2013 Lexus LS Tops Entire Industry in J.D. Power Initial Quality Study

WATERTOWN, Mass., July 9, 2013 — The Lexus LS was redesigned for the 2013 model year with a bolder style and a more aggressive ride, but it appears those changes have not diminished the flagship luxury sedan's signature reliability. For the sixth consecutive year, the LS outperformed every vehicle on the market in the J.D. Power and Associates Initial Quality Study (IQS).

Tapping the opinions of more than 83,000 purchasers and lessees of new 2013-model-year vehicles, J.D. Power's 2013 IQS identifies the model in each segment that experiences the fewest problems per 100 vehicles (PP100). The consumer-research firm updated the study this year to gather more feedback on the various in-car technologies that are becoming increasingly popular in the industry. Even with that expanded criteria, the 2013 Lexus LS far outpaced the rest of the industry, earning a 59 PP100 compared to the vehicle average of 113 PP100.

"Typically, buying a reliable vehicle means that you're settling for a middle-of-the road design and a ho-hum driving experience, but the 2013 Lexus LS evokes a strong reaction from its drivers, as well as from everyone it passes," said Vincent Liuzzi, general manager of Lexus of Watertown, a Lexus dealer in Boston. "Luxury buyers can leave the dealership with the new LS and feel confident they've made a purchase that is not only smart, but also stylish and sporty."

Donning Lexus' new family spindle grille and sharper design lines, the 2013 LS has a more dominant presence complemented by a livelier performance thanks to its increased body rigidity, new frequency-dependent shock absorbers, revised steering and more powerful braking. Inside, the technology focuses on comfort and convenience, including an Advanced Illumination System that uses LED lights to greet approaching passengers before start-up and a new, optional Lexus Climate Concierge that tailors temperature for each individual occupant through climate-controlled seats.

For those seeking even more athletic touches, the first-ever Lexus LS F SPORT is available for the 2013 model year, featuring a prominent three-dimensional mesh grille and larger cooling openings outside, as well as bolstered sport seats and a leather-wrapped steering wheel with paddle shifters in the cabin. The underpinnings of the 2013 LS 460 F SPORT offer added responsiveness as well, with a sport-tuned suspension, Brembo six-piston caliper brakes, 19-inch forged wheels and a Torsen limited-slip rear differential on rear-wheel-drive models.

"As the flagship of the Lexus lineup, the new LS is leading a broader effort from the brand to appeal to both the head and the heart of the luxury buyer," added Liuzzi. "If sales are any indication, then the redesign of the Lexus LS has been a clear success, because the car moved 73 percent more models in the first half of this year compared to the same period in 2012."

About Lexus of Watertown:
Lexus of Watertown is a recipient of multiple Elite of Lexus awards, given annually to dealerships that showcase overall excellence. They have a wide selection of new and certified pre-owned Lexus models, in addition to an exemplary service department that keeps customers coming back. Easily accessible from MetroWest, the North Shore and the South Shore, Lexus of Watertown is just minutes off the Mass Pike between Route 128 and Route 93. For more information, visit them online at www.lexusofwatertown.com, call them at 888-677-9785, like them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/LexusWatertown, or stop by their showroom at 330 Arsenal Street in Watertown, Mass.