
The Rich History of Lexus
For decades, Lexus has been seen as a symbol of class in America. With experimental beginnings as Toyota’s foray into the luxury vehicle category, the company has grown into one of the world’s largest brands of its kind.
Getting Started
Beginning in 1983 as a project code-named F1, chairman Eji Toyoda and his team set out to build on the success of the Toyota Supra and Mark II models, aiming to create a powerful, luxury sedan that would cater to an emerging American market. In 1989, they launched the Lexus LS 400, the culmination of some 450 design prototypes and 900 engine prototypes. The entire project comprised 60 designers, 2300 technicians, 1400 engineers, and a support staff of 200 working diligently over 6 years.
The year the first Lexus was released, it outpaced many of its competing manufacturers in a variety of categories, and took home the Car of The Year Japan award. With the tremendous effort put into conception and design, as well as the success of the LS 400’s launch, Lexus coined their original slogan, “The Relentless Pursuit of Perfection.”
Over the subsequent decade, Lexus expanded exports, released new models of sedans, coupes, and SUVs, and in 1999, celebrated its millionth vehicle sold in the US.

Changes and Innovations
After years of growing success and the release of numerous models, including their first convertible and hybrid SUV, as well as recording their 2 millionth sale in the US, 2005 saw the Lexus brand break away from its parent company. During this massive corporate reorganization, the Lexus division of Toyota earned its own dedicated design and engineering teams, and manufacturing facilities were developed exclusively to build the luxury vehicles.
That same year, Lexus officially launched sales in Japan, becoming the country’s first luxury car company to offer vehicles domestically. The company remains a division of Toyota, but operates largely independent of their founding corporation. Over the last 15 years, Lexus has continued to strive for excellence while weathering the difficulties of the 2008 financial crisis and the 2011 earthquake in Japan. In recent years, Lexus sales have remained fairly consistent, with about 2 million vehicles sold per year.
Take Your Lexus to the Experts at Milito’s Auto Repair
For three decades, the company has built a rich history by staying committed to innovation and style, principles that are apparent to any Lexus owner. When you have a great car like this, you want to take excellent care of it, and that’s where we come in! For all of your Lexus repair in Chicago, Milito’s Auto Repair has you covered.




