Next-Generation 2024 Lexus LM Debuts As A Hybrid And With More Luxury

The Lexus LM is one of the best-selling models of the Japanese luxury automaker in the Philippines, so the launch of a next-generation model is indeed important. This is the 2024 Lexus LM, which has been revealed today at the Shanghai Auto Show since China is its biggest market. The new LM also serves as a preview of what the next-generation Toyota Alphard will look like.

Migrating towards the TNGA-K platform that’s also shared with Lexus NX and RX, the LM has 50 percent higher torsional rigidity. Migrating to the new platform also means that it now inherits many of the current Lexus design cues, such as the frameless “Spindle Body” grille design that debuted in the RX. The lines have also been smoothened out for a cleaner appearance, while the tighter panel gaps not only make it look cleaner but also improve aerodynamics. Wheel sizes range from 17 to 19 inches, depending on the variant, while the rear end of the LM also ditches the Lexus emblem in favor of the Lexus script being proudly displayed on top of the full-width LED taillights.

Measuring 5,125 mm long (+85 mm(, 1,890 mm wide (+40 mm), and 1,955 mm tall (+10 mm) with a 3,000 mm wheelbase, the new LM is marginally bigger in every dimension than the outgoing model.

The interior of the 2024 Lexus LM also adopts similar design cues that bring this luxury MPV in line with the rest of the model range. This includes a sculpted dash design with a generous serving of wood and leather, as well as ditching the touchpad-based Remote Touch Interface for the new Lexus Interface infotainment. Panel gaps and window trimmings have been simplified as a way to reduce visual noise, thus making the interior feel more like a living room.

Just like the outgoing model, the new LM is available in various seating configurations. Beginning with the six- and seven-seater layout, this comes with two power-adjustable captain’s chairs with ottomans in the second row while the third row can either be a three-person bench seat or a two-person bench seat with a foldable center armrest. This layout also features an overhead console that serves as a place for storage as well as a fridge that’s located behind the front center console.

The most luxurious layout is the four-seater model, as this ditches the third row altogether in favor of two armchairs. More privacy is also added courtesy of the power-deployable sunshades on all windows as well as the partition that separates the rear occupants from the driver. Behind the partition is a massive 48-inch screen where VIPs can link their laptop for work. Speaking of laptops, the armchairs also contain leather-wrapped folding tables that are stored under the center armrests like as if you’re seated in a first-class airplane seat.

Other features that the 2024 Lexus LM gets include a 64-c0lor ambient lighting system, an optional Mark Levinson surround sound system, and touch screens on the rear captain’s seats or the lounge armchairs for the four-seater version, just to name a few.

As mentioned, the 2024 Lexus LM only comes as a hybrid this time around, which means you have to say goodbye to the V6. In lieu of that is a 2.4-liter turbo four-cylinder mated to electric motors driving the rear wheels, thus making it all-wheel drive (AWD). If this sounds familiar, that’s because it’s the same 371-horsepower powertrain that’s found in the RX 500h F Sport Performance which means this gets a 6-speed automatic. The other hybrid drivetrain is a 2.5-liter non-turbo four-cylinder that’s also from the RX, and this has a system output of 246 horsepower and an e-CVT.

On top of the new TNGA-K platform, the LM also now features the brand’s Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) for the first time. There’s also a new Rear Comfort driving mode that prioritizes rear seat comfort by reducing the swaying motions during acceleration and braking. Combined with the thicker glass and sound insulation, the LM is expected to feel more dynamic yet comfortable and luxurious than ever before.

The 2024 Lexus LM will be sold in 60 countries around the world before the end of the year. Considering how popular the LM is in the Philippine market, expect this luxury MPV to be launched sooner rather than later, probably in just a year’s time.