Lexus LM 2024 in Malaysia – Luxurious Alphard/Vellfire, 7-seat LM350h and 4-seat LM500h, priced from RM1.2 million to RM1.5 million

Three years since the first model was launched, UMW Toyota Motor has officially launched the new second generation Lexus LM in Malaysia. Built on the platform of the fourth-generation Toyota Alphard launched in October (along with the related Vellfire), this über-luxury MPV is packed with even more tech and toys, along with the difference is greater than its more pedestrian siblings.

For the first time, the LM is offered here in two variants, differing not only by powertrain (currently only hybrids included) but also by the number of seats. The new seven-seat car model joining the product line is called LM350h, price RM1,228,000 on the road without insurance, while the ridiculously luxurious four-seat layout is retained on the LM500h, which now costs a lot RM1,468,000.

The new LM may still be based on the Alphard and share many of that car’s mechanical features, but there are so many changes that it now has its own AW10 codename (which, ironically, is shared with the AW10/AW11 Toyota). Original MR2; current Alphard/Vellfire is AH40 ). Nowhere is this more evident than under the bonnet, where the LM – at least in Malaysia – is the only one of the trio with a hybrid-only product line.

Lexus no longer has a six-cylinder engine – instead it is only equipped with four cylinders. The LM350h uses Toyota’s tried-and-true Hybrid Synergy Drive powertrain, which includes a 2.5-liter A25A-FXS naturally aspirated Atkinson cycle engine that produces 190 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and Maximum torque of 239 Nm from 4,300 to 4,500 rpm.

This is connected to an eCVT with twin electric motors, which produce 182 PS and 270 Nm and create a total system output of 250 PS – all of which is sent to the front wheels. So equipped, the LM350h can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 9.1 seconds before reaching a top speed of 190 km/h, while combined fuel consumption is rated at 5 .5 liters/100 km.

Step up to the LM500h and you get an altogether more serious Direct4 all-wheel-drive parallel hybrid powertrain, upgraded straight from the RX500h. This focuses on the 2.4-liter T24A-FTS turbocharged engine that produces 275 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 460 Nm of torque between 2,000 and 3,000 rpm, mated to an automatic transmission. 6-speed engine combined with 87 PS/292 Nm electric motor.

A separate 103 PS/169 Nm motor drives the rear wheels, contributing to a total system output of 371 PS and 550 Nm. This reduces the century sprint time by more than two seconds (to 6.9 seconds), but the top speed is also reduced to 185 km/h. With the extra power, it’s no surprise that fuel consumption also increases to 6.6 liters/100 km.

The difference between Lexus and Toyota models also lies in the exterior. For the first time, the LM uses bespoke sheetmetal, meaning it’s almost impossible for an Alphard owner to pull off a convincing “conversion” at this point.

The side body panels with their intersecting shoulder lines are unique, as are the black A-pillars and body-colored reverse D-pillar fins. The window line also drops down on the B-pillar (instead of rising up on the Toyota), giving trailers in the rear better visibility out.

Up front, you’ll find Lexus’ latest “spindle body” grille (an evolution of the brand’s signature “spindle grille”), which comes with a satin stamped finish hot for the silver inlays – a first for a Lexus. On both sides are three-projector LED headlights with L-shaped daytime running lights above and below.

Just like the Alphard, the LM switched to the K variant of Toyota’s new Global Architecture (GA-K), which featured front MacPherson struts and double-wishbone rear suspension. For the first time, the LM features adaptive dampers with frequency-selective valves, plus a unique Rear Comfort driving mode that reduces vibrations in the cabin. Active noise cancellation has also been added.

With a length of 5,125 mm, width of 1,890 mm and height of 1,955 mm, the new LM is 85 mm longer, 40 mm wider and 45 mm higher than before although the 3,000 mm wheelbase is still retained. Compared to the Alphard, the Lexus is 115 mm longer, 40 mm wider and 5 mm longer.

Inside, the LM features Lexus’ Tazuna infotainment interface that first appeared on the second-generation NX, combining a 12.3-inch digital clock display, a 14-inch central touchscreen, and buttons. rotating physical climate controls and the removal of the terrible Remote Touch pad.

In the back, the four-seat LM500h still has two business-class-style seats with padded ottomans and heating, ventilation and massage functions (which can now be operated via two smartphone-like tablets detachable), but now they have access to a much larger 48-48. inch widescreen, with full split-screen functionality and dual HDMI inputs to support this. Instead, the LM350h gets a 14-inch roof-mounted display.

The LM500h’s large screen is mounted on a large bulkhead between the front and rear cabins, featuring a retractable electrochromic glass screen and a die-cast magnesium frame for increased rigidity. Unique to the more expensive model is the refrigerator, large double storage compartments and umbrella holders on both sides. Both variants feature a double glass roof, a magnesium folding table with leather surfaces and electric sunshades on all windows.

Standard equipment includes keyless entry, push-button start, Lexus Air Conditioning System with four zones, Mark Levinson Reference sound system (with 21 speakers for LM350h and 23 speakers for LM500h) and 360-degree camera system with “see through function. Unlike the previous model, you no longer get a front sunroof, and while Qi wireless chargers are still available, they’re now only found in the rear.

In terms of safety, all models are equipped with the Lexus Safety System+ driver assistance suite, including automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control with stop and go function, and lane centering assist. , blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert with automatic braking. New for 2024 are camera-based driver attention monitoring, parking assist and front cross-traffic alert, as well as automatic braking.

COLLECTION: Lexus LM500h

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