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Lexus hits all-time high

Luxury marque sets record for annual sales and secures second spot in segment.
Posted on 02 December, 2025
Lexus hits all-time high

Lexus NZ has reached an annual sales record with still one month to go by surpassing 2024’s total of 1,327 new-vehicle registrations.

The marque reached 1,352 cars sold year to date by the end of November to cement its position as second overall behind BMW in the luxury segment.

Andrew Davis, vice-president, says: “This has been a challenging market, so we are grateful to customers who chose Lexus this year. Their confidence in our quality, craftsmanship and long-term value is what’s driven this performance.”

He adds the brand’s record result is fuelled by consistent demand across the range and a “growing appreciation” for Lexus’ ownership experience.

“Kiwis tell us they want vehicles that deliver more than power and design. They want something that feels considered. Lexus offers vehicles that are beautifully engineered, intelligently equipped and effortless to own. Our next generation of technology and design is attracting new buyers while continuing to honour customers who have been with us for years.

“Our dealers are guardians of the Lexus experience. Their dedication to omotenashi hospitality and personalised care is a major reason customers stay with us. This achievement is as much theirs as it is ours.”

This year’s sales success follows Lexus’ global direction shift recently unveiled in Japan when the brand introduced five new concepts under the theme “discover”. It signals how it will approach future mobility with new ideas, technologies and forms of luxury designed to meet changing expectations.

“The concepts shown at the Japan Mobility Show clearly to where we’re going. We are developing vehicles that are more intuitive, connected and better aligned to the way customers use their vehicles today and in the future. It marks the beginning of a new era.”

The all-new Lexus RZ is set to arrive in New Zealand this month and will be the first vehicle to offer steer-by-wire technology. This replaces the traditional mechanical steering link with an electronic system that provides smoother and more precise control. 

It will also debut a yoke-style steering wheel that improves visibility and driver engagement. Those attending the ASB Classic in January will be among the first to see the RZ.

Following this, the updated ES, pictured, will become its first model featuring connect-car services when it arrives in mid-2026. Connected capability will allow real-time updates, remote functions and integration with the driver’s digital world, “setting benchmark for convenience and support”.

“We are entering an important period of growth powered by new technology, connected features and the added assurance of Lexus Service Protect,” says Davis. “Our focus is on delivering an exceptional experience beyond the drive at every point of the customer journey.”