SEC Info  
    Home      Search      My Interests      Help      Sign In      Please Sign In

Lithia Motors Inc – ‘10-K’ for 12/31/15 – ‘EX-101.DEF’

On:  Friday, 2/26/16, at 5:24pm ET   ·   For:  12/31/15   ·   Accession #:  1437749-16-26190   ·   File #:  1-14733

Previous ‘10-K’:  ‘10-K’ on 3/2/15 for 12/31/14   ·   Next:  ‘10-K’ on 2/28/17 for 12/31/16   ·   Latest:  ‘10-K’ on 2/23/24 for 12/31/23

Find Words in Filings emoji
 
  in    Show  and   Hints

  As Of               Filer                 Filing    For·On·As Docs:Size             Issuer                      Filing Agent

 2/26/16  Lithia Motors Inc                 10-K       12/31/15  126:14M                                    RDG Filings/FA

Annual Report   —   Form 10-K   —   Sect. 13 / 15(d) – SEA’34
Filing Table of Contents

Document/Exhibit                   Description                      Pages   Size 

 1: 10-K        Annual Report                                       HTML   2.91M 
 2: EX-10.3.3   Material Contract                                   HTML     91K 
 3: EX-10.3.4   Material Contract                                   HTML     72K 
 4: EX-10.3.5   Material Contract                                   HTML     70K 
 6: EX-21       Subsidiaries List                                   HTML    112K 
 7: EX-23       Consent of Experts or Counsel                       HTML     36K 
 5: EX-12       Statement re: Computation of Ratios                 HTML     73K 
 8: EX-31.1     Certification -- §302 - SOA'02                      HTML     42K 
 9: EX-31.2     Certification -- §302 - SOA'02                      HTML     42K 
10: EX-32.1     Certification -- §906 - SOA'02                      HTML     34K 
11: EX-32.2     Certification -- §906 - SOA'02                      HTML     34K 
18: R1          Document And Entity Information                     HTML     64K 
19: R2          Consolidated Balance Sheets                         HTML    126K 
20: R3          Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parentheticals)        HTML     59K 
21: R4          Consolidated Statements of Operations               HTML    126K 
22: R5          Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income     HTML     45K 
23: R6          Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income     HTML     35K 
                (Parentheticals)                                                 
24: R7          Consolidated Statements of Changes in               HTML    101K 
                Stockholders' Equity                                             
25: R8          Consolidated Statements of Changes in               HTML     37K 
                Stockholders' Equity (Parentheticals)                            
26: R9          Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows               HTML    158K 
27: R10         Note 1 - Summary of Significant Accounting          HTML    119K 
                Policies                                                         
28: R11         Note 2 - Accounts Receivable                        HTML     63K 
29: R12         Note 3 - Inventories                                HTML     46K 
30: R13         Note 4 - Property and Equipment                     HTML     55K 
31: R14         Note 5 - Goodwill and Franchise Value               HTML     72K 
32: R15         Note 6 - Credit Facilities and Long-term Debt       HTML     78K 
33: R16         Note 7 - Commitments and Contingencies              HTML     75K 
34: R17         Note 8 - Stockholders' Equity                       HTML     99K 
35: R18         Note 9 - 401(k) Profit Sharing, Deferred            HTML     50K 
                Compensation and Long-term Incentive Plans                       
36: R19         Note 10 - Stock-based Compensation                  HTML    108K 
37: R20         Note 11 - Derivative Financial Instrument           HTML     94K 
38: R21         Note 12 - Fair Value Measurements                   HTML     86K 
39: R22         Note 13 - Income Taxes                              HTML    128K 
40: R23         Note 14 - Acquisitions                              HTML    122K 
41: R24         Note 15 - Discontinued Operations and Assets and    HTML     92K 
                Related Liabilities Held for Sale                                
42: R25         Note 16 - Related Party Transactions                HTML     41K 
43: R26         Note 17 - Net Income Per Share of Class A and       HTML    192K 
                Class B Common Stock                                             
44: R27         Note 18 - Equity-method Investment                  HTML     58K 
45: R28         Note 19 - Segments                                  HTML    111K 
46: R29         Note 20 - Recent Accounting Pronouncements          HTML     39K 
47: R30         Note 21 - Subsequent Events                         HTML     42K 
48: R31         Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)          HTML    198K 
49: R32         Note 1 - Summary of Significant Accounting          HTML     51K 
                Policies (Tables)                                                
50: R33         Note 2 - Accounts Receivable (Tables)               HTML     53K 
51: R34         Note 3 - Inventories (Tables)                       HTML     44K 
52: R35         Note 4 - Property and Equipment (Tables)            HTML     52K 
53: R36         Note 5 - Goodwill and Franchise Value (Tables)      HTML     68K 
54: R37         Note 6 - Credit Facilities and Long-term Debt       HTML     68K 
                (Tables)                                                         
55: R38         Note 7 - Commitments and Contingencies (Tables)     HTML     63K 
56: R39         Note 8 - Stockholders' Equity (Tables)              HTML     90K 
57: R40         Note 9 - 401(k) Profit Sharing, Deferred            HTML     46K 
                Compensation and Long-term Incentive Plans                       
                (Tables)                                                         
58: R41         Note 10 - Stock-based Compensation (Tables)         HTML    104K 
59: R42         Note 11 - Derivative Financial Instrument (Tables)  HTML     84K 
60: R43         Note 12 - Fair Value Measurements (Tables)          HTML     73K 
61: R44         Note 13 - Income Taxes (Tables)                     HTML    126K 
62: R45         Note 14 - Acquisitions (Tables)                     HTML    104K 
63: R46         Note 15 - Discontinued Operations and Assets and    HTML     84K 
                Related Liabilities Held for Sale (Tables)                       
64: R47         Note 17 - Net Income Per Share of Class A and       HTML    186K 
                Class B Common Stock (Tables)                                    
65: R48         Note 18 - Equity-method Investment (Tables)         HTML     56K 
66: R49         Note 19 - Segments (Tables)                         HTML    108K 
67: R50         Note 1 - Summary of Significant Accounting          HTML     54K 
                Policies (Details Textual)                                       
68: R51         Note 1 - Property and Equipment Estimated Useful    HTML     43K 
                Lives (Details)                                                  
69: R52         Note 1 - Advertising Expense and Manufacturing      HTML     39K 
                Cooperative Advertising Credits (Details)                        
70: R53         Note 2 - Accounts Receivable (Details)              HTML     53K 
71: R54         Note 3 - Inventories (Details Textual)              HTML     34K 
72: R55         Note 3 - Inventories (Details)                      HTML     39K 
73: R56         Note 4 - Property and Equipment (Details Textual)   HTML     35K 
74: R57         Note 4 - Property and Equipment (Details)           HTML     51K 
75: R58         Note 5 - Goodwill and Franchise Value (Details      HTML     34K 
                Textual)                                                         
76: R59         Note 5 - Goodwill (Details)                         HTML     49K 
77: R60         Note 5 - Franchise Value (Details)                  HTML     38K 
78: R61         Note 6 - Credit Facilities and Long-term Debt       HTML     95K 
                (Details Textual)                                                
79: R62         Note 6 - Credit Facilities and Long-term Debt       HTML     53K 
                (Details)                                                        
80: R63         Note 6 - Details of Financial Covenants (Details)   HTML     46K 
81: R64         Note 6 - Future Principal Payments on Long-term     HTML     51K 
                Debt (Details)                                                   
82: R65         Note 7 - Commitments and Contingencies (Details     HTML     45K 
                Textual)                                                         
83: R66         Note 7 - Minimum Lease Payments (Details)           HTML     55K 
84: R67         Note 7 - Charge-Backs for Various Contracts         HTML     45K 
                (Details)                                                        
85: R68         Note 7 - Lifetime Lube, Oil and Filter Contracts    HTML     46K 
                Aquired (Details)                                                
86: R69         Note 8 - Stockholders' Equity (Details Textual)     HTML     54K 
87: R70         Note 8 - Share Repurchases (Details)                HTML     45K 
88: R71         Note 8 - Dividends Paid (Details)                   HTML     40K 
89: R72         Note 8 - Reclassification from Accumulated Other    HTML     47K 
                Comprehensive Loss (Details)                                     
90: R73         Note 9 - 401(k) Profit Sharing, Deferred            HTML     44K 
                Compensation and Long-term Incentive Plans                       
                (Details Textual)                                                
91: R74         Note 9 - Compensation Expense (Details)             HTML     38K 
92: R75         Note 10 - Stock-based Compensation (Details         HTML     87K 
                Textual)                                                         
93: R76         Note 10 - Summary of 2009 ESPP (Details)            HTML     43K 
94: R77         Note 10 - Stock Incentive Plans Activity -          HTML     54K 
                Restricted Stock (Details)                                       
95: R78         Note 10 - Stock Incentive Plans Activity - Stock    HTML     61K 
                Options (Details)                                                
96: R79         Note 10 - Stock-based Compensation Information      HTML     55K 
                (Details)                                                        
97: R80         Note 11 - Derivative Financial Instrument (Details  HTML     44K 
                Textual)                                                         
98: R81         Note 11 - Fair Value of Derivative Instruments in   HTML     39K 
                Consolidated Balance Sheets (Details)                            
99: R82         Note 11 - Effect of Derivative Instruments on       HTML     42K 
                Consolidated Statements of Operations (Details)                  
100: R83         Note 12 - Fair Value Measurements (Details          HTML     36K  
                Textual)                                                         
101: R84         Note 12 - Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair   HTML     53K  
                Value (Details)                                                  
102: R85         Note 12 - Long-term Fixed Interest Rate Debt        HTML     36K  
                (Details)                                                        
103: R86         Note 13 - Income Taxes (Details Textual)            HTML     50K  
104: R87         Note 13 - Income Tax Provision (Benefit) from       HTML     59K  
                Continuing Operations (Details)                                  
105: R88         Note 13 - Tax Rate Reconciliation (Details)         HTML     59K  
106: R89         Note 13 - Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities       HTML     69K  
                (Details)                                                        
107: R90         Note 13 - Unrecognized Tax Benefits (Details)       HTML     39K  
108: R91         Note 13 - Open Tax Years (Details)                  HTML     40K  
109: R92         Note 14 - Acquisitions (Details Textual)            HTML     43K  
110: R93         Note 14 - Revenue and Operating Income from         HTML     37K  
                Acquisitions (Details)                                           
111: R94         Note 14 - Summary of Acquisitions (Details)         HTML     87K  
112: R95         Note 14 - Pro Forma (Details)                       HTML     42K  
113: R96         Note 15 - Discontinued Operations and Assets and    HTML     41K  
                Related Liabilities Held for Sale (Details                       
                Textual)                                                         
114: R97         Note 15 - Assets and Related Liabilities Held for   HTML     44K  
                Sale (Details)                                                   
115: R98         Note 15 - Financial Information of Discontinued     HTML     67K  
                Operations (Details)                                             
116: R99         Note 16 - Related Party Transactions (Details       HTML     47K  
                Textual)                                                         
117: R100        Note 17 - Earnings Per Share Reconciliation         HTML    109K  
                (Details)                                                        
118: R101        Note 18 - Equity-method Investment (Details         HTML     41K  
                Textual)                                                         
119: R102        Note 18 - Equity-method Investment Recorded in      HTML     39K  
                Consolidated Balance Sheets (Details)                            
120: R103        Note 18 - Equity-method Investment Recorded in      HTML     44K  
                Consolidated Statements of Operations (Details)                  
121: R104        Note 19 - Certain Segment Financial Information     HTML     74K  
                (Details)                                                        
122: R105        Note 19 - Segment Assets (Details)                  HTML     45K  
123: R106        Note 21 - Subsequent Events (Details Textual)       HTML     63K  
125: XML         IDEA XML File -- Filing Summary                      XML    223K  
124: EXCEL       IDEA Workbook of Financial Reports                  XLSX    130K  
12: EX-101.INS  XBRL Instance -- lad-20151231                        XML   3.48M 
14: EX-101.CAL  XBRL Calculations -- lad-20151231_cal                XML    187K 
15: EX-101.DEF  XBRL Definitions -- lad-20151231_def                 XML   1.85M 
16: EX-101.LAB  XBRL Labels -- lad-20151231_lab                      XML   1.46M 
17: EX-101.PRE  XBRL Presentations -- lad-20151231_pre               XML   1.90M 
13: EX-101.SCH  XBRL Schema -- lad-20151231                          XSD    289K 
126: ZIP         XBRL Zipped Folder -- 0001437749-16-026190-xbrl      Zip    251K  


‘EX-101.DEF’   —   XBRL Definitions — lad-20151231_def


This Exhibit is an XBRL XML File.


                                                                                                                                                                                
<?xml version="1.0" encoding="windows-1252"?>
<!-- Generated by ThunderDome XBRL - 09:18PM UTC 2016-02-26 -->
<link:linkbase xmlns:link="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase" xmlns:xbrldt="http://xbrl.org/2005/xbrldt" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink" xmlns:xsi="http://www.w3.org/2001/XMLSchema-instance" xsi:schemaLocation="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase http://www.xbrl.org/2003/xbrl-linkbase-2003-12-31.xsd">
<link:arcroleRef arcroleURI="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:href="http://www.xbrl.org/2005/xbrldt-2005.xsd#all" xlink:type="simple"/>
<link:arcroleRef arcroleURI="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:href="http://www.xbrl.org/2005/xbrldt-2005.xsd#domain-member" xlink:type="simple"/>
<link:arcroleRef arcroleURI="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:href="http://www.xbrl.org/2005/xbrldt-2005.xsd#dimension-domain" xlink:type="simple"/>
<link:arcroleRef arcroleURI="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:href="http://www.xbrl.org/2005/xbrldt-2005.xsd#hypercube-dimension" xlink:type="simple"/>
<link:arcroleRef arcroleURI="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:href="http://www.xbrl.org/2005/xbrldt-2005.xsd#dimension-default" xlink:type="simple"/>
<link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-20-recent-accounting-pronouncements" xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#statement-note-20-recent-accounting-pronouncements" xlink:type="simple"/>
<link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-20-recent-accounting-pronouncements" xlink:type="extended">
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DescriptionOfNewAccountingPronouncementsNotYetAdopted" xlink:label="us-gaap_DescriptionOfNewAccountingPronouncementsNotYetAdopted" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_DescriptionOfNewAccountingPronouncementsNotYetAdopted" xlink:type="arc"/>
</link:definitionLink>
<link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-19-segments" xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#statement-note-19-segments" xlink:type="simple"/>
<link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-19-segments" xlink:type="extended">
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SegmentReportingDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_SegmentReportingDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_SegmentReportingDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
</link:definitionLink>
<link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-17-net-income-per-share-of-class-a-and-class-b-common-stock" xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#statement-note-17-net-income-per-share-of-class-a-and-class-b-common-stock" xlink:type="simple"/>
<link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-17-net-income-per-share-of-class-a-and-class-b-common-stock" xlink:type="extended">
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EarningsPerShareTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
</link:definitionLink>
<link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-2-accounts-receivable" xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#statement-note-2-accounts-receivable" xlink:type="simple"/>
<link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-2-accounts-receivable" xlink:type="extended">
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LoansNotesTradeAndOtherReceivablesDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_LoansNotesTradeAndOtherReceivablesDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_LoansNotesTradeAndOtherReceivablesDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
</link:definitionLink>
<link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-document-and-entity-information" xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#statement-document-and-entity-information" xlink:type="simple"/>
<link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-document-and-entity-information" xlink:type="extended">
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2014/dei-2014-01-31.xsd#dei_AmendmentFlag" xlink:label="dei_AmendmentFlag" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2014/dei-2014-01-31.xsd#dei_CurrentFiscalYearEndDate" xlink:label="dei_CurrentFiscalYearEndDate" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2014/dei-2014-01-31.xsd#dei_DocumentFiscalPeriodFocus" xlink:label="dei_DocumentFiscalPeriodFocus" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2014/dei-2014-01-31.xsd#dei_DocumentFiscalYearFocus" xlink:label="dei_DocumentFiscalYearFocus" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2014/dei-2014-01-31.xsd#dei_DocumentPeriodEndDate" xlink:label="dei_DocumentPeriodEndDate" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2014/dei-2014-01-31.xsd#dei_DocumentType" xlink:label="dei_DocumentType" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2014/dei-2014-01-31.xsd#dei_EntityCentralIndexKey" xlink:label="dei_EntityCentralIndexKey" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2014/dei-2014-01-31.xsd#dei_EntityCommonStockSharesOutstanding" xlink:label="dei_EntityCommonStockSharesOutstanding" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2014/dei-2014-01-31.xsd#dei_EntityCurrentReportingStatus" xlink:label="dei_EntityCurrentReportingStatus" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2014/dei-2014-01-31.xsd#dei_EntityFilerCategory" xlink:label="dei_EntityFilerCategory" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2014/dei-2014-01-31.xsd#dei_EntityPublicFloat" xlink:label="dei_EntityPublicFloat" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2014/dei-2014-01-31.xsd#dei_EntityRegistrantName" xlink:label="dei_EntityRegistrantName" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2014/dei-2014-01-31.xsd#dei_EntityVoluntaryFilers" xlink:label="dei_EntityVoluntaryFilers" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2014/dei-2014-01-31.xsd#dei_EntityWellKnownSeasonedIssuer" xlink:label="dei_EntityWellKnownSeasonedIssuer" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.sec.gov/dei/2014/dei-2014-01-31.xsd#dei_TradingSymbol" xlink:label="dei_TradingSymbol" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CommonClassAMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonClassAMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CommonClassBMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonClassBMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonClassAMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonClassBMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="dei_EntityRegistrantName" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="dei_EntityCentralIndexKey" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="dei_TradingSymbol" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="4" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="dei_CurrentFiscalYearEndDate" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="5" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="dei_EntityFilerCategory" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="6" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="dei_EntityCurrentReportingStatus" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="7" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="dei_EntityVoluntaryFilers" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="8" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="dei_EntityWellKnownSeasonedIssuer" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="9" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="dei_EntityCommonStockSharesOutstanding" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="10" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="dei_EntityPublicFloat" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="11" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="dei_DocumentType" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="12" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="dei_DocumentPeriodEndDate" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="13" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="dei_DocumentFiscalYearFocus" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="14" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="dei_DocumentFiscalPeriodFocus" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="15" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="dei_AmendmentFlag" xlink:type="arc"/>
</link:definitionLink>
<link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-consolidated-balance-sheets-parentheticals" xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#statement-consolidated-balance-sheets-parentheticals" xlink:type="simple"/>
<link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-consolidated-balance-sheets-parentheticals" xlink:type="extended">
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AccumulatedDepreciationDepletionAndAmortizationPropertyPlantAndEquipment" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccumulatedDepreciationDepletionAndAmortizationPropertyPlantAndEquipment" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AllowanceForDoubtfulAccountsReceivableCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_AllowanceForDoubtfulAccountsReceivableCurrent" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CommonClassAMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonClassAMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CommonClassBMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonClassBMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CommonStockNoParValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonStockNoParValue" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CommonStockSharesAuthorized" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonStockSharesAuthorized" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CommonStockSharesIssued" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonStockSharesIssued" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CommonStockSharesOutstanding" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonStockSharesOutstanding" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PreferredStockNoParValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_PreferredStockNoParValue" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PreferredStockSharesAuthorized" xlink:label="us-gaap_PreferredStockSharesAuthorized" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PreferredStockSharesOutstanding" xlink:label="us-gaap_PreferredStockSharesOutstanding" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonClassAMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonClassBMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_AllowanceForDoubtfulAccountsReceivableCurrent" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_AccumulatedDepreciationDepletionAndAmortizationPropertyPlantAndEquipment" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_PreferredStockNoParValue" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="4" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_PreferredStockSharesAuthorized" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="5" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_PreferredStockSharesOutstanding" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="6" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonStockNoParValue" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="7" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonStockSharesAuthorized" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="8" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonStockSharesIssued" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="9" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonStockSharesOutstanding" xlink:type="arc"/>
</link:definitionLink>
<link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-consolidated-statements-of-comprehensive-income-parentheticals" xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#statement-consolidated-statements-of-comprehensive-income-parentheticals" xlink:type="simple"/>
<link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-consolidated-statements-of-comprehensive-income-parentheticals" xlink:type="extended">
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeUnrealizedGainLossOnDerivativesArisingDuringPeriodTax" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeUnrealizedGainLossOnDerivativesArisingDuringPeriodTax" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeUnrealizedGainLossOnDerivativesArisingDuringPeriodTax" xlink:type="arc"/>
</link:definitionLink>
<link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-1-summary-of-significant-accounting-policies" xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#statement-note-1-summary-of-significant-accounting-policies" xlink:type="simple"/>
<link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-1-summary-of-significant-accounting-policies" xlink:type="extended">
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_MaximumMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_MaximumMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_MinimumMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_MinimumMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RangeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_RangeAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RangeMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_RangeMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RangeMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_RangeMember-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SignificantAccountingPoliciesTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_SignificantAccountingPoliciesTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_RangeAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_RangeMember" xlink:to="us-gaap_MinimumMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_RangeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_RangeMember-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_RangeMember" xlink:to="us-gaap_MaximumMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_RangeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_RangeMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_SignificantAccountingPoliciesTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
</link:definitionLink>
<link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-3-inventories" xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#statement-note-3-inventories" xlink:type="simple"/>
<link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-3-inventories" xlink:type="extended">
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_InventoryDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_InventoryDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_InventoryDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
</link:definitionLink>
<link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-4-property-and-equipment" xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#statement-note-4-property-and-equipment" xlink:type="simple"/>
<link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-4-property-and-equipment" xlink:type="extended">
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
</link:definitionLink>
<link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-5-goodwill-and-franchise-value" xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#statement-note-5-goodwill-and-franchise-value" xlink:type="simple"/>
<link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-5-goodwill-and-franchise-value" xlink:type="extended">
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_GoodwillAndIntangibleAssetsDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_GoodwillAndIntangibleAssetsDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_GoodwillAndIntangibleAssetsDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
</link:definitionLink>
<link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-6-credit-facilities-and-longterm-debt" xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#statement-note-6-credit-facilities-and-longterm-debt" xlink:type="simple"/>
<link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-6-credit-facilities-and-longterm-debt" xlink:type="extended">
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_FloorPlanNotesPayableMember" xlink:label="lad_FloorPlanNotesPayableMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_NewVehicleFloorPlanMember" xlink:label="lad_NewVehicleFloorPlanMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_Other1Member" xlink:label="lad_Other1Member" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_ReallocationMember" xlink:label="lad_ReallocationMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_ScenarioSubjectToLenderApprovalMember" xlink:label="lad_ScenarioSubjectToLenderApprovalMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_SyndicatedCreditFacilityMember" xlink:label="lad_SyndicatedCreditFacilityMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_UsedVehicleInventoryFinancingMember" xlink:label="lad_UsedVehicleInventoryFinancingMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CreditFacilityAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_CreditFacilityAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CreditFacilityDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_CreditFacilityDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CreditFacilityDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_CreditFacilityDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisposalGroupClassificationAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisposalGroupClassificationAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisposalGroupClassificationDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisposalGroupClassificationDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisposalGroupClassificationDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisposalGroupClassificationDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisposalGroupHeldforsaleNotDiscontinuedOperationsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisposalGroupHeldforsaleNotDiscontinuedOperationsMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LondonInterbankOfferedRateLIBORMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_LondonInterbankOfferedRateLIBORMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_MaximumMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_MaximumMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_MinimumMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_MinimumMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_MortgagesMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_MortgagesMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RangeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_RangeAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RangeMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_RangeMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RangeMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_RangeMember-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RevolvingCreditFacilityMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_RevolvingCreditFacilityMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_VariableRateAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_VariableRateAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_VariableRateDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_VariableRateDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_VariableRateDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_VariableRateDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_CreditFacilityAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_CreditFacilityDomain" xlink:to="lad_UsedVehicleInventoryFinancingMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_CreditFacilityAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_CreditFacilityDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain" xlink:to="lad_SyndicatedCreditFacilityMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisposalGroupClassificationAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisposalGroupClassificationDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisposalGroupHeldforsaleNotDiscontinuedOperationsMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisposalGroupClassificationAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisposalGroupClassificationDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_CreditFacilityDomain" xlink:to="lad_NewVehicleFloorPlanMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_CreditFacilityDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_RevolvingCreditFacilityMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:to="lad_ScenarioSubjectToLenderApprovalMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:to="lad_ReallocationMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="4" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_VariableRateAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_VariableRateDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_LondonInterbankOfferedRateLIBORMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_VariableRateAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_VariableRateDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="5" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_RangeAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_RangeMember" xlink:to="us-gaap_MinimumMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_RangeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_RangeMember-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_RangeMember" xlink:to="us-gaap_MaximumMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain" xlink:to="lad_FloorPlanNotesPayableMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="6" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_MortgagesMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain" xlink:to="lad_Other1Member" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_RangeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_RangeMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_CreditFacilityAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_CreditFacilityDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_VariableRateAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_VariableRateDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisposalGroupClassificationAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisposalGroupClassificationDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
</link:definitionLink>
<link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-7-commitments-and-contingencies" xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#statement-note-7-commitments-and-contingencies" xlink:type="simple"/>
<link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-7-commitments-and-contingencies" xlink:type="extended">
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_LifetimeOilContractsMember" xlink:label="lad_LifetimeOilContractsMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CommitmentsAndContingenciesDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommitmentsAndContingenciesDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ProductOrServiceAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProductOrServiceAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProductsAndServicesDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProductOrServiceAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:to="lad_LifetimeOilContractsMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_ProductOrServiceAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProductsAndServicesDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_ProductOrServiceAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommitmentsAndContingenciesDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
</link:definitionLink>
<link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-8-stockholders-equity" xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#statement-note-8-stockholders-equity" xlink:type="simple"/>
<link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-8-stockholders-equity" xlink:type="extended">
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_AdditionalSharesAuthorizedMember" xlink:label="lad_AdditionalSharesAuthorizedMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CommonClassAMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonClassAMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CommonClassBMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonClassBMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StockholdersEquityNoteDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityNoteDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonClassAMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonClassBMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:to="lad_AdditionalSharesAuthorizedMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityNoteDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
</link:definitionLink>
<link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-9-401k-profit-sharing-deferred-compensation-and-longterm-incentive-plans" xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#statement-note-9-401k-profit-sharing-deferred-compensation-and-longterm-incentive-plans" xlink:type="simple"/>
<link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-9-401k-profit-sharing-deferred-compensation-and-longterm-incentive-plans" xlink:type="extended">
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_MaximumMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_MaximumMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_MinimumMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_MinimumMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OtherNoncurrentLiabilitiesMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherNoncurrentLiabilitiesMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PensionAndOtherPostretirementBenefitsDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_PensionAndOtherPostretirementBenefitsDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RangeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_RangeAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RangeMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_RangeMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RangeMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_RangeMember-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_RangeAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_RangeMember" xlink:to="us-gaap_MinimumMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_RangeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_RangeMember-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_RangeMember" xlink:to="us-gaap_MaximumMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherNoncurrentLiabilitiesMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_RangeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_RangeMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_PensionAndOtherPostretirementBenefitsDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
</link:definitionLink>
<link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-10-stockbased-compensation" xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#statement-note-10-stockbased-compensation" xlink:type="simple"/>
<link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-10-stockbased-compensation" xlink:type="extended">
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_PerformanceAndTimeVestingsRsusMember" xlink:label="lad_PerformanceAndTimeVestingsRsusMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_The2009EsppMember" xlink:label="lad_The2009EsppMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_TimeVestingRSUMember" xlink:label="lad_TimeVestingRSUMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_TwoThousandThirteenStockIncentivePlanMember" xlink:label="lad_TwoThousandThirteenStockIncentivePlanMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsShareBasedPaymentsTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsShareBasedPaymentsTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EmployeeStockOptionMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_EmployeeStockOptionMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_MaximumMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_MaximumMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PlanNameAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_PlanNameAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PlanNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_PlanNameDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PlanNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_PlanNameDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RangeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_RangeAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RangeMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_RangeMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RangeMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_RangeMember-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RestrictedStockMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_RestrictedStockMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RestrictedStockUnitsRSUMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_RestrictedStockUnitsRSUMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StockAppreciationRightsSARSMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockAppreciationRightsSARSMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_PlanNameAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_PlanNameDomain" xlink:to="lad_TwoThousandThirteenStockIncentivePlanMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_PlanNameAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_PlanNameDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockAppreciationRightsSARSMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_RestrictedStockMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_PlanNameDomain" xlink:to="lad_The2009EsppMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_RangeAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_RangeMember" xlink:to="us-gaap_MaximumMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_RangeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_RangeMember-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" xlink:to="lad_TimeVestingRSUMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" xlink:to="lad_PerformanceAndTimeVestingsRsusMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="4" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_RestrictedStockUnitsRSUMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="5" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_EmployeeStockOptionMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_RangeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_RangeMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_PlanNameAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_PlanNameDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsShareBasedPaymentsTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
</link:definitionLink>
<link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-11-derivative-financial-instrument" xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#statement-note-11-derivative-financial-instrument" xlink:type="simple"/>
<link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-11-derivative-financial-instrument" xlink:type="extended">
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DerivativeContractTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_DerivativeContractTypeDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DerivativeContractTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_DerivativeContractTypeDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsAndHedgingActivitiesDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsAndHedgingActivitiesDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_InterestRateSwapMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_InterestRateSwapMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LondonInterbankOfferedRateLIBORMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_LondonInterbankOfferedRateLIBORMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_VariableRateAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_VariableRateAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_VariableRateDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_VariableRateDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_VariableRateDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_VariableRateDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DerivativeContractTypeDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_InterestRateSwapMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_DerivativeContractTypeDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_VariableRateAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_VariableRateDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_LondonInterbankOfferedRateLIBORMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_VariableRateAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_VariableRateDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_DerivativeContractTypeDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_VariableRateAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_VariableRateDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsAndHedgingActivitiesDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
</link:definitionLink>
<link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-12-fair-value-measurements" xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#statement-note-12-fair-value-measurements" xlink:type="simple"/>
<link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-12-fair-value-measurements" xlink:type="extended">
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EquityMethodInvestmentsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_EquityMethodInvestmentsMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputReconciliationByAssetClassDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputReconciliationByAssetClassDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputReconciliationByAssetClassDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputReconciliationByAssetClassDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueDisclosuresTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueDisclosuresTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputReconciliationByAssetClassDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_EquityMethodInvestmentsMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputReconciliationByAssetClassDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputReconciliationByAssetClassDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueDisclosuresTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
</link:definitionLink>
<link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-13-income-taxes" xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#statement-note-13-income-taxes" xlink:type="simple"/>
<link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-13-income-taxes" xlink:type="extended">
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeTaxDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeTaxDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StateAndLocalJurisdictionMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_StateAndLocalJurisdictionMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_StateAndLocalJurisdictionMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeTaxDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
</link:definitionLink>
<link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-14-acquisitions" xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#statement-note-14-acquisitions" xlink:type="simple"/>
<link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-14-acquisitions" xlink:type="extended">
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_DCHAutoGroupUSAIncMember" xlink:label="lad_DCHAutoGroupUSAIncMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessCombinationDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SellingGeneralAndAdministrativeExpensesMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_SellingGeneralAndAdministrativeExpensesMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain" xlink:to="lad_DCHAutoGroupUSAIncMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_SellingGeneralAndAdministrativeExpensesMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
</link:definitionLink>
<link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-15-discontinued-operations-and-assets-and-related-liabilities-held-for-sale" xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#statement-note-15-discontinued-operations-and-assets-and-related-liabilities-held-for-sale" xlink:type="simple"/>
<link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-15-discontinued-operations-and-assets-and-related-liabilities-held-for-sale" xlink:type="extended">
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_GoodwillAndOtherIntangibleAssetsMember" xlink:label="lad_GoodwillAndOtherIntangibleAssetsMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisposalGroupClassificationAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisposalGroupClassificationAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisposalGroupClassificationDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisposalGroupClassificationDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisposalGroupClassificationDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisposalGroupClassificationDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisposalGroupHeldforsaleNotDiscontinuedOperationsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisposalGroupHeldforsaleNotDiscontinuedOperationsMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsNameDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsNameDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisposalGroupClassificationAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisposalGroupClassificationDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisposalGroupHeldforsaleNotDiscontinuedOperationsMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisposalGroupClassificationAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisposalGroupClassificationDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsNameDomain" xlink:to="lad_GoodwillAndOtherIntangibleAssetsMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsNameDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisposalGroupClassificationAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisposalGroupClassificationDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsNameDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
</link:definitionLink>
<link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-16-related-party-transactions" xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#statement-note-16-related-party-transactions" xlink:type="simple"/>
<link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-16-related-party-transactions" xlink:type="extended">
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_AccruedLiabilitiesAndOtherLongTermLiabilitiesMember" xlink:label="lad_AccruedLiabilitiesAndOtherLongTermLiabilitiesMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_ExecutiveChairmanMember" xlink:label="lad_ExecutiveChairmanMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_SaleOfLandMember" xlink:label="lad_SaleOfLandMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RelatedPartyDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_RelatedPartyDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RelatedPartyDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_RelatedPartyDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionsByRelatedPartyAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionsByRelatedPartyAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionsDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionsDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionsByRelatedPartyAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_RelatedPartyDomain" xlink:to="lad_ExecutiveChairmanMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionsByRelatedPartyAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_RelatedPartyDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationDomain" xlink:to="lad_AccruedLiabilitiesAndOtherLongTermLiabilitiesMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionDomain" xlink:to="lad_SaleOfLandMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionsByRelatedPartyAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_RelatedPartyDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionsDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
</link:definitionLink>
<link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-18-equitymethod-investment" xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#statement-note-18-equitymethod-investment" xlink:type="simple"/>
<link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-18-equitymethod-investment" xlink:type="extended">
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_NMTCProgramMember" xlink:label="lad_NMTCProgramMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EquityMethodInvesteeNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_EquityMethodInvesteeNameDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EquityMethodInvesteeNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_EquityMethodInvesteeNameDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EquityMethodInvestmentsDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_EquityMethodInvestmentsDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfEquityMethodInvestmentEquityMethodInvesteeNameAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfEquityMethodInvestmentEquityMethodInvesteeNameAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfEquityMethodInvestmentEquityMethodInvesteeNameAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_EquityMethodInvesteeNameDomain" xlink:to="lad_NMTCProgramMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfEquityMethodInvestmentEquityMethodInvesteeNameAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_EquityMethodInvesteeNameDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfEquityMethodInvestmentEquityMethodInvesteeNameAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_EquityMethodInvesteeNameDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_EquityMethodInvestmentsDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
</link:definitionLink>
<link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-21-subsequent-events" xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#statement-note-21-subsequent-events" xlink:type="simple"/>
<link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-21-subsequent-events" xlink:type="extended">
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_IraToyotaScionMember" xlink:label="lad_IraToyotaScionMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_RiversideSubaruMember" xlink:label="lad_RiversideSubaruMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_ShareRepurchasePlanMember" xlink:label="lad_ShareRepurchasePlanMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CommonClassAMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonClassAMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CommonClassBMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonClassBMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareRepurchaseProgramAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareRepurchaseProgramAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareRepurchaseProgramDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareRepurchaseProgramDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareRepurchaseProgramDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareRepurchaseProgramDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SubsequentEventMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_SubsequentEventMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SubsequentEventsTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_SubsequentEventsTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_SubsequentEventMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonClassAMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonClassBMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareRepurchaseProgramAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareRepurchaseProgramDomain" xlink:to="lad_ShareRepurchasePlanMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareRepurchaseProgramAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareRepurchaseProgramDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain" xlink:to="lad_RiversideSubaruMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain" xlink:to="lad_IraToyotaScionMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="4" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareRepurchaseProgramAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareRepurchaseProgramDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisclosureTextBlockAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_SubsequentEventsTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
</link:definitionLink>
<link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-significant-accounting-policies-policies" xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#statement-significant-accounting-policies-policies" xlink:type="simple"/>
<link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-significant-accounting-policies-policies" xlink:type="extended">
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_ContractOriginationCostsPolicyPolicyTextBlock" xlink:label="lad_ContractOriginationCostsPolicyPolicyTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AccountingPoliciesAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccountingPoliciesAbstract" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AdvertisingCostsPolicyTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_AdvertisingCostsPolicyTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BasisOfAccountingPolicyPolicyTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_BasisOfAccountingPolicyPolicyTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsPolicyTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsPolicyTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskCreditRisk" xlink:label="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskCreditRisk" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EquityMethodInvestmentsPolicy" xlink:label="us-gaap_EquityMethodInvestmentsPolicy" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementPolicyPolicyTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementPolicyPolicyTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueOfFinancialInstrumentsPolicy" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueOfFinancialInstrumentsPolicy" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_GoodwillAndIntangibleAssetsGoodwillPolicy" xlink:label="us-gaap_GoodwillAndIntangibleAssetsGoodwillPolicy" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_GoodwillAndIntangibleAssetsIntangibleAssetsIndefiniteLivedPolicy" xlink:label="us-gaap_GoodwillAndIntangibleAssetsIntangibleAssetsIndefiniteLivedPolicy" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeTaxPolicyTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeTaxPolicyTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_InventoryPolicyTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_InventoryPolicyTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LegalCostsPolicyTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_LegalCostsPolicyTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PolicyTextBlockAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_PolicyTextBlockAbstract" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentPolicyTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentPolicyTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ReceivablesPolicyTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ReceivablesPolicyTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RevenueRecognitionPolicyTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_RevenueRecognitionPolicyTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SegmentReportingPolicyPolicyTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_SegmentReportingPolicyPolicyTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationOptionAndIncentivePlansPolicy" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationOptionAndIncentivePlansPolicy" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_UseOfEstimates" xlink:label="us-gaap_UseOfEstimates" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_PolicyTextBlockAbstract" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_PolicyTextBlockAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_AccountingPoliciesAbstract" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AccountingPoliciesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_BasisOfAccountingPolicyPolicyTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AccountingPoliciesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsPolicyTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AccountingPoliciesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_ReceivablesPolicyTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AccountingPoliciesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_InventoryPolicyTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="4" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AccountingPoliciesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentPolicyTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="5" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AccountingPoliciesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_GoodwillAndIntangibleAssetsIntangibleAssetsIndefiniteLivedPolicy" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="6" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AccountingPoliciesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_GoodwillAndIntangibleAssetsGoodwillPolicy" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="7" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AccountingPoliciesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_EquityMethodInvestmentsPolicy" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="8" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AccountingPoliciesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_AdvertisingCostsPolicyTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="9" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AccountingPoliciesAbstract" xlink:to="lad_ContractOriginationCostsPolicyPolicyTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="10" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AccountingPoliciesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_LegalCostsPolicyTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="11" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AccountingPoliciesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationOptionAndIncentivePlansPolicy" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="12" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AccountingPoliciesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeTaxPolicyTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="13" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AccountingPoliciesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_ConcentrationRiskCreditRisk" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="14" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AccountingPoliciesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueOfFinancialInstrumentsPolicy" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="15" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AccountingPoliciesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_UseOfEstimates" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="16" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AccountingPoliciesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementPolicyPolicyTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="17" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AccountingPoliciesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_RevenueRecognitionPolicyTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="18" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AccountingPoliciesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_SegmentReportingPolicyPolicyTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
</link:definitionLink>
<link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-1-summary-of-significant-accounting-policies-tables" xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#statement-note-1-summary-of-significant-accounting-policies-tables" xlink:type="simple"/>
<link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-1-summary-of-significant-accounting-policies-tables" xlink:type="extended">
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_AdvertisingExpenseAndCooperativeAdvertisingCreditsTableTextBlock" xlink:label="lad_AdvertisingExpenseAndCooperativeAdvertisingCreditsTableTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentEstimatedUsefulLivesTableTextBlock" xlink:label="lad_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentEstimatedUsefulLivesTableTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:to="lad_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentEstimatedUsefulLivesTableTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:to="lad_AdvertisingExpenseAndCooperativeAdvertisingCreditsTableTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
</link:definitionLink>
<link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-2-accounts-receivable-tables" xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#statement-note-2-accounts-receivable-tables" xlink:type="simple"/>
<link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-2-accounts-receivable-tables" xlink:type="extended">
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfAccountsNotesLoansAndFinancingReceivableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfAccountsNotesLoansAndFinancingReceivableTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfAccountsNotesLoansAndFinancingReceivableTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
</link:definitionLink>
<link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-3-inventories-tables" xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#statement-note-3-inventories-tables" xlink:type="simple"/>
<link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-3-inventories-tables" xlink:type="extended">
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfInventoryCurrentTableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfInventoryCurrentTableTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfInventoryCurrentTableTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
</link:definitionLink>
<link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-4-property-and-equipment-tables" xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#statement-note-4-property-and-equipment-tables" xlink:type="simple"/>
<link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-4-property-and-equipment-tables" xlink:type="extended">
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
</link:definitionLink>
<link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-5-goodwill-and-franchise-value-tables" xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#statement-note-5-goodwill-and-franchise-value-tables" xlink:type="simple"/>
<link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-5-goodwill-and-franchise-value-tables" xlink:type="extended">
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfGoodwillTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfGoodwillTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfIndefiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsTableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfIndefiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsTableTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfGoodwillTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfIndefiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsTableTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
</link:definitionLink>
<link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-6-credit-facilities-and-longterm-debt-tables" xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#statement-note-6-credit-facilities-and-longterm-debt-tables" xlink:type="simple"/>
<link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-6-credit-facilities-and-longterm-debt-tables" xlink:type="extended">
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_DebtCovenantTermsTableTextBlock" xlink:label="lad_DebtCovenantTermsTableTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfDebtTableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfDebtTableTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfMaturitiesOfLongTermDebtTableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfMaturitiesOfLongTermDebtTableTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfDebtTableTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:to="lad_DebtCovenantTermsTableTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfMaturitiesOfLongTermDebtTableTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
</link:definitionLink>
<link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-7-commitments-and-contingencies-tables" xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#statement-note-7-commitments-and-contingencies-tables" xlink:type="simple"/>
<link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-7-commitments-and-contingencies-tables" xlink:type="extended">
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_ChargeBacksEstimatedFuturePaymentsTableTextBlock" xlink:label="lad_ChargeBacksEstimatedFuturePaymentsTableTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_ScheduleOfDeferredRevenueFutureRecognitionTableTextBlock" xlink:label="lad_ScheduleOfDeferredRevenueFutureRecognitionTableTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_ScheduleOfFutureMinimumLeasePaymentsTableTextBlock" xlink:label="lad_ScheduleOfFutureMinimumLeasePaymentsTableTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:to="lad_ScheduleOfFutureMinimumLeasePaymentsTableTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:to="lad_ChargeBacksEstimatedFuturePaymentsTableTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:to="lad_ScheduleOfDeferredRevenueFutureRecognitionTableTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
</link:definitionLink>
<link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-8-stockholders-equity-tables" xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#statement-note-8-stockholders-equity-tables" xlink:type="simple"/>
<link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-8-stockholders-equity-tables" xlink:type="extended">
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DividendsDeclaredTableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_DividendsDeclaredTableTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ReclassificationOutOfAccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeTableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ReclassificationOutOfAccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeTableTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfTreasuryStockByClassTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfTreasuryStockByClassTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfTreasuryStockByClassTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:to="us-gaap_DividendsDeclaredTableTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:to="us-gaap_ReclassificationOutOfAccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeTableTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
</link:definitionLink>
<link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-9-401k-profit-sharing-deferred-compensation-and-longterm-incentive-plans-tables" xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#statement-note-9-401k-profit-sharing-deferred-compensation-and-longterm-incentive-plans-tables" xlink:type="simple"/>
<link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-9-401k-profit-sharing-deferred-compensation-and-longterm-incentive-plans-tables" xlink:type="extended">
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfDeferredCompensationArrangementWithIndividualExcludingShareBasedPaymentsAndPostretirementBenefitsByTitleOfIndividualAndByTypeOfDeferredCompensationTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfDeferredCompensationArrangementWithIndividualExcludingShareBasedPaymentsAndPostretirementBenefitsByTitleOfIndividualAndByTypeOfDeferredCompensationTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfDeferredCompensationArrangementWithIndividualExcludingShareBasedPaymentsAndPostretirementBenefitsByTitleOfIndividualAndByTypeOfDeferredCompensationTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
</link:definitionLink>
<link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-10-stockbased-compensation-tables" xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#statement-note-10-stockbased-compensation-tables" xlink:type="simple"/>
<link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-10-stockbased-compensation-tables" xlink:type="extended">
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisclosureOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisclosureOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationEmployeeStockPurchasePlanActivityTableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationEmployeeStockPurchasePlanActivityTableTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationStockOptionsActivityTableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationStockOptionsActivityTableTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfSharebasedCompensationRestrictedStockAndRestrictedStockUnitsActivityTableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfSharebasedCompensationRestrictedStockAndRestrictedStockUnitsActivityTableTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationEmployeeStockPurchasePlanActivityTableTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfSharebasedCompensationRestrictedStockAndRestrictedStockUnitsActivityTableTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfShareBasedCompensationStockOptionsActivityTableTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisclosureOfShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
</link:definitionLink>
<link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-11-derivative-financial-instrument-tables" xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#statement-note-11-derivative-financial-instrument-tables" xlink:type="simple"/>
<link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-11-derivative-financial-instrument-tables" xlink:type="extended">
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfDerivativeInstrumentsGainLossInStatementOfFinancialPerformanceTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfDerivativeInstrumentsGainLossInStatementOfFinancialPerformanceTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfDerivativeInstrumentsInStatementOfFinancialPositionFairValueTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfDerivativeInstrumentsInStatementOfFinancialPositionFairValueTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfDerivativeInstrumentsInStatementOfFinancialPositionFairValueTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfDerivativeInstrumentsGainLossInStatementOfFinancialPerformanceTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
</link:definitionLink>
<link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-12-fair-value-measurements-tables" xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#statement-note-12-fair-value-measurements-tables" xlink:type="simple"/>
<link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-12-fair-value-measurements-tables" xlink:type="extended">
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueAssetsAndLiabilitiesMeasuredOnRecurringAndNonrecurringBasisTableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueAssetsAndLiabilitiesMeasuredOnRecurringAndNonrecurringBasisTableTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfCarryingValuesAndEstimatedFairValuesOfDebtInstrumentsTableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfCarryingValuesAndEstimatedFairValuesOfDebtInstrumentsTableTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueAssetsAndLiabilitiesMeasuredOnRecurringAndNonrecurringBasisTableTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfCarryingValuesAndEstimatedFairValuesOfDebtInstrumentsTableTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
</link:definitionLink>
<link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-13-income-taxes-tables" xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#statement-note-13-income-taxes-tables" xlink:type="simple"/>
<link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-13-income-taxes-tables" xlink:type="extended">
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfComponentsOfIncomeTaxExpenseBenefitTableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfComponentsOfIncomeTaxExpenseBenefitTableTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfDeferredTaxAssetsAndLiabilitiesTableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfDeferredTaxAssetsAndLiabilitiesTableTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfEffectiveIncomeTaxRateReconciliationTableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfEffectiveIncomeTaxRateReconciliationTableTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfUnrecognizedTaxBenefitsRollForwardTableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfUnrecognizedTaxBenefitsRollForwardTableTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SummaryOfIncomeTaxContingenciesTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_SummaryOfIncomeTaxContingenciesTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfComponentsOfIncomeTaxExpenseBenefitTableTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfEffectiveIncomeTaxRateReconciliationTableTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfDeferredTaxAssetsAndLiabilitiesTableTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfUnrecognizedTaxBenefitsRollForwardTableTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="4" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:to="us-gaap_SummaryOfIncomeTaxContingenciesTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
</link:definitionLink>
<link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-14-acquisitions-tables" xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#statement-note-14-acquisitions-tables" xlink:type="simple"/>
<link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-14-acquisitions-tables" xlink:type="extended">
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_OperatingResultsFromAcquisitionsTableTextBlock" xlink:label="lad_OperatingResultsFromAcquisitionsTableTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionProFormaInformationTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionProFormaInformationTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfRecognizedIdentifiedAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedTableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfRecognizedIdentifiedAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedTableTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:to="lad_OperatingResultsFromAcquisitionsTableTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfRecognizedIdentifiedAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedTableTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionProFormaInformationTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
</link:definitionLink>
<link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-15-discontinued-operations-and-assets-and-related-liabilities-held-for-sale-tables" xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#statement-note-15-discontinued-operations-and-assets-and-related-liabilities-held-for-sale-tables" xlink:type="simple"/>
<link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-15-discontinued-operations-and-assets-and-related-liabilities-held-for-sale-tables" xlink:type="extended">
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisclosureOfLongLivedAssetsHeldForSaleTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisclosureOfLongLivedAssetsHeldForSaleTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsIncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsIncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisclosureOfLongLivedAssetsHeldForSaleTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsIncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
</link:definitionLink>
<link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-17-net-income-per-share-of-class-a-and-class-b-common-stock-tables" xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#statement-note-17-net-income-per-share-of-class-a-and-class-b-common-stock-tables" xlink:type="simple"/>
<link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-17-net-income-per-share-of-class-a-and-class-b-common-stock-tables" xlink:type="extended">
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfEarningsPerShareBasicAndDilutedTableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfEarningsPerShareBasicAndDilutedTableTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfEarningsPerShareBasicAndDilutedTableTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
</link:definitionLink>
<link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-18-equitymethod-investment-tables" xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#statement-note-18-equitymethod-investment-tables" xlink:type="simple"/>
<link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-18-equitymethod-investment-tables" xlink:type="extended">
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_ConsolidatedBalanceSheetMember" xlink:label="lad_ConsolidatedBalanceSheetMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_ConsolidatedStatementOfOperationsMember" xlink:label="lad_ConsolidatedStatementOfOperationsMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EquityMethodInvestmentsTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_EquityMethodInvestmentsTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:to="lad_ConsolidatedStatementOfOperationsMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:to="lad_ConsolidatedBalanceSheetMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:to="us-gaap_EquityMethodInvestmentsTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
</link:definitionLink>
<link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-19-segments-tables" xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#statement-note-19-segments-tables" xlink:type="simple"/>
<link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-19-segments-tables" xlink:type="extended">
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ReconciliationOfAssetsFromSegmentToConsolidatedTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ReconciliationOfAssetsFromSegmentToConsolidatedTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfSegmentReportingInformationBySegmentTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfSegmentReportingInformationBySegmentTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfSegmentReportingInformationBySegmentTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TableTextBlock" xlink:to="us-gaap_ReconciliationOfAssetsFromSegmentToConsolidatedTextBlock" xlink:type="arc"/>
</link:definitionLink>
<link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-1-summary-of-significant-accounting-policies-details-textual" xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#statement-note-1-summary-of-significant-accounting-policies-details-textual" xlink:type="simple"/>
<link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-1-summary-of-significant-accounting-policies-details-textual" xlink:type="extended">
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_NumberOfFinancialInstitutions" xlink:label="lad_NumberOfFinancialInstitutions" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_NumberOfManufacturerAffiliatedFinanceCompanies" xlink:label="lad_NumberOfManufacturerAffiliatedFinanceCompanies" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_NumberOfNewVehicleBrands" xlink:label="lad_NumberOfNewVehicleBrands" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_InterestCostsCapitalized" xlink:label="us-gaap_InterestCostsCapitalized" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LongTermDebtPercentageBearingVariableInterestRate" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongTermDebtPercentageBearingVariableInterestRate" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LongtermDebtPercentageBearingVariableInterestAmount" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongtermDebtPercentageBearingVariableInterestAmount" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_MaximumMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_MaximumMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_MinimumMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_MinimumMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NumberOfReportableSegments" xlink:label="us-gaap_NumberOfReportableSegments" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NumberOfStores" xlink:label="us-gaap_NumberOfStores" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ProductWarrantyAccrual" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProductWarrantyAccrual" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RangeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_RangeAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RangeMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_RangeMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RangeMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_RangeMember-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_RangeAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_RangeMember" xlink:to="us-gaap_MinimumMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_RangeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_RangeMember-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_RangeMember" xlink:to="us-gaap_MaximumMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_RangeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_RangeMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="lad_NumberOfNewVehicleBrands" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_NumberOfStores" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_InterestCostsCapitalized" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="4" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="lad_NumberOfFinancialInstitutions" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="5" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="lad_NumberOfManufacturerAffiliatedFinanceCompanies" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="6" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongtermDebtPercentageBearingVariableInterestAmount" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="7" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongTermDebtPercentageBearingVariableInterestRate" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="8" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProductWarrantyAccrual" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="9" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_NumberOfReportableSegments" xlink:type="arc"/>
</link:definitionLink>
<link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-3-inventories-details-textual" xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#statement-note-3-inventories-details-textual" xlink:type="simple"/>
<link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-3-inventories-details-textual" xlink:type="extended">
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_InventoryAdjustments" xlink:label="us-gaap_InventoryAdjustments" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_InventoryAdjustments" xlink:type="arc"/>
</link:definitionLink>
<link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-4-property-and-equipment-details-textual" xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#statement-note-4-property-and-equipment-details-textual" xlink:type="simple"/>
<link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-4-property-and-equipment-details-textual" xlink:type="extended">
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ImpairmentOfLongLivedAssetsHeldForUse" xlink:label="us-gaap_ImpairmentOfLongLivedAssetsHeldForUse" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ImpairmentOfLongLivedAssetsHeldForUse" xlink:type="arc"/>
</link:definitionLink>
<link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-5-goodwill-and-franchise-value-details-textual" xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#statement-note-5-goodwill-and-franchise-value-details-textual" xlink:type="simple"/>
<link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-5-goodwill-and-franchise-value-details-textual" xlink:type="extended">
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_GoodwillImpairedAccumulatedImpairmentLoss" xlink:label="us-gaap_GoodwillImpairedAccumulatedImpairmentLoss" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_GoodwillImpairedAccumulatedImpairmentLoss" xlink:type="arc"/>
</link:definitionLink>
<link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-6-credit-facilities-and-longterm-debt-details-textual" xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#statement-note-6-credit-facilities-and-longterm-debt-details-textual" xlink:type="simple"/>
<link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-6-credit-facilities-and-longterm-debt-details-textual" xlink:type="extended">
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_FloorPlanNotesPayable" xlink:label="lad_FloorPlanNotesPayable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_FloorPlanNotesPayableMember" xlink:label="lad_FloorPlanNotesPayableMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_LineOfCreditFacilityInventoryCollateralDaysInStockMaximum" xlink:label="lad_LineOfCreditFacilityInventoryCollateralDaysInStockMaximum" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_MaximumReserveAmountIfReserveIsRequired" xlink:label="lad_MaximumReserveAmountIfReserveIsRequired" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_NewVehicleFloorPlanMember" xlink:label="lad_NewVehicleFloorPlanMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_NumberOfFinancialInstitutions" xlink:label="lad_NumberOfFinancialInstitutions" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_NumberOfManufacturerAffiliatedFinanceCompanies" xlink:label="lad_NumberOfManufacturerAffiliatedFinanceCompanies" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_Other1Member" xlink:label="lad_Other1Member" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_PercentOfTotalMortgageDebtThatIsFixed" xlink:label="lad_PercentOfTotalMortgageDebtThatIsFixed" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_PrincipalReductionAccountsMaximumDepositAmount" xlink:label="lad_PrincipalReductionAccountsMaximumDepositAmount" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_PrincipalReductionAccountsOutstandingAmount" xlink:label="lad_PrincipalReductionAccountsOutstandingAmount" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_ReallocationMember" xlink:label="lad_ReallocationMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_ReserveCommitmentPercent" xlink:label="lad_ReserveCommitmentPercent" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_ScenarioSubjectToLenderApprovalMember" xlink:label="lad_ScenarioSubjectToLenderApprovalMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_SyndicatedCreditFacilityMember" xlink:label="lad_SyndicatedCreditFacilityMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_UsedVehicleInventoryFinancingMember" xlink:label="lad_UsedVehicleInventoryFinancingMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CreditFacilityAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_CreditFacilityAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CreditFacilityDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_CreditFacilityDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CreditFacilityDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_CreditFacilityDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentBasisSpreadOnVariableRate1" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentBasisSpreadOnVariableRate1" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateStatedPercentage" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateStatedPercentage" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisposalGroupClassificationAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisposalGroupClassificationAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisposalGroupClassificationDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisposalGroupClassificationDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisposalGroupClassificationDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisposalGroupClassificationDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisposalGroupHeldforsaleNotDiscontinuedOperationsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisposalGroupHeldforsaleNotDiscontinuedOperationsMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LiabilitiesOfDisposalGroupIncludingDiscontinuedOperation" xlink:label="us-gaap_LiabilitiesOfDisposalGroupIncludingDiscontinuedOperation" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityInterestRateDuringPeriod" xlink:label="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityInterestRateDuringPeriod" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityMaximumBorrowingCapacity" xlink:label="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityMaximumBorrowingCapacity" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LondonInterbankOfferedRateLIBORMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_LondonInterbankOfferedRateLIBORMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LongTermDebt" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongTermDebt" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_MaximumMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_MaximumMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_MinimumMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_MinimumMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_MortgagesMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_MortgagesMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RangeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_RangeAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RangeMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_RangeMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RangeMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_RangeMember-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RevolvingCreditFacilityMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_RevolvingCreditFacilityMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_VariableRateAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_VariableRateAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_VariableRateDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_VariableRateDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_VariableRateDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_VariableRateDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_CreditFacilityAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_CreditFacilityDomain" xlink:to="lad_UsedVehicleInventoryFinancingMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_CreditFacilityAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_CreditFacilityDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain" xlink:to="lad_SyndicatedCreditFacilityMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisposalGroupClassificationAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisposalGroupClassificationDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisposalGroupHeldforsaleNotDiscontinuedOperationsMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisposalGroupClassificationAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisposalGroupClassificationDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_CreditFacilityDomain" xlink:to="lad_NewVehicleFloorPlanMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_CreditFacilityDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_RevolvingCreditFacilityMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:to="lad_ScenarioSubjectToLenderApprovalMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:to="lad_ReallocationMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="4" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_VariableRateAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_VariableRateDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_LondonInterbankOfferedRateLIBORMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_VariableRateAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_VariableRateDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="5" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_RangeAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_RangeMember" xlink:to="us-gaap_MinimumMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_RangeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_RangeMember-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_RangeMember" xlink:to="us-gaap_MaximumMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain" xlink:to="lad_FloorPlanNotesPayableMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="6" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_MortgagesMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain" xlink:to="lad_Other1Member" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_RangeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_RangeMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentNameDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_CreditFacilityAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_CreditFacilityDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_VariableRateAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_VariableRateDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisposalGroupClassificationAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisposalGroupClassificationDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="lad_PrincipalReductionAccountsOutstandingAmount" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="lad_LineOfCreditFacilityInventoryCollateralDaysInStockMaximum" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LiabilitiesOfDisposalGroupIncludingDiscontinuedOperation" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="4" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityMaximumBorrowingCapacity" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="5" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="lad_NumberOfFinancialInstitutions" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="6" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="lad_NumberOfManufacturerAffiliatedFinanceCompanies" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="7" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="lad_PrincipalReductionAccountsMaximumDepositAmount" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="8" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="lad_ReserveCommitmentPercent" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="9" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="lad_MaximumReserveAmountIfReserveIsRequired" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="10" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentBasisSpreadOnVariableRate1" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="11" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LineOfCreditFacilityInterestRateDuringPeriod" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="12" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="lad_FloorPlanNotesPayable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="13" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtInstrumentInterestRateStatedPercentage" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="14" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="lad_PercentOfTotalMortgageDebtThatIsFixed" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="15" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongTermDebt" xlink:type="arc"/>
</link:definitionLink>
<link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-7-commitments-and-contingencies-details-textual" xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#statement-note-7-commitments-and-contingencies-details-textual" xlink:type="simple"/>
<link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-7-commitments-and-contingencies-details-textual" xlink:type="extended">
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_ChargeBacksLiabilities" xlink:label="lad_ChargeBacksLiabilities" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_ContractsObligationsReserve" xlink:label="lad_ContractsObligationsReserve" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_LifetimeOilContractsMember" xlink:label="lad_LifetimeOilContractsMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DeferredRevenue" xlink:label="us-gaap_DeferredRevenue" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingLeasesRentExpenseMinimumRentals" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingLeasesRentExpenseMinimumRentals" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ProductOrServiceAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProductOrServiceAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProductsAndServicesDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SelfInsuranceReserve" xlink:label="us-gaap_SelfInsuranceReserve" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProductOrServiceAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:to="lad_LifetimeOilContractsMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_ProductOrServiceAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProductsAndServicesDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_ProductOrServiceAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingLeasesRentExpenseMinimumRentals" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="lad_ChargeBacksLiabilities" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DeferredRevenue" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="4" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="lad_ContractsObligationsReserve" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="5" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_SelfInsuranceReserve" xlink:type="arc"/>
</link:definitionLink>
<link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-8-stockholders-equity-details-textual" xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#statement-note-8-stockholders-equity-details-textual" xlink:type="simple"/>
<link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-8-stockholders-equity-details-textual" xlink:type="extended">
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_AdditionalSharesAuthorizedMember" xlink:label="lad_AdditionalSharesAuthorizedMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_CommonStockNumberOfVotes" xlink:label="lad_CommonStockNumberOfVotes" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_ConversionOfCommonStockShares" xlink:label="lad_ConversionOfCommonStockShares" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_PercentageOfClassBCommonToTotalCommonStockSubjectToAutomaticConversion" xlink:label="lad_PercentageOfClassBCommonToTotalCommonStockSubjectToAutomaticConversion" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CommonClassAMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonClassAMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CommonClassBMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonClassBMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StockRepurchaseProgramNumberOfSharesAuthorizedToBeRepurchased" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockRepurchaseProgramNumberOfSharesAuthorizedToBeRepurchased" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StockRepurchaseProgramRemainingNumberOfSharesAuthorizedToBeRepurchased" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockRepurchaseProgramRemainingNumberOfSharesAuthorizedToBeRepurchased" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StockRepurchasedDuringPeriodShares" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockRepurchasedDuringPeriodShares" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_TreasuryStockAcquiredAverageCostPerShare" xlink:label="us-gaap_TreasuryStockAcquiredAverageCostPerShare" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonClassAMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonClassBMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:to="lad_AdditionalSharesAuthorizedMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="lad_ConversionOfCommonStockShares" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="lad_PercentageOfClassBCommonToTotalCommonStockSubjectToAutomaticConversion" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="lad_CommonStockNumberOfVotes" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="4" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockRepurchaseProgramNumberOfSharesAuthorizedToBeRepurchased" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="5" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockRepurchasedDuringPeriodShares" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="6" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_TreasuryStockAcquiredAverageCostPerShare" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="7" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockRepurchaseProgramRemainingNumberOfSharesAuthorizedToBeRepurchased" xlink:type="arc"/>
</link:definitionLink>
<link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-9-401k-profit-sharing-deferred-compensation-and-longterm-incentive-plans-details-textual" xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#statement-note-9-401k-profit-sharing-deferred-compensation-and-longterm-incentive-plans-details-textual" xlink:type="simple"/>
<link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-9-401k-profit-sharing-deferred-compensation-and-longterm-incentive-plans-details-textual" xlink:type="extended">
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DeferredCompensationArrangementWithIndividualRequisiteServicePeriod1" xlink:label="us-gaap_DeferredCompensationArrangementWithIndividualRequisiteServicePeriod1" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DeferredCompensationLiabilityClassifiedNoncurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_DeferredCompensationLiabilityClassifiedNoncurrent" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DefinedContributionPlanEmployerDiscretionaryContributionAmount" xlink:label="us-gaap_DefinedContributionPlanEmployerDiscretionaryContributionAmount" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_MaximumMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_MaximumMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_MinimumMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_MinimumMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OtherNoncurrentLiabilitiesMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherNoncurrentLiabilitiesMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RangeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_RangeAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RangeMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_RangeMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RangeMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_RangeMember-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_RangeAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_RangeMember" xlink:to="us-gaap_MinimumMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_RangeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_RangeMember-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_RangeMember" xlink:to="us-gaap_MaximumMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherNoncurrentLiabilitiesMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_RangeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_RangeMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DefinedContributionPlanEmployerDiscretionaryContributionAmount" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DeferredCompensationArrangementWithIndividualRequisiteServicePeriod1" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DeferredCompensationLiabilityClassifiedNoncurrent" xlink:type="arc"/>
</link:definitionLink>
<link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-10-stockbased-compensation-details-textual" xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#statement-note-10-stockbased-compensation-details-textual" xlink:type="simple"/>
<link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-10-stockbased-compensation-details-textual" xlink:type="extended">
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_NumberOfSeniorExecutivesReceivedRSU" xlink:label="lad_NumberOfSeniorExecutivesReceivedRSU" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_PerformanceAndTimeVestingsRsusMember" xlink:label="lad_PerformanceAndTimeVestingsRsusMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardMaximumAmountOfStockPerEmployee" xlink:label="lad_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardMaximumAmountOfStockPerEmployee" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_The2009EsppMember" xlink:label="lad_The2009EsppMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_TimeVestingRSUMember" xlink:label="lad_TimeVestingRSUMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_TwoThousandThirteenStockIncentivePlanMember" xlink:label="lad_TwoThousandThirteenStockIncentivePlanMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_WeightedAverageAttainmentLevelForPerformanceAndTimeVestingRSUs" xlink:label="lad_WeightedAverageAttainmentLevelForPerformanceAndTimeVestingRSUs" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EmployeeServiceShareBasedCompensationNonvestedAwardsTotalCompensationCostNotYetRecognizedPeriodForRecognition1" xlink:label="us-gaap_EmployeeServiceShareBasedCompensationNonvestedAwardsTotalCompensationCostNotYetRecognizedPeriodForRecognition1" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EmployeeServiceShareBasedCompensationNonvestedAwardsTotalCompensationCostNotYetRecognizedStockOptions" xlink:label="us-gaap_EmployeeServiceShareBasedCompensationNonvestedAwardsTotalCompensationCostNotYetRecognizedStockOptions" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EmployeeStockOptionMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_EmployeeStockOptionMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_MaximumMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_MaximumMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PlanNameAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_PlanNameAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PlanNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_PlanNameDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PlanNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_PlanNameDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RangeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_RangeAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RangeMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_RangeMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RangeMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_RangeMember-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RestrictedStockMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_RestrictedStockMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RestrictedStockUnitsRSUMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_RestrictedStockUnitsRSUMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardVestingPeriod1" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardVestingPeriod1" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardDiscountFromMarketPriceOfferingDate" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardDiscountFromMarketPriceOfferingDate" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardMaximumEmployeeSubscriptionRate" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardMaximumEmployeeSubscriptionRate" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardNonOptionEquityInstrumentsOutstandingNumber" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardNonOptionEquityInstrumentsOutstandingNumber" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardNumberOfSharesAuthorized" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardNumberOfSharesAuthorized" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardNumberOfSharesAvailableForGrant" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardNumberOfSharesAvailableForGrant" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingNumber" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingNumber" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationArrangementBySharebasedPaymentAwardExpirationPeriod" xlink:label="us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationArrangementBySharebasedPaymentAwardExpirationPeriod" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationArrangementBySharebasedPaymentAwardPurchasePriceOfCommonStockPercent" xlink:label="us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationArrangementBySharebasedPaymentAwardPurchasePriceOfCommonStockPercent" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StockAppreciationRightsSARSMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockAppreciationRightsSARSMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesRestrictedStockAwardGross" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesRestrictedStockAwardGross" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_PlanNameAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_PlanNameDomain" xlink:to="lad_TwoThousandThirteenStockIncentivePlanMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_PlanNameAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_PlanNameDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockAppreciationRightsSARSMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_RestrictedStockMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_PlanNameDomain" xlink:to="lad_The2009EsppMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_RangeAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_RangeMember" xlink:to="us-gaap_MaximumMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_RangeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_RangeMember-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" xlink:to="lad_TimeVestingRSUMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" xlink:to="lad_PerformanceAndTimeVestingsRsusMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="4" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_RestrictedStockUnitsRSUMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="5" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_EmployeeStockOptionMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_RangeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_RangeMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_PlanNameAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_PlanNameDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardNonOptionEquityInstrumentsOutstandingNumber" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingNumber" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardNumberOfSharesAuthorized" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="4" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardMaximumEmployeeSubscriptionRate" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="5" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="lad_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardMaximumAmountOfStockPerEmployee" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="6" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationArrangementBySharebasedPaymentAwardPurchasePriceOfCommonStockPercent" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="7" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardDiscountFromMarketPriceOfferingDate" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="8" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardNumberOfSharesAvailableForGrant" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="9" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardVestingPeriod1" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="10" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesRestrictedStockAwardGross" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="11" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="lad_WeightedAverageAttainmentLevelForPerformanceAndTimeVestingRSUs" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="12" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="lad_NumberOfSeniorExecutivesReceivedRSU" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="13" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationArrangementBySharebasedPaymentAwardExpirationPeriod" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="14" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_EmployeeServiceShareBasedCompensationNonvestedAwardsTotalCompensationCostNotYetRecognizedStockOptions" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="15" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_EmployeeServiceShareBasedCompensationNonvestedAwardsTotalCompensationCostNotYetRecognizedPeriodForRecognition1" xlink:type="arc"/>
</link:definitionLink>
<link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-11-derivative-financial-instrument-details-textual" xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#statement-note-11-derivative-financial-instrument-details-textual" xlink:type="simple"/>
<link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-11-derivative-financial-instrument-details-textual" xlink:type="extended">
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CashFlowHedgeGainLossToBeReclassifiedWithinTwelveMonths" xlink:label="us-gaap_CashFlowHedgeGainLossToBeReclassifiedWithinTwelveMonths" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DerivativeContractTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_DerivativeContractTypeDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DerivativeContractTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_DerivativeContractTypeDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DerivativeFixedInterestRate" xlink:label="us-gaap_DerivativeFixedInterestRate" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DerivativeLiabilityNotionalAmount" xlink:label="us-gaap_DerivativeLiabilityNotionalAmount" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DerivativeMaturityDates" xlink:label="us-gaap_DerivativeMaturityDates" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DerivativeVariableInterestRate" xlink:label="us-gaap_DerivativeVariableInterestRate" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_InterestRateSwapMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_InterestRateSwapMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LondonInterbankOfferedRateLIBORMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_LondonInterbankOfferedRateLIBORMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_VariableRateAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_VariableRateAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_VariableRateDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_VariableRateDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_VariableRateDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_VariableRateDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DerivativeContractTypeDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_InterestRateSwapMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_DerivativeContractTypeDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_VariableRateAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_VariableRateDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_LondonInterbankOfferedRateLIBORMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_VariableRateAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_VariableRateDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_DerivativeContractTypeDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_VariableRateAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_VariableRateDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DerivativeLiabilityNotionalAmount" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DerivativeMaturityDates" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DerivativeFixedInterestRate" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="4" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DerivativeVariableInterestRate" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="5" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_CashFlowHedgeGainLossToBeReclassifiedWithinTwelveMonths" xlink:type="arc"/>
</link:definitionLink>
<link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-12-fair-value-measurements-details-textual" xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#statement-note-12-fair-value-measurements-details-textual" xlink:type="simple"/>
<link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-12-fair-value-measurements-details-textual" xlink:type="extended">
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AssetImpairmentCharges" xlink:label="us-gaap_AssetImpairmentCharges" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EquityMethodInvestmentsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_EquityMethodInvestmentsMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputReconciliationByAssetClassDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputReconciliationByAssetClassDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputReconciliationByAssetClassDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputReconciliationByAssetClassDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputReconciliationByAssetClassDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_EquityMethodInvestmentsMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputReconciliationByAssetClassDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueByAssetClassAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueAssetsMeasuredOnRecurringBasisUnobservableInputReconciliationByAssetClassDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_AssetImpairmentCharges" xlink:type="arc"/>
</link:definitionLink>
<link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-13-income-taxes-details-textual" xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#statement-note-13-income-taxes-details-textual" xlink:type="simple"/>
<link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-13-income-taxes-details-textual" xlink:type="extended">
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsOperatingLossCarryforwardsStateAndLocal" xlink:label="us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsOperatingLossCarryforwardsStateAndLocal" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsValuationAllowance" xlink:label="us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsValuationAllowance" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EffectiveIncomeTaxRateReconciliationAtFederalStatutoryIncomeTaxRate" xlink:label="us-gaap_EffectiveIncomeTaxRateReconciliationAtFederalStatutoryIncomeTaxRate" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeTaxReceivable" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeTaxReceivable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StateAndLocalJurisdictionMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_StateAndLocalJurisdictionMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_UnrecognizedTaxBenefitsPeriodIncreaseDecrease" xlink:label="us-gaap_UnrecognizedTaxBenefitsPeriodIncreaseDecrease" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ValuationAllowanceDeferredTaxAssetChangeInAmount" xlink:label="us-gaap_ValuationAllowanceDeferredTaxAssetChangeInAmount" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_StateAndLocalJurisdictionMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_UnrecognizedTaxBenefitsPeriodIncreaseDecrease" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeTaxReceivable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_EffectiveIncomeTaxRateReconciliationAtFederalStatutoryIncomeTaxRate" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="4" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsValuationAllowance" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="5" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ValuationAllowanceDeferredTaxAssetChangeInAmount" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="6" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsOperatingLossCarryforwardsStateAndLocal" xlink:type="arc"/>
</link:definitionLink>
<link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-14-acquisitions-details-textual" xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#statement-note-14-acquisitions-details-textual" xlink:type="simple"/>
<link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-14-acquisitions-details-textual" xlink:type="extended">
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_DCHAutoGroupUSAIncMember" xlink:label="lad_DCHAutoGroupUSAIncMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionPurchasePriceAllocationGoodwillExpectedTaxDeductibleAmount" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionPurchasePriceAllocationGoodwillExpectedTaxDeductibleAmount" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessCombinationAcquisitionRelatedCosts" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationAcquisitionRelatedCosts" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NumberOfStores" xlink:label="us-gaap_NumberOfStores" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SellingGeneralAndAdministrativeExpensesMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_SellingGeneralAndAdministrativeExpensesMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain" xlink:to="lad_DCHAutoGroupUSAIncMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_SellingGeneralAndAdministrativeExpensesMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationAcquisitionRelatedCosts" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_NumberOfStores" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionPurchasePriceAllocationGoodwillExpectedTaxDeductibleAmount" xlink:type="arc"/>
</link:definitionLink>
<link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-15-discontinued-operations-and-assets-and-related-liabilities-held-for-sale-details-textual" xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#statement-note-15-discontinued-operations-and-assets-and-related-liabilities-held-for-sale-details-textual" xlink:type="simple"/>
<link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-15-discontinued-operations-and-assets-and-related-liabilities-held-for-sale-details-textual" xlink:type="extended">
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_GoodwillAndOtherIntangibleAssetsMember" xlink:label="lad_GoodwillAndOtherIntangibleAssetsMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DiscontinuedOperationGainLossFromDisposalOfDiscontinuedOperationBeforeIncomeTax" xlink:label="us-gaap_DiscontinuedOperationGainLossFromDisposalOfDiscontinuedOperationBeforeIncomeTax" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisposalGroupClassificationAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisposalGroupClassificationAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisposalGroupClassificationDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisposalGroupClassificationDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisposalGroupClassificationDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisposalGroupClassificationDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisposalGroupHeldforsaleNotDiscontinuedOperationsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisposalGroupHeldforsaleNotDiscontinuedOperationsMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsNameDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsNameDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NumberOfStores" xlink:label="us-gaap_NumberOfStores" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisposalGroupClassificationAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisposalGroupClassificationDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisposalGroupHeldforsaleNotDiscontinuedOperationsMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisposalGroupClassificationAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisposalGroupClassificationDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsNameDomain" xlink:to="lad_GoodwillAndOtherIntangibleAssetsMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsNameDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_DisposalGroupClassificationAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisposalGroupClassificationDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementBalanceSheetAndAdditionalDisclosuresByDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsNameDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_NumberOfStores" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DiscontinuedOperationGainLossFromDisposalOfDiscontinuedOperationBeforeIncomeTax" xlink:type="arc"/>
</link:definitionLink>
<link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-16-related-party-transactions-details-textual" xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#statement-note-16-related-party-transactions-details-textual" xlink:type="simple"/>
<link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-16-related-party-transactions-details-textual" xlink:type="extended">
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_AccruedLiabilitiesAndOtherLongTermLiabilitiesMember" xlink:label="lad_AccruedLiabilitiesAndOtherLongTermLiabilitiesMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_ExecutiveChairmanMember" xlink:label="lad_ExecutiveChairmanMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_SaleOfLandMember" xlink:label="lad_SaleOfLandMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DueToRelatedPartiesCurrentAndNoncurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_DueToRelatedPartiesCurrentAndNoncurrent" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_GainLossOnDispositionOfAssets1" xlink:label="us-gaap_GainLossOnDispositionOfAssets1" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RelatedPartyDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_RelatedPartyDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RelatedPartyDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_RelatedPartyDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionAmountsOfTransaction" xlink:label="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionAmountsOfTransaction" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionSellingGeneralAndAdministrativeExpensesFromTransactionsWithRelatedParty" xlink:label="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionSellingGeneralAndAdministrativeExpensesFromTransactionsWithRelatedParty" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionsByRelatedPartyAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionsByRelatedPartyAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionsByRelatedPartyAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_RelatedPartyDomain" xlink:to="lad_ExecutiveChairmanMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionsByRelatedPartyAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_RelatedPartyDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationDomain" xlink:to="lad_AccruedLiabilitiesAndOtherLongTermLiabilitiesMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionDomain" xlink:to="lad_SaleOfLandMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionsByRelatedPartyAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_RelatedPartyDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionSellingGeneralAndAdministrativeExpensesFromTransactionsWithRelatedParty" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DueToRelatedPartiesCurrentAndNoncurrent" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_RelatedPartyTransactionAmountsOfTransaction" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="4" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_GainLossOnDispositionOfAssets1" xlink:type="arc"/>
</link:definitionLink>
<link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-18-equitymethod-investment-details-textual" xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#statement-note-18-equitymethod-investment-details-textual" xlink:type="simple"/>
<link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-18-equitymethod-investment-details-textual" xlink:type="extended">
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_EquityMethodInvestmentEquityContributionObligation" xlink:label="lad_EquityMethodInvestmentEquityContributionObligation" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_EquityMethodInvestmentEquityContributionObligationTerm" xlink:label="lad_EquityMethodInvestmentEquityContributionObligationTerm" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_NMTCProgramMember" xlink:label="lad_NMTCProgramMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EquityMethodInvesteeNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_EquityMethodInvesteeNameDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EquityMethodInvesteeNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_EquityMethodInvesteeNameDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EquityMethodInvestmentOwnershipPercentage" xlink:label="us-gaap_EquityMethodInvestmentOwnershipPercentage" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquireEquityMethodInvestments" xlink:label="us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquireEquityMethodInvestments" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfEquityMethodInvestmentEquityMethodInvesteeNameAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfEquityMethodInvestmentEquityMethodInvesteeNameAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfEquityMethodInvestmentEquityMethodInvesteeNameAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_EquityMethodInvesteeNameDomain" xlink:to="lad_NMTCProgramMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfEquityMethodInvestmentEquityMethodInvesteeNameAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_EquityMethodInvesteeNameDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfEquityMethodInvestmentEquityMethodInvesteeNameAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_EquityMethodInvesteeNameDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_EquityMethodInvestmentOwnershipPercentage" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquireEquityMethodInvestments" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="lad_EquityMethodInvestmentEquityContributionObligation" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="4" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="lad_EquityMethodInvestmentEquityContributionObligationTerm" xlink:type="arc"/>
</link:definitionLink>
<link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-21-subsequent-events-details-textual" xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#statement-note-21-subsequent-events-details-textual" xlink:type="simple"/>
<link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-21-subsequent-events-details-textual" xlink:type="extended">
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_IraToyotaScionMember" xlink:label="lad_IraToyotaScionMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_RiversideSubaruMember" xlink:label="lad_RiversideSubaruMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_ShareRepurchasePlanMember" xlink:label="lad_ShareRepurchasePlanMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CommonClassAMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonClassAMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CommonClassBMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonClassBMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CommonStockDividendsPerShareDeclared" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonStockDividendsPerShareDeclared" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DividendsCommonStockCash" xlink:label="us-gaap_DividendsCommonStockCash" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquireBusinessesNetOfCashAcquired" xlink:label="us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquireBusinessesNetOfCashAcquired" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareRepurchaseProgramAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareRepurchaseProgramAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareRepurchaseProgramDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareRepurchaseProgramDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareRepurchaseProgramDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareRepurchaseProgramDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StockRepurchaseProgramRemainingNumberOfSharesAuthorizedToBeRepurchased" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockRepurchaseProgramRemainingNumberOfSharesAuthorizedToBeRepurchased" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StockRepurchasedDuringPeriodShares" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockRepurchasedDuringPeriodShares" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SubsequentEventMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_SubsequentEventMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_TreasuryStockAcquiredAverageCostPerShare" xlink:label="us-gaap_TreasuryStockAcquiredAverageCostPerShare" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_SubsequentEventMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonClassAMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonClassBMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareRepurchaseProgramAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareRepurchaseProgramDomain" xlink:to="lad_ShareRepurchasePlanMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareRepurchaseProgramAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareRepurchaseProgramDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain" xlink:to="lad_RiversideSubaruMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain" xlink:to="lad_IraToyotaScionMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="4" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareRepurchaseProgramAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareRepurchaseProgramDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_SubsequentEventTypeDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonStockDividendsPerShareDeclared" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DividendsCommonStockCash" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockRepurchasedDuringPeriodShares" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="4" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_TreasuryStockAcquiredAverageCostPerShare" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="5" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockRepurchaseProgramRemainingNumberOfSharesAuthorizedToBeRepurchased" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="6" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquireBusinessesNetOfCashAcquired" xlink:type="arc"/>
</link:definitionLink>
<link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-consolidated-statements-of-changes-in-stockholders-equity-parentheticals" xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#statement-consolidated-statements-of-changes-in-stockholders-equity-parentheticals" xlink:type="simple"/>
<link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-consolidated-statements-of-changes-in-stockholders-equity-parentheticals" xlink:type="extended">
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeUnrealizedGainLossOnDerivativesArisingDuringPeriodTax" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeUnrealizedGainLossOnDerivativesArisingDuringPeriodTax" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeUnrealizedGainLossOnDerivativesArisingDuringPeriodTax" xlink:type="arc"/>
</link:definitionLink>
<link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-1-property-and-equipment-estimated-useful-lives-details" xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#statement-note-1-property-and-equipment-estimated-useful-lives-details" xlink:type="simple"/>
<link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-1-property-and-equipment-estimated-useful-lives-details" xlink:type="extended">
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EquipmentMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_EquipmentMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FurnitureAndFixturesMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_FurnitureAndFixturesMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_MaximumMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_MaximumMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_MinimumMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_MinimumMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentUsefulLife" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentUsefulLife" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RangeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_RangeAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RangeMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_RangeMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RangeMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_RangeMember-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_RangeAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_RangeMember" xlink:to="us-gaap_MinimumMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_RangeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_RangeMember-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_RangeMember" xlink:to="us-gaap_MaximumMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_EquipmentMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_FurnitureAndFixturesMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_RangeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_RangeMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentUsefulLife" xlink:type="arc"/>
</link:definitionLink>
<link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-13-unrecognized-tax-benefits-details" xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#statement-note-13-unrecognized-tax-benefits-details" xlink:type="simple"/>
<link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-13-unrecognized-tax-benefits-details" xlink:type="extended">
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_UnrecognizedTaxBenefits" xlink:label="us-gaap_UnrecognizedTaxBenefits" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_UnrecognizedTaxBenefitsDecreasesResultingFromPriorPeriodTaxPositions" xlink:label="us-gaap_UnrecognizedTaxBenefitsDecreasesResultingFromPriorPeriodTaxPositions" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_UnrecognizedTaxBenefitsIncreasesResultingFromAcquisition" xlink:label="us-gaap_UnrecognizedTaxBenefitsIncreasesResultingFromAcquisition" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_UnrecognizedTaxBenefits" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_UnrecognizedTaxBenefitsIncreasesResultingFromAcquisition" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_UnrecognizedTaxBenefitsDecreasesResultingFromPriorPeriodTaxPositions" xlink:type="arc"/>
</link:definitionLink>
<link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-13-open-tax-years-details" xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#statement-note-13-open-tax-years-details" xlink:type="simple"/>
<link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-13-open-tax-years-details" xlink:type="extended">
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DomesticCountryMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_DomesticCountryMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EarliestTaxYearMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_EarliestTaxYearMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LatestTaxYearMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_LatestTaxYearMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OpenTaxYear" xlink:label="us-gaap_OpenTaxYear" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StateAndLocalJurisdictionMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_StateAndLocalJurisdictionMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_TaxPeriodAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_TaxPeriodAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_TaxPeriodDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_TaxPeriodDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_TaxPeriodDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_TaxPeriodDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_DomesticCountryMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_TaxPeriodAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TaxPeriodDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_EarliestTaxYearMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_TaxPeriodAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_TaxPeriodDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_TaxPeriodDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_LatestTaxYearMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_StateAndLocalJurisdictionMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeTaxAuthorityDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_TaxPeriodAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_TaxPeriodDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_OpenTaxYear" xlink:type="arc"/>
</link:definitionLink>
<link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-13-deferred-tax-assets-and-liabilities-details" xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#statement-note-13-deferred-tax-assets-and-liabilities-details" xlink:type="simple"/>
<link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-13-deferred-tax-assets-and-liabilities-details" xlink:type="extended">
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DeferredIncomeTaxLiabilities" xlink:label="us-gaap_DeferredIncomeTaxLiabilities" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsCapitalLossCarryforwards" xlink:label="us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsCapitalLossCarryforwards" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsDeferredIncome" xlink:label="us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsDeferredIncome" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsDerivativeInstruments" xlink:label="us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsDerivativeInstruments" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsGoodwillAndIntangibleAssets" xlink:label="us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsGoodwillAndIntangibleAssets" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsGross" xlink:label="us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsGross" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsNetOfValuationAllowanceAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsNetOfValuationAllowanceAbstract" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsTaxDeferredExpense" xlink:label="us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsTaxDeferredExpense" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsValuationAllowance" xlink:label="us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsValuationAllowance" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DeferredTaxLiabilities" xlink:label="us-gaap_DeferredTaxLiabilities" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DeferredTaxLiabilitiesAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_DeferredTaxLiabilitiesAbstract" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DeferredTaxLiabilitiesDeferredExpenseCapitalizedInventoryCosts" xlink:label="us-gaap_DeferredTaxLiabilitiesDeferredExpenseCapitalizedInventoryCosts" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DeferredTaxLiabilitiesGoodwillAndIntangibleAssets" xlink:label="us-gaap_DeferredTaxLiabilitiesGoodwillAndIntangibleAssets" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DeferredTaxLiabilitiesPrepaidExpenses" xlink:label="us-gaap_DeferredTaxLiabilitiesPrepaidExpenses" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DeferredTaxLiabilitiesPropertyPlantAndEquipment" xlink:label="us-gaap_DeferredTaxLiabilitiesPropertyPlantAndEquipment" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsNetOfValuationAllowanceAbstract" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsNetOfValuationAllowanceAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsDeferredIncome" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsNetOfValuationAllowanceAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsTaxDeferredExpense" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsNetOfValuationAllowanceAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsDerivativeInstruments" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsNetOfValuationAllowanceAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsGoodwillAndIntangibleAssets" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="4" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsNetOfValuationAllowanceAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsCapitalLossCarryforwards" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="5" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsNetOfValuationAllowanceAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsValuationAllowance" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="6" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsNetOfValuationAllowanceAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsGross" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DeferredTaxLiabilitiesAbstract" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DeferredTaxLiabilitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_DeferredTaxLiabilitiesDeferredExpenseCapitalizedInventoryCosts" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DeferredTaxLiabilitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_DeferredTaxLiabilitiesGoodwillAndIntangibleAssets" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DeferredTaxLiabilitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_DeferredTaxLiabilitiesPropertyPlantAndEquipment" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DeferredTaxLiabilitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_DeferredTaxLiabilitiesPrepaidExpenses" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="4" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DeferredTaxLiabilitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_DeferredIncomeTaxLiabilities" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="5" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_DeferredTaxLiabilitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_DeferredTaxLiabilities" xlink:type="arc"/>
</link:definitionLink>
<link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-19-certain-segment-financial-information-details" xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#statement-note-19-certain-segment-financial-information-details" xlink:type="simple"/>
<link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-19-certain-segment-financial-information-details" xlink:type="extended">
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_DomesticMember" xlink:label="lad_DomesticMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_FloorPlanInterestExpense" xlink:label="lad_FloorPlanInterestExpense" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_ImportMember" xlink:label="lad_ImportMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_LuxuryMember" xlink:label="lad_LuxuryMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ConsolidationItemsAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_ConsolidationItemsAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ConsolidationItemsDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ConsolidationItemsDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ConsolidationItemsDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ConsolidationItemsDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CorporateAndOtherMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CorporateAndOtherMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CorporateNonSegmentMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CorporateNonSegmentMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DepreciationAndAmortization" xlink:label="us-gaap_DepreciationAndAmortization" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsBeforeIncomeTaxesExtraordinaryItemsNoncontrollingInterest" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsBeforeIncomeTaxesExtraordinaryItemsNoncontrollingInterest" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsBeforeIncomeTaxesExtraordinaryItemsNoncontrollingInterestAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsBeforeIncomeTaxesExtraordinaryItemsNoncontrollingInterestAbstract" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_InterestExpenseAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_InterestExpenseAbstract" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_InterestExpenseDebt" xlink:label="us-gaap_InterestExpenseDebt" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingSegmentsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingSegmentsMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OtherNonoperatingIncomeExpense" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherNonoperatingIncomeExpense" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_Revenues" xlink:label="us-gaap_Revenues" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RevenuesAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_RevenuesAbstract" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SegmentDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_SegmentDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SegmentDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_SegmentDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_ConsolidationItemsAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ConsolidationItemsDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingSegmentsMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_ConsolidationItemsAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ConsolidationItemsDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentDomain" xlink:to="lad_DomesticMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_SegmentDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentDomain" xlink:to="lad_ImportMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentDomain" xlink:to="lad_LuxuryMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ConsolidationItemsDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_CorporateNonSegmentMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_CorporateAndOtherMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_ConsolidationItemsAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ConsolidationItemsDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_SegmentDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_RevenuesAbstract" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_RevenuesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_Revenues" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsBeforeIncomeTaxesExtraordinaryItemsNoncontrollingInterestAbstract" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsBeforeIncomeTaxesExtraordinaryItemsNoncontrollingInterestAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsBeforeIncomeTaxesExtraordinaryItemsNoncontrollingInterest" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsBeforeIncomeTaxesExtraordinaryItemsNoncontrollingInterestAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_DepreciationAndAmortization" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsBeforeIncomeTaxesExtraordinaryItemsNoncontrollingInterestAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_InterestExpenseDebt" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsBeforeIncomeTaxesExtraordinaryItemsNoncontrollingInterestAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherNonoperatingIncomeExpense" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_InterestExpenseAbstract" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_InterestExpenseAbstract" xlink:to="lad_FloorPlanInterestExpense" xlink:type="arc"/>
</link:definitionLink>
<link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-19-segment-assets-details" xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#statement-note-19-segment-assets-details" xlink:type="simple"/>
<link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-19-segment-assets-details" xlink:type="extended">
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_DomesticMember" xlink:label="lad_DomesticMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_ImportMember" xlink:label="lad_ImportMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_LuxuryMember" xlink:label="lad_LuxuryMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_Assets" xlink:label="us-gaap_Assets" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AssetsAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ConsolidationItemsAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_ConsolidationItemsAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ConsolidationItemsDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ConsolidationItemsDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ConsolidationItemsDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ConsolidationItemsDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CorporateAndOtherMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CorporateAndOtherMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingSegmentsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingSegmentsMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SegmentDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_SegmentDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SegmentDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_SegmentDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_ConsolidationItemsAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ConsolidationItemsDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingSegmentsMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_ConsolidationItemsAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ConsolidationItemsDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentDomain" xlink:to="lad_DomesticMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_SegmentDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentDomain" xlink:to="lad_ImportMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentDomain" xlink:to="lad_LuxuryMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_CorporateAndOtherMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_ConsolidationItemsAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ConsolidationItemsDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_SegmentDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_Assets" xlink:type="arc"/>
</link:definitionLink>
<link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-1-advertising-expense-and-manufacturing-cooperative-advertising-credits-details" xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#statement-note-1-advertising-expense-and-manufacturing-cooperative-advertising-credits-details" xlink:type="simple"/>
<link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-1-advertising-expense-and-manufacturing-cooperative-advertising-credits-details" xlink:type="extended">
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AdvertisingExpense" xlink:label="us-gaap_AdvertisingExpense" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CooperativeAdvertisingAmount" xlink:label="us-gaap_CooperativeAdvertisingAmount" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_MarketingAndAdvertisingExpense" xlink:label="us-gaap_MarketingAndAdvertisingExpense" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_MarketingAndAdvertisingExpense" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_CooperativeAdvertisingAmount" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_AdvertisingExpense" xlink:type="arc"/>
</link:definitionLink>
<link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-2-accounts-receivable-details" xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#statement-note-2-accounts-receivable-details" xlink:type="simple"/>
<link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-2-accounts-receivable-details" xlink:type="extended">
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_AutoLoansReceivablesMember" xlink:label="lad_AutoLoansReceivablesMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_ContractsInTransitMember" xlink:label="lad_ContractsInTransitMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_ManufacturerReceivablesMember" xlink:label="lad_ManufacturerReceivablesMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_OtherReceivablesMember" xlink:label="lad_OtherReceivablesMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_VehicleReceivablesMember" xlink:label="lad_VehicleReceivablesMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AccountsNotesLoansAndFinancingReceivableByReceivableTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccountsNotesLoansAndFinancingReceivableByReceivableTypeAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AccountsReceivableGross" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccountsReceivableGross" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AccountsReceivableGrossNoncurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccountsReceivableGrossNoncurrent" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AccountsReceivableNetCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccountsReceivableNetCurrent" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AllowanceForDoubtfulAccountsReceivable" xlink:label="us-gaap_AllowanceForDoubtfulAccountsReceivable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ReceivableTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ReceivableTypeDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ReceivableTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ReceivableTypeDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_TradeAccountsReceivableMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_TradeAccountsReceivableMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_AccountsNotesLoansAndFinancingReceivableByReceivableTypeAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ReceivableTypeDomain" xlink:to="lad_ContractsInTransitMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_AccountsNotesLoansAndFinancingReceivableByReceivableTypeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ReceivableTypeDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ReceivableTypeDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_TradeAccountsReceivableMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ReceivableTypeDomain" xlink:to="lad_VehicleReceivablesMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ReceivableTypeDomain" xlink:to="lad_ManufacturerReceivablesMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="4" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ReceivableTypeDomain" xlink:to="lad_AutoLoansReceivablesMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="5" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ReceivableTypeDomain" xlink:to="lad_OtherReceivablesMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_AccountsNotesLoansAndFinancingReceivableByReceivableTypeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ReceivableTypeDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_AccountsReceivableGross" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_AllowanceForDoubtfulAccountsReceivable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_AccountsReceivableGrossNoncurrent" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="4" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_AccountsReceivableNetCurrent" xlink:type="arc"/>
</link:definitionLink>
<link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-3-inventories-details" xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#statement-note-3-inventories-details" xlink:type="simple"/>
<link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-3-inventories-details" xlink:type="extended">
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_NewVehicleMember" xlink:label="lad_NewVehicleMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_PartsAndAccessoriesMember" xlink:label="lad_PartsAndAccessoriesMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_UsedVehicleMember" xlink:label="lad_UsedVehicleMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_InventoryNet" xlink:label="us-gaap_InventoryNet" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ProductOrServiceAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProductOrServiceAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProductsAndServicesDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProductOrServiceAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:to="lad_NewVehicleMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_ProductOrServiceAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProductsAndServicesDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:to="lad_UsedVehicleMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:to="lad_PartsAndAccessoriesMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_ProductOrServiceAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_InventoryNet" xlink:type="arc"/>
</link:definitionLink>
<link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-4-property-and-equipment-details" xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#statement-note-4-property-and-equipment-details" xlink:type="simple"/>
<link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-4-property-and-equipment-details" xlink:type="extended">
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_ExcludingConstructionInProgressMember" xlink:label="lad_ExcludingConstructionInProgressMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AccumulatedDepreciationDepletionAndAmortizationPropertyPlantAndEquipment" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccumulatedDepreciationDepletionAndAmortizationPropertyPlantAndEquipment" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ConstructionInProgressMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_ConstructionInProgressMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EquipmentMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_EquipmentMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FurnitureAndFixturesMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_FurnitureAndFixturesMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LandMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_LandMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentGross" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentGross" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentNet" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentNet" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_LandMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_EquipmentMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_FurnitureAndFixturesMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="4" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" xlink:to="lad_ExcludingConstructionInProgressMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="5" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_ConstructionInProgressMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentGross" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_AccumulatedDepreciationDepletionAndAmortizationPropertyPlantAndEquipment" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentNet" xlink:type="arc"/>
</link:definitionLink>
<link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-5-goodwill-details" xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#statement-note-5-goodwill-details" xlink:type="simple"/>
<link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-5-goodwill-details" xlink:type="extended">
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_DomesticMember" xlink:label="lad_DomesticMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_ImportMember" xlink:label="lad_ImportMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_LuxuryMember" xlink:label="lad_LuxuryMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_Goodwill" xlink:label="us-gaap_Goodwill" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_GoodwillAcquiredDuringPeriod" xlink:label="us-gaap_GoodwillAcquiredDuringPeriod" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_GoodwillWrittenOffRelatedToSaleOfBusinessUnit" xlink:label="us-gaap_GoodwillWrittenOffRelatedToSaleOfBusinessUnit" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SegmentDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_SegmentDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SegmentDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_SegmentDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentDomain" xlink:to="lad_DomesticMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_SegmentDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentDomain" xlink:to="lad_ImportMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentDomain" xlink:to="lad_LuxuryMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_SegmentDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_Goodwill" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_GoodwillAcquiredDuringPeriod" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_GoodwillWrittenOffRelatedToSaleOfBusinessUnit" xlink:type="arc"/>
</link:definitionLink>
<link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-5-franchise-value-details" xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#statement-note-5-franchise-value-details" xlink:type="simple"/>
<link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-5-franchise-value-details" xlink:type="extended">
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IndefiniteLivedFranchiseRights" xlink:label="us-gaap_IndefiniteLivedFranchiseRights" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IndefiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsWrittenOffRelatedToSaleOfBusinessUnit" xlink:label="us-gaap_IndefiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsWrittenOffRelatedToSaleOfBusinessUnit" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IndefinitelivedIntangibleAssetsAcquired" xlink:label="us-gaap_IndefinitelivedIntangibleAssetsAcquired" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_IndefiniteLivedFranchiseRights" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_IndefinitelivedIntangibleAssetsAcquired" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_IndefiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsWrittenOffRelatedToSaleOfBusinessUnit" xlink:type="arc"/>
</link:definitionLink>
<link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-6-credit-facilities-and-longterm-debt-details" xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#statement-note-6-credit-facilities-and-longterm-debt-details" xlink:type="simple"/>
<link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-6-credit-facilities-and-longterm-debt-details" xlink:type="extended">
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_FloorPlanDebt" xlink:label="lad_FloorPlanDebt" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_FloorPlanNotesPayable" xlink:label="lad_FloorPlanNotesPayable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_FloorPlanNotesPayableNonTrade" xlink:label="lad_FloorPlanNotesPayableNonTrade" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_UsedVehicleInventoryFinancingMember" xlink:label="lad_UsedVehicleInventoryFinancingMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CreditFacilityAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_CreditFacilityAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CreditFacilityDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_CreditFacilityDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CreditFacilityDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_CreditFacilityDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DebtAndCapitalLeaseObligations" xlink:label="us-gaap_DebtAndCapitalLeaseObligations" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LineOfCredit" xlink:label="us-gaap_LineOfCredit" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OtherLongTermDebt" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherLongTermDebt" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RevolvingCreditFacilityMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_RevolvingCreditFacilityMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SecuredDebt" xlink:label="us-gaap_SecuredDebt" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_CreditFacilityAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_CreditFacilityDomain" xlink:to="lad_UsedVehicleInventoryFinancingMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_CreditFacilityAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_CreditFacilityDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_CreditFacilityDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_RevolvingCreditFacilityMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_CreditFacilityAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_CreditFacilityDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="lad_FloorPlanNotesPayableNonTrade" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="lad_FloorPlanNotesPayable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="lad_FloorPlanDebt" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="4" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LineOfCredit" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="5" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_SecuredDebt" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="6" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherLongTermDebt" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="7" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DebtAndCapitalLeaseObligations" xlink:type="arc"/>
</link:definitionLink>
<link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-6-details-of-financial-covenants-details" xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#statement-note-6-details-of-financial-covenants-details" xlink:type="simple"/>
<link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-6-details-of-financial-covenants-details" xlink:type="extended">
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_CurrentRatio" xlink:label="lad_CurrentRatio" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_DebtCovenantCurrentRatio" xlink:label="lad_DebtCovenantCurrentRatio" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_DebtCovenantFixedChargeCoverageRatio" xlink:label="lad_DebtCovenantFixedChargeCoverageRatio" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_DebtCovenantFundedDebtRestriction" xlink:label="lad_DebtCovenantFundedDebtRestriction" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_DebtCovenantLeverageRatio" xlink:label="lad_DebtCovenantLeverageRatio" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_FixedChargeCoverageRatio" xlink:label="lad_FixedChargeCoverageRatio" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_LeverageRatio" xlink:label="lad_LeverageRatio" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LongTermDebtNoncurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongTermDebtNoncurrent" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="lad_DebtCovenantCurrentRatio" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="lad_CurrentRatio" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="lad_DebtCovenantFixedChargeCoverageRatio" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="4" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="lad_FixedChargeCoverageRatio" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="5" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="lad_DebtCovenantLeverageRatio" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="6" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="lad_LeverageRatio" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="7" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="lad_DebtCovenantFundedDebtRestriction" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="8" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongTermDebtNoncurrent" xlink:type="arc"/>
</link:definitionLink>
<link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-6-future-principal-payments-on-longterm-debt-details" xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#statement-note-6-future-principal-payments-on-longterm-debt-details" xlink:type="simple"/>
<link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-6-future-principal-payments-on-longterm-debt-details" xlink:type="extended">
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LongTermDebt" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongTermDebt" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LongTermDebtMaturitiesRepaymentsOfPrincipalAfterYearFive" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongTermDebtMaturitiesRepaymentsOfPrincipalAfterYearFive" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LongTermDebtMaturitiesRepaymentsOfPrincipalInNextTwelveMonths" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongTermDebtMaturitiesRepaymentsOfPrincipalInNextTwelveMonths" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LongTermDebtMaturitiesRepaymentsOfPrincipalInYearFive" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongTermDebtMaturitiesRepaymentsOfPrincipalInYearFive" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LongTermDebtMaturitiesRepaymentsOfPrincipalInYearFour" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongTermDebtMaturitiesRepaymentsOfPrincipalInYearFour" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LongTermDebtMaturitiesRepaymentsOfPrincipalInYearThree" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongTermDebtMaturitiesRepaymentsOfPrincipalInYearThree" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LongTermDebtMaturitiesRepaymentsOfPrincipalInYearTwo" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongTermDebtMaturitiesRepaymentsOfPrincipalInYearTwo" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongTermDebtMaturitiesRepaymentsOfPrincipalInNextTwelveMonths" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongTermDebtMaturitiesRepaymentsOfPrincipalInYearTwo" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongTermDebtMaturitiesRepaymentsOfPrincipalInYearThree" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="4" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongTermDebtMaturitiesRepaymentsOfPrincipalInYearFour" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="5" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongTermDebtMaturitiesRepaymentsOfPrincipalInYearFive" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="6" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongTermDebtMaturitiesRepaymentsOfPrincipalAfterYearFive" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="7" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongTermDebt" xlink:type="arc"/>
</link:definitionLink>
<link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-7-minimum-lease-payments-details" xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#statement-note-7-minimum-lease-payments-details" xlink:type="simple"/>
<link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-7-minimum-lease-payments-details" xlink:type="extended">
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueNet" xlink:label="lad_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueNet" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDue" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDue" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueCurrent" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueFutureMinimumSubleaseRentals" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueFutureMinimumSubleaseRentals" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueInFiveYears" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueInFiveYears" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueInFourYears" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueInFourYears" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueInThreeYears" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueInThreeYears" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueInTwoYears" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueInTwoYears" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueThereafter" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueThereafter" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueCurrent" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueInTwoYears" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueInThreeYears" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="4" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueInFourYears" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="5" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueInFiveYears" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="6" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueThereafter" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="7" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDue" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="8" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueFutureMinimumSubleaseRentals" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="9" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="lad_OperatingLeasesFutureMinimumPaymentsDueNet" xlink:type="arc"/>
</link:definitionLink>
<link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-7-chargebacks-for-various-contracts-details" xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#statement-note-7-chargebacks-for-various-contracts-details" xlink:type="simple"/>
<link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-7-chargebacks-for-various-contracts-details" xlink:type="extended">
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_ChargeBacksFutureMinimumPaymentsCurrent" xlink:label="lad_ChargeBacksFutureMinimumPaymentsCurrent" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_ChargeBacksFutureMinimumPaymentsDueInFiveYears" xlink:label="lad_ChargeBacksFutureMinimumPaymentsDueInFiveYears" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_ChargeBacksFutureMinimumPaymentsDueInFourYears" xlink:label="lad_ChargeBacksFutureMinimumPaymentsDueInFourYears" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_ChargeBacksFutureMinimumPaymentsDueInThreeYears" xlink:label="lad_ChargeBacksFutureMinimumPaymentsDueInThreeYears" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_ChargeBacksFutureMinimumPaymentsDueInTwoYears" xlink:label="lad_ChargeBacksFutureMinimumPaymentsDueInTwoYears" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_ChargeBacksFutureMinimumPaymentsDueThereafter" xlink:label="lad_ChargeBacksFutureMinimumPaymentsDueThereafter" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_ChargeBacksLiabilities" xlink:label="lad_ChargeBacksLiabilities" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="lad_ChargeBacksFutureMinimumPaymentsCurrent" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="lad_ChargeBacksFutureMinimumPaymentsDueInTwoYears" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="lad_ChargeBacksFutureMinimumPaymentsDueInThreeYears" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="4" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="lad_ChargeBacksFutureMinimumPaymentsDueInFourYears" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="5" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="lad_ChargeBacksFutureMinimumPaymentsDueInFiveYears" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="6" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="lad_ChargeBacksFutureMinimumPaymentsDueThereafter" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="7" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="lad_ChargeBacksLiabilities" xlink:type="arc"/>
</link:definitionLink>
<link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-7-lifetime-lube-oil-and-filter-contracts-aquired-details" xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#statement-note-7-lifetime-lube-oil-and-filter-contracts-aquired-details" xlink:type="simple"/>
<link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-7-lifetime-lube-oil-and-filter-contracts-aquired-details" xlink:type="extended">
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_DeferredRevenueRecognizableCurrent" xlink:label="lad_DeferredRevenueRecognizableCurrent" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_DeferredRevenueRecognizableInYearFive" xlink:label="lad_DeferredRevenueRecognizableInYearFive" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_DeferredRevenueRecognizableInYearFour" xlink:label="lad_DeferredRevenueRecognizableInYearFour" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_DeferredRevenueRecognizableInYearThree" xlink:label="lad_DeferredRevenueRecognizableInYearThree" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_DeferredRevenueRecognizableInYearTwo" xlink:label="lad_DeferredRevenueRecognizableInYearTwo" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_DeferredRevenueRecognizableThereafter" xlink:label="lad_DeferredRevenueRecognizableThereafter" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_LifetimeOilContractsMember" xlink:label="lad_LifetimeOilContractsMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DeferredRevenue" xlink:label="us-gaap_DeferredRevenue" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OtherCommitmentsAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherCommitmentsAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OtherCommitmentsDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherCommitmentsDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OtherCommitmentsDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherCommitmentsDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherCommitmentsAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_OtherCommitmentsDomain" xlink:to="lad_LifetimeOilContractsMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_OtherCommitmentsAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherCommitmentsDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_OtherCommitmentsAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherCommitmentsDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="lad_DeferredRevenueRecognizableCurrent" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="lad_DeferredRevenueRecognizableInYearTwo" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="lad_DeferredRevenueRecognizableInYearThree" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="4" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="lad_DeferredRevenueRecognizableInYearFour" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="5" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="lad_DeferredRevenueRecognizableInYearFive" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="6" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="lad_DeferredRevenueRecognizableThereafter" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="7" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DeferredRevenue" xlink:type="arc"/>
</link:definitionLink>
<link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-8-share-repurchases-details" xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#statement-note-8-share-repurchases-details" xlink:type="simple"/>
<link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-8-share-repurchases-details" xlink:type="extended">
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_ShareRepurchasePlanMember" xlink:label="lad_ShareRepurchasePlanMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CommonClassAMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonClassAMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareRepurchaseProgramAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareRepurchaseProgramAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareRepurchaseProgramDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareRepurchaseProgramDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareRepurchaseProgramDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareRepurchaseProgramDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SharesPaidForTaxWithholdingForShareBasedCompensation" xlink:label="us-gaap_SharesPaidForTaxWithholdingForShareBasedCompensation" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StockRepurchasedDuringPeriodShares" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockRepurchasedDuringPeriodShares" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StockRepurchasedDuringPeriodValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockRepurchasedDuringPeriodValue" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_TreasuryStockAcquiredAverageCostPerShare" xlink:label="us-gaap_TreasuryStockAcquiredAverageCostPerShare" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonClassAMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareRepurchaseProgramAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareRepurchaseProgramDomain" xlink:to="lad_ShareRepurchasePlanMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareRepurchaseProgramAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareRepurchaseProgramDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareRepurchaseProgramAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareRepurchaseProgramDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockRepurchasedDuringPeriodShares" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockRepurchasedDuringPeriodValue" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_TreasuryStockAcquiredAverageCostPerShare" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="4" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_SharesPaidForTaxWithholdingForShareBasedCompensation" xlink:type="arc"/>
</link:definitionLink>
<link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-8-reclassification-from-accumulated-other-comprehensive-loss-details" xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#statement-note-8-reclassification-from-accumulated-other-comprehensive-loss-details" xlink:type="simple"/>
<link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-8-reclassification-from-accumulated-other-comprehensive-loss-details" xlink:type="extended">
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_FloorPlanInterestExpenseMember" xlink:label="lad_FloorPlanInterestExpenseMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_IncomeTaxProvisionMember" xlink:label="lad_IncomeTaxProvisionMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossReclassifiedFromAccumulatedOCIIntoIncomeEffectivePortionNet" xlink:label="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossReclassifiedFromAccumulatedOCIIntoIncomeEffectivePortionNet" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossReclassificationAdjustmentFromAOCIOnDerivativesNetOfTax" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossReclassificationAdjustmentFromAOCIOnDerivativesNetOfTax" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossReclassificationAdjustmentFromAOCIOnDerivativesTax" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossReclassificationAdjustmentFromAOCIOnDerivativesTax" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ReclassificationOutOfAccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_ReclassificationOutOfAccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ReclassificationOutOfAccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ReclassificationOutOfAccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ReclassificationOutOfAccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ReclassificationOutOfAccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ReclassificationOutOfAccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_ReclassificationOutOfAccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_ReclassificationOutOfAccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ReclassificationOutOfAccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_ReclassificationOutOfAccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_ReclassificationOutOfAccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ReclassificationOutOfAccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain" xlink:to="lad_FloorPlanInterestExpenseMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain" xlink:to="lad_IncomeTaxProvisionMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_ReclassificationOutOfAccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ReclassificationOutOfAccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossReclassifiedFromAccumulatedOCIIntoIncomeEffectivePortionNet" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossReclassificationAdjustmentFromAOCIOnDerivativesTax" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossReclassificationAdjustmentFromAOCIOnDerivativesNetOfTax" xlink:type="arc"/>
</link:definitionLink>
<link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-9-compensation-expense-details" xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#statement-note-9-compensation-expense-details" xlink:type="simple"/>
<link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-9-compensation-expense-details" xlink:type="extended">
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_GuaranteedReturn" xlink:label="lad_GuaranteedReturn" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DeferredCompensationArrangementWithIndividualCompensationExpense" xlink:label="us-gaap_DeferredCompensationArrangementWithIndividualCompensationExpense" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DeferredCompensationArrangementWithIndividualEmployerContribution" xlink:label="us-gaap_DeferredCompensationArrangementWithIndividualEmployerContribution" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DeferredCompensationArrangementWithIndividualCompensationExpense" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DeferredCompensationArrangementWithIndividualEmployerContribution" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="lad_GuaranteedReturn" xlink:type="arc"/>
</link:definitionLink>
<link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-10-summary-of-2009-espp-details" xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#statement-note-10-summary-of-2009-espp-details" xlink:type="simple"/>
<link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-10-summary-of-2009-espp-details" xlink:type="extended">
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_The2009EsppMember" xlink:label="lad_The2009EsppMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_WeightedAveragePerShareDiscountForCompensationExpenseRecognizedUnderThe2009ESPP" xlink:label="lad_WeightedAveragePerShareDiscountForCompensationExpenseRecognizedUnderThe2009ESPP" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PlanNameAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_PlanNameAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PlanNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_PlanNameDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PlanNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_PlanNameDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardNumberOfSharesAvailableForGrant" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardNumberOfSharesAvailableForGrant" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardPerShareWeightedAveragePriceOfSharesPurchased" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardPerShareWeightedAveragePriceOfSharesPurchased" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardSharesIssuedInPeriod" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardSharesIssuedInPeriod" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_PlanNameAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_PlanNameDomain" xlink:to="lad_The2009EsppMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_PlanNameAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_PlanNameDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_PlanNameAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_PlanNameDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardSharesIssuedInPeriod" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardPerShareWeightedAveragePriceOfSharesPurchased" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="lad_WeightedAveragePerShareDiscountForCompensationExpenseRecognizedUnderThe2009ESPP" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="4" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardNumberOfSharesAvailableForGrant" xlink:type="arc"/>
</link:definitionLink>
<link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-10-stock-incentive-plans-activity-restricted-stock-details" xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#statement-note-10-stock-incentive-plans-activity-restricted-stock-details" xlink:type="simple"/>
<link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-10-stock-incentive-plans-activity-restricted-stock-details" xlink:type="extended">
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RestrictedStockMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_RestrictedStockMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsForfeitedInPeriod" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsForfeitedInPeriod" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsForfeituresWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsForfeituresWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriod" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriod" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedNumber" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedNumber" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestedInPeriod" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestedInPeriod" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestedInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestedInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_RestrictedStockMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_AwardTypeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardAwardTypeAndPlanNameDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedNumber" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsNonvestedWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriod" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="4" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsGrantsInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="5" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestedInPeriod" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="6" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestedInPeriodWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="7" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsForfeitedInPeriod" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="8" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsForfeituresWeightedAverageGrantDateFairValue" xlink:type="arc"/>
</link:definitionLink>
<link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-10-stock-incentive-plans-activity-stock-options-details" xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#statement-note-10-stock-incentive-plans-activity-stock-options-details" xlink:type="simple"/>
<link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-10-stock-incentive-plans-activity-stock-options-details" xlink:type="extended">
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisableNumber" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisableNumber" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisableWeightedAverageExercisePrice" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisableWeightedAverageExercisePrice" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsExpirationsInPeriod" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsExpirationsInPeriod" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingIntrinsicValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingIntrinsicValue" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingNumber" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingNumber" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingWeightedAverageExercisePrice" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingWeightedAverageExercisePrice" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisesInPeriodWeightedAverageExercisePrice" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisesInPeriodWeightedAverageExercisePrice" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsExpirationsInPeriodWeightedAverageExercisePrice" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsExpirationsInPeriodWeightedAverageExercisePrice" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationArrangementBySharebasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisableIntrinsicValue1" xlink:label="us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationArrangementBySharebasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisableIntrinsicValue1" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationArrangementBySharebasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingWeightedAverageRemainingContractualTerm2" xlink:label="us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationArrangementBySharebasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingWeightedAverageRemainingContractualTerm2" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesStockOptionsExercised" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesStockOptionsExercised" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingNumber" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingWeightedAverageExercisePrice" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingIntrinsicValue" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="4" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationArrangementBySharebasedPaymentAwardOptionsOutstandingWeightedAverageRemainingContractualTerm2" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="5" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsExpirationsInPeriod" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="6" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsExpirationsInPeriodWeightedAverageExercisePrice" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="7" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesStockOptionsExercised" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="8" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementsByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisesInPeriodWeightedAverageExercisePrice" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="9" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisableNumber" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="10" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisableWeightedAverageExercisePrice" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="11" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_SharebasedCompensationArrangementBySharebasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisableIntrinsicValue1" xlink:type="arc"/>
</link:definitionLink>
<link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-10-stockbased-compensation-information-details" xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#statement-note-10-stockbased-compensation-information-details" xlink:type="simple"/>
<link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-10-stockbased-compensation-information-details" xlink:type="extended">
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_WeightedAveragePerShareDiscountForCompensationExpenseRecognizedUnderThe2009ESPP" xlink:label="lad_WeightedAveragePerShareDiscountForCompensationExpenseRecognizedUnderThe2009ESPP" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AllocatedShareBasedCompensationExpense" xlink:label="us-gaap_AllocatedShareBasedCompensationExpense" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EmployeeServiceShareBasedCompensationTaxBenefitFromCompensationExpense" xlink:label="us-gaap_EmployeeServiceShareBasedCompensationTaxBenefitFromCompensationExpense" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EmployeeServiceShareBasedCompensationTaxBenefitRealizedFromExerciseOfStockOptions" xlink:label="us-gaap_EmployeeServiceShareBasedCompensationTaxBenefitRealizedFromExerciseOfStockOptions" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ProceedsFromIssuanceOfSharesUnderIncentiveAndShareBasedCompensationPlansIncludingStockOptions" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProceedsFromIssuanceOfSharesUnderIncentiveAndShareBasedCompensationPlansIncludingStockOptions" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SellingGeneralAndAdministrativeExpensesMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_SellingGeneralAndAdministrativeExpensesMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestedInPeriodTotalFairValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestedInPeriodTotalFairValue" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisesInPeriodTotalIntrinsicValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisesInPeriodTotalIntrinsicValue" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsGrantsInPeriodGrantDateIntrinsicValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsGrantsInPeriodGrantDateIntrinsicValue" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_SellingGeneralAndAdministrativeExpensesMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsGrantsInPeriodGrantDateIntrinsicValue" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="lad_WeightedAveragePerShareDiscountForCompensationExpenseRecognizedUnderThe2009ESPP" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardOptionsExercisesInPeriodTotalIntrinsicValue" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="4" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensationArrangementByShareBasedPaymentAwardEquityInstrumentsOtherThanOptionsVestedInPeriodTotalFairValue" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="5" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_AllocatedShareBasedCompensationExpense" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="6" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_EmployeeServiceShareBasedCompensationTaxBenefitFromCompensationExpense" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="7" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProceedsFromIssuanceOfSharesUnderIncentiveAndShareBasedCompensationPlansIncludingStockOptions" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="8" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_EmployeeServiceShareBasedCompensationTaxBenefitRealizedFromExerciseOfStockOptions" xlink:type="arc"/>
</link:definitionLink>
<link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-12-longterm-fixed-interest-rate-debt-details" xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#statement-note-12-longterm-fixed-interest-rate-debt-details" xlink:type="simple"/>
<link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-12-longterm-fixed-interest-rate-debt-details" xlink:type="extended">
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LongTermDebtFairValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongTermDebtFairValue" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LongtermDebtPercentageBearingFixedInterestAmount" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongtermDebtPercentageBearingFixedInterestAmount" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongtermDebtPercentageBearingFixedInterestAmount" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongTermDebtFairValue" xlink:type="arc"/>
</link:definitionLink>
<link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-13-tax-rate-reconciliation-details" xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#statement-note-13-tax-rate-reconciliation-details" xlink:type="simple"/>
<link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-13-tax-rate-reconciliation-details" xlink:type="extended">
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeTaxExpenseBenefit" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeTaxExpenseBenefit" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeTaxReconciliationChangeInDeferredTaxAssetsValuationAllowance" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeTaxReconciliationChangeInDeferredTaxAssetsValuationAllowance" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeTaxReconciliationEquityInEarningsLossesOfUnconsolidatedSubsidiary" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeTaxReconciliationEquityInEarningsLossesOfUnconsolidatedSubsidiary" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeTaxReconciliationIncomeTaxExpenseBenefitAtFederalStatutoryIncomeTaxRate" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeTaxReconciliationIncomeTaxExpenseBenefitAtFederalStatutoryIncomeTaxRate" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeTaxReconciliationNondeductibleExpense" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeTaxReconciliationNondeductibleExpense" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeTaxReconciliationNondeductibleExpenseShareBasedCompensationCost" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeTaxReconciliationNondeductibleExpenseShareBasedCompensationCost" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeTaxReconciliationOtherReconcilingItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeTaxReconciliationOtherReconcilingItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeTaxReconciliationStateAndLocalIncomeTaxes" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeTaxReconciliationStateAndLocalIncomeTaxes" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeTaxReconciliationTaxCredits" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeTaxReconciliationTaxCredits" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeTaxReconciliationIncomeTaxExpenseBenefitAtFederalStatutoryIncomeTaxRate" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeTaxReconciliationStateAndLocalIncomeTaxes" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeTaxReconciliationEquityInEarningsLossesOfUnconsolidatedSubsidiary" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="4" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeTaxReconciliationNondeductibleExpense" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="5" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeTaxReconciliationNondeductibleExpenseShareBasedCompensationCost" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="6" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeTaxReconciliationChangeInDeferredTaxAssetsValuationAllowance" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="7" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeTaxReconciliationTaxCredits" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="8" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeTaxReconciliationOtherReconcilingItems" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="9" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeTaxExpenseBenefit" xlink:type="arc"/>
</link:definitionLink>
<link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-14-revenue-and-operating-income-from-acquisitions-details" xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#statement-note-14-revenue-and-operating-income-from-acquisitions-details" xlink:type="simple"/>
<link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-14-revenue-and-operating-income-from-acquisitions-details" xlink:type="extended">
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_Acquisitions2015Member" xlink:label="lad_Acquisitions2015Member" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_Revenues" xlink:label="us-gaap_Revenues" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain" xlink:to="lad_Acquisitions2015Member" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_Revenues" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss" xlink:type="arc"/>
</link:definitionLink>
<link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-14-summary-of-acquisitions-details" xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#statement-note-14-summary-of-acquisitions-details" xlink:type="simple"/>
<link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-14-summary-of-acquisitions-details" xlink:type="extended">
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_AllOtherAcquisitionsMember" xlink:label="lad_AllOtherAcquisitionsMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_BusinessCombinationConsiderationTransferredNoteReceivableForgiven" xlink:label="lad_BusinessCombinationConsiderationTransferredNoteReceivableForgiven" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedNoncurrentFloorPlanDebt" xlink:label="lad_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedNoncurrentFloorPlanDebt" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_DCHAutoGroupUSAIncMember" xlink:label="lad_DCHAutoGroupUSAIncMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessCombinationConsiderationTransferred1" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationConsiderationTransferred1" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessCombinationConsiderationTransferredEquityInterestsIssuedAndIssuable" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationConsiderationTransferredEquityInterestsIssuedAndIssuable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedCurrentAssetsReceivables" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedCurrentAssetsReceivables" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedDeferredTaxLiabilitiesNoncurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedDeferredTaxLiabilitiesNoncurrent" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedIntangibleAssetsOtherThanGoodwill" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedIntangibleAssetsOtherThanGoodwill" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedInventory" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedInventory" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedNet" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedNet" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedNoncurrentLiabilitiesLongTermDebt" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedNoncurrentLiabilitiesLongTermDebt" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedNoncurrentLiabilitiesOther" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedNoncurrentLiabilitiesOther" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedOtherNoncurrentAssets" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedOtherNoncurrentAssets" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedPropertyPlantAndEquipment" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedPropertyPlantAndEquipment" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredGoodwillAndLiabilitiesAssumedNet" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredGoodwillAndLiabilitiesAssumedNet" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_GoodwillAcquiredDuringPeriod" xlink:label="us-gaap_GoodwillAcquiredDuringPeriod" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquireBusinessesNetOfCashAcquired" xlink:label="us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquireBusinessesNetOfCashAcquired" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain" xlink:to="lad_DCHAutoGroupUSAIncMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain" xlink:to="lad_AllOtherAcquisitionsMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionAcquireeDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquireBusinessesNetOfCashAcquired" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="lad_BusinessCombinationConsiderationTransferredNoteReceivableForgiven" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationConsiderationTransferredEquityInterestsIssuedAndIssuable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="4" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationConsiderationTransferred1" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="5" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedCurrentAssetsReceivables" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="6" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedInventory" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="7" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedIntangibleAssetsOtherThanGoodwill" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="8" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedPropertyPlantAndEquipment" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="9" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedOtherNoncurrentAssets" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="10" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="lad_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedNoncurrentFloorPlanDebt" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="11" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedNoncurrentLiabilitiesLongTermDebt" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="12" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedDeferredTaxLiabilitiesNoncurrent" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="13" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedNoncurrentLiabilitiesOther" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="14" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredAndLiabilitiesAssumedNet" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="15" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_GoodwillAcquiredDuringPeriod" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="16" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationRecognizedIdentifiableAssetsAcquiredGoodwillAndLiabilitiesAssumedNet" xlink:type="arc"/>
</link:definitionLink>
<link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-14-pro-forma-details" xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#statement-note-14-pro-forma-details" xlink:type="simple"/>
<link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-14-pro-forma-details" xlink:type="extended">
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionProFormaIncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsBeforeChangesInAccountingAndExtraordinaryItemsNetOfTaxPerShareBasic" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionProFormaIncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsBeforeChangesInAccountingAndExtraordinaryItemsNetOfTaxPerShareBasic" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionProFormaIncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsBeforeChangesInAccountingAndExtraordinaryItemsNetOfTaxPerShareDiluted" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionProFormaIncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsBeforeChangesInAccountingAndExtraordinaryItemsNetOfTaxPerShareDiluted" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionsProFormaIncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsBeforeChangesInAccountingAndExtraordinaryItemsNetOfTax" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionsProFormaIncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsBeforeChangesInAccountingAndExtraordinaryItemsNetOfTax" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionsProFormaRevenue" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionsProFormaRevenue" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionsProFormaRevenue" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionsProFormaIncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsBeforeChangesInAccountingAndExtraordinaryItemsNetOfTax" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionProFormaIncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsBeforeChangesInAccountingAndExtraordinaryItemsNetOfTaxPerShareBasic" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="4" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessAcquisitionProFormaIncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsBeforeChangesInAccountingAndExtraordinaryItemsNetOfTaxPerShareDiluted" xlink:type="arc"/>
</link:definitionLink>
<link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-15-assets-and-related-liabilities-held-for-sale-details" xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#statement-note-15-assets-and-related-liabilities-held-for-sale-details" xlink:type="simple"/>
<link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-15-assets-and-related-liabilities-held-for-sale-details" xlink:type="extended">
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_IntangibleAssetsMember" xlink:label="lad_IntangibleAssetsMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_InventoryMember" xlink:label="lad_InventoryMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentHeldForSaleMember" xlink:label="lad_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentHeldForSaleMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AssetsOfDisposalGroupIncludingDiscontinuedOperationCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_AssetsOfDisposalGroupIncludingDiscontinuedOperationCurrent" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LiabilitiesOfDisposalGroupIncludingDiscontinuedOperation" xlink:label="us-gaap_LiabilitiesOfDisposalGroupIncludingDiscontinuedOperation" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LongLivedAssetsHeldForSaleByAssetTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongLivedAssetsHeldForSaleByAssetTypeAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LongLivedAssetsHeldForSaleNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongLivedAssetsHeldForSaleNameDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LongLivedAssetsHeldForSaleNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongLivedAssetsHeldForSaleNameDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongLivedAssetsHeldForSaleByAssetTypeAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongLivedAssetsHeldForSaleNameDomain" xlink:to="lad_InventoryMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongLivedAssetsHeldForSaleByAssetTypeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongLivedAssetsHeldForSaleNameDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongLivedAssetsHeldForSaleNameDomain" xlink:to="lad_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentHeldForSaleMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongLivedAssetsHeldForSaleNameDomain" xlink:to="lad_IntangibleAssetsMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongLivedAssetsHeldForSaleByAssetTypeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongLivedAssetsHeldForSaleNameDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_AssetsOfDisposalGroupIncludingDiscontinuedOperationCurrent" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LiabilitiesOfDisposalGroupIncludingDiscontinuedOperation" xlink:type="arc"/>
</link:definitionLink>
<link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-15-financial-information-of-discontinued-operations-details" xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#statement-note-15-financial-information-of-discontinued-operations-details" xlink:type="simple"/>
<link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-15-financial-information-of-discontinued-operations-details" xlink:type="extended">
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_FloorPlanInterestExpense" xlink:label="lad_FloorPlanInterestExpense" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_GoodwillAndIndefiniteLivedFranchiseValueDisposedOfRelatedToSaleOfBusinessUnit" xlink:label="lad_GoodwillAndIndefiniteLivedFranchiseValueDisposedOfRelatedToSaleOfBusinessUnit" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DiscontinuedOperationGainLossFromDisposalOfDiscontinuedOperationBeforeIncomeTax" xlink:label="us-gaap_DiscontinuedOperationGainLossFromDisposalOfDiscontinuedOperationBeforeIncomeTax" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DiscontinuedOperationIncomeLossFromDiscontinuedOperationBeforeIncomeTax" xlink:label="us-gaap_DiscontinuedOperationIncomeLossFromDiscontinuedOperationBeforeIncomeTax" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DiscontinuedOperationIncomeLossFromDiscontinuedOperationDuringPhaseOutPeriodBeforeIncomeTax" xlink:label="us-gaap_DiscontinuedOperationIncomeLossFromDiscontinuedOperationDuringPhaseOutPeriodBeforeIncomeTax" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DiscontinuedOperationTaxEffectOfDiscontinuedOperation" xlink:label="us-gaap_DiscontinuedOperationTaxEffectOfDiscontinuedOperation" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisposalGroupIncludingDiscontinuedOperationRevenue" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisposalGroupIncludingDiscontinuedOperationRevenue" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeLossFromDiscontinuedOperationsNetOfTax" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromDiscontinuedOperationsNetOfTax" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_InterestExpense" xlink:label="us-gaap_InterestExpense" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_InterestExpenseDebt" xlink:label="us-gaap_InterestExpenseDebt" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SegmentDiscontinuedOperationsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_SegmentDiscontinuedOperationsMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SegmentOperatingActivitiesDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_SegmentOperatingActivitiesDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SegmentOperatingActivitiesDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_SegmentOperatingActivitiesDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementOperatingActivitiesSegmentAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementOperatingActivitiesSegmentAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementOperatingActivitiesSegmentAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentOperatingActivitiesDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_SegmentDiscontinuedOperationsMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementOperatingActivitiesSegmentAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_SegmentOperatingActivitiesDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementOperatingActivitiesSegmentAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_SegmentOperatingActivitiesDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="lad_FloorPlanInterestExpense" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_InterestExpenseDebt" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_InterestExpense" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="4" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisposalGroupIncludingDiscontinuedOperationRevenue" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="5" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DiscontinuedOperationIncomeLossFromDiscontinuedOperationDuringPhaseOutPeriodBeforeIncomeTax" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="6" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DiscontinuedOperationGainLossFromDisposalOfDiscontinuedOperationBeforeIncomeTax" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="7" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DiscontinuedOperationIncomeLossFromDiscontinuedOperationBeforeIncomeTax" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="8" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DiscontinuedOperationTaxEffectOfDiscontinuedOperation" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="9" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromDiscontinuedOperationsNetOfTax" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="10" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="lad_GoodwillAndIndefiniteLivedFranchiseValueDisposedOfRelatedToSaleOfBusinessUnit" xlink:type="arc"/>
</link:definitionLink>
<link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-consolidated-statements-of-operations" xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#statement-consolidated-statements-of-operations" xlink:type="simple"/>
<link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-consolidated-statements-of-operations" xlink:type="extended">
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_FinanceAndInsuranceMember" xlink:label="lad_FinanceAndInsuranceMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_FleetAndOtherMember" xlink:label="lad_FleetAndOtherMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_FloorPlanInterestExpense" xlink:label="lad_FloorPlanInterestExpense" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_NewVehicleMember" xlink:label="lad_NewVehicleMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_ServiceBodyAndPartsMember" xlink:label="lad_ServiceBodyAndPartsMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_UsedRetailVehicleMember" xlink:label="lad_UsedRetailVehicleMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_UsedWholesaleVehicleMember" xlink:label="lad_UsedWholesaleVehicleMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AssetImpairmentCharges" xlink:label="us-gaap_AssetImpairmentCharges" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CostOfRevenue" xlink:label="us-gaap_CostOfRevenue" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CostOfRevenueAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_CostOfRevenueAbstract" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DepreciationAndAmortization" xlink:label="us-gaap_DepreciationAndAmortization" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasic" xlink:label="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasic" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EarningsPerShareDiluted" xlink:label="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareDiluted" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_GrossProfit" xlink:label="us-gaap_GrossProfit" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperations" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperations" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsBeforeIncomeTaxesExtraordinaryItemsNoncontrollingInterest" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsBeforeIncomeTaxesExtraordinaryItemsNoncontrollingInterest" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsPerBasicShare" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsPerBasicShare" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsPerDilutedShare" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsPerDilutedShare" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeLossFromDiscontinuedOperationsNetOfTax" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromDiscontinuedOperationsNetOfTax" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeLossFromDiscontinuedOperationsNetOfTaxPerBasicShare" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromDiscontinuedOperationsNetOfTaxPerBasicShare" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeLossFromDiscontinuedOperationsNetOfTaxPerDilutedShare" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromDiscontinuedOperationsNetOfTaxPerDilutedShare" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeTaxExpenseBenefit" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeTaxExpenseBenefit" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_InterestExpenseDebt" xlink:label="us-gaap_InterestExpenseDebt" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OtherNonoperatingIncomeExpense" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherNonoperatingIncomeExpense" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ProductOrServiceAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProductOrServiceAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProductsAndServicesDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_Revenues" xlink:label="us-gaap_Revenues" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RevenuesAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_RevenuesAbstract" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SellingGeneralAndAdministrativeExpense" xlink:label="us-gaap_SellingGeneralAndAdministrativeExpense" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfDilutedSharesOutstanding" xlink:label="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfDilutedSharesOutstanding" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfSharesOutstandingBasic" xlink:label="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfSharesOutstandingBasic" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProductOrServiceAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:to="lad_NewVehicleMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_ProductOrServiceAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProductsAndServicesDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:to="lad_UsedRetailVehicleMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:to="lad_UsedWholesaleVehicleMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:to="lad_FinanceAndInsuranceMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="4" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:to="lad_ServiceBodyAndPartsMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="5" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:to="lad_FleetAndOtherMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_ProductOrServiceAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProductsAndServicesDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_RevenuesAbstract" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_RevenuesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_Revenues" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_CostOfRevenueAbstract" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_CostOfRevenueAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_CostOfRevenue" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_CostOfRevenueAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_GrossProfit" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_CostOfRevenueAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_AssetImpairmentCharges" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_CostOfRevenueAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_SellingGeneralAndAdministrativeExpense" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="4" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_CostOfRevenueAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_DepreciationAndAmortization" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="5" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_CostOfRevenueAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="6" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_CostOfRevenueAbstract" xlink:to="lad_FloorPlanInterestExpense" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="7" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_CostOfRevenueAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_InterestExpenseDebt" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="8" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_CostOfRevenueAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherNonoperatingIncomeExpense" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="9" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_CostOfRevenueAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsBeforeIncomeTaxesExtraordinaryItemsNoncontrollingInterest" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="10" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_CostOfRevenueAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeTaxExpenseBenefit" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="11" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_CostOfRevenueAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperations" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="12" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_CostOfRevenueAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromDiscontinuedOperationsNetOfTax" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="13" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_CostOfRevenueAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="14" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_CostOfRevenueAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsPerBasicShare" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="15" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_CostOfRevenueAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromDiscontinuedOperationsNetOfTaxPerBasicShare" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="16" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_CostOfRevenueAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasic" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="17" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_CostOfRevenueAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfSharesOutstandingBasic" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="18" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_CostOfRevenueAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsPerDilutedShare" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="19" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_CostOfRevenueAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromDiscontinuedOperationsNetOfTaxPerDilutedShare" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="20" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_CostOfRevenueAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareDiluted" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="21" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_CostOfRevenueAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfDilutedSharesOutstanding" xlink:type="arc"/>
</link:definitionLink>
<link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-consolidated-statements-of-cash-flows" xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#statement-consolidated-statements-of-cash-flows" xlink:type="simple"/>
<link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-consolidated-statements-of-cash-flows" xlink:type="extended">
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_BusinessCombinationConsiderationTransferredNoteReceivableForgiven" xlink:label="lad_BusinessCombinationConsiderationTransferredNoteReceivableForgiven" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_IncreaseDecreaseInVehicleFloorPlanPayableNonTradeNet" xlink:label="lad_IncreaseDecreaseInVehicleFloorPlanPayableNonTradeNet" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_IncreaseDecreaseInVehicleFloorPlanPayableTradeNet" xlink:label="lad_IncreaseDecreaseInVehicleFloorPlanPayableTradeNet" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_OtherPaymentsMember" xlink:label="lad_OtherPaymentsMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_ScheduledPaymentsMember" xlink:label="lad_ScheduledPaymentsMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AssetImpairmentCharges" xlink:label="us-gaap_AssetImpairmentCharges" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsAtCarryingValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsAtCarryingValue" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsPeriodIncreaseDecrease" xlink:label="us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsPeriodIncreaseDecrease" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CashFlowNoncashInvestingAndFinancingActivitiesDisclosureAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_CashFlowNoncashInvestingAndFinancingActivitiesDisclosureAbstract" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CommonClassAMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonClassAMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DeferredIncomeTaxExpenseBenefit" xlink:label="us-gaap_DeferredIncomeTaxExpenseBenefit" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DepreciationDepletionAndAmortization" xlink:label="us-gaap_DepreciationDepletionAndAmortization" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ExcessTaxBenefitFromShareBasedCompensationFinancingActivities" xlink:label="us-gaap_ExcessTaxBenefitFromShareBasedCompensationFinancingActivities" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ExcessTaxBenefitFromShareBasedCompensationOperatingActivities" xlink:label="us-gaap_ExcessTaxBenefitFromShareBasedCompensationOperatingActivities" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_GainLossOnSaleOfBusiness" xlink:label="us-gaap_GainLossOnSaleOfBusiness" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_GainLossOnSaleOfPropertyPlantEquipment" xlink:label="us-gaap_GainLossOnSaleOfPropertyPlantEquipment" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeTaxesPaid" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeTaxesPaid" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInAccountsAndOtherReceivables" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInAccountsAndOtherReceivables" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInAccountsPayable" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInAccountsPayable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInAccruedLiabilities" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInAccruedLiabilities" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInInventories" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInInventories" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOperatingAssetsAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOperatingAssetsAbstract" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOtherNoncurrentAssets" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOtherNoncurrentAssets" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOtherOperatingAssetsAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOtherOperatingAssetsAbstract" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOtherOperatingLiabilities" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOtherOperatingLiabilities" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_InterestPaid" xlink:label="us-gaap_InterestPaid" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivities" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivities" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivities" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivities" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivities" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivities" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NoncashOrPartNoncashAcquisitionDebtAssumed1" xlink:label="us-gaap_NoncashOrPartNoncashAcquisitionDebtAssumed1" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NotesIssued1" xlink:label="us-gaap_NotesIssued1" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NotesReduction" xlink:label="us-gaap_NotesReduction" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PaymentsForRepurchaseOfCommonStock" xlink:label="us-gaap_PaymentsForRepurchaseOfCommonStock" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PaymentsOfDividends" xlink:label="us-gaap_PaymentsOfDividends" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquireBusinessesNetOfCashAcquired" xlink:label="us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquireBusinessesNetOfCashAcquired" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquireOtherInvestments" xlink:label="us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquireOtherInvestments" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquirePropertyPlantAndEquipment" xlink:label="us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquirePropertyPlantAndEquipment" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ProceedsFromCollectionOfNotesReceivable" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProceedsFromCollectionOfNotesReceivable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ProceedsFromDivestitureOfBusinessesNetOfCashDivested" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProceedsFromDivestitureOfBusinessesNetOfCashDivested" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ProceedsFromIssuanceOfCommonStock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProceedsFromIssuanceOfCommonStock" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ProceedsFromIssuanceOfLongTermDebt" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProceedsFromIssuanceOfLongTermDebt" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ProceedsFromLinesOfCredit" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProceedsFromLinesOfCredit" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ProceedsFromSaleOfPropertyPlantAndEquipment" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProceedsFromSaleOfPropertyPlantAndEquipment" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RepaymentsOfLinesOfCredit" xlink:label="us-gaap_RepaymentsOfLinesOfCredit" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RepaymentsOfLongTermDebt" xlink:label="us-gaap_RepaymentsOfLongTermDebt" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SegmentContinuingOperationsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_SegmentContinuingOperationsMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SegmentOperatingActivitiesDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_SegmentOperatingActivitiesDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SegmentOperatingActivitiesDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_SegmentOperatingActivitiesDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensation" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensation" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementOperatingActivitiesSegmentAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementOperatingActivitiesSegmentAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueAcquisitions" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueAcquisitions" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SupplementalCashFlowInformationAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_SupplementalCashFlowInformationAbstract" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementOperatingActivitiesSegmentAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentOperatingActivitiesDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_SegmentContinuingOperationsMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementOperatingActivitiesSegmentAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_SegmentOperatingActivitiesDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain" xlink:to="lad_ScheduledPaymentsMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain" xlink:to="lad_OtherPaymentsMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonClassAMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementOperatingActivitiesSegmentAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_SegmentOperatingActivitiesDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongtermDebtTypeDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_AssetImpairmentCharges" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_DepreciationDepletionAndAmortization" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensation" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_GainLossOnSaleOfPropertyPlantEquipment" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="4" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_GainLossOnSaleOfBusiness" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="5" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_DeferredIncomeTaxExpenseBenefit" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="6" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_ExcessTaxBenefitFromShareBasedCompensationOperatingActivities" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOperatingAssetsAbstract" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOperatingAssetsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInAccountsAndOtherReceivables" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOperatingAssetsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInInventories" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOperatingAssetsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOtherNoncurrentAssets" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="4" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOtherOperatingAssetsAbstract" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOtherOperatingAssetsAbstract" xlink:to="lad_IncreaseDecreaseInVehicleFloorPlanPayableTradeNet" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOtherOperatingAssetsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInAccountsPayable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOtherOperatingAssetsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInAccruedLiabilities" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOtherOperatingAssetsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOtherOperatingLiabilities" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="4" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOtherOperatingAssetsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivities" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="5" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProceedsFromCollectionOfNotesReceivable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquirePropertyPlantAndEquipment" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProceedsFromSaleOfPropertyPlantAndEquipment" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquireOtherInvestments" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="4" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquireBusinessesNetOfCashAcquired" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="5" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProceedsFromDivestitureOfBusinessesNetOfCashDivested" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="6" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivities" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="6" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="lad_IncreaseDecreaseInVehicleFloorPlanPayableNonTradeNet" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProceedsFromLinesOfCredit" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_RepaymentsOfLinesOfCredit" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_RepaymentsOfLongTermDebt" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="4" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProceedsFromIssuanceOfLongTermDebt" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="5" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProceedsFromIssuanceOfCommonStock" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="6" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_PaymentsForRepurchaseOfCommonStock" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="7" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_ExcessTaxBenefitFromShareBasedCompensationFinancingActivities" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="8" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_PaymentsOfDividends" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="9" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivities" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="10" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsPeriodIncreaseDecrease" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="11" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsAtCarryingValue" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="7" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_SupplementalCashFlowInformationAbstract" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_SupplementalCashFlowInformationAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_InterestPaid" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_SupplementalCashFlowInformationAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeTaxesPaid" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="8" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_CashFlowNoncashInvestingAndFinancingActivitiesDisclosureAbstract" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_CashFlowNoncashInvestingAndFinancingActivitiesDisclosureAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_NotesIssued1" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_CashFlowNoncashInvestingAndFinancingActivitiesDisclosureAbstract" xlink:to="lad_BusinessCombinationConsiderationTransferredNoteReceivableForgiven" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_CashFlowNoncashInvestingAndFinancingActivitiesDisclosureAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_NoncashOrPartNoncashAcquisitionDebtAssumed1" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_CashFlowNoncashInvestingAndFinancingActivitiesDisclosureAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_NotesReduction" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="4" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_CashFlowNoncashInvestingAndFinancingActivitiesDisclosureAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueAcquisitions" xlink:type="arc"/>
</link:definitionLink>
<link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-consolidated-statements-of-comprehensive-income" xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#statement-consolidated-statements-of-comprehensive-income" xlink:type="simple"/>
<link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-consolidated-statements-of-comprehensive-income" xlink:type="extended">
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ComprehensiveIncomeNetOfTax" xlink:label="us-gaap_ComprehensiveIncomeNetOfTax" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossNetOfTaxAttributableToParentAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossNetOfTaxAttributableToParentAbstract" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeUnrealizedGainLossOnDerivativesArisingDuringPeriodNetOfTax" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeUnrealizedGainLossOnDerivativesArisingDuringPeriodNetOfTax" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossNetOfTaxAttributableToParentAbstract" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossNetOfTaxAttributableToParentAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeUnrealizedGainLossOnDerivativesArisingDuringPeriodNetOfTax" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossNetOfTaxAttributableToParentAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_ComprehensiveIncomeNetOfTax" xlink:type="arc"/>
</link:definitionLink>
<link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-8-dividends-paid-details" xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#statement-note-8-dividends-paid-details" xlink:type="simple"/>
<link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-8-dividends-paid-details" xlink:type="extended">
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CommonStockDividendsPerShareCashPaid" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonStockDividendsPerShareCashPaid" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DividendsCommonStock" xlink:label="us-gaap_DividendsCommonStock" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonStockDividendsPerShareCashPaid" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DividendsCommonStock" xlink:type="arc"/>
</link:definitionLink>
<link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-12-assets-and-liabilities-measured-at-fair-value-details" xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#statement-note-12-assets-and-liabilities-measured-at-fair-value-details" xlink:type="simple"/>
<link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-12-assets-and-liabilities-measured-at-fair-value-details" xlink:type="extended">
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DerivativeLiabilities" xlink:label="us-gaap_DerivativeLiabilities" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EquityMethodInvestmentsFairValueDisclosure" xlink:label="us-gaap_EquityMethodInvestmentsFairValueDisclosure" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueByFairValueHierarchyLevelAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueByFairValueHierarchyLevelAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueByMeasurementFrequencyAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueByMeasurementFrequencyAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel1Member" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel1Member" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel2Member" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel2Member" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel3Member" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel3Member" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementFrequencyDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementFrequencyDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementFrequencyDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementFrequencyDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsFairValueHierarchyDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsFairValueHierarchyDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsFairValueHierarchyDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsFairValueHierarchyDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsNonrecurringMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsNonrecurringMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsRecurringMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsRecurringMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentFairValueDisclosure" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentFairValueDisclosure" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueByFairValueHierarchyLevelAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsFairValueHierarchyDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel1Member" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueByFairValueHierarchyLevelAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsFairValueHierarchyDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueByMeasurementFrequencyAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementFrequencyDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsRecurringMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueByMeasurementFrequencyAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementFrequencyDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsFairValueHierarchyDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel2Member" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsFairValueHierarchyDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueInputsLevel3Member" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementFrequencyDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsNonrecurringMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_BuildingAndBuildingImprovementsMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentByTypeAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentTypeDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueByFairValueHierarchyLevelAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementsFairValueHierarchyDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_FairValueByMeasurementFrequencyAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementFrequencyDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DerivativeLiabilities" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_EquityMethodInvestmentsFairValueDisclosure" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentFairValueDisclosure" xlink:type="arc"/>
</link:definitionLink>
<link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-13-income-tax-provision-benefit-from-continuing-operations-details" xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#statement-note-13-income-tax-provision-benefit-from-continuing-operations-details" xlink:type="simple"/>
<link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-13-income-tax-provision-benefit-from-continuing-operations-details" xlink:type="extended">
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CurrentFederalTaxExpenseBenefit" xlink:label="us-gaap_CurrentFederalTaxExpenseBenefit" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CurrentIncomeTaxExpenseBenefit" xlink:label="us-gaap_CurrentIncomeTaxExpenseBenefit" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CurrentStateAndLocalTaxExpenseBenefit" xlink:label="us-gaap_CurrentStateAndLocalTaxExpenseBenefit" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DeferredFederalIncomeTaxExpenseBenefit" xlink:label="us-gaap_DeferredFederalIncomeTaxExpenseBenefit" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DeferredIncomeTaxExpenseBenefit" xlink:label="us-gaap_DeferredIncomeTaxExpenseBenefit" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DeferredStateAndLocalIncomeTaxExpenseBenefit" xlink:label="us-gaap_DeferredStateAndLocalIncomeTaxExpenseBenefit" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeTaxExpenseBenefit" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeTaxExpenseBenefit" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SegmentContinuingOperationsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_SegmentContinuingOperationsMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SegmentOperatingActivitiesDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_SegmentOperatingActivitiesDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SegmentOperatingActivitiesDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_SegmentOperatingActivitiesDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementOperatingActivitiesSegmentAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementOperatingActivitiesSegmentAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementOperatingActivitiesSegmentAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_SegmentOperatingActivitiesDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_SegmentContinuingOperationsMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementOperatingActivitiesSegmentAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_SegmentOperatingActivitiesDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementOperatingActivitiesSegmentAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_SegmentOperatingActivitiesDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_CurrentFederalTaxExpenseBenefit" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_CurrentStateAndLocalTaxExpenseBenefit" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_CurrentIncomeTaxExpenseBenefit" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="4" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DeferredFederalIncomeTaxExpenseBenefit" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="5" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DeferredStateAndLocalIncomeTaxExpenseBenefit" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="6" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DeferredIncomeTaxExpenseBenefit" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="7" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeTaxExpenseBenefit" xlink:type="arc"/>
</link:definitionLink>
<link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-18-equitymethod-investment-recorded-in-consolidated-balance-sheets-details" xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#statement-note-18-equitymethod-investment-recorded-in-consolidated-balance-sheets-details" xlink:type="simple"/>
<link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-18-equitymethod-investment-recorded-in-consolidated-balance-sheets-details" xlink:type="extended">
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_AccruedLiabilitiesAndOtherLongTermLiabilitiesMember" xlink:label="lad_AccruedLiabilitiesAndOtherLongTermLiabilitiesMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_EquityMethodInvestmentEquityContributionObligation" xlink:label="lad_EquityMethodInvestmentEquityContributionObligation" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EquityMethodInvestments" xlink:label="us-gaap_EquityMethodInvestments" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OtherNoncurrentAssetsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherNoncurrentAssetsMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherNoncurrentAssetsMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationDomain" xlink:to="lad_AccruedLiabilitiesAndOtherLongTermLiabilitiesMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_EquityMethodInvestments" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="lad_EquityMethodInvestmentEquityContributionObligation" xlink:type="arc"/>
</link:definitionLink>
<link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-18-equitymethod-investment-recorded-in-consolidated-statements-of-operations-details" xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#statement-note-18-equitymethod-investment-recorded-in-consolidated-statements-of-operations-details" xlink:type="simple"/>
<link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-18-equitymethod-investment-recorded-in-consolidated-statements-of-operations-details" xlink:type="extended">
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_EquityMethodInvestmentsAmortizationOfDiscountedFairValueOfFutureEquityContributions" xlink:label="lad_EquityMethodInvestmentsAmortizationOfDiscountedFairValueOfFutureEquityContributions" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_NMTCProgramMember" xlink:label="lad_NMTCProgramMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DeferredIncomeTaxesAndTaxCredits" xlink:label="us-gaap_DeferredIncomeTaxesAndTaxCredits" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EquityMethodInvesteeNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_EquityMethodInvesteeNameDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EquityMethodInvesteeNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_EquityMethodInvesteeNameDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EquityMethodInvestmentOtherThanTemporaryImpairment" xlink:label="us-gaap_EquityMethodInvestmentOtherThanTemporaryImpairment" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeLossFromEquityMethodInvestments" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromEquityMethodInvestments" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfEquityMethodInvestmentEquityMethodInvesteeNameAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfEquityMethodInvestmentEquityMethodInvesteeNameAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfEquityMethodInvestmentEquityMethodInvesteeNameAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_EquityMethodInvesteeNameDomain" xlink:to="lad_NMTCProgramMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfEquityMethodInvestmentEquityMethodInvesteeNameAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_EquityMethodInvesteeNameDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScheduleOfEquityMethodInvestmentEquityMethodInvesteeNameAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_EquityMethodInvesteeNameDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_EquityMethodInvestmentOtherThanTemporaryImpairment" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromEquityMethodInvestments" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="lad_EquityMethodInvestmentsAmortizationOfDiscountedFairValueOfFutureEquityContributions" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="4" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DeferredIncomeTaxesAndTaxCredits" xlink:type="arc"/>
</link:definitionLink>
<link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-consolidated-balance-sheets" xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#statement-consolidated-balance-sheets" xlink:type="simple"/>
<link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-consolidated-balance-sheets" xlink:type="extended">
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_FloorPlanNotesPayable" xlink:label="lad_FloorPlanNotesPayable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_FloorPlanNotesPayableNonTrade" xlink:label="lad_FloorPlanNotesPayableNonTrade" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AccountsPayableCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccountsPayableCurrent" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AccountsReceivableNetCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccountsReceivableNetCurrent" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AccruedLiabilitiesCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccruedLiabilitiesCurrent" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLossNetOfTax" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLossNetOfTax" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalCommonStock" xlink:label="us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalCommonStock" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_Assets" xlink:label="us-gaap_Assets" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AssetsCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_AssetsCurrent" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AssetsCurrentAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_AssetsCurrentAbstract" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AssetsOfDisposalGroupIncludingDiscontinuedOperationCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_AssetsOfDisposalGroupIncludingDiscontinuedOperationCurrent" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsAtCarryingValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsAtCarryingValue" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CommonClassAMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonClassAMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CommonClassBMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonClassBMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CommonStockValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonStockValue" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DeferredRevenueNoncurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_DeferredRevenueNoncurrent" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DeferredTaxLiabilitiesCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_DeferredTaxLiabilitiesCurrent" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DeferredTaxLiabilitiesNoncurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_DeferredTaxLiabilitiesNoncurrent" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_Goodwill" xlink:label="us-gaap_Goodwill" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IndefiniteLivedFranchiseRights" xlink:label="us-gaap_IndefiniteLivedFranchiseRights" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_InventoryNet" xlink:label="us-gaap_InventoryNet" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_Liabilities" xlink:label="us-gaap_Liabilities" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquity" xlink:label="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquity" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrent" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrentAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrentAbstract" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LiabilitiesOfDisposalGroupIncludingDiscontinuedOperationCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_LiabilitiesOfDisposalGroupIncludingDiscontinuedOperationCurrent" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LongTermDebtAndCapitalLeaseObligations" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongTermDebtAndCapitalLeaseObligations" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LongTermDebtAndCapitalLeaseObligationsCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongTermDebtAndCapitalLeaseObligationsCurrent" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OtherAssetsCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherAssetsCurrent" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OtherAssetsNoncurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherAssetsNoncurrent" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OtherLiabilitiesNoncurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherLiabilitiesNoncurrent" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PreferredStockValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_PreferredStockValue" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentNet" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentNet" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RetainedEarningsAccumulatedDeficit" xlink:label="us-gaap_RetainedEarningsAccumulatedDeficit" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StockholdersEquity" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockholdersEquity" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StockholdersEquityAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityAbstract" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonClassAMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonClassBMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_AssetsCurrentAbstract" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsCurrentAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsAtCarryingValue" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsCurrentAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_AccountsReceivableNetCurrent" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsCurrentAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_InventoryNet" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsCurrentAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherAssetsCurrent" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="4" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsCurrentAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_AssetsOfDisposalGroupIncludingDiscontinuedOperationCurrent" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="5" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsCurrentAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_AssetsCurrent" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="6" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsCurrentAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentNet" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="7" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsCurrentAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_Goodwill" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="8" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsCurrentAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_IndefiniteLivedFranchiseRights" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="9" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsCurrentAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherAssetsNoncurrent" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="10" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsCurrentAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_Assets" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrentAbstract" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrentAbstract" xlink:to="lad_FloorPlanNotesPayable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrentAbstract" xlink:to="lad_FloorPlanNotesPayableNonTrade" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrentAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongTermDebtAndCapitalLeaseObligationsCurrent" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrentAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_AccountsPayableCurrent" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="4" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrentAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_AccruedLiabilitiesCurrent" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="5" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrentAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_DeferredTaxLiabilitiesCurrent" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="6" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrentAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_LiabilitiesOfDisposalGroupIncludingDiscontinuedOperationCurrent" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="7" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrentAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrent" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="8" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrentAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongTermDebtAndCapitalLeaseObligations" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="9" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrentAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_DeferredRevenueNoncurrent" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="10" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrentAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_DeferredTaxLiabilitiesNoncurrent" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="11" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrentAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherLiabilitiesNoncurrent" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="12" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrentAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_Liabilities" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityAbstract" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_PreferredStockValue" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonStockValue" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalCommonStock" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLossNetOfTax" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="4" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_RetainedEarningsAccumulatedDeficit" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="5" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockholdersEquity" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="6" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquity" xlink:type="arc"/>
</link:definitionLink>
<link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-consolidated-statements-of-changes-in-stockholders-equity" xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#statement-consolidated-statements-of-changes-in-stockholders-equity" xlink:type="simple"/>
<link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-consolidated-statements-of-changes-in-stockholders-equity" xlink:type="extended">
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CommonClassAMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonClassAMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CommonClassBMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonClassBMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CommonStockMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonStockMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_Dividends" xlink:label="us-gaap_Dividends" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeUnrealizedGainLossOnDerivativesArisingDuringPeriodNetOfTax" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeUnrealizedGainLossOnDerivativesArisingDuringPeriodNetOfTax" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RetainedEarningsMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_RetainedEarningsMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SharesOutstanding" xlink:label="us-gaap_SharesOutstanding" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesAcquisitions" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesAcquisitions" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesConversionOfConvertibleSecurities" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesConversionOfConvertibleSecurities" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesRestrictedStockAwardGross" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesRestrictedStockAwardGross" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesShareBasedCompensation" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesShareBasedCompensation" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueAcquisitions" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueAcquisitions" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueConversionOfConvertibleSecurities" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueConversionOfConvertibleSecurities" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueEmployeeStockPurchasePlan" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueEmployeeStockPurchasePlan" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueShareBasedCompensation" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueShareBasedCompensation" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StockRepurchasedDuringPeriodShares" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockRepurchasedDuringPeriodShares" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StockRepurchasedDuringPeriodValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockRepurchasedDuringPeriodValue" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StockholdersEquity" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockholdersEquity" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonStockMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonClassAMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonClassBMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapitalMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_RetainedEarningsMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementEquityComponentsAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_EquityComponentDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_SharesOutstanding" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockholdersEquity" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="4" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeUnrealizedGainLossOnDerivativesArisingDuringPeriodNetOfTax" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="5" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesShareBasedCompensation" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="6" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueEmployeeStockPurchasePlan" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="7" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesRestrictedStockAwardGross" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="8" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockRepurchasedDuringPeriodShares" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="9" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockRepurchasedDuringPeriodValue" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="10" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesConversionOfConvertibleSecurities" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="11" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueConversionOfConvertibleSecurities" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="12" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueShareBasedCompensation" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="13" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_Dividends" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="14" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodSharesAcquisitions" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="15" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockIssuedDuringPeriodValueAcquisitions" xlink:type="arc"/>
</link:definitionLink>
<link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-11-effect-of-derivative-instruments-on-consolidated-statements-of-operations-details" xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#statement-note-11-effect-of-derivative-instruments-on-consolidated-statements-of-operations-details" xlink:type="simple"/>
<link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-11-effect-of-derivative-instruments-on-consolidated-statements-of-operations-details" xlink:type="extended">
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_FloorPlanInterestExpenseMember" xlink:label="lad_FloorPlanInterestExpenseMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossReclassifiedFromAccumulatedOCIIntoIncomeEffectivePortionNet" xlink:label="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossReclassifiedFromAccumulatedOCIIntoIncomeEffectivePortionNet" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossRecognizedInIncomeIneffectivePortionAndAmountExcludedFromEffectivenessTestingNet" xlink:label="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossRecognizedInIncomeIneffectivePortionAndAmountExcludedFromEffectivenessTestingNet" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossRecognizedInOtherComprehensiveIncomeEffectivePortionNet" xlink:label="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossRecognizedInOtherComprehensiveIncomeEffectivePortionNet" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain" xlink:to="lad_FloorPlanInterestExpenseMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossRecognizedInOtherComprehensiveIncomeEffectivePortionNet" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossReclassifiedFromAccumulatedOCIIntoIncomeEffectivePortionNet" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossRecognizedInIncomeIneffectivePortionAndAmountExcludedFromEffectivenessTestingNet" xlink:type="arc"/>
</link:definitionLink>
<link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-17-earnings-per-share-reconciliation-details" xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#statement-note-17-earnings-per-share-reconciliation-details" xlink:type="simple"/>
<link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-17-earnings-per-share-reconciliation-details" xlink:type="extended">
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_DilutedMember" xlink:label="lad_DilutedMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_DistributedMember" xlink:label="lad_DistributedMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#lad_UndistributedMember" xlink:label="lad_UndistributedMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AmountOfDilutiveSecuritiesStockOptionsAndRestrictiveStockUnits" xlink:label="us-gaap_AmountOfDilutiveSecuritiesStockOptionsAndRestrictiveStockUnits" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareAmount" xlink:label="us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareAmount" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareByAntidilutiveSecuritiesAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareByAntidilutiveSecuritiesAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesNameDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesNameDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesNameDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CommonClassAMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonClassAMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CommonClassBMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonClassBMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DilutiveSecuritiesEffectOnBasicEarningsPerShareOther" xlink:label="us-gaap_DilutiveSecuritiesEffectOnBasicEarningsPerShareOther" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DistributedEarnings" xlink:label="us-gaap_DistributedEarnings" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasicDistributed" xlink:label="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasicDistributed" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasicUndistributed" xlink:label="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasicUndistributed" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EarningsPerShareDilutedDistributed" xlink:label="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareDilutedDistributed" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EarningsPerShareDilutedUndistributed" xlink:label="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareDilutedUndistributed" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EmployeeStockOptionMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_EmployeeStockOptionMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperations" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperations" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsPerBasicShare" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsPerBasicShare" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncrementalCommonSharesAttributableToContingentlyIssuableShares" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncrementalCommonSharesAttributableToContingentlyIssuableShares" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncrementalCommonSharesAttributableToShareBasedPaymentArrangements" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncrementalCommonSharesAttributableToShareBasedPaymentArrangements" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NetIncomeLossAvailableToCommonStockholdersDiluted" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetIncomeLossAvailableToCommonStockholdersDiluted" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_UndistributedEarnings" xlink:label="us-gaap_UndistributedEarnings" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_UndistributedEarningsDiluted" xlink:label="us-gaap_UndistributedEarningsDiluted" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfDilutedSharesOutstanding" xlink:label="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfDilutedSharesOutstanding" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfSharesOutstandingBasic" xlink:label="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfSharesOutstandingBasic" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonClassAMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonClassBMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:to="lad_DistributedMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:to="lad_DilutedMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareByAntidilutiveSecuritiesAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesNameDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_EmployeeStockOptionMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareByAntidilutiveSecuritiesAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesNameDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:to="lad_UndistributedMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementClassOfStockAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ClassOfStockDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareByAntidilutiveSecuritiesAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesNameDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperations" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DistributedEarnings" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="3" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_UndistributedEarnings" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="4" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfSharesOutstandingBasic" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="5" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsPerBasicShare" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="6" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasicDistributed" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="7" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasicUndistributed" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="8" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_AmountOfDilutiveSecuritiesStockOptionsAndRestrictiveStockUnits" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="9" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DilutiveSecuritiesEffectOnBasicEarningsPerShareOther" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="10" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_UndistributedEarningsDiluted" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="11" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncrementalCommonSharesAttributableToShareBasedPaymentArrangements" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="12" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncrementalCommonSharesAttributableToContingentlyIssuableShares" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="13" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfDilutedSharesOutstanding" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="14" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetIncomeLossAvailableToCommonStockholdersDiluted" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="15" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareDilutedDistributed" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="16" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareDilutedUndistributed" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="17" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_AntidilutiveSecuritiesExcludedFromComputationOfEarningsPerShareAmount" xlink:type="arc"/>
</link:definitionLink>
<link:roleRef roleURI="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-11-fair-value-of-derivative-instruments-in-consolidated-balance-sheets-details" xlink:href="lad-20151231.xsd#statement-note-11-fair-value-of-derivative-instruments-in-consolidated-balance-sheets-details" xlink:type="simple"/>
<link:definitionLink xlink:role="http://www.lithia.com/20151231/role/statement-note-11-fair-value-of-derivative-instruments-in-consolidated-balance-sheets-details" xlink:type="extended">
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AccountsPayableAndAccruedLiabilitiesMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccountsPayableAndAccruedLiabilitiesMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DesignatedAsHedgingInstrumentMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_DesignatedAsHedgingInstrumentMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_HedgingDesignationAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_HedgingDesignationAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_HedgingDesignationDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_HedgingDesignationDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_HedgingDesignationDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_HedgingDesignationDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_InterestRateDerivativeLiabilitiesAtFairValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_InterestRateDerivativeLiabilitiesAtFairValue" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OtherNoncurrentLiabilitiesMember" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherNoncurrentLiabilitiesMember" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:loc xlink:href="http://xbrl.fasb.org/us-gaap/2015/elts/us-gaap-2015-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="locator"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_AccountsPayableAndAccruedLiabilitiesMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_HedgingDesignationAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_HedgingDesignationDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_DesignatedAsHedgingInstrumentMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_HedgingDesignationAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_HedgingDesignationDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationDomain" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherNoncurrentLiabilitiesMember" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="2" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain-default" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementScenarioAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScenarioUnspecifiedDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_HedgingDesignationAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_HedgingDesignationDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationAxis" xlink:to="us-gaap_BalanceSheetLocationDomain" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="0" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:type="arc"/>
<link:definitionArc order="1" xbrldt:closed="true" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_InterestRateDerivativeLiabilitiesAtFairValue" xlink:type="arc"/>
</link:definitionLink>
</link:linkbase>

Top
Filing Submission 0001437749-16-026190   –   Alternative Formats (Word / Rich Text, HTML, Plain Text, et al.)

Copyright © 2024 Fran Finnegan & Company LLC – All Rights Reserved.
AboutPrivacyRedactionsHelp — Mon., Apr. 29, 12:51:14.2am ET