Lexus LM 350h Luxury MPV, Based on Toyota Vellfire, Launched in India at Rs 2 Crore

Lexus, the Japanese manufacturer, has launched its new luxury MPV, the LM 350h, in India. It is the brand's flagship model and the most expensive MPV in the country. For the uninitiated, two variants of the model have been introduced by the maker here. The top-spec four-seater captain seat version of the car with a lounge-like feel is Rs 50 lakh more expensive than the seven-seater model. The former carries a price tag of Rs 2.50 crore, while the latter variant is priced at Rs 2 crore. Notably, the LM 350h shares similarities with the Toyota Vellfire, which arrived on Indian shores last year. All mentioned prices are ex-showroom figures.

Speaking on the occasion, Tanmay Bhattacharya, Executive Vice-President, of Lexus India, said, “The debut of the all-new Lexus LM in India marks a pivotal moment for us, as we embark on a journey into the realm of ultra-luxury mobility. Upon announcing the commencement of its bookings last year, the new Lexus LM had become an instant hit in the country reiterating our belief that India is home to ultra HNIs who yearn for heightened indulgence & experiences. The majestic LM, with its exceptional comfort, innovative design, and unparalleled craftsmanship is poised to redefine the ultra-luxury mobility experience, meeting the expectations of our esteemed guests in India. We thank our guests for their patience as well as their faith in the brand and are confident that we will be able to begin deliveries of the majestic new LM by mid of this year”.

Lexus LM 350h Luxury MPV: Exterior Elements

Like the Vellfire, the Lexus LM is built on the GA-K modular chassis. The big spindle grille, svelte LED headlamps, and vertical fog lamp housings are its prominent styling cues upfront. On the side profile, there's a sizable glasshouse with sliding rear doors, a mild kink at the B-pillar, and multi-spoke alloy wheels. Along with a high windscreen, the full-width LED taillight arrangement, which replaces the emblem with LEXUS lettering, is the vehicle's most striking feature at the rear end. Coming to its dimensions, the LM 350h measures 1,890mm in width, 1,945mm in height, and 5,130mm in length.

Lexus LM 350h Luxury MPV: Powertrain Setup

Under the hood, the luxury offering comes equipped with a 2.5-litre, four-cylinder, strong-hybrid, petrol unit. An electric motor and a nickel-metal hydride battery are coupled in the hybrid configuration. This powertrain setup is capable of churning out 239Nm of peak torque and 247bhp of maximum power. Furthermore, an eCVT gearbox has been employed to optimise the engine. The Lexus model boasts an all-wheel-drive system and a 19km/l fuel economy, according to the manufacturer.

Lexus LM 350h Luxury MPV: Interior Layout and Feature Suite

As far as the interior is concerned, this LM MPV version adorns a cream-coloured cabin theme. On the feature front, the four-seat model has a glass panel that can be raised or lowered, a barrier between the front and rear passenger compartments, Airline-style recliner seats, rear gloveboxes, a 48-inch TV, reading lights, a 23-speaker surround-sound audio system, active noise control, vanity mirrors, pillow-style headrests, heated armrests and ottomans, fold-out tables, multiple USB ports, a fridge, noise-reducing rims and tyres, wireless phone chargers, an umbrella holder, and separate front and rear audio output. 

Lexus LM 350h Luxury MPV: Safety Tech

With the Lexus Safety System+ 3 suite of ADAS tech, safety is ensured by features such as dynamic radar cruise control, automatic high beam, safe exit assist, blind spot monitor, lane departure alert with steering assist, lane tracing assist, and vehicle detection – either stationary or ahead of the vehicle. On top of that, a 360-degree camera, multiple airbags, and a digital rearview mirror are also included. 

Lexus LM 350h Luxury MPV: Competition Check

In the domestic market, the new Lexus LM 350h will go up against the Mercedes-Benz GLS, the BMW X7, and the soon-to-be-released Mercedes-Benz V-Class. It is also a high-end alternative to the Toyota Vellfire.