Inside Lexus’ Encore program
Owning a Lexus now comes with unexpected perks that go far beyond the car itself.
When you buy a luxury car, most of the perks tend to begin and end with the vehicle itself, the leather heated seats, the smooth drive, and the badge on the bonnet.
But Lexus is taking a different approach, and I was lucky enough to experience it first-hand in the RX 450h, the brand’s larger hybrid SUV.
Encore membership
When I was handed the keys to the RX 450h, I expected the quiet hybrid system, the spacious leather cabin, and the smooth ride.
What I didn’t expect was the sparkling wine waiting in my hotel room, the five-star dining or the marshmallows toasted over an open fire on the Mornington Peninsula.
But this is what all Certified or Pre-Owner Lexus buyers have a chance of experiencing - this is the Lexus Encore membership.
Depending on the car you purchase, the membership tier changes, but all members have access to exclusive offers.
Let me tell you…the list of offers is long, from hotel stays to fine dining and curated events.
MORE: China giant attacks Aus with ‘new cheapie’
Jackalope Hotel
My taste of Encore came through a stay at Jackalope Hotel.
A place known for its bold architecture, moody interiors and an art-led aesthetic that feels more like an art exhibition than a vineyard retreat.
It is known as one of Victoria’s most distinctive destinations for food, wine and indulgence.
As I drove the Lexus RX 450h along the rideline at Merricks North, the hybrid’s quiet power set the tone for the perfect escape.
The drive was perfect, taking me past vineyards, golden leaves and endless green fields.
As I arrived at Jackalope, the driveway was narrowed but flanked by neat rows of vines that opened to reveal Jackalope’s towering black-class facade.
Out front stood a large sculpture, part hare, part antelope, the mythical “Jackalope” that inspired the hotel’s name.
MORE: Hyundai’s wildest car confirmed for Aus
I’ve been here before, but I’ve never stayed and especially not as a Lexus Encore member.
It defiantly came with perks, we were greeted with five star service and pre-planned itinerary that showcases all the activities and reservations for the weekend.
Our vineyard room directly faced the infinity pool and offer stunning sunset views.
A freestanding Japanese stone tub sat in the centre of our room, while heated bathroom floors and minimalist furniture kept the room feeling sleek and luxurious.
The minibar offered plenty of local snacks, which were free!
Dinner at Doot Doot was a highlight, sitting beneath a ceiling of 10,000 amber light bulbs.
We ordered the Wagyu beef with an almost unbelievable mable score of 12+. It was buttery, rich and delicate enough to melt on the tongue, the best part was searing it on a hot stone at the table.
The next day, brought lunch at Rare Hare, a relaxed venue with long tables, roaring fires, rustic dishes.
Natural oysters, barramundi wings, spatchcock and pinot overlooking the vines was the perfect way to spend the afternoon.
But it's the small rituals that made the stay feel special.
Roasting marshmallows by the fire and making smores under the stars. A late night dip in the spa followed by a sauna. Daily activities like a vineyard or garden tour, to free wine tastings and massages.
This was hands down the best staycation I’ve ever experienced, and Lexus Encore members get to experience this - not bad!
Jackalope isn’t the only hotel on the Encore list. Lexus has partnered with luxury stays across the country.
Luxury hotels, including Crown Towers in Melbourne, The Langham on the Gold Coast, Como the Treasury in Perth, Crown Sydney and the Park Hyatt Auckland.
Each comes with its own curated set of benefits - from room upgrades and late check-outs to a private experience that money can’t buy.
After spending a week behind the wheel of a Lexus, it’s hard not to see the appeal of a car brand that takes luxury far beyond the road.
For those who don’t qualify with their Lexus purchase, there’s also Encore Elevate, a paid upgrade available to any Lexus owner for $1,899 a year.
Originally published as Inside Lexus’ Encore program
HiLux enters new era
