Lexus Minivan
Lexus Champion
Joined: Jun 2006
Posts: 4,192
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From: none
The local Lexus dealer here uses the Sienna XLE, while BMW down the street uses Sienna LEs or CEs and has a sign on the sides that says BMW Concord Executive Transporation. I don't consider a CE or LE "executive" transit, even the bus sounds tempting at this point 
My old job uses a Odyssey Touring, no NAV for one of its service shuttles. Not bad for being a Honda dealer
My old job uses a Odyssey Touring, no NAV for one of its service shuttles. Not bad for being a Honda dealer
Lexus Fanatic
Joined: Oct 2003
Posts: 94,226
Likes: 222
From: Virginia/D.C. suburbs
Lexus Fanatic
Joined: Oct 2003
Posts: 94,226
Likes: 222
From: Virginia/D.C. suburbs
Correct. Lexus marketers, I believe, once considered selling a rebadged Sienna XLE as a Lexus product, but then decided that it wasn't necessary, as no other luxury nameplate in the American market had a dedicated minivan (if you don't consider the Chrysler Town & Country to be a luxury vehicle).
Lexus Champion
Joined: Jun 2006
Posts: 4,192
Likes: 3
From: none
Correct. Lexus marketers, I believe, once considered selling a rebadged Sienna XLE as a Lexus product, but then decided that it wasn't necessary, as no other luxury nameplate in the American market had a dedicated minivan (if you don't consider the Chrysler Town & Country to be a luxury vehicle).
On the flipside, how would it do for Lexus in terms of image? Would the typical NA buyer warm up to a Lexus minivan or are they fine buying a Toyota Sienna (XLE of course). They may see it as an advantage since it will cost less to maintain and insure than a Lexus brand vehicle and they don't have to look snobbish all the time (see, we have a Toyota, like regular folks). Lastly, it helps as because it's a Toyota, it's ok if their friends see the van as slightly used rather than in tip-top conditions.
Granted, it's a very specific stereotype but I mean, that's just one view, right? Otherwise, they could always add an MDX or something if they want to stick with luxury brands.
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