Just when you thought that they can’t top the first-gen Lexus LM, comes this one.
Lexus recently celebrated the world premiere of the all-new second-generation Lexus LM, which hints at what the next-gen Alphard or Vellfire could look like.
Beginning with China, the second-generation LM will be launched in over 60 countries worldwide, including for the first time in Europe and also Japan.
Although the shape of the Lexus LM remains the same, the front design further evolves the Spindle Body, the identity of Lexus. By applying the exterior color to the grille, the strong extruded spindle shape is expressed as a seamless integral part of the body.
In addition to the three-row 6- and 7-seat configurations, the new LM is also available as a 4-seat model designed for dedicated use as a chauffeur-driven MPV.
Among the main highlights of the 4-seater variant is that a partition separates the front and rear seats. While the upper portion houses a retractable glass window with dimming function, below is a large 48-inch widescreen display that can be used for a variety of purposes including online meetings and entertainment. A refrigerator and storage spaces are also located under the display.
The speakers, refrigerator, storage compartments, and other functions are integrated into the design elements, while great care has been taken to minimize the panel gaps between components in an effort to make the cabin quieter.
For seat development, Lexus says that passenger body movements were thoroughly analyzed to ensure a naturally relaxed state for both body and mind no matter where you are sitting. While the front seats optimize surface pressure distribution on the seat cushion to hold the body regardless of the amount of G-force during turning, the second-row seats feature two types of shock-absorbing materials with different characteristics to gently envelop and support the passengers, from vehicle standstill to when the vehicle is in motion.
For the first time, Lexus features “AVS Suspension with Frequency-Sensitive Piston Valve”, which combines an Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) actuator and a frequency-sensitive piston valve in the shock absorber. Also available for the first time in a Lexus vehicle is the “Rear Comfort” drive mode which emphasises on rear-seat comfort.
In addition to the specific countermeasures for road noise around the tires and for wind noise around the hood and pillars, acoustic glass was used to help reduce high-frequency wind noise. Also, cabin noise was greatly reduced by placing carefully calculated amounts and thicknesses of sound-absorbing, sound-insulating, and vibration-damping materials in appropriate places throughout the vehicle.
In typical Lexus fashion, the interior incorporates exquisite craftsmanship based on a human-centered approach. The aim was to create a relaxing, lounge-like environment by taking advantage of the generous interior height of the vehicle and offer an airy, comfortable space with a seamless design characterized by clean horizontal and vertical lines.
In the front seats, a modern and spacious interior incorporates the Lexus Tazuna Cockpit concept, complemented by the simple instrument panel and console that create an environment where the driver can concentrate on driving.
A total of 64 illumination colors are available as well, including 14 themed colors and 50 custom colors that can be selected according to preference. Each color scheme has its own theme, such as “soothing” or “relaxing” and passengers can choose the color scheme that suites their mood or objective.
The “Rear Climate Concierge,” a Lexus first that provides integrated control of elements such as air-conditioning, seat position, sunshades, and lighting, helps create an optimal cabin environment for passengers. In addition to four preset modes, customizable modes are available to suit the individual preferences of the passengers.
Taking this further, a dedicated rear seat Warmth-Sensing IR (Infrared) Matrix Sensor is also located on the upper center portion of the partition to detect the temperature of occupants and the parts of the vehicle that affect ambient temperature such as the windows, trim, and ceiling.
The retractable table, which fits inside the armrest, is large enough to rest a tablet device or notebook PC. It has a leather-wrapped surface with improved texture and a non-slip, non-scratch finish.
Where safety is concerned, there is the Lexus Safety System + which comprises features like Pre-Crash Safety, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Lane Departure Alert, Abnormal Driver Response System, as well as Proactive Driving Assist.
Last but not least, the Lexus LM’s powertrain options include a 2.4L inline 4-cylinder turbo hybrid system with eAxle, and 2.5L inline 4-cylinder hybrid system.
