New Zealand sales of premium Lexus cars and SUVs in 2023 passed its previous annual record and with new Lexus Dealerships, models and events are likely to set the marque up for another great year in 2024.
Sales for the 12 months to the end of December reached 1,309 surpassing the 2022 annual record of 1,023.
Lexus New Zealand Chief Executive Neeraj Lala says the record sales reflect the growing demand for low
emitting electrified powertrains encapsulated in the premium technology, body and interiors the brand is known the world over for.
“Lexus as a brand is maturing and customers are coming back to Lexus as they truly understand what Lexus stands for. Lexus not only offers amazing design, a premium cabin, high performance, and outstanding reliability, but also a route to decarbonisation and sustainability,” he says.
The Lexus portfolio now includes hybrid, plug-in hybrid and battery electric options. The push to electrification has been well received with 90% of 2023 sales being electrified. Average tailpipe carbon dioxide emissions across the portfolio are down to 119gm of CO2 per kilometre compared to 121gm in 2022.
As well as the popular hybrid RX SUV, which was updated in 2023, Lexus also offers a plug-in hybrid NX SUV and two fully electric models – the UX 300e, which was also recently upgraded with a larger battery and the RZ 450e, the first Lexus to be tested and scored a maximum five stars against the recently updated 2023-2025 Australasian New Car Assessment Program (ANCAP) protocols, the strictest safety testing ever seen in Australia and New Zealand.
“We have built our brand in New Zealand by bringing in technological innovation when the market has required it. Equally, anyone who has driven in a Lexus will absolutely be impressed by the quality of the interior and attention to detail not seen in many other marques,” Neeraj says.
The coming year is just as exciting for Lexus. Dealerships are investing in their stores – with a new store in
Christchurch and Lexus of Auckland moving to Newmarket. A new entry model – the LBX compact SUV – will launch in early 2024 and is expected to attract new customers to the luxury Lexus brand.
Also this month, Lexus is cementing its global affiliation with the ATP Tour with its sponsorship of the ASB Classic tennis tournament in Auckland. Lexus is the official car sponsor and supplier of the ATP Tour and will supply luxury vehicles for the tournament in Auckland.
