Lexus LS 430 Ranks Highest in J.D. Power and Associates APEAL Study

TORRANCE, Calif., Oct. 8, 2002; -- Lexus claimed the top spot in the Premium Luxury Car category of the J.D. Power and Associates 2002 Automotive, Performance, Execution and Layout (APEAL) Study released today.

The LS 430 was ranked the Most Appealing Premium Luxury Car in the study outperforming competitors from Mercedes-Benz, BMW and Jaguar. This is the fourth time that Lexus has held the Most Appealing Premium Luxury Car title.

"Not only was the LS 430 ranked the highest in its segment, it also had the highest APEAL score of any model in the study," said Denny Clements, Lexus group vice president and general manager. "This shows that owners make a strong emotional connection with the LS 430."

Now in its seventh year, the 2002 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 117,000 owners of new 2002 and early 2003 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 100 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.