9. Lexus LS400
The debut of the Lexus LS400 in 1989 sent shockwaves through the established luxury market. With its whisper-quiet ride, meticulous build quality, and unbeatable value, the LS400 gave the German giants—especially the Mercedes S-Class—a run for their money. Lexus’s attention to detail and customer experience redefined what buyers expected from a luxury sedan. The LS400’s success forced the entire industry to step up. Discover how it changed the U.S. auto industry at Automotive News.