14 October 2002: The Lexus LS430 has been awarded the Most Appealing Luxury Car status in the latest US JD Power APEAL study. It's the fourth time that Lexus has taken this particular title.

The LS430 beat competitors from Mercedes-Benz, BMW and Jaguar.

Now in its seventh year, the 2002 APEAL study is a benchmark for measuring the appeal of new vehicles and owners' satisfaction with their new vehicle purchase. This year's report is based on information from more than 117,000 owners of new 2002 and early 2003 model-year vehicles.

Respondents decide what they like and don't like about their new vehicles' performance and features after 90 days of ownership. The study asks the owners to rate more than 100 attributes that cover eight areas of vehicle performance and design. The areas include engine and transmission; ride and handling; exterior styling; comfort and convenience; cockpit and instrument panel; heating, ventilation and cooling; seats; and sound system.