September 1997 - Lexus introduces a redesigned Lexus LS 400 featuring Variable Valve Timing with Intelligence (VVTi) engine for higher performance, dozens of additional features and freshened styling. Despite the numerous upgrades the LS price remains the same as the previous year, enhancing its overall value.

January 2000 - Lexus unveils the 2001 Lexus LS 430 flagship sedan at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit.

October 2000 - Lexus LS 430, the third generation Lexus flagship sedan, goes on sale. In addition to upgrading its V8 to 4.3 liters, the new vehicle sets a new benchmark for luxury and technology. Features include Intuitive Park Assist, Dynamic Laser Cruise Control, heated/cooled front seats and a beverage cooler between the two rear seats. The 2001 Lexus LS 430 also offered a Mark Levinson sound system, which made Lexus the first and only automaker to offer an OEM mobile audio system designed by Levinson.

September 2003 - Lexus LS 430 debuts as a thoroughly revised model for 2004, with exterior restyling, a new 6-speed automatic transmission, and additional safety and luxury features. The three generations of Lexus LS sedans have garnered more awards for quality than any other luxury car and received the J.D. Power and Associates Vehicle Dependability StudySM every year that they have been eligible.

January 2006 - The 2007 Lexus LS 460 is unveiled at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit along with Lexus LS 460 L, the first long-wheelbase model for Lexus. The fourth-generation LS features the world's first automatic eight-speed transmission.

April 2006 - The 2008 Lexus LS 600h L is revealed at the New York International Auto Show, introducing the world's first full hybrid V8 powertrain.



AWARDS AND RECOGNITION

January 1990 - Lexus LS 400 finishes first in all categories, including overall satisfaction, in Car & Driver's 1990 New Car Buyers study.

February 1990 - Motoring Press Association names LS 400 "Best Imported Car of the Year."

March 1990 - Lexus LS 400 is awarded the "Best Luxury Car" title in MotorWeek's Drivers' Choice Awards.

July 1990 - In J.D. Power and Associates Initial Quality Study (IQS), the LS 400 .ranks "Among the J.D. Power and Associates Top Ten Models in Initial Quality "

May 1992 - Lexus LS 400 is ranked the most problem-free vehicle in J.D. Power and Associates IQS.

June 1992 - Lexus LS 400 is recognized with both J.D. Power and Associates "Top Ten Models in Initial Quality" and "Best Model in the $22,001 and Up Price Class in Initial Quality".

December 1992 - Personal Finance lists the LS 400 as the best buy in the $30,000+ category.

March 1993 - American Automobile Association (AAA) names Lexus LS 400 as the best 1993 model in its price range.

March 1993 - Consumer Reports calls the LS 400 "Benchmark of Quality."

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