Lexus bucks industry trend, posts record sales

MANILA, Philippines - Lexus Manila Inc., the official distributor of Toyota’s luxury cars, reported a 40 percent increase in sales in the first 10 months of the year with the roll-out of a new vehicle model and changes to other vehicles being sold.

“As of October, we have sold 302 units, 40 percent up from (the) same period last year,” Lexus president Daniel Isla said in a text message.

He attributed the rise in sales to new model introduction and minor changes in almost all vehicles in the line-up.

The higher sales came as the luxury car industry’s overall sales performance went down 16 percent year-on-year.

Isla said the 40 percent growth amidst the industry’s declining sales performance was more than good. “We don’t want to push our people further,” he said.

For the whole of 2012, Isla expects their sales to reach 370 units.

Lexus is aiming for a total sales of 388 units this year, up by more than 100 units from a year ago.

Late last month, Lexus launched its new flagship, the LS model range which includes the LS 460L five-seater and four-seater.

The new LS’ exterior has been redesigned and can be equipped with all-LED (light emitting diode) exterior lighting.

The LS also features a new laser crew welding and adhesive body bonding, enhancing stability and giving the passenger a more comfortable ride.