The Lexus LBX compact crossover, the LM luxury people carrier and the all-terrain GX full-scale SUV are completely different propositions, but at heart each one is truly “Lexus”.  They are taking Lexus into new market segments and giving customers the opportunity to personalise their luxury choices. They exemplify the qualities that are the essence of Lexus as an international luxury brand and support its “experience amazing” ethos.

Central to this is Omotenashi, the uniquely Lexus interpretation of the best traditions of Japanese hospitality. That means for driver and passengers alike, every need is anticipated and taken care of in a safe, welcoming and rewarding experience. Its influence extends from on-board comfort and well-being to seamless connectivity, comprehensive safety provisions the focused design of the driver’s cockpit.

Luxury craftsmanship is another distinguishing element in the Lexus ownership, with an attention to detail that is rooted in the finely honed skills of the Takumi craftspeople.

Moreover, the latest models go further in Lexus’ mission to “make luxury personal,” giving customers greater opportunities to specify their vehicle in a way that better reflects their individual preferences and character. This includes a move away from the established formalities of prestige cars to offer something that better fits more modern perceptions of what luxury means, with a more relaxed and casual feel.

To showcase their individual qualities and capabilities and to provide a first-hand insight into today’s Lexus brand, the LBX, LM and GX were recently brought together in an adventure programme in New Zealand. Influencers and lifestyle specialists from Europe and beyond were immersed in an authentic Lexus “amazing experience” that took them through spectacular landscapes of the South Island and introduced them to the richness of the local nature, culture and cuisine.

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Lexus LBX: redefining luxury craftsmanship in its class

The LBX is a game-changing model, the most compact Lexus model yet and one which brings authentic Lexus luxury to a whole new audience for the brand. This is a compact crossover that makes luxury personal, offering a wealth of choice, premium equipment features and a great driving experience, all with a more casual, contemporary feel. It’s a proposition that European customers have responded to in their thousands, putting the LBX firmly on course to become Lexus’ top-selling model in the region.

Lexus LM: redefining luxury transport

Lexus designed the LM – its “luxury mover” – to deliver the ultimate in luxury travel. It is a car in its class of its own, a people carrier where every detail of the on-board experience is focused on the comfort and well-being the occupants. Wherever the journey takes you, the atmosphere inside the LM is guaranteed to always be calm, quiet and supremely comfortable. The passengers ride in airline-style seats, with access to a 48-inch widescreen monitor and bespoke 23-speaker Mark Levinson Surround Sound system at their fingertips. The Lexus Climate Concierge ensures optimum temperature and air quality are maintained at all times.

Lexus GX: redefining the authentic off-roader with luxury

The all-new GX is a perfect illustration of the breadth of choice offered by today’s Lexus range. It is an authentic off-roader with imposing looks, all-terrain capabilities, combined with the luxury, driving rewards and advanced technologies that are key to every Lexus model. It’s a car that’s engineered for adventure, capable of mastering all kinds of challenging terrain: wherever the drive takes you, on smooth, fast roads or wilder trails, the Lexus GX can be relied on as the truest and most trusted partner.

For more information on these and all other new Lexus models, please visit https://www.lexus.eu/new-cars

When it set out to create the new LM people carrier, Lexus set the goal of delivering the ultimate in luxury travel: four-wheeled transport that achieves a level of sophistication and exclusivity more frequently associated with world of private jets. Taking a no-compromise approach, it has succeeded in delivering a unique “Luxury Mover,” a vehicle that is truly in a class of its own.

Wherever the road – crowded city street or sweeping mountain pass – the atmosphere inside the LM is guaranteed to always be calm, quiet and supremely comfortable. It’s the perfect expression of Omotenashi, the Japanese hospitality principle, that’s central to Lexus, where your every need is anticipated and seamlessly catered for.

Omotenashi is one of the ways in which Lexus seeks to provide its customers with Amazing Experiences and it made the LM a worthy participant in a recent Lexus adventure programme in New Zealand. Here, guests were able to experience a Lexus spirit of adventure that combines a great driving experience with luxury and comfort. They were immersed in the local culture, cuisine and natural world, travelling through breathtaking landscapes in three all-new, contrasting models: the LM, the LBX crossover and the GX luxury off-roader. The event illustrated the breadth of Lexus innovation and the brand’s diversification into vibrant new market areas.

Guests travelled as passengers along routes through spectacular natural landscapes, enjoying panoramic views from the twin rear seats in the top-of-the range model. This four-seat version of the LM takes Omotenashi design, technologies and features to the maximum. The rear passenger seats are upholstered in finest L-aniline leather and are equipped with extending ottomans to support the lower legs and integrated heating, ventilation and massage functions. They also recline airline-style to fully horizontal should you want to take a break during the journey. Lexus Climate Concierge monitors each passenger’s body temperature to help maintain an ideal cabin temperature and air quality.

The cabin is insulated from any unwelcome external noise, yet offers a “natural silence” more like you would find in a quiet New Zealand forest than an acoustically perfect recording studio. And if the view outside doesn’t capture your attention, a 48-inch high-definition widescreen monitor can be used for streaming movies, or online meetings. The hospitality aspect also includes innovative technologies such as a 23-speaker Mark Levinson Surround Sound audio system, tailor-made for the LM, folding tables and power doors and sunshades. And if you need a cooling drink during the journey, a 14-litre refrigerator can accommodate plenty of liquid refreshment.

Equal attention has been paid to the engineering aspects of the vehicle, with a smooth, refined and powerful self-charging hybrid system and suspension that maintains poise and comfort in all conditions. It is also an all-new vehicle from the ground up, and – unlike many other people carriers – not a passenger vehicle that has been adapted from a van model base.

In addition to the four-seat version, the LM range includes a seven-seat model that brings another level of luxury to chauffeur-driven executive transport. The rear cabin features two VIP seats and a two-plus-one second row seating arrangement that can be folded away to provide extra load space when not in use. Features include semi-aniline leather seats, the Lexus Climate Concierge, a 14-inch drop-down rear monitor, a folding table and a 21-speaker Mark Levinson 3D Surround Sound audio system.

The LM can be classified as a new kind of limousine for the modern age, where business, leisure and relaxation can overlap in a single journey and where peace, quiet and privacy are the most highly valued luxury qualities.

For more information, please visit https://www.lexus.eu/new-cars/lm

INTRODUCTION

The LM is a completely new type of vehicle for Lexus in Europe, providing the ultimate luxury of a limousine in the format of a spacious minivan.

This “Luxury Mover” – is the fourth model in the Lexus Next Chapter, following the successful introduction of the all-new NX, RX and all-electric RZ SUVs. It is the latest stage in a complete product line-up renewal that includes new platforms, new powertrains and innovative technologies.

As its “L” designation indicates, the LM is a Lexus flagship model, alongside the LS sedan, LC coupe and convertible and – in eastern European markets – LX SUV.

Development of the LM, in common with all new Lexus models, has been wholly human centred.

The primary focus has been on the comfort and well-being of passengers with a cabin that takes Lexus’ Omotenashi hospitality to an unprecedented level. Every detail is designed to make passengers feel completely at home and perfectly cared for, whether they want to relax or work while on the move. 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 connectivity and entertainment, including a 48-inch HD widescreen monitor and bespoke Mark Levinson 3D Surround Sound reference audio system.

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, thanks to the high rigidity and low centre of gravity offered by Lexus’ GA-K global platform. For life on board, the application of craftsmanship and advanced technologies are faithful to the brand’s Omotenashi vision of “making luxury personal.”

The LM’s addition to the range helps fulfil Lexus’s aim of offering more diverse products that cater for a wider range of customer needs and lifestyles. This is not a repurposed van – the LM is in every regard a dedicated passenger vehicle, in its own right.

The all-new LM will be available in European markets from autumn 2023.

OMOTENASHI ON WHEELS: THE COMFORT OF A PERSONAL LIVING SPACE, THE CONVENIENCE OF A MOBILE OFFICE

Lexus’ aim was to create a first-class interior that’s as a comfortable as a living room and has all the convenience of a mobile office, a dual quality unmatched by any other vehicle on the market. This is a space where passengers can enjoy complete relaxation and be their natural selves.

In developing the LM concept, Lexus conducted research with private jet manufacturers and hyper-affluent customers. Their findings confirmed that customers perceive the highest standard of luxury to be when their surroundings make them feel completely rested, both physically and mentally. This quality is rated even more highly than having access to advanced technologies and functions.

Lexus has applied this learning to designing a vehicle where occupants feel just completely relaxed with “no hassle,” personalised comfort. This is the Lexus Omotenashi hospitality principle of making people feel as welcome and cared for as you would guests in your home. It includes simplifying interaction with on-board technologies – an important consideration for people leading busy lives. For example, a “one button” control is all that is needed to adjust cabin climate, lighting and seating to the user’s personal preference. By “making luxury personal,” Lexus enriches the time spent travelling.

Throughout, the ambience and the fit and finish reflect Lexus’ Takumi craftsmanship standards, making the LM truly worthy of limousine status.

Two versions offered, with four or seven seats

In the seven-seat model, the middle row of VIP seats is prioritised in terms of space and accessible functions and an additional third row is provided with three flip-up seats which can be folded away when more load space is required.

Four-seater features in summary

The four-seat 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 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.

Seating designed for comfort and support

The position and design of the seats is critical to the quality of the on-board experience. Typically, those in a minivan are set high and have a high centre of gravity, so occupants are more likely experience side-to-side movement.

The new seats in the LM are designed to counter head-sway, so passengers have a stable line of sight, and to reduce uncomfortable low-frequency vibrations. They improve posture, supporting the body securely from pelvis to chest, and provide better pressure distribution for the lower half of the body. Side wires further help hold the body in place and keep the pelvis upright, so there’s less risk of the occupant adopting a hunched position.

The extended depth of the pillow-like head rests provides support from the top of the back rather than the neck, helping keep the body core stable. Extending, adjustable ottomans provide leg support. In the four-seat LM, both rear seats can be reclined to fully horizontal, airline bed-style.

The seat cushions are made of two different materials to give a soft surface on a hard base, and they have a tilt function which prevents the occupant sliding forward when the vehicle brakes. As well as power adjustment, heating and ventilation they have an air lumbar support system with four settings so that the gap between the seatback and passenger’s body can be filled, absorbing vibrations.

Smartphone-style multi-operation panel

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 new LM is also the world’s first model to provide a voice recognition function that responds specifically to commands from rear seat passengers.

Overhead console

The rear cabin has a sleek overhead console that incorporates door controls, storage for small items and temperature-monitoring sensors. Its central position helps maximise headroom.

The pursuit of perfect quietness

Perfect peace and quiet were a top priority for the new LM, qualities that are essential to its luxury profile. The development team took the original Lexus LS, as their inspiration, a limousine that marked a breakthrough in quiet performance.

The goal was a particular kind of quietness, one with a natural feel rather than the absolute, sometimes oppressive, “dead” quiet experienced in a soundproofed room or recording studio. Lexus likens the quality to walking through a silent wood in the open air – an environment that pleases all the senses.

Where the vehicle’s structure is concerned, sealing measures have improved the airtightness and clearances have been reduced between the doors and sheet metal parts. Noise-reducing wheels and tyres are used to cancel tyre noise at source.

In the cabin, Active Noise Control transmits reverse-phase sound waves through an audio speaker, reducing the build-up of low frequency noise when the car is moving. Its operation is precisely governed using a dedicated microphone to monitor internal noise, located in different positions according to the rear cabin lay-out.

In the four-seat LM, a non-sound-absorbing five-layer headlining is used, making it easier to hold a conversation. The partition has also been given significantly increase sound insulation performance (+40%).

Mark Levinson 3D Surround Sound reference audio system

A bespoke Mark Levinson 3D Surround Sound reference audio system has been designed for both versions of the LM. The 23-speaker array in the four-seat model and a 21-speaker set-up in the seven-seater both provide sound reproduction quality of the highest standard, creating the effect of a home theatre system.

48-inch widescreen monitor

In the four-seat LM, the lower section of the cabin partition houses a 48-inch widescreen HD monitor, positioned at the optimum angle for viewing. There are 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. The system can be used for entertainment, or for online business meetings.

In the seven-seat model there is a 14-inch rear multimedia display which can be operated independently from the one in the front console.

Lexus Climate Concierge with added functionality

Lexus has developed its Climate Concierge system for the new LM, extending its features and functionality beyond air conditioning to cover more aspects of the cabin environment. The breadth of service it provides can be compared to a personal “butler” ensuring everything meets the user’s requirements.

Personal preferences for the air conditioning, the rear cabin lighting, the window shades and the seat recline position can be selected with one-touch control, with operation tailored for each individual occupant.

The four-seat LM has thermal sensors integrated in the centre partition. These use infra-red surface temperature scanning of the occupants and the cabin to gain a more precise understanding of what level of warmth or cooling is required, and where. Local heating and ventilation sources are adjusted accordingly. These include new neck heaters integrated in the rear-seat head rests. Vents in the centre partition have motorised registers that will direct air flow specifically to warm cold hands or feet.

Using nanoe™-X* technology helps the Climate Concierge to maintain clean and healthy air quality in the cabin.  This adds microscopic water particles to the air flow which can inhibit viruses, bacteria and allergens, while also having a moisturising effect on human skin and hair.  

The system’s precision extends to enabling different temperature controls to be set for different parts of the body – the head, chest, thighs and feet. For ease of use, there are five selectable Climate Concierge modes: Relax, Dream, Focus, Energise and, for fully personalised settings, My Original.

*nanoe-X is a technology developed by the Panasonic Corporation.

Ultimate Omotenashi

With the new LM, Lexus is delivering “ultimate Omotenashi,” with personalised luxury, comfort and well-being in every detail.

The centre partition in the four-seat model has a clear glass upper section, giving rear seat passengers a direct view of the road ahead. This can be opened or closed, and, when privacy is desired, it can be dimmed at the touch of a button.

The cabin is illuminated by indirect, ambient lighting in the ceiling and side trim, with further ceiling-mounted spotlights and, in the four-seat model, shadow lighting at floor level. The interior can be enhanced with a wide range of different ambient lighting colour settings, include 14 shades curated in five different mood themes: Healing, Relaxing, Arousing, Focusing and Exhilarating.

In the four-seat LM, Lexus has used a “hidden tech” approach, discreetly accommodating a host of useful features, fused almost seamlessly into the design. These include fold-out tables, wireless device chargers, storage points for small items, connectivity ports, reading lights and vanity mirrors. There are also individual left and right gloveboxes in the centre partition, left and right of a refrigerator. There’s also a handy umbrella holder next to the sliding doors.

Outward view key to wellbeing

A closed-in feel can provoke car sickness, particularly when viewing a screen or reading. To address this, Lexus has made the LM’s windows as large as possible, so that passengers always have a perception of how and where the car is moving. In addition to the large side windows there are fixed windows in the roof and a clear view ahead through the windscreen.

Tazuna driver’s cockpit

True to the principles of Omotenashi, the driver’s cockpit is designed with same attention to detail as other new Lexus models. Thus, the arrangement of the principal controls, meters and information sources follows the Tazuna concept, so the driver needs only to make small hand or eye movements and can keep their attention focused on the road ahead. “Tazuna” is the Japanese word which describes the same sort of intuitive control a rider has of their horse, through gentle adjustment of the reins.

The cockpit layout contributes to the Lexus Driving Signature, helping the driver enjoy a constant sense of control and connection with the vehicle and comfort on any journey. To help make the driver feel at one with the car, the steering wheel being moved closer to the driver and set at a more upright angle, and the position of the pedals and foot rest has been precisely calculated.

The front cabin has a broad, open feel with a simple instrument panel design, a large central multimedia touchscreen and a centre console with designed-in flexibility to suit the needs of professional drivers. Throughout, the space exudes the same craftsmanship, quality and attention to detail that’s found in the rear passenger section.

The driver can take advantage of advanced features that help keep them fully informed, including a digital rear-view mirror which presents a real-time, unobstructed rearward view. A Panoramic View Monitor uses cameras around the vehicle to provide a 360-degree view of the area immediately around the vehicle, or a bird’s eye view, to help with precise manoeuvring in tight spaces.

Interior colours and finishes

The range of interior colours and trim finishes reflect the LM’s status and Lexus’ craftsmanship. Highest-quality L-aniline leather is used for the upholstery with contrasting piping. A new woodgrain trim will be offered in a traditional Japanese herringbone pattern, created with 3D printing.

EXTERIOR DESIGN: DIGNIFIED ELEGANCE

The new LM displays Lexus “Next Chapter” design, developed on the theme of “dignified elegance.” The result is unique and confident road presence with proportions that make for ease of use and manoeuvrability. Overall length is 5,130 mm, width 1,890 mm and height 1,945 mm. The generous width, height and 3,000 mm wheelbase are key to maximising space for rear passengers.

At the front a large lower grille section sits beneath a slim aperture below the leading edge of the bonnet, linking the headlights and generating the Lexus spindle body shape. The LM’s flowing lines are accentuated by blacked-out front and rear pillars while an open feel is generated by the large glass area all-round. Easy access is provided by large sliding side doors.

Wheel options are 17 cast or 19-inch forged alloys and colour choices reflect the LM’s prestige, including three deep-lustre “sonic” finishes.

AN ELECTRIFIED POWERTRAIN AND DYNAMIC PERFORMANCE THAT DELIVERS THE LEXUS DRIVING SIGNATURE

Lexus sought to harmonise driving pleasure and ride comfort in the LM, qualities that can be difficult to balance. In ensuring the right Lexus driving taste was achieved, it was able to draw on the benefits of the GA-K platform’s quality, high body rigidity and drive, braking and suspension technologies that provide good dynamics while preserving ride comfort.

Hybrid electric powertrain

In Europe the LM will be offered as the LM 350h with Lexus’ 2.5-litre self-charging hybrid electric powertrain. The system, also featured in the all-new NX 350h and RX 350h models, is well-proven for delivering quiet, refined performance with high efficiency. Maximum power is 250 DIN hp/184 kW with peak torque of 239 Nm.

As standard, it features E-Four electronic all-wheel drive, with an increase in the level of rear drive torque distribution to give the vehicle a stable turning posture and contribute to rear seat comfort. The system can adjust the balance of front/rear drive torque between 100:0 to 20:80 to give secure handling when pulling away or cornering on loose or slippery surfaces.

Sophisticated technologies for dynamic performance

On-board comfort is the focus for a series of drive, braking and ride features. These include Lexus’ first Rear Seat Comfort drive mode, which adjusts suspension performance and drive torque distribution and suppresses vibration, helping both the vehicle and its passengers maintain a comfortable posture. Automatic Smart Stop braking control, Pitch Control and a revised Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) system are also deployed to help maintain a smooth and poised ride.

Delivering the Lexus Driving Signature

The LM is designed to have an authentic Lexus drive and feel, with the driver enjoying a natural dialogue with their car, true to the qualities of the Lexus Driving Signature – Comfort, Control and Confidence at all times.

By design, minivans are tall and have a high centre of gravity, which makes ride quality more susceptible to the effects of crosswinds and road surface quality. Large doors and windows also have an impact on inertia performance and steering feel. To mitigate this, Lexus has made comprehensive improvements to the LM’s fundamental elements. These include adopting the GA-K global architecture platform, gaining the benefits of a lower centre of gravity and higher rigidity. The new body’s stiffness has been increased with extra welding, adhesive and bracing in key areas. At the same time, weight has been reduced by using aluminium and thin-sheet steel for external panels, particularly those furthest from the car’s centre of gravity, which helps reduce body roll.

SAFETY: A COMPLETE LEXUS SAFETY SYSTEM + PACKAGE

The LM is equipped with the latest generation of Lexus Safety System + active safety and driver assistance systems, as also featured in the new NX, RX and RZ models. These are able to detect an even wider range of accident risks and provide alerts and steering, braking and drive force support when required, to help avoid or mitigate an impact. They are tuned to operate in a way that feels natural and reassuring to the driver. The operating scope also reduces the burden of driving, helping reduce fatigue and maintain driver alertness.

The latest portfolio includes expanded functions for the Pre-Collision System, including emergency Steering Assist, and the Adaptive Cruise Control, together with Proactive Driving Assist for safer driving in slower, urban traffic. A Driver Monitor keeps a constant check on the driver’s alertness and will bring the car gently to a halt and trigger the eCall system to summon help if there is no response to warning alerts. The doors – including the sliding rear doors - are fitted with Lexus’ smooth e-latch electronic opening system, with Safe Exit Assist to warn of approaching traffic from the rear and prevent inadvertent opening that might cause an accident.

With the benefit of over-the-air technology, software upgrades can be seamlessly delivered, ensuring owners enjoy the benefits of the latest developments without having to take their vehicle to a service centre.

Customers can also equip their LM with an optional extended safety package. This includes Lane Change Assistance (LCA) which provides automatic lane change steering, when the turn indicators are used in highway driving. There is also the benefit of Front Cross-Traffic Alert which uses radar monitoring to detect and warn the driver of traffic approaching from either side when emerging from a junction at low speed.

For more information on the vehicle, please visit https://www.lexus.eu/new-cars/lm-world-premiere

OUTLINE TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS