Lexus Ranks Highest of Any Brand in the J.D. Power and Associates APEAL Study for Fourth Straight Year

TORRANCE, Calif., Oct. 14, 2004 -- Lexus ranked as the No. 1 nameplate overall for the fourth consecutive year in the 2004 J.D. Power and Associates Automotive, Performance, Execution and Layout (APEAL) Study.

In addition to leading APEAL as the top brand, Lexus had two segment award recipients. The RX 330 was the "Most Appealing Entry Luxury SUV" for the second year in a row, and the LX 470 was the "Most Appealing Premium Luxury SUV," followed by the GX 470 which ranked second in the same segment. The LS 430, SC 430 and IS 300 also performed well in their respective segments.

"We are pleased that Lexus continues to perform well in this study," said Denny Clements, Lexus group vice president and general manager. "This shows that owners make a strong emotional connection to Lexus vehicles and the brand overall."

Now in its ninth year, the 2004 APEAL study has established itself as a benchmark for measuring the appeal of new vehicles and owners' satisfaction with their new vehicle purchase. This year's report is based on information from more than 103,000 owners of new 2004 and early release 2005 model-year vehicles.

Respondents decide what they like and don't like about their new vehicles' performance and features after 90 days of ownership. The study asks the owners to rate more than 115 attributes that cover eight areas of vehicle performance and design. The areas include engine and transmission; ride and handling; exterior styling; comfort and convenience; cockpit and instrument panel; heating, ventilation and cooling; seats; and sound system.

NOTE TO EDITORS: Hi-resolution photos can be downloaded at http://pressroom.lexus.com