Japanese cars are popular worldwide, including in the United States, due to their affordability, reliability, and durability, especially in the small and mid-size car segments. However, Japan also produces some of the best luxury cars in the world.
While Japanese luxury cars may not be as well-known as models from Mercedes-Benz, Rolls-Royce, Jaguar, Porsche, or Cadillac, they stand out in terms of design, performance, and value.
According to data provided by HotCars and TrueCar, as of April 2024, the average price of a new car is $48,510, with luxury cars starting at least 10% higher than the average new car price.
Here are six Japanese luxury cars compiled by gobankingrates that offer great value despite their slightly higher prices.
Starting at $54,110, the Nissan Z model has a legendary reputation, with a recent redesign focusing on enhancing power and performance. Featuring a strong engine, six-speed manual transmission, and rear-wheel drive, it meets all the criteria for a fun-to-drive sports car.
The Nissan Z series, now in its seventh generation, carries forward the sports genes of the Z series for over half a century, combining retro themes with futuristic design to capture attention and continue the legend of the Z.
Priced at $56,500, this high-performance sedan underwent upgrades by Nissan’s racing division (Nismo) to further enhance its performance. With a stylish and aggressive exterior design, it stands out as one of the best-balanced performance sedans in the market.
One of the highlights is a set of 19-inch forged aluminum wheels developed by the Nismo division, inspired by the racing world. The car can choose to install either Nismo or Infiniti center caps, available in black, gunmetal, or bronze semi-gloss finishes. These 9.5-inch wide wheels are suitable for the standard versions of the Q50 and Q60, as well as the Red Sport 400 version.
HotCars describes this as a “superb luxury sedan” equipped with a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine producing 400 horsepower, with an optional all-wheel-drive system.
At a starting price of $59,645, the two-seater sports car GR Supra boasts a legendary brand tag. It embodies a track-inspired, dynamic GR Supra with turbocharged power system and incredible maneuverability, allowing drivers to handle corners with finesse like professional racers. The 2024 GR Supra features an AVS suspension system that controls each corner effortlessly under various conditions.
TrueCar notes that the Supra offers a “stylish coupe appearance, amazing power and speed, and agile handling,” making it a strong alternative to European two-seater sports cars.
With a starting price of $80,685, the Lexus LS luxury sedan has always been one of Lexus’s standout models. The 2024 LS continues the traits of its predecessor – comfort, tranquility, and craftsmanship at an exceptional level. It impresses with its traditional, stylish coupe-like exterior, captivating interior, and performance. The LS 500 and LS 500h models are available for selection.
The 12.3-inch central screen upgrades to a touch function, moving forward by 15 cm for easy operation by a fingertip. Additionally, the addition of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto enhances connectivity between the vehicle and smartphones.
HotCars views the Lexus LS as a technologically advanced and practical luxury sedan equipped with advanced hybrid powertrain options for extended driving on the roads.
Starting at $99,800, the Lexus LC seamlessly combines primal power, strong performance, and riding comfort, offering gas or hybrid powertrain systems that can accelerate from 0 to thrilling speeds in 5 seconds. From the new rear-wheel-drive platform to the 471 HP gas engine, the 10-speed automatic transmission, and the aerodynamically sculpted chassis with low-profile tires, this car delivers driving excitement.
HotCars believes consumers looking for “ultra-luxurious, long-distance grand tourers and one of the best interiors ever” should be satisfied with the Lexus LC 500. The luxurious interior and quality level will make traditional European car manufacturers blush.
Priced at $93,915, this full-size SUV is the powerful Lexus LX featuring a high-output, high-torque 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine producing 409 horsepower (HP) and 479 pound-feet of torque (lb-ft) paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, aided by an electronically controlled brake system (ECB) and electric power steering (EPS). The Lexus LX achieves precise control whether on-road or off-road driving.
HotCars describes the flagship Lexus SUV as a “masculine yet elegant” vehicle with outstanding chassis. They refer to it as a “Toyota Land Cruiser dressed in a tuxedo.”
In conclusion, these Japanese luxury cars offer a compelling blend of performance, design, and value, appealing to consumers seeking a mix of quality craftsmanship and driving pleasure.