The LM MPV is aimed towards chauffeur driven buyers
- Shares underpinnings with Vellfire
- 2.5L petrol-strong hybrid
- Two variants
Lexus has commenced the bookings for it’s LM MPV which will come in the second generation guise in India. It will share its platform with the recently launched Toyota Vellfire, but is poised to be positioned higher with much more luxury and features. According to Lexus, the LM moniker stands for Luxury Mover.
Lexus LM Design
The LM follows Lexus’ latest design philosophy. Starting from the front, it gets a massive spindle grille which is a distinct element in the design language. Above it are sleek LED headlamps. Towards the side, the association with the Vellfire becomes apparent as the silhouette is very similar being based on the same Toyota GA-K platform that underpins both the MPVs. At the rear you have a connected light bar with Lexus badging on top of it
Lexus LM Interior & Features
Inside is where the LM brings it’s USP which is the luxury and features. Starting off from the dashboard, it features an upright stance with a large touchscreen taking the centre stage. The dashboard also features wooden inserts along with leather clad surfaces to give a premium look.
The rear seat however, is where buyers will spend most of the time. There is an option to choose a 4 seat or 7 seat layout which adds a third row. In the former configuration, it gets two massive ottomans along with a partition between the driver compartment. This partition also features a 48 inch ultrawide TV. Other interesting features include a 3 way independent audio output system, Rear Targetted AC adjustment which uses IR rays for temperature detection and a power sliding function with a 480mm range among much more.
Also part of the equipment is a 23 speaker surround sound system, two-part sunroof, powered sunblinds, heated seats and armrests, wireless phone chargers, fridge, rear gloveboxes.
Lexus LM Powertrain
While we don’t know which variant Lexus will bring, it will likely be the 350h which shares its powertrain with the recently-launched Vellfire. This powertrain uses a 2.5L four-cylinder petrol engine in conjunction with a self-charging strong hybrid system. Powering all four wheels, this combo makes 247HP and 239NM. At a later stage, a 500h variant could also be introduced with a 2.4L turbo-petrol strong hybrid which makes 349HP. There are no competitors to the LM besides its own sibling, the Toyota Vellfire.
Prices have not been revealed but are expected to start significantly higher than the Rs. 1.20 Cr (Ex-showroom) that the Vellfire commands. This could put it in some serious competition from flagships of European marques such as the Mercedes S-Class and BMW 7 series.
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