Although this may be true, they won't be attracting any Chinese people, a large portion of Asian demographic. My dad hates everything that's Japanese or Korean.
I didn't realize your father was the Chinese representative.
Again, I work directly with the brand, specifically on the sales side.
They might not be near the target demographic for such vehicles now, but they will be the next set buyers of such vehicles as they get older. A few of those who might be able to afford the car now might not be around the next generation refresh.
I said what I said because I spent a while going through the Lexus forums after hearing this announcement. LS owners vary from the minimum age of 20 (LS400/430 with me being the exception at 18) to damn well 60 (the 460s, refresh or not). I acknowledge that forums only account for a certain percentage of owners worldwide- probably 5-10%; quite a few of the older demographics have a dislike for the design of the exterior. (One of them noted the rear window pillar and now I can't unsee it. It can do with a sleeker design.) Interior gets a pass.
Whic means nothing for 2 reasons:
1) Unless they plan to buy within the next 2-3 years, their views are nothing more than 3rd party.
2) As they grow, their views can and may certainly change.
I don't know about you, but I don't see many Asians driving around in LSs. In fact, I don't see any driving one at all. They generally go for the European brands.
1/3rd of our LS buyers at work are of the Asian demographic.
And regarding the older folks who can afford this car: who's stopping them to consider the Hyundai Eqqus/Genesis G90, Kia K900, and the established European brands? I've seen plenty of older folks in the Hyundais more than the current 460s. (I see more in the original designed 460s than the new 460s.) That is subjected to change, but it's quite difficult for me to see Lexus outdoing the competition like they did in the past.
Probably because neither of those brands are at the point Lexus has built towards to be in that price segment. People are still shocked at the price of those cars because of the brand on the grille.
Off the bat, it'll do well. I won't dispute that. I would consider one if I was in the place to afford a new car. (Right up until I get a GS F because midlife crisis.) My only point is that Lexus has some fierce competition now than before. Reliability can't be it's only selling point, especially when Audi stole it's crowned 1st place in reliability charts.
Please post a source for Audi taking #1 overall in reliability.
Consumer Reports and JD Power both currently rank Lexus at #1. Lexus has been at the top of JD's for 5 consecutive years.
Most of the older demographics want a big but very comfortable car. If that's all they want, why would they overlook the G90/Eqqus at a lower price point?
Speaking of price point, I don't see this car being under $85k base. New engine, new technology, new design all round, and it's standard as a long wheel base? It'll be up around $90k starting. Hence why I'm concerned regarding it's competition.
Again, Hyundai/Kia are still working towards solidifying themselves in this segment. They don't have the reputation Lexus has.
Price is still in the $80ks as well; coming directly from Lexus.
You've mentioned "fierce competition" twice now as well, yet you seemed to have missed that 2015 & 2016 have the been the best sales years for Lexus. The LC and LS as the flagships are only going to help promote the brand even more.
