The prestigious showroom at Leng Kee Road bore witness to a momentous event—the grand introduction of the Lexus model to the island city for the first time
The elegant facade of the Lexus VIP Lounge at Leng Kee Road came alive as a candlelit staircase led guests to the event on the second floor of the Lexus showroom. Interim managing director of Inchcape Singapore, Ng Khee Siong and Lexus LM chief engineer, Takami Yokoo were on hand to unveil the new vehicle.
It’s roots can be traced back to the year 2020 when Lexus boldly ventured into the world of luxury MPVs with the launch of the first Lexus LM model in China and Hong Kong. The audacious move redefined the MPV segment, placing a luxury marque in an established genre and setting new standards for spaciousness, comfort, and refinement. The 2020 Lexus LM was an instant hit, garnering acclaim for its meticulous craftsmanship and exceptional attention to detail.
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Above Stanley Chia, director, Lexus sales at Borneo Motors Singapore and Lexus LM chief engineer Takami Yokoo
Conceived to cater to the burgeoning demand for opulent MPVs in the thriving automotive markets of China and various Asian cities, the Lexus LM introduces itself with an unmistakable air of refinement. It begins with its name—a succinct encapsulation of its purpose: ‘Luxury Mover.’ While the LM may be a newcomer to our streets, it is actually the second iteration of this grand MPV. Poised for a much broader audience, it’s even making its grand debut in the larger cities of Europe.
For 2023, the updated model proudly dons the mantle of the brand’s latest design philosophy—the ‘Spindle Body.’ This avant-garde aesthetic first made an appearance in the illustrious RX crossover, but the Lexus LM takes this concept to new heights. It’s not just the grandiosity of the colossal grille that commands attention, but the image it conjures as it gently blends into the expanse of the bonnet, rendering it a sight like no other in the Lexus lineup.
Above The LM towers at 1,955 mm
Above The interior
Beyond its charming facade, the Lexus LM’s presence is formidable, eclipsing all other contenders in sheer dimensions. Stretched across an imposing canvas that spans 5,125 mm in length, 1,890 mm in width, and standing at an astonishing height of 1,955 mm—it commands the road with an air of majesty and gravitas. The Lexus LM is a spectacle that demands attention, an embodiment of opulence and grandeur that transcends the ordinary.
More than just an automobile; it’s a sanctuary of luxury and refinement. If the interior resembles that of a Lear jet, it’s not by coincidence. Lexus has adopted aircraft-style luxury of pampering passengers with their latest vehicle. The focus is on creating a hassle-free, personalised cocoon of comfort that makes you feel right at home, while also simplifying the interaction with onboard technology—an absolute must for busy individuals.
Epitomising luxury, the four-seat version features just two sumptuous rear seats and an array of features for unparalleled comfort and enjoyment. A privacy partition separates the front and back cabins. For rear passengers, there is a 48-inch widescreen monitor and a dimmable privacy glass panel. An exquisite Mark Levinson 3D Surround Sound system with 23 speakers envelopes you in audio bliss, while the advanced Lexus Climate Concierge maintains cabin comfort with precision.
Above The four-seat LM boasts adjustable ottomans
The other is a more practical version, a seven-seat model which prioritises space and accessible functions in the middle row of VIP seats. It also features an additional third row with three foldable seats for extra cargo room.
Seat design is paramount for an exceptional onboard experience. The Lexus LM’s seats combat head swaying, offering a stable line of sight and reducing uncomfortable vibrations. They provide robust support, maintaining an upright posture and minimise the risk of slouching. Extended, adjustable ottomans cater to leg support, while the four-seat LM allows for reclining to a fully horizontal, airline bed-style position.
Seat cushions combine softness and a sturdy base, with a tilt function that prevents sliding during braking. Beyond power adjustment and heating, an air lumbar support system with multiple settings fills the gap between the seatback and the passenger's body, delivering cosseting comfort.
Above The LM is powered by a 2.5-liter self-charging hybrid electric powertrain
Under its hood, this exquisite vehicle houses Lexus’s renowned 2.5-liter self-charging hybrid electric powertrain, a system that has already earned its stripes in the all-new NX 350h and RX 350h models. With a proven track record of delivering refined performance and whisper-quiet operation, this powertrain packs a punch with a maximum power output of 247 bhp, accompanied by a peak torque of 239 Nm.
But there’s more to the LM 350h than raw power—it’s engineered for a driving experience like no other. As a standard feature, it boasts E-Four electronic all-wheel drive, a technological marvel that enhances the vehicle’s stability and rear seat comfort.
Tatler had the opportunity to interview Yokoo during its launch, who highlighted the paramount challenges and rewarding achievements involved in crafting this vehicle. “My most formidable task was to deliver the renowned Lexus driving experience, with particular attention to the passenger ride quality in this genre of vehicle,” he shares.
The LM 350h is set to revolutionise your perception of luxury and performance. Moreover, it is designed to do so while safeguarding our planet’s invaluable resources. More than just a mode of transportation, it embodies a profound statement of sophistication and environmental responsibility—a testament to the flawless balance between power and refinement.
Credits
Images: Lexus



