Lexus has redefined the concept of luxury travel with the introduction of the all-new LM, a vehicle that transcends the traditional minivan to offer the opulence of a limousine with unparalleled spaciousness. This “Luxury Mover” marks a bold step for Lexus in the European market, representing a completely new vehicle type within their lineup and solidifying their commitment to catering to diverse customer needs and lifestyles.
Following the successful launches of the NX, RX, and all-electric RZ SUVs, the Lexus LM is the fourth model in the brand’s Next Chapter, showcasing innovative technologies, new platforms, and advanced powertrains. As indicated by its “L” designation, the LM stands proudly as a Lexus flagship model, alongside esteemed vehicles like the LS sedan, LC coupe and convertible, and LX SUV (in eastern European markets). This positioning underscores Lexus’ dedication to delivering exceptional luxury across its entire range, now extending into the Lexus Minivan segment.
The development of the LM, true to Lexus’ core philosophy, has been profoundly human-centered. The central focus has been the comfort and well-being of every passenger. The cabin embodies Lexus’ renowned Omotenashi hospitality, elevating it to unprecedented levels within a vehicle. Every detail is meticulously crafted to ensure passengers feel perfectly at home and exceptionally cared for, whether their journey is for relaxation or focused work. From seats engineered for optimal support and comfort to a cabin environment meticulously controlled for temperature, air quality, and nuanced lighting, the LM anticipates and fulfills every need. Seamless, intuitive access to connectivity and entertainment is provided, highlighted by a stunning 48-inch HD widescreen monitor and a bespoke Mark Levinson 3D Surround Sound reference audio system.
For the driver, the Lexus LM delivers a natural and engaging driving experience, characterized by the Comfort, Control, and Confidence inherent in the Lexus Driving Signature. This is achieved through the high rigidity and low center of gravity of Lexus’ GA-K global platform. The application of Takumi craftsmanship and cutting-edge technologies throughout the LM embodies the brand’s Omotenashi vision of “making luxury personal,” ensuring every journey is not just travel, but a personalized experience.
The arrival of the LM in the Lexus lineup underscores the brand’s dedication to offering a wider array of products designed to meet the evolving needs and lifestyles of its discerning clientele. This is not merely a converted van; the LM is purpose-built as a dedicated passenger vehicle, a true lexus minivan in its own right, designed from the ground up to deliver unparalleled luxury and comfort. The all-new LM is set to become available in European markets starting in autumn 2023, promising to redefine expectations for luxury minivan travel.
Alt: Sleek and elegant exterior design of the Lexus LM minivan in sonic finish.
Omotenashi on Wheels: Your Personal Sanctuary and Mobile Office
Lexus envisioned the LM’s interior as a first-class sanctuary, seamlessly blending the comfort of a luxurious living room with the functionality of a mobile office. This dual nature sets the lexus minivan apart, creating a space where passengers can truly unwind and be themselves.
To realize this ambitious concept, Lexus delved into research, consulting with private jet manufacturers and understanding the desires of hyper-affluent customers. Their findings revealed a crucial insight: the pinnacle of luxury is not solely about advanced technology, but about creating an environment that fosters complete physical and mental relaxation. This understanding became the cornerstone of the LM’s design philosophy.
Lexus has translated this insight into a vehicle where occupants experience effortless relaxation and personalized comfort, free from hassle. This embodies the Lexus Omotenashi hospitality principle – treating passengers with the same warmth and meticulous care one would extend to guests in their own home. Simplifying interaction with onboard technologies was a key consideration, recognizing the demands of busy lives. For instance, adjusting cabin climate, lighting, and seating to individual preferences is achieved with a single “one-button” control. By “making luxury personal,” Lexus elevates travel time, transforming it into a more enriching and enjoyable experience within this lexus minivan.
The ambiance, fit, and finish throughout the LM reflect Lexus’ renowned Takumi craftsmanship, solidifying its status as a true limousine, now in a lexus minivan form factor.
Alt: Luxurious and spacious interior of the Lexus LM minivan, showcasing comfortable seating and ambient lighting.
Versatile Configurations: Four and Seven-Seat Lexus Minivan Options
The Lexus LM caters to diverse needs with two distinct configurations: seven-seat and four-seat models. The seven-seat configuration prioritizes the middle row VIP seats in terms of space and accessible features, while offering an additional third row with three flip-up seats. These third-row seats can be conveniently folded away to maximize cargo space when needed, adding practicality to this lexus minivan.
The four-seat model represents the zenith of luxury within the lexus minivan range. It features only two multi-function rear seats and an array of exclusive amenities designed for supreme comfort and enjoyment. A key feature of the four-seater is a partition separating the front and rear cabins, housing a massive 48-inch widescreen monitor and a dimmable glass panel for enhanced privacy. The bespoke Mark Levinson 3D Surround Sound audio system in this configuration boasts a 23-speaker array, delivering an immersive audio experience. Cabin comfort is further elevated by a sophisticated Lexus Climate Concierge system, utilizing thermal sensors for precise and personalized heating and ventilation control within this lexus minivan.
Seating Redefined for Unrivaled Comfort and Support in a Minivan
Seat design is paramount to the onboard experience, and Lexus has meticulously engineered the LM’s seats to counter typical minivan discomforts. Traditional minivan seats are often positioned high, leading to a higher center of gravity and increased side-to-side movement, potentially causing passenger discomfort.
The new seats in the lexus minivan LM are designed to minimize head-sway, ensuring a stable line of sight for passengers and reducing unpleasant low-frequency vibrations. They are ergonomically designed to improve posture, providing secure body support from the pelvis to the chest, and optimize pressure distribution across the lower body. Side wires further enhance body stability and maintain an upright pelvic position, mitigating the risk of slouching.
Extended, pillow-like headrests offer support from the upper back, rather than just the neck, further stabilizing the body’s core. Extending, adjustable ottomans provide customizable leg support. In the four-seat LM, both rear seats can recline fully into a horizontal, airline bed-style position, transforming this lexus minivan into a mobile haven of relaxation.
The seat cushions are constructed from dual-layer materials, combining a soft surface with a firm base, and incorporate a tilt function to prevent occupants from sliding forward during braking. In addition to power adjustments, heating, and ventilation, the seats feature an air lumbar support system with four settings, allowing passengers to customize the seatback contour and absorb vibrations, maximizing comfort in this lexus minivan.
Alt: Close-up of the Lexus LM minivan’s luxurious rear seating, highlighting the plush materials and ergonomic design.
Smartphone-Style Multi-Operation Panel: Intuitive Cabin Control
The Lexus LM introduces a smartphone-style multi-operation panel for quick and intuitive control of numerous cabin features. This user-friendly controller manages the audio system, climate settings, seat functions, interior lighting, and window blinds, all at your fingertips within this lexus minivan.
The new LM also pioneers voice recognition specifically tailored for rear seat passengers, a world-first feature in a vehicle. This innovative technology further enhances the personalized and intuitive experience within this lexus minivan.
Overhead Console: Streamlined Functionality
The rear cabin features a sleek overhead console that integrates door controls, storage for small items, and temperature-monitoring sensors. Its central positioning is designed to maximize headroom, maintaining the spacious feel of this lexus minivan.
The Pursuit of Perfect Quietness: A Sanctuary of Serenity
Achieving perfect quietness was a paramount goal for the Lexus LM, recognizing its essential contribution to the vehicle’s luxury profile. The development team drew inspiration from the original Lexus LS, a vehicle that set new benchmarks for quiet performance.
The aim was not just absolute silence, but a natural quietness, akin to the peaceful ambiance of a silent wood in the open air – an environment that is both calming and pleasing to all senses. This natural serenity is a defining feature of this lexus minivan.
Structurally, enhanced sealing measures improve airtightness, and clearances between doors and sheet metal parts have been minimized. Noise-reducing wheels and tires are employed to dampen tire noise at its source.
Within the cabin, Active Noise Control technology emits reverse-phase sound waves through the audio speakers, effectively reducing the buildup of low-frequency noise during driving. A dedicated microphone, strategically positioned according to the rear cabin layout, precisely governs its operation by monitoring internal noise levels within this lexus minivan.
In the four-seat LM, a non-sound-absorbing five-layer headlining is utilized to facilitate easier conversation. The partition in the four-seat model also boasts significantly enhanced sound insulation performance (a 40% improvement), further isolating the rear cabin as a tranquil haven in this lexus minivan.
Mark Levinson 3D Surround Sound: An Immersive Audio Experience
A bespoke Mark Levinson 3D Surround Sound reference audio system is meticulously designed for both versions of the LM lexus minivan. The four-seat model features a 23-speaker array, while the seven-seater incorporates a 21-speaker setup. Both configurations deliver unparalleled sound reproduction quality, creating a home theater-like experience within this lexus minivan.
48-inch Widescreen Monitor: Entertainment and Productivity Hub
In the four-seat LM, the lower section of the cabin partition houses a breathtaking 48-inch widescreen HD monitor, optimally positioned for viewing. It offers three viewing modes: full screen, cinema, and separate left and right screens for independent content (with individual headsets).
Users can seamlessly project content from their smartphones or tablets or connect via two HDMI ports. The system can serve as both an entertainment hub and a platform for online business meetings, transforming this lexus minivan into a versatile space for both leisure and work.
The seven-seat model features a 14-inch rear multimedia display, operable independently from the front console display, providing entertainment options for all rear passengers within this lexus minivan.
Lexus Climate Concierge: Personalized Environmental Control, Elevated
Lexus has expanded the capabilities of its Climate Concierge system for the new LM lexus minivan, extending its functionality beyond basic air conditioning to encompass a wider spectrum of cabin environment aspects. Its comprehensive service is akin to a personal “butler,” ensuring every detail aligns with the user’s preferences.
One-touch control allows for personalized preferences for air conditioning, rear cabin lighting, window shades, and seat recline positions, tailored to each occupant.
The four-seat LM incorporates thermal sensors within the center partition. These sensors use infrared surface temperature scanning of occupants and the cabin to precisely determine the required level of heating or cooling and its optimal location. Localized heating and ventilation sources are adjusted accordingly, including new neck heaters integrated into the rear-seat headrests. Vents in the center partition feature motorized registers that can direct airflow specifically to warm cold hands or feet, ensuring customized comfort within this lexus minivan.
Utilizing nanoe™-X* technology, the Climate Concierge helps maintain clean and healthy air quality within the cabin. This system introduces microscopic water particles into the airflow, which can inhibit viruses, bacteria, and allergens, while also providing a moisturizing effect on skin and hair, enhancing the wellbeing of passengers in this lexus minivan.
The system’s precision extends to enabling different temperature settings for various body areas – head, chest, thighs, and feet. For ease of use, five selectable Climate Concierge modes are available: Relax, Dream, Focus, Energize, and a fully customizable My Original mode, allowing for truly personalized climate control within this lexus minivan.
*nanoe-X is a technology developed by the Panasonic Corporation.
Alt: Lexus LM minivan’s climate concierge controls, highlighting the personalized temperature settings and nanoe-X technology.
Ultimate Omotenashi: Personalized Luxury in Every Detail
The Lexus LM embodies “ultimate Omotenashi,” delivering personalized luxury, comfort, and well-being in every facet of its design and functionality as a lexus minivan.
The center partition in the four-seat model features a clear glass upper section, offering rear-seat passengers a direct view of the road ahead. This can be opened or closed, and privacy can be instantly achieved by dimming the glass at the touch of a button.
The cabin is illuminated by indirect, ambient lighting in the ceiling and side trim, complemented by ceiling-mounted spotlights and, in the four-seat model, subtle shadow lighting at floor level. The interior ambiance can be further personalized with a wide array of ambient lighting color settings, including 14 shades curated within five distinct mood themes: Healing, Relaxing, Arousing, Focusing, and Exhilarating, allowing for a truly bespoke atmosphere within this lexus minivan.
In the four-seat LM, Lexus employs a “hidden tech” approach, seamlessly integrating a wealth of useful features into the design. These include fold-out tables, wireless device chargers, storage compartments for small items, connectivity ports, reading lights, and vanity mirrors. Individual left and right gloveboxes are incorporated into the center partition, flanking a refrigerator. A convenient umbrella holder is also located next to the sliding doors, showcasing the thoughtful details throughout this lexus minivan.
Outward View: Prioritizing Wellbeing and Reducing Motion Sickness
Recognizing that a confined feeling can exacerbate car sickness, especially when using screens or reading, Lexus has maximized the window size in the LM. This ensures passengers maintain a constant awareness of the car’s movement and surroundings. In addition to large side windows, fixed roof windows and a clear forward view through the windscreen contribute to a sense of openness within this lexus minivan.
Tazuna Driver’s Cockpit: Intuitive Control and Connection
In keeping with Omotenashi principles, the driver’s cockpit is designed with the same meticulous attention to detail as other new Lexus models. The arrangement of primary controls, meters, and information sources follows the Tazuna concept, minimizing hand and eye movements, and allowing the driver to maintain focus on the road. “Tazuna,” the Japanese word for the subtle communication between horse and rider through reins, inspired this intuitive control philosophy.
The cockpit layout contributes to the Lexus Driving Signature, fostering a constant sense of control, connection with the vehicle, and comfort on every journey. The steering wheel is positioned closer to the driver and set at a more upright angle, while the positions of the pedals and footrest are precisely calculated to enhance driver ergonomics within this lexus minivan.
The front cabin conveys a broad, open feel with a simple instrument panel design, a large central multimedia touchscreen, and a center console designed for flexibility to suit professional drivers’ needs. The same level of craftsmanship, quality, and attention to detail found in the rear passenger section extends to the driver’s area in this lexus minivan.
Advanced driver-assistance features include a digital rear-view mirror for an unobstructed rearward view and a Panoramic View Monitor utilizing cameras around the vehicle to provide a 360-degree or bird’s-eye view for precise maneuvering in tight spaces, enhancing the driving experience of this lexus minivan.
Interior Colors and Finishes: Exquisite Craftsmanship
The range of interior colors and trim finishes reflects the LM’s prestige and Lexus’ commitment to craftsmanship. The highest-quality L-aniline leather is used for upholstery, accented with contrasting piping. A new woodgrain trim, featuring a traditional Japanese herringbone pattern created with 3D printing, will be offered, showcasing the blend of tradition and innovation within this lexus minivan.
Alt: Exquisite interior detailing of the Lexus LM minivan, highlighting the premium leather upholstery and woodgrain trim.
Exterior Design: Dignified Elegance Redefining the Minivan Aesthetic
The new LM embodies Lexus “Next Chapter” design, developed under the theme of “dignified elegance.” The result is a unique and confident road presence, with proportions optimized for both ease of use and maneuverability as a lexus minivan. Overall dimensions are 5,130 mm in length, 1,890 mm in width, and 1,945 mm in height. The generous width, height, and 3,000 mm wheelbase are fundamental to maximizing rear passenger space, a hallmark of this lexus minivan.
The front fascia features a large lower grille section beneath a slim aperture below the bonnet’s leading edge, connecting the headlights and shaping the signature Lexus spindle body. Flowing lines are accentuated by blacked-out front and rear pillars, while a large glass area all-around creates an open and airy feel. Large sliding side doors provide easy access.
Wheel options include 17-inch cast or 19-inch forged alloys, and color choices reflect the LM’s prestigious character, including three deep-luster “sonic” finishes, enhancing the exterior appeal of this lexus minivan.
Electrified Powertrain and Lexus Driving Signature Performance in a Minivan
Lexus aimed to harmonize driving pleasure and ride comfort in the LM, a delicate balance particularly challenging in the lexus minivan segment. Drawing on the GA-K platform’s inherent quality, high body rigidity, and advanced drive, braking, and suspension technologies, Lexus achieved the desired Lexus Driving Signature while preserving exceptional ride comfort.
Hybrid Electric Powertrain: Efficiency and Refinement
In Europe, the LM will be offered as the LM 350h, featuring Lexus’ 2.5-liter self-charging hybrid electric powertrain. This system, also utilized in the NX 350h and RX 350h models, is renowned for its quiet, refined performance and high efficiency. It delivers a maximum power output of 250 DIN hp/184 kW and peak torque of 239 Nm.
Standard E-Four electronic all-wheel drive enhances stability, increasing rear drive torque distribution for improved turning posture and rear seat comfort, crucial for a lexus minivan. The system dynamically adjusts front/rear drive torque balance between 100:0 and 20:80, ensuring secure handling during acceleration and cornering on varied surfaces.
Sophisticated Technologies for Dynamic Performance and Ride Comfort
Onboard comfort is prioritized through a suite of drive, braking, and ride features. Lexus introduces its first Rear Seat Comfort drive mode, which optimizes suspension performance and drive torque distribution while suppressing vibration, maintaining a comfortable posture for both the vehicle and its passengers within this lexus minivan. Automatic Smart Stop braking control, Pitch Control, and a refined Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) system further contribute to a smooth and composed ride.
Delivering the Lexus Driving Signature in a Minivan Form Factor
The LM is engineered to deliver an authentic Lexus driving experience, characterized by a natural dialogue between driver and car, embodying the Lexus Driving Signature: Comfort, Control, and Confidence, even in a lexus minivan configuration.
Minivans, by nature, are taller and have a higher center of gravity, making ride quality more susceptible to crosswinds and road surface irregularities. Large doors and windows can also influence inertia performance and steering feel. To mitigate these factors, Lexus implemented comprehensive improvements to the LM’s fundamental elements. Adopting the GA-K global architecture platform provides a lower center of gravity and increased rigidity. The new body’s stiffness is further enhanced with additional welding, adhesive, and bracing in key areas. Weight reduction is achieved through the use of aluminum and thin-sheet steel for external panels, particularly those furthest from the car’s center of gravity, minimizing body roll in this lexus minivan.
Safety: Comprehensive Lexus Safety System + Package
The LM is equipped with the latest generation of Lexus Safety System + active safety and driver assistance systems, shared with the new NX, RX, and RZ models. These systems are designed to detect a wider range of accident risks, providing alerts and steering, braking, and drive force support to help prevent or mitigate impacts. Operation is tuned to feel natural and reassuring to the driver. The expanded scope of these systems reduces driving burden, combating fatigue and maintaining driver alertness in this lexus minivan.
The latest suite includes enhanced functions for the Pre-Collision System, including emergency Steering Assist, and Adaptive Cruise Control, along with Proactive Driving Assist for safer urban driving. A Driver Monitor continuously assesses driver alertness, and if no response is detected to warnings, it will gently bring the car to a halt and trigger the eCall system for assistance. The doors, including the sliding rear doors, feature Lexus’ smooth e-latch electronic opening system with Safe Exit Assist, warning of approaching traffic from the rear to prevent accidental door opening that could cause an accident, enhancing safety for this lexus minivan.
Over-the-air technology allows for seamless software upgrades, ensuring owners benefit from the latest advancements without service center visits.
Customers can opt for an extended safety package, including Lane Change Assistance (LCA) for automatic lane changes on highways when turn indicators are used, and Front Cross-Traffic Alert, which uses radar to detect and warn of approaching traffic from either side when emerging from junctions at low speeds, further enhancing the safety features of this lexus minivan.
For more detailed information about the Lexus LM, please visit https://www.lexus.eu/new-cars/lm-world-premiere
OUTLINE TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
| DIMENSIONS | NEW LM (4 and 7-seater) |
|---|---|
| Overall length (mm) | 5,130 |
| Overall width (mm) | 1,890 |
| Overall height (mm) | 1,945 |
| Wheelbase (mm) | 3,000 |
| Front overhang (mm) | 1,015 |
| Rear overhang (mm) | 1,110 |
| Interior length (mm) | 4-seater: 2,735 7-seater: 2,965 |
| Interior width (mm) | 4-seater: 1,590 7-seater: 1,655 |
| Interior height (mm) | 1,365 |
| POWERTRAIN (Europe) | LM 350h |
|---|---|
| Powertrain | 2.5-litre in-line 4-cylinder hybrid system |
| Engine displacement (cm3) | 2,487 |
| Emission Certification | Euro6d |
| Max power (DIN hp/kW) | 250/184 |
| Max Torque (Nm @ rpm) | 239 @ 4,300-4,500 |
| Transmission | Hybrid transaxle |
| Drivetrain | E-Four (Electric AWD system) |
| Max speed (km/h) | 190 |
