Lexus marketing boss says 'no' to entry-level models, wants RX family

Although other luxury makers from Germany and Japan are fearlessly diving into lower price segments in the U.S., Lexus marketing VP Brian Smith has gone on the record with Cars.com as saying, "I don't think [entry-luxury] is a focus of ours right now." The reason: even with last year's acts of God, Toyota's upscale arm still holds an enviable position with the RX, which was the second-best-selling luxury vehicle in 2011. As well, for the moment, it has its brand-hands full with rebuilding its inventories and recasting audience perception.

Autoblog, Lexus marketing boss says 'no' to entry-level models, wants RX family