Lexus unleashes luxury people mover
July 24, 2023
The all-new Lexus LM is now on sale to UK customers, introducing a new vehicle concept to the prestige car market.
The LM, a new flagship model for the brand, is a “luxury mover,” a first-of-its-kind model that offers the luxury features and ultra-refined performance of a limousine in a spacious people carrier package. Prospective UK customers have been quick to signal their interest following the car’s world premiere reveal in April with reservations already into double figures, well ahead of the LM reaching showrooms.
The LM is a purpose-designed vehicle from the ground up, delivering complete comfort in a roomy interior where passenger wellbeing is prioritised in everything from the design and functionality of the seating to precise control of the on-board atmosphere and quietness that has a natural and reassuring quality.
All UK versions are powered by Lexus’s 2.5-litre self-charging hybrid electric powertrain, with the choice of front-wheel drive or all-wheel control with Lexus’s electronic E-Four system. The 247bhp system, also featured in the all-new NX 350h and RX 350h models, is well-proven for delivering quiet, refined performance with high efficiency.
The equipment specification for the seven-seat LM 350h reflects the model’s luxury flagship status. Key features include 19-inch alloy wheels, power-adjustable front and middle row seats with semi-aniline leather upholstery and Ultrasuede inserts, twin fixed sunroofs, dual-zone climate control with nanoe-X air quality system and power sunshades.
The infotainment package includes the Lexus Link Pro multimedia system, 21-speaker Mark Levinson 3D Surround Sound audio and a 14-inch monitor for the rear passengers that deploys from the ceiling. For the driver there is a heated, power-adjustable steering wheel with wood inserts Panoramic View Monitor, Intelligent Park Assist with remote parking function via the Lexus Link app and head-up display.
The Takumi version of the LM delivers an even higher level of on-board luxury, with just two multi-function rear seats and a wealth of features to make every journey supremely comfortable and enjoyable.
The power-adjustable seats can be fully reclined to horizontal and offer seven different massage programmes. Individual folding tables are housed in the outer arm rests and charging stations with USB ports and wireless charging tray are discreetly housed in the cabin’s side panels.
A partition between the front and rear houses a 48-inch widescreen monitor and a glass panel that can be dimmed for privacy. The monitor has three viewing modes: full screen, cinema and separate left and right screens showing independent content (with individual left/right headsets). Users can project content directly from their smartphone or tablet, or connect to the screen via two HDMI ports. Beneath the monitor there are individual left and right side glove boxes and a refrigerator box.
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.
Quick and intuitive adjustment of multiple cabin features and functions is provided by a controller, designed like a smartphone. This can be used to manage the audio system, climate control settings, seat functions, interior lighting and the window blinds.
The exterior paint options include Sonic White, Sonic Titanium and Sonic Agate, each using Lexus’ sonic technology to achieve a deep lustre and light and shade contrasts across the bodywork. The LM can also be specified in Graphite Black.
The interior colours and trim finishes reflect the LM’s status and Lexus’s craftsmanship. Highest-quality L-aniline leather is used for the upholstery, in Black or Ammonite Sand with contrasting piping and suede inserts on the rear seats. A new woodgrain trim is featured in a traditional Japanese herringbone pattern, created with 3D printing.
The LM is equipped with the latest Lexus Safety System+ active safety and driver assistance features, together with a Blind Spot Monitor and Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Front Cross Traffic Alert and LED headlights with the AHS adaptive high-beam system. And the Smart Exit Assist helps prevent doors being opened inadvertently into the path of traffic and cyclists approaching from the rear.
Prices for the new range are LM 350h with front-wheel drive £89,995; LM 350h with all-wheel drive £92,995 and the LM 350h Takumi all-wheel drive costs £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.