Lexus’s UK model line-up takes a new direction with the introduction of the all-new LM, an MPV with a focus on supreme luxury. Available to order now, and with first customer deliveries during the fourth quarter of this year, this self-charging hybrid electric “luxury mover” delivers the ultimate in Lexus omotenashi hospitality.
Its arrival – and that of the LBX “breakthrough crossover” in early 2024 – will give Lexus its strongest model range yet in the UK, spanning SUVs, saloons, sports models and people carriers.
Lexus focused on producing a vehicle with a dual personality: one which offers a perfectly relaxing living space and can be used as flexible, mobile office by those who need to work while on the move.
Two LM versions are offered, with four or seven seats. In the seven-seat model, the middle row of two VIP seats is prioritised in terms of space and accessible functions and an additional third row is provided with flip-up seats in a two-plus-one configuration which can be folded away when more load space is required. The four-seat Takumi model is the pinnacle of luxury, with just two multi-function rear seats and a wealth of features to make every journey supremely comfortable and enjoyable.
These include a partition between the front and rear cabin housing a 48-inch ultra-widescreen monitor and glass panel that can be dimmed for privacy. The bespoke Mark Levinson 3D Surround Sound audio system has a 23-speaker array, while cabin comfort is enhanced by a more sophisticated Lexus Climate Concierge that uses thermal sensors to precisely control and direct heating and ventilation.
The interior exemplifies Lexus’s brand vision of “making luxury personal”. Seats are designed for perfect support and comfort; the cabin environment is precisely controlled for temperature, air quality and lighting; and there is easy, intuitive access to multiple connectivity and entertainment options, including bespoke Mark Levinson 3D Surround Sound reference audio systems and (in the four-seat model) a 48-inch HD ultra-widescreen monitor. The luxury finish and appointments are of a quality typically matched only by extra-cost customisation options for competitor models.
Comfort is the defining quality of the LM. Every aspect of the engineering contributes to achieving a perfectly smooth, quiet and composed ride, to the extent passengers might not even notice the vehicle is in motion.
These qualities are supported by the fact Lexus has used its GA-K global passenger car platform for the model. This contrasts with rival premium models which are developed on van/light commercial vehicle underpinnings.
Building on the low centre of gravity and high body rigidity benefits of the GA-K platform, Lexus has developed a new Rear Comfort drive mode, adopted new braking and body control systems and refined suspension performance. Similarly, extensive measures have been taken to counter noise and vibration to achieve cabin quietness that has a reassuring, natural quality.
Where the driving experience is concerned, the driver enjoys a natural dialogue with car and the constant comfort, control and confidence of the Lexus Driving Signature. For the first time, the Lexus Driving Signature also takes into account the quality of the passenger experience.
Model range and pricing
Three versions of the LM are available: the seven-seat LM with front or all-wheel drive and the top specification LM Takumi with two rear seats.
Customer response to the new model has been strong, with more than 170 orders received since reservations opened in July – the majority of these for the Takumi version.
Pricing is as follows: –
| LM 350h (front-wheel drive) | £89,995 |
| LM 350h (all-wheel drive) | £92,995 |
| LM 350h Takumi (all-wheel drive) | £112,995 |
In common with every new Lexus, the LM is eligible for Lexus warranty protection for up to 10 years or 100,000 miles (whichever comes first). This comprises an initial three-year manufacturer warranty, followed by up to a further seven years of service-activated warranty.
For the first three years of the car’s life, owners can have it serviced at a place of their choice. When the new car warranty period expires, they can then benefit from an additional 12 months (or 10,000 miles) warranty when their vehicle has a qualifying service at an authorised Lexus workshop. The warranty is provided at no extra cost, up to a limit of 10 years/100,000 miles. Terms and conditions apply; full details are available at www.lexus.co.uk.
