Why Was the Lexus GS Discontinued?
On August 31st, 2020, Toyota announced that the Lexus GS would be discontinued after the 2020 model year. This came as a surprise to many Lexus enthusiasts who have been enjoying the luxury sedan for over two decades. So, why did Toyota decide to discontinue the GS?
Declining Sales
The primary reason for the discontinuation of the Lexus GS was declining sales. The mid-size luxury sedan segment has been shrinking in recent years as more and more consumers move towards SUVs and crossovers. The GS had been experiencing a decline in sales for several years and had been struggling to keep up with its competitors in the segment such as the BMW 5 Series and Mercedes-Benz E-Class.
Focus on SUVs
Another reason for the discontinuation of the Lexus GS was Toyota’s focus on SUVs. As mentioned earlier, SUVs and crossovers have been growing in popularity over the years, and Toyota has been investing heavily in this segment. The company has introduced several new SUV models such as the Lexus UX, NX, and RX to cater to the changing preferences of consumers.
Shift towards Electric Vehicles
Toyota has also been making a shift towards electric vehicles, and the discontinuation of the GS is a part of this larger strategy. The company plans to introduce more electric and hybrid vehicles in the coming years and is investing heavily in research and development in this area.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the discontinuation of the Lexus GS was a result of declining sales, Toyota’s focus on SUVs, and its shift towards electric vehicles. While this may come as a disappointment to some Lexus enthusiasts, it is reflective of the changing preferences of consumers and the evolving automotive industry.
