CARS MADE IN JAPAN HAVE BETTER QUALITY THAN THOSE MADE IN NORTH AMERICA? ENGINEER COMPARES LEXUS RX

[@landcruiser7936]

I think some of the difference is cultural. Japanese workers take an immense amount of pride in their work product. That's not to say that North American's don't but I believe NA are more comfortable with less than perfection vs. Japanese culture that demands it.

[@kriscarmelo]

It’s true. Americans we get used to being pampered and loved that some workers make it a full time mentality, even when they’re at work. 😆

[@joeadi1720]

For nihonjin there's is a saying your work is showing who you are. But for North American it's just a job.

[@dtna]

@@bngr_bngr That is not true. Even TMC criticizes U.S. production. The manufacturing and production is very different at TMMNA.

[@edhcb9359]

@@bngr_bngr That’s not true. It’s for men with small wieners.

[@dtna]

@@bngr_bngr Where did you get that info from? Not true at all.

[@KirkKreifels]

I've noticed too the difficult to close rear doors in the Rx and NX. I wonder if they will improve it over time? Or could it be due to different suppliers not making identical pieces? Thanks David giving all these impressions from Japan!

[@jbpasion071]

Hello Kirk and David! New 500h owner here! Yeah i find myself putting more effort to closing the front and rear doors. Or maybe im not used to it as coming from a '19 rav4 haha. I just need to take it easy on closing the doors haha. Have a good one fellahs!

[@AutomotivePress]

Great to hear from you Kirk! I'm returning soon so let's catchup. I think the rubber seals do get a bit softer over time, but I find that the rear doors are always harder to close on NA built Toyota/Lexus compared to the Japan made ones. And there are other subtle differences, though they are minor for the most part.

[@mr.tuckers2848]

I'm wondering, from an engineering point of view, if these parts are being sourced from Japan and shipped over to Canada for manufacturing, that somehow the materials are changing due to temperature fluctuations, time overseas if being shipped until parts arrive to Ontario plant or could it be the environment of the plant Ontario plant itself causing issues? Is it too cold in Canada vs. Japan? If the same parts are being built at each factory, then we can rule that out and perhaps the processes in each location has to be slightly different and not consistent. There is a delta there between the two and that would probably he the thing in question. I've always valued Japanese quality because the folks there always take pride in their work and don't take any shortcuts or compromises. That's just because of the Japanese culture vs. North American culture I suppose.

[@midiman5045]

I would say fit and finish is better from Japan than Canada or US. but to me it's a Lexus not a Toyota so all should be equal in all aspects of the car from top to bottom. It would kill me to have purchased a new Lexus to have the fit and finish not being top notch.

[@an-dr6eu]

@@midiman5045 US manufactures most of the SUVs and if you compare it with the sedans, mostly made in Japan, the fit and finish is garbage. RX, NX, LX, etc... Are absolutely average, noisy and rattly over time. Of course some lazy bum in Kentucky wont put the same effort than the masters in Japan.

[@catwill2022]

There is nothing like a "Made in Japan" quality item and vehicles are no exception. In general, there is more attention to details and quality controls. This is like a cultural thing in Japan, where employees take pride in their work and craftsmanship and put extra effort to produce quality material.

[@kwahaus]

I paid attention to that when I bought my 2012 RX 450h. Made in Japan. If I have a choice, I would ALWAYS chose the model made in Japan.

[@Dtt4]

The Japanese are on another level of precision detail.

[@Shiba_Inu_Des]

Agree, would choose a Lexus made in Japan any day. No argument.

[@GR8Tmate]

Have an argument anyway, it gets the blood flowing 😂

[@Cody_Austin]

We can see Japanese-built cars are superior in quality due to the measures taken to ensure a quality product. Why aren’t other manufacturers in North America adopting the same methods? We know it’s “cheaper” to rush production, but overtime, recalls and warranty work probably cost more? So why not get it right the first time?

[@TMike293]

It's not being rushed. You can bring the entire manufacturing systems, the technology, and quality standards over and say everything is the same. The people are NOT. And that's one thing they can't change

[@pauldiesel4582]

Being in a warm showroom with soft door seals and the windows down can sure help to make the doors close easier. I would like to see the actual measured door panel gaps between the Japan and North American factories.

[@thomaslam6821]

I have believe and trust in quality built in Japan! 👍👍👍

[@g300h5]

There is love and care gone whilst manufacturing! I appreciate and will always buy and support the Japanese brands, especially made in Japan!😊❤👌

[@Jaredius]

What about the assembly quality of Toyotas made in Mexico compared to Canada, to USA?

[@AutomotivePress]

From my personal opinion, in order of best quality is: Japan, Canada, US, then Mexico

[@shahrukhbakar3248]

@@AutomotivePressthat’s a bit of a different answer than you gave in the joint video with The Car Care Nut?

[@AutomotivePress]

@@shahrukhbakar3248 I don't believe I ranked them in order back then... but anyhow the differences are very small

[@shahrukhbakar3248]

@@AutomotivePress can you please make a video specifically showing IS500 production at the Tahara plant? Also a separate video showing the Lexus 2UR-GSE engine production since it is likely the last Lexus V8?

[@jaythomasni]

You are closing it the glass wound down, it will be easier with glass down. is there any material and finish difference noticed. for example light lenses. plastic metal , rubber?

[@mikej238]

I recently sold a 2005 Corolla CE manual transmission. Built in Ontario, ordered new in Oct 2004 , perfectly aligned paint was smooth as butter..reliable as a tank....hope my NX is the same.

[@rightlanehog3151]

Good to hear about your 2005 Corolla. I feel the same way about my made-in-California 2005 Vibe. I believe the ultimate fit and finish of all mass produced vehicles built during this global supply chain crisis is less than ideal.

[@ivan63384]

I just recently bought an RX and didn't even think about checking where ut was assembled. But just today i found the stiker and it says "Made in Japan". This made my happy

[@mattmc8391]

I think some of the difference could be the windows being down on this RX , there is a lack of pressurization to kick the door back , thus making it easier to close , than if the windows were up.

[@jsfbay1]

Absolutely a consideration, but knowing David he has thought of that so I don't think he would make the error of comparing the Canada vs. Japan built RX and NX without considering if windows are open or not.

[@DzenanA-m6h]

Japanese will always make better quality product comparing to anything that will come out of North America. My 20 year old Japanese made Lexus GX470 has 300,000 miles and still drives like a dream and every button works!

[@drewnc6196]

I have the 2023 NX 450h+ which is built in Japan. The quality is impeccable and the doors close with the same effort. The gaps are very good and consistent from one side of the car to the other side. Will not buy a car built in North America; they are more concerned with politics and leftist ideals than with building a good product and pleasing their customers.

[@applefacegamer3120]

Hello , I like this video as I just got a RAV4 Prime in Vancouver and found a slight misalignment with the passenger front and back door , do you think I should bring it back to the dealership for adjustment ? Is it a quick fix ?

[@dannythomas99]

I have owned many lexus cars and truck. One thing I can tell .. the price difference between 2 identical cars ..one made from Japan is higher than NA. I completely trust Japanese car’s quality and only bought Japanese made Lexus cars . Very informative video. TY

[@JXM33]

Not only the Japanese Lexus are better, I have a cheap Suzuki made in Japan and I have the chance to compare to another one made in East European plant. The difference are abismal, especially in the quality of the gaps, paint and interior looks.

[@josecarlos11]

Very interesting! Do you think this can improve in Canada and if so how? Or is this more of a culture aspect where the workers care more? I’m curious your thoughts thanks for the videos!

[@miked6523]

Just move the plant out of canada. Problem solved

[@mikej238]

@@miked6523 😂 yeah just pack it up. 😂 Move it where?

[@AutomotivePress]

Actually the quality in NA plants have indeed improved over the years, and it's very good now. But there is still a difference in terms of philosophy and culture between the two. The Canadian plant is ranked as one of the best in the world.

[@dtna]

@@AutomotivePress Yep. TMNA plants are still not up to the standards that TMC wants. But, I don't think it will ever change.

[@dubasciver3234]

I find it interesting that my father, who used to work QC for Ford, would tell me to look out for the same areas you were pointing out for QC. I love your videos. I have a 2011 ES350 (Japanese made) and it is amazing. The vehicle construction is second to none. By the way, do you know which plant my car would have been made in?

[@rrrogster]

It is always easier to close the door of these vehicles if the windows are down. The air pressure is squeezed slightly when closing the door when the windows are up because the vehicle is so air tight. Try itself if you are skeptical. So does this mean the North American vehicles are in fact better made because they are more air tight?

[@badongtagalog5737]

How about the panel gaps? What is the scapegoat for that? Ive seen other channel sticking his finger to the gap of his nx at the back. The other side has bigger gap than the other side. The panelmis misaligned. Its a NA made nx. Well that makes NA better?

[@inodesnet]

Just walked past that dealer yesterday. It's HUGE!!! (and very close to the BMW dealer as well). The Kyushi factory is impressive. I went on a Japanese speaking tour a fews years ago. They have a snake of paths that walk over the top of the production line so you get a very good look at the whole process. I still do find the Mazda production method (all on one line) to be more impressive for scalability, but they do a few cars on exactly the same platform in Fukuoka.

[@kriscarmelo]

Japan cultured people are more disciplined from a young age. Even the train conductors are strict and on the dot with timing. Or else write ups and re-training is done.

[@markreynolds3850]

Thanks David for the excellent review, awesome cars.👍

[@RJ-vc2ju]

There's always room for improvement but it's very difficult to change the performance of your "average" worker. The difference is that culturally, your average worker, particularly in mechanical assembly and manufacturing trades, is just better in Japan and certain other countries. I owned a 2012 Sequoia for 10 years, sold it during COVID for a great price to buy the last of the 5.7L Sequoias (a 2022 Sequoia TRD Pro). I've also owned several other Toyotas, Mazdas, Nissans, Volkswagens, Audis, and Mercedes Benz, both in Canada and overseas. I disagree with David's comment that Toyota NA quality has improved over time, it has actually gotten worse, if my 2022 Sequoia is used as an example. The 2022 Sequoia (in Pro trim nonetheless) was nowhere near as well manufactured (assembly quality, fit and finish, and material quality) as the 2012 base model SR5. So much so that after 11 months of ownership and 16000km, I sold it and will never buy a NA-built Toyota/Lexus again. I have several other personal examples with various German vehicles (Germany built vs NA/Mexico), Mazdas, etc. One of he most notable examples is the difference in quality between the pre-2016 Nissan Armada, and the Patrol-based post 2016 Nissan Armada built in Japan. Nissan is still trying to undo the essentially garbage that was the previous Armada and has faced an uphill battle in convincing people that the new Armada isn't the same as the old. Also, the supply chains are not the same for Japan-built and NA-built vehicles (Toyota, Lexus, Mazda, Nissan etc). This is important to realize because it means the overall quality of the vehicle is affected by the compounded quality and workmanship of the aggregate of the components and all the Tier 1/2/3 suppliers. BTW - a trained mechanical and aerospace engineer in the business of operational test and evaluation.

[@jamescarel5520]

You can tell by the VIN where they are built:Miyakawa built start with JTJ Cambridge built start with 2T2

[@beargillesgaming]

I'll always own a Japanese built vehicle over anything else. The level of quality/care they put into their work is unmatched and it shows. Owned an American built Honda new and it rattled constantly and was even asked if it was involved in any collisions with its large, uneven gaps..

[@joshmurphy1289]

Your videos are very informative and professional. I would like to ask if there is a way to buy a Japan-made Lexus RX in Canada?

[@yotajeff68]

With two 5th gen 4runners and a 3rd gen Tacoma in my garage, I get to address this topic all the time. 4runners way better in every aspect

[@Mike-ht1ou]

The japanese RX in the video had windows open. My canadian made rx only have issues closing rear door when windows are all closed. I wonder if you had tested japanese RX with windows closed?

[@terrytran2546]

I bought the 2023 RX350 h and I have the same issue with close the rear doors that it won’t close perfectly. I have to use a stronger force to close it compare to the front doors. Of course my Lexus was built in Canada

[@fancyhandle]

Same observation. The problem is the latch mechanism supplier is different. But it’s not a big deal.

[@bernardwuttke]

I see this is a production RX 450H+, any indication on what this will be available to order in North America. Assume PHEV version will all be built in Japan and then shipped here...or is there a plan to build in Canada? I still have a 2010 RX 350...150,000 miles...never needed a major service of any kind, looks and runs great

[@rightlanehog3151]

Where was your 2010 RX made?

[@bernardwuttke]

Our Lexus was Made in Canada, yet we bought it in USA and imported into Canada(Vancouver)..same vehicle as we could have bought here, but I had a connection in Oregon to source the car

[@rightlanehog3151]

@@bernardwuttke Vancouver? You should bring it around to David and have him do a quality audit. My 'Toyota' was made in California, USA . I have owned it for nearly 18 years and there have been only 3 non-scheduled repairs. I cannot believe one made in Japan would have been better or more reliable. While I completely respect David's expertise and highly trained eye, videos like this threaten to make a mountain out of a molehill. Toyota/Lexus remain #1 for quality decades after the majority of production moved from Japan to North America. Finally, all manufacturers have made compromises in fit and finish during the supply chain crunch of the last few years. The question going forward is when/whether the stricter standards of 2019 return.

[@bernardwuttke]

I had a company car for 32 years...new one pretty much every 2 to 3 years..mostly GM & Ford products. Retired in 2010 and needed to purchase my own car and after some research got the Lexus.... Best decision. It's perfect...yet time to get a new vehicle. All set up for Electric SUV..but nothing I like so far. So, the PHEV RX 450H+ might be the right choice. Dealers here don't know squat about the car ...so, I'll wait. Dealers are pushing me to order the RZ ! Don't think Toyota has got this figured out yet for total electric vehicles.

[@rightlanehog3151]

@@bernardwuttke I think the plug-in Hybrids from Lexus or Toyota are a good bet. You may have to wait a while to get one but you have a very reliable car to use in the meantime.

[@johnwebb2232]

Hi David,i really like the effort you put into your videos, I was just thinking if you would have closed the doors with the windows up,would it have been the same as a lexus being made in North America, if the window is down, you don't really trap the air inside, thus having a more solid sound when closing, just a thought.

[@johnwebb2232]

In conclusion to my comment, I still think vehicles that are built in Japan are better than what they are here in north America, just because they seem to take a lot more pride in their work. Still loving my 2016 4runner trail with KDSS.

[@jasonlax2102]

I have a 2012 RX 350 Canadian and I have the door problems as well

[@DanQuentinJames]

I have also noticed over many years, that the Japan produced Toyota & Lexus vehicles have been fit and finish...because I look at the smallest of details. I surmise the North American vendors have lesser standards and quality control.

[@1976axerhand]

I'm picking up my new 23 Corolla tomorrow,that was built in Japan. My 1st vehicle from there. I hope it last a very long time.

[@haduong5828]

David can you say which one of 2023 new RX models still made in Japan. Always enjoy your videos.

[@terp8373]

After watching one of David's videos I look at everything in my (Canadian built) RAV4 differently. 🙂

[@rightlanehog3151]

David, I have said it before and I will say it again. Anyone who is unhappy with their Canadian RX/NX or US made Lexus ES can leave them at my house. Just leave the keys and paperwork in my mailbox and I will take care of the rest 😉😉😉

[@happycat0411]

I owned a 2002 Rav4 which I think was built on N.A. Car was super reliable and has zero problems even when I gave it to a friend in 2024. As for overall build quality, the Rav4 was top notch and would buy another one whether Japan or American built. I may consider a JDM Toyota Harrier or Honda Crossroad for my next car since Japan are pretty nit picky when it comes to detail and build quality!

[@StormBringer-]

I agree the Venza I bought my daughter is so supportive to quality of Canadian RAV4. Have a Hybrid RAV4 coming from Japan so would be interesting to see what arrives. The 2 GX’s have been the best I’ve ever owned.

[@mikej238]

why is your Rav 4 coming from Japan? They are made in two plants in North America including the hybrid

[@StormBringer-]

@@mikej238 They still import J models and my dealer put an order in. Might take awhile. Venza and my 2 Lexus GX so much better than Canadian RAV4 we have. And American made I see many blemishes on lower body and lower rear ended areas in the paint.

[@mikej238]

@@StormBringer- what trim Rav 4 H did you order

[@StormBringer-]

@@mikej238 Limited with all factory options,

[@mikej238]

@@StormBringer- really, so does LTd come from Japan automatically? I ordered the same Last June.

[@hughb5092]

Scotty Kilmer has routinely mentioned Japanese cars are better built.

[@MGMidget73]

My past experience is that a blanket statement that Japanese vehicle are all better is untrue. My 04 Acura TSX's stereo actually shorted out. Also the heated seats burned a hole thru the drivers seat. And redono red paint faded terribly. No longer have it. But worst made in Japan vehicle was my 1988 Isuzu Trooper 2. It's engine was a total POS. Crankshaft failed at18k and Isuzu wouldn't stand behind it. However on the positive side my 11 TL Acura SHawd has been wonderful. So you can get bad and great vehicles made in Japan.

[@Odat]

We are talking about Lexus/Toyota vehicles. Not sure how the others do it.

[@MGMidget73]

Title too general then. I also own a US made Tundra Crewmax. Transmission had to be replaced at 700 miles. Have 175k on it now. Past few months replaced radiator and starter.

[@davidryder3374]

I've got a driveway full of Japanese-made Toyotas and Lexus. I flew all the way across the country to buy one SPECIFICALLY because it was a model made in Japan.

[@timw2083]

If engineering standards and quality controls are equal across a manufacturer. Why do obvious differences occur? Is it genuinely in the workforce?

[@AutomotivePress]

As I mentioned, for the most part, the differences are very small. The Japanese plants simply have more people with more experience...

[@alexvieira1758]

I had Lexus made in Japan like the LS, LX, RX Hybrid, NX and now I’m driving a 2017 RX F made in Canada and so far 3 recalls. Never a issue with the Japanese made Lexus. Same issues with Toyota Made in Japan like I had a 1991 Land Cruiser a amazing SUV.

[@tommynguyen6219]

I can’t believe until now people start to notice. I knew it a long time. I owned 1999 LS400,2004 LX470, 2015 LX570,2008 RX400h,2013 RX450h and 2019 RX 450hL. Ít all made in Japan. In 2011, my brother in-laws bought an RX350. After a few months, the window control panel pop up. I was not happy. I tell myself that Lexus begin to built a shady car. Well, I also help my brother in law get into State Farm insurance. When I call insurance for him, they make me give them the VIN No. That’s how I start to look into it and I know his car assembly in Canada. He still have the car until today. Some of the assembly’s parts are not perfect aligned etc, but the car is still very reliable because its Lexus product. If you like the details like me, buy the one made in Japan. And if you are not, buy the one in U.S or Canada. Car still great, just a minor thing that may irritates you. P.S: even the 360 camera from Lexus RXL 450hL are wayyy better thế an RX made in North America. How is better? I will tell you. The 360 backup camera RX 450hL made in Japan, when you back up at night pitch black, the camera adjusted automatically bright everything surrounding. The camera 360 on RX Made in North America, it’s all dart unless outside have light. That is what I mean when it come to the details. People who own all the Lexus like me will appreciate the details that Lexus made. I hope this information can help someone making the right choice when it’s time to buy a vehicle.

[@coolkami]

Very interesting that you mention this. Our first Lexus ever is 23 GX460 and all four doors need extra force to close compared to any car I have owned over past 36 years. Even though the GX is made in Japan, still has to force the doors harder than other Japanese cars I owned. I asked other owners in forums and seem the newer GXs like 22-23 models comparing to older GXs have the same experience. I am wondering if Lexus has changed the vendor for weather stripping that have caused this? Leaving the window cracked open helps.

[@powkchopa90]

That means it’s airtight. No wind noise/ outside noise. It’s incredible how overbuilt this car is. No matter what door you close last it’s going to give you that vacuum effect on the closing doors.

[@DashPar]

Or they are too air tight?

[@coolkami]

@@DashPar that too, but windows cracked it still does not close as smoothly as it should, which makes me think of the weather stripping is not soft enough.

[@dobermanguy9437]

My brother used to work at Chrysler in Michigan he said on lunch break guys were in the parking lot smoking marijuana that can give you an indicator of cars being put together personally I would not want a car made my people smoking marijuana during work hours would I buy an American-made Toyota absolutely I do have a 2016 Scion IA it says Toyota on the windows but I hear it's really a Mazda kind of confusing I believe Japanese Auto Workers are more dedicated to the quality work just my opinion

[@trdrav4]

I remember the news story on Fox Detroit "Chrysler Workers Caught Drinking on Job" by Rob Wolchek ten years ago

[@uploadtime1780]

Any chance on a Mazda analysis with their new shared Toyota North Amerkca plant?

[@lotus956]

I must admit that I’ve owned Fords and Dodges and finally came over to Lexus. Yeah, never going back to those two manufacturers.

[@faradaycool4058]

For sure, Lexus quality is unmatched. But their lack of courage to innovate in their design, their engines have caused me to leave them after 20 years...

[@jeffislearning]

i believe your viewers would appreciate a tour of the showroom. looks beautiful

[@husaberg650]

Maybe the door seals are different?

[@barryg4452]

Is there a difference in quality between US and Canadian built vehicles?

[@curlystooge]

I have a 2022 4Runner Limited. Same rear door problem as mentioned in the Canadian build vehicles. No big deal, just take a little more force to close. Didn’t pay any attention to it until this video. So, maybe a Japanese build problem too?

[@kevinlee9079]

Definitely those made in Japan are better. Japanese are actually picky people. This reflects in the products they made too. Even for those made in Japan, for many years they have always kept the best products to themselves (out of national pride and high expectations) and export those not as good. Not only cars but other products as well. This has changed a lot though in recent years with the internet where people elsewhere now know better what's available in Japan and also intensified global competition

[@cargueone1971]

As a person who has a family who has owned Toyotas for over 50 years, definitely there's a big difference.

[@the8am146]

sir i want to learn "build quality in engineering" from you, perhaps can i have some source to read or soemething, thankyou

[@aw4610]

So which Lexus models are still made in Japan?

[@rdm925]

Interesting video. Thanks, I'd love to see a comparison of quality in the Japanese built CX--5 and USA built CX-50. BTW, I previously owned a 2007 Mazda 6i built in the USA at the Flat Rock, MI plant and it was very reliable and quality was good. Thanks, again.

[@your_royal_highness]

So far my Canadian assembled 2023 NX is not falling apart. My Audi Q5 gave me not a lick of trouble and that car was assembled in Mexico. I will have to check the back doors on my Lexus. I guess that is a major flaw….🙄

[@tonicgin2087]

I have a 2020 RX450HL (made in Japan) and I ride in my friend's Canadian built RX350 (2020) all the time. Have not noticed any difference other than smell (his 350 started with a new car smell while mine has none, probably due to the RXL sitting on dealer's lot for months in 2019 while there was no huge demand for hybrids or tiny 3rd rows...) and my driver's door being slightly more difficult to close (from day 1).

[@raymondreiff8170]

Yes most of the Time Japanese Cars are WAY better, Especially if you are comparing the Big three, Canadian do a good job building Cars usually, I only buy Japanese Manufacturered brands but the last two were built here in the USA by Honda, Lexus is Too nice for Diesel technician 👍😁.

[@名無しの権兵衛-z3c]

もし北米生産のトヨタ車が日本製に劣るなら、それは日本のトヨタの責任だと思う、技術移転に問題があったはず。トヨタ自動車は真摯に受け止め、北米トヨタが日本製と同じ品質の生産ラインを構築しなければならない。

[@elsaandnoah]

Thank you for this video. I’ve often wondered is it even possible for a North American to order vehicles made in Japan when the same model is manufactured in North America, import it? Steering wheel would be in the wrong spot for us though but yes, I’d really rather buy my car if it’s been manufactured in Japan. Subaru Outback is one example. Can we even choose when we order/purchase a car?

[@Devillers-y9q]

David, Tesla uses large stamping equipment to simplify the body structure, optimize assembly efficiency, bypass the advantages of high-quality skilled workers on Toyota's production line, and produce electric vehicles like mobile phones, with fast delivery and excellent cost control. Does Toyota have any response?

[@jamietoro8373]

Another informative video

[@ivanzheng8814]

That’s why I got the 2022 RX-L. Japanese and last V6

[@gordonnguyen7160]

I wish they will brought passenger memory seat on the North American market and the air ionizer which they called nanoe x. Why they keep striped down those cool features

[@danbell6380]

I wish Japan would bring workers in to supervise and make sure North American models are built with their same standards.

[@chancewilson207]

I wanna know about your watch band.

[@jel517]

I am on my second Toyota. I had a 2015 Tacoma, and now a 2022 4 runner. I keep hearing from your videos (which I like) that Japanese built is better quality. I'm not offended, what I take away from this is it's a bad reflection on Toyota as a company. Why would Toyota allow subpar quality come out of ANY of its factories regardless of production country? To me as a manufacturer, if I had subpar quality from a certain factory, I would address that and be very fast about it. To compare work ethics of different countries I also find hard to agree with. Human nature is human nature regardless of what your compass reads. Any happy employee who feels valued is always going to go above and beyond (with the tools available to them)

[@jimchen4755]

I see the difference between my 2020 Lexus RX 350l and my 2022 Toyota tundra TRD pro. Big difference.

[@MikeForsythe]

I’ve owned and own cars made in Lexus award winning plants in Japan and Canada. The Toyota production method and management ensures no matter where built, quality will be there. That said my LC and LX 600 are built like absolute tanks but they should be at 100k each. Our ES 300 made in Kentucky was sold as a rock. I only noticed a couple minor things. I do believe ES production is going back to Japan. Every Acura is made in the usa and their quality has plummeted so to me it’s not USA but it’s management and production merhods. Note they ship the type r to Japan to be built. Infiniti quality is all over the map. The Q50 is made alongside the GT-R.

[@rightlanehog3151]

I agree, management takes the credit when things go right and they have to accept the blame when things go wrong. The vast majority of Toyota/ Lexus models sold here have been made in North America for decades and Toyota/Lexus continue to top reliability studies.

[@jamesp172]

Doors always close easier with the windows are cracked open or rolled down. The Toyota and Lexus cabins are very air tight so, when you close the door with windows rolled up, the air pressure builds in the cabin and the doors will not close all the way with a gentle push. You have to push a little harder to close doors when all the windows are rolled up and even when the fan is running for heat or a/c. My 4Runner has this same issue when closing doors. I like the tight cabin for its quietness and road noise reduction.

[@dominicd2694]

Nobody builds quality vehicles like the Japanese. I purchased a 2023 NX and it was built amazing with the gapping perfect and overall very happy with it. Hard to see the orange peal through your camera, but I would say the orange peal isn't bad on my NX but it seems to be less on the vehicle you have in this video. Now, if you were comparing a Japanese vehicle with an American built, you would see many defects with the over all build quality with the American vehicle and even worse with a Mexican built. Canada builds great quality vehicles, but not quite as good as Japanese. The Japanese build the most reliable and the Italians build the most beautiful.

[@tommy13965]

Out of the 3 big Japanese manufacturers Honda is the worst imo every single car or suv has body panel gaps I know because I have own 8 Acura’s. The only one that was made well was my 2003 Acura TSX can you guess why because it was made in Japan. I would also like to add that Mazda also has great build quality now just bought my son a 2023 Mazda 3 hatchback made in Japan of course the car is perfect.

[@tylerwest3820]

Windows being rolled down makes a huge difference

[@ethanmckibbin]

As a 14 time Toyota owner the ones made in Japan were better, the American made are probably second. My Tacoma made in Mexico was hit or miss and my RAV4 made in Canada was so bad they had to buy it back from be 12 months later.

[@obsoletecd-rom]

I’ll never buy another North America manufactured Toyota/Lexus again. My 2023 rav4 woodland hybrid is made with such an absence of attention to detail and care that it has destroyed my appreciation for the brand. Misaligned hood, industrial adhesives put on like a five year old did it, trunk lid requires a lot of force to close properly, inside pf door gets absolutely soiled in bad weather, plastics in the interior that don’t seat together properly…..truly disappointing. Let’s hope it remains reliable.

[@wtt8914]

I wish Toyota USA (don't know much about the Canadian and Mexico production line) will up their game and quality of the USA made Toyota products. I've always noticed how crappy the fit and finishes of the USA made Toyota products compared to their Japanese counterparts. On that note, I hope the beloved 4Runner production line stays in Japan so we can continue to enjoy a more quality made vehicle. I will gladly pay that extra cost.

[@reludennis]

Yes....in my experience. Still own 3 Japan built older Toyotas. Better ... less defects..more reliable even after 17 years.

[@benchod3576]

I thought Japan stopped making Lexus RX, RX Hybrid, and EX

[@LingLing-ou6nt]

Japanese work ethic is out of this world

[@JB-he1jt]

Toyota 4runner is one example of that!!

[@JC-gu5cf]

Could the rear door issue in the North American made RX and NX be that Americans tend to slam the doors close? 😅

[@unkn3141]

The gold standard “MADE IN JAPAN”!!

[@robertskerry2145]

All Lexus vehicles must be made in Japan! A Japanese luxury car should definitely be made in Japan. Actually, all Toyota automobiles must be made in Japan!

[@mrgreen9086]

I love my Acura made in Saitama Japan

[@looking511]

I noticed that with my 21 highlander doors

[@TheTruthSeeker756]

Just got a Mazda, all made in Japan. I feel better.

[@deathevokation1017]

Unions drive down the quality of American craftmanship. My 4Runner built in Japan is top quality.

[@rightlanehog3151]

The Toyota/Lexus cars from Japan are built by unionized workers. No American or Canadian Toyota factories are unionized.

[@AutomotivePress]

That is true, but the unions in Japan are not the same as unions in NA. They function more like partners with the employers and are co-operative in nature.

[@deathevokation1017]

@@AutomotivePress That's my point; NA unions are about time off, breaks, average craftsmanship to "meet standards," and they all want raises. I am not saying they don't work hard, but I questions their work ethic and craftsmanship.

[@Redhawk24]

@@deathevokation1017how dare they want good pay

[@deathevokation1017]

@@Redhawk24 Earning and wanting are completely different. These days Americans want everything for minimal effort. Nobody deserves anything in life they must earn.

[@blueray570]

My LX needs a bigger effort to shut door, because it is a tank.😅

[@superseries7007]

Yes... They do. 🤷‍♂️

[@terrynguyen9102]

I prefer vehicles made in Japan 🇯🇵

[@jwuhome]

The rounding errors when you convert the metric system to imperial system measurements. 😆😆😆

[@mikej238]

wouldn't explain the difference between Canada and Japan? You yanks are still bass ackwards 😂

[@fsurjadi]

rx made in canada 😭😭😭😭 when order in

[@mwqjdpk]

Nothing to discuss here. Japan made cars are superior to cars made in the USA.