Lexus LS US$1 billion, and premiered with a new V8 engine and numerous luxury features. The Lexus LS was intended from its inception for export markets, and the Lexus division was formed to market and service the vehicle internationally. The original LS 400 debuted to strong sales, and was largely responsible for the successful launch of the Lexus marque. Since the start of production, each generation of the Lexus LS has been manufactured in the Japanese city of Tahara, Aichi. The LS name stands for "Luxury Sedan". Some Lexus importers used the backronymic name, "Luxury Saloon". In August 1983, Toyota chairman Eiji
Toyota Mark II the Toyota Mark X which is still very popular in Japan and select international markets. The Corona Mark II, first offered for sale in Japan, September 1968, at "Toyopet Store" dealerships, was intended as an largest alternative model to the more established luxury sedan, the Crown, sold at "Toyota Store" dealerships, and the smaller Corona, also available at "Toyopet Stores". It was a slightly larger vehicle than the Corona with a higher level of equipment offered at the time, sharing some of the features of the larger Crown, but taking the top position at "Toyopet Store" locations. At its introduction,