Lexus goes custom at SEMA 2018

SEMA is historically a fantastic show for Lexus; bringing out some amazing customized versions of Lexus models to spice things up has inspired future Lexus designs for innovation and excitement. SEMA, a tradeshow attended only by qualified individuals in the aftermarket. Held in Vegas, the SEMA show brings in over 60,000 attendees, and hosts everything from new tools and parts in the industry, to awesome custom innovations from large brands!

Last year was one of the most exciting years for Lexus, with the LC having just been released; that release almost directly followed SEMA, meaning it was time for quite the collection to be shown at SEMA. The star of the show was the 2018 LC Inspiration Series, recently featured and sold here in Wichita, with its uniquely designed blue paint and one-of-a-kind interior. Also featured was the Black Panther inspired LC Concept, with special body modifications, wheels, paint, and graphics designed by the influence of the Black Panther Marvel movie! Other excited modified vehicles featured in 2017 included a customized 2018 LS F Sport and 2018 LC 500, with designed featuring Gordon Ting and Beyond Marketing.

This year Lexus chose not to bring out quite as many super-sport vehicles, but instead let their more everyday current (and future) lineup take their time in the spotlight. One of the most fun vehicles brought to the show this year was the 2019 RC 350 F Sport Cross Country Custom; thankfully, cross country doesn’t mean it’s some crazy off-road RC F. Instead, this RC has been touring the country picking up modifications from every shop visited! These mods already include RS-R USA springs, Vossen forged wheels with Nitto performance tires, Apexi N1-X muffler, a satin wrap and blue under glow. But Lexus isn’t done with this RC, which will continue its tour after SEMA, finishing up in Los Angeles after a few more stops!

Another vehicle brought to SEMA by Lexus includes the all-new 2019 Lexus UX 250h, with custom modifications that ensure it goes from standard crossover to the most exciting product on the road. Combining a light blue wrap, Apexi N1 exhaust, and lowered suspension to create a more aggressive stance, the 2019 UX stands out from the crowd. Combined with the already aggressive front grill, sharper lines, and deep front end, the UX is ready to be released into the wild.

My personal favorite version though that Lexus brought to SEMA is the customized 2019 Lexus ES 350 F Sport. From the outside, it looks like your typical get to work, get the kids to practice, get to the grocery store everyday vehicle, albeit still with the expected quality of a Lexus. However, pop open the trunk and you’ll find that there’s no room for a spare, or even a donut; instead, everything you need for a nice glass of wine is tucked away. Hidden inside is your own personal wine refrigerator, wine rack, and glass holder, all built with the expectations of bumpy roads, to ensure none of your glasses are chipped or any of your wines ruined. To add to the flavor of the trunk, the standard carpet and flooring has been replaced by beautiful oak barrel wood. Tack on an Artisan Spirit aero kit and Rays Engineering 20-inch wheels, and you have an ES ready for any evening out.

SEMA is quite the fun show to be at, and Lexus always manages to bring some exciting vehicles.  Here at Lexus of Wichita, we’re already excited for next year; what new and fun innovations would you like to see on a Lexus vehicle? Let us know below!

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