means that the core mechanical elements are almost always robust. Because there is massive stress testing and over-engineering during the production stages, Toyota powertrains and transmissions are extremely reliable.

Lexus dodges the bullets of the usual luxury car failures

By far the most unique element of Lexus’ brilliant sustainability is its electronics. While many brands prioritize adding advanced new features rather than focusing on the long-term usability of the features they offer, Lexus is taking a more cautious approach. This positive reputation has made it a strong selling point for the brand; it makes more sense to conservatively maintain their status as ‘the most reliable car brand’ rather than entice more buyers with fancy, less tested gadgets, which could break and therefore damage their reputation. They have managed to avoid the arms race with advanced features, eliminating questions about serious electronic reliability. Pre-release testing of Lexus electronics includes:

• Extreme heat and cold temperature cycles

• Long-term tests for severe vibrations

• Testing voltage peaks

Because consumers rarely push their vehicles to such strenuous levels, Lexus models tend to live a quieter life compared to the high-pressure testing they undergo before hitting the market. And this mentality applies not only to the electronics, but also to Toyota’s engine and drivetrain. While much of the reliability comes from traditional gasoline engines like the rugged 2.4-liter inline four-cylinder (T24A-FTS), Toyota’s hybrid systems have matured quite a bit, with about two decades of refinement from the Prius.

Lexus models retain their value as legends

Lexus also has a habit of holding its value with dignity. The 2025 Lexus RX 500hfor example, manages to maintain respectable sales figures despite being in the category of cars that typically suffer. While cars like the Jaguar F-Pace lose more than half of their residual value in three years and 40,000 miles, the RX manages to retain as much as 69 percent of its original showroom value. Reasons for this include:

• Lexus buyers tend to hold on to their cars longer

• People appreciate the second-hand reliability of Lexus models

• More predictable maintenance costs

Those purchasing a brand new luxury car may focus heavily on technology and features. This technology is developing rapidly, and once these innovative vehicles are a few years old, not only are the gadgets no longer particularly advanced, but they also cause longer-term problems. However, Lexus avoids this trap completely, because used Lexus buyers are content not to have the latest gadgets, but are aware that they are getting a proven car that will last.

Reliability and resale go hand in hand

With an industry average of 202 issues per 100 vehicles (PP100) with reliability issues in 2025 models, the industry is in a downward spiral when it comes to sustainability. This is a 12-point increase in the number of reported problems compared to the previous year, but in this comprehensive vehicle quality survey, Lexus ranked right at the top. With a whopping 140 problems per 100 cars, the brand sits just above Buick and comfortably above its other Japanese rivals. This kind of continued reassurance confirms the consumer’s confidence to pay a larger sum for a used Lexus.

Depreciation of other Lexus models (% over three years, 40,000 miles)

The long-lasting status of the long-lasting Lexus

The formula of reliability and long-term residual value has become clear and has been increasingly refined over the decades. With a solid foundation of Toyota parts and a rigorous procedure to ensure strength, Lexus is perhaps the only true premium brand that produces a real sense of luxury that also feels truly bulletproof. The brand finds true class in being comfortable, high-quality and reliable companions that focus more on the luxury of long-lasting comfort than on the dazzle of the latest interior technology.

With an incredible track record from numerous outlets including iSeeCars And JD powerit’s no wonder that the true status of exclusive longevity is becoming increasingly ingrained in automotive lore. And this is the real direct link to Lexus’ excellent resale value: people want a car that runs smoothly. Many people are just as willing to bet on the reliability of a used Lexus as they are on one of its rivals just rolling out of the showroom.

Sources: JD power, AutoEdgeLexus, Toyota