Lexus Overcomes 2020’s Challenges to Reach Record-Breaking UK Market Share

Lexus claimed a record-high share of the UK’s new car market in 2020, signalling the strength of the brand in the exceptional business environment created by the Covid-19 pandemic. It also returned its best performance yet in the premium car market (as defined by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders).

The year-end results show Lexus secured a 0.84 per cent market share, its best performance since the company debuted in the UK in 1990. This in turn helped Toyota (GB) attain a new record 5.9 per cent share across passenger car and light commercial vehicle sales for the Toyota and Lexus brands combined.

Among premium manufacturers, Lexus increased its share from 2.09 to 2.58 per cent, while registering new monthly highs of 3.54 per cent and 4.15 per cent respectively in March and September 2020, aligning with the twice-yearly registration plate change.

In terms of volume, 13,727 new Lexus cars were sold in 2020. Due to the restrictions imposed on businesses and the public for health and safety reasons, almost all manufacturers saw a decline in sales numbers, but for Lexus the reduction was significantly less marked than for others – down 12.6 per cent year-on-year compared to -29.4 per cent for the market as a whole.

Notably Lexus retail sales were up for the year, by 0.3 per cent, reaching a new high of 8,287 units.

Ewan Shepherd, Director of Lexus in the UK, said: “One of the strongest messages from our year-end results is that our retailers nationwide have responded magnificently to the challenge presented by the health emergency. True to Lexus’s commitment to delivering the best customer service, they have spared no effort in ensuring our customers can continue to have their vehicles maintained and repaired when required, as well has handling the growth in enquiries to purchase our new and used self-charging hybrid cars. At every step, the well-being and safety of customers and the people working in the centres have been paramount.

“While circumstances remain challenging, we have much to be optimistic about for the year ahead as we consolidate our achievements. Early in 2021 we will see the first all-electric, zero emission UX 300e models leaving our showrooms, opening an exciting new era of Lexus Electrified mobility. Lexus led the way with self-charging hybrid electric power in the premium market, giving us unparalleled experience and know-how in vehicle electrification.”

Lexus service outlets remain open during the current national lockdown, operating strictly in accordance with Government requirements. Online digital and remote consultation services  for vehicle enquiries and sales are also available. Full details can be found at www.lexus.co.uk/centres/centres-reopening.

ENDS