The Toyota Lexcen is one of Australia’s more interesting badge-engineered sedans, sold from 1989 to 1997 as Toyota’s version of the Holden Commodore. Created under the Button Car Plan, it allowed Toyota to offer a locally built large family car while Holden gained access to Toyota models in return. Based on the VN, VP, VR and VS Commodore generations, the Lexcen shared the same rear-wheel-drive layout, roomy cabin, wagon and sedan practicality, and strong Australian road manners. Most examples used Holden’s 3.8-litre Buick-derived V6, giving the Lexcen dependable torque, relaxed highway cruising and straightforward mechanical servicing.

While the Lexcen never wore the same cultural halo as the Commodore, it has become a fascinating slice of Australian automotive trivia. Its name honoured Ben Lexcen, the designer behind Australia II’s famous winged keel, which helped win the 1983 America’s Cup. That nautical link made it one of the few family cars named after a national sporting hero. Today, the Toyota Lexcen appeals to enthusiasts who enjoy Australian-built cars, affordable classics and practical older vehicles that are still easy to maintain. At Automotive Superstore, owners can source service parts, suspension components, brake pads, filters, ignition items, cooling parts, oils, accessories and workshop essentials to keep a Lexcen reliable. Because it shares so much with equivalent Commodore models, parts availability remains one of its strongest advantages, making this understated Toyota a surprisingly sensible choice for restoration, daily driving or weekend cruising.