Lexus

The auto-industry analysts at J.D. Power say vehicles built during the COVID-19 pandemic are more problematic than those manufactured any year since 2009.

Of 30 vehicles subject to the new test in the agency’s latest front crash evaluation, 22 rated good or acceptable.

Toyota is recalling approximately 41,000 examples of its Camry sedan, as well as NX and RX SUVs from its luxury arm Lexus, for a damaged seat belt.

Along with general excellence, the best cars represent ultimate luxury in their class and/or are exceptionally well-rounded, providing luxury along with above-average usability and drivability.

The best SUV offers practical utility and the comfort of a raised seating position.

As the base trim is now gone from the lineup, the entry-level LX is now the Premium, which is itself almost $6,000 more expensive than it was for 2024.

Quiet, strong and pleasant to drive (but no more fuel-efficient than an LX 600), the newly off-road-capable Lexus LX 700h hybrid full-size SUV still feels in need of more unique luxury touches to command its six-figure price.

An increasing number of vehicles with sticker prices of $40,000 or less, some much less, offer heated mirrors.

There are no major changes to the Lexus RC for its final year, and the full lineup remains available.

For 2025, changes to the Lexus RX are minimal and include a couple of new design packages and a larger standard digital instrument cluster.