In the European market, Lexus is experiencing difficulties due to the introduction of its less brand, less prestige value when compared to domestic premium brand, small market share, and the absence of an independent dealer throughout the 1990s. After the import quota was lightened in 1998, this brand remains a small player in this market. Since 2005, Lexus plans to introduce the latest hybrid cars and diesel cars, as well as increasing the number of dealers in the European market
Front quarter view of a sedan.
The GS 450h introduced 2006.
In 2006, the newly introduced Lexus IS 220d diesel has increased sales in the UK market; hybrid cars controlled a quarter of sales and beat the sale of gasoline cars. Another market is Russia, the brand is ranked fourth in the luxury car segment in 2007. Lexus finally get increased sales to 72% in 2006 with about 50,000 units to move into the hands of consumers; but stagnated in 2007 and again fell 27.5% in 2008. In 2009, Lexus plans to become a hybrid-selling brand only in the UK market