Lexus expands its product catalog in Spain with the launch of the LM, a luxury minivan equipped with all kinds of exclusive equipment that seeks to raise occupant comfort to the highest level. This model, which was already being marketed in Asia and will land in Europe from autumn, has been presented after the renewal of the SUV NX, RX and the electric RZ. As the "L" designation advances, the LM is a reference car for a premium firm, along with the LS sedan and the LC sports car.
It is a vehicle designed for the transport of passengers; a kind of limousine in van format that is the premium version of the Toyota Alphard (we must not forget that both brands are part of the same automobile group).
The seats are designed for excellent support and comfort; the cabin environment is precisely controlled in terms of temperature, air quality and lighting; and has easy and intuitive access to connectivity and entertainment features, including a 48-inch HD widescreen monitor and custom Mark Levinson 3D surround sound system. You can also have a fridge.
The model has a length of 513 centimeters long, 189 cm wide and 195 cm high. It is available in two versions, one with four seats and the other with seven. The latter gives priority to passengers in the middle row in terms of space and accessibility of functions; the latter, with three folding seats, can be folded down when more boot space is needed.
The four-seater variant represents the pinnacle of luxury, with two multifunction rear seats and a 48-inch widescreen with surround sound (mounts 23 speakers -21 in the 7-seater). Users can project content directly from their smartphone or tablet, or connect to the display via two HDMI ports. The system can be used for entertainment or to hold business meetings online. In addition, the passenger compartment has a glass panel that can be darkened for greater privacy.
In Europe, the model will be offered as the LM 350h, with the 2.5-litre self-charging hybrid electric motor developing 250PS and a maximum torque of 239Nm. Its top speed reaches 190 km/h. As standard, it mounts E-Four electronic all-wheel drive, with an increase in the level of rear torque distribution, to provide the vehicle with greater stability in curves and contribute to the comfort of the rear seats.
In terms of safety, it is equipped with the latest generation of Lexus Safety System driving assistance, which is also fitted to the new NX, RX and RZ models. Optionally the package of standard aids can be extended with other additional technologies.
By design, van-type people movers have a high center of gravity, making ride quality more susceptible to the effects of crosswinds and the pavement surface. To mitigate these aspects, Lexus has introduced all kinds of improvements. From the outset, the use of the GA-K global architecture platform combines the advantages of a lower center of gravity and increased rigidity. Likewise, the weight has been reduced with the use of aluminum and thin steel sheets in the external panels.
The brand has also done a great job designing the seats to optimize the experience on board. And it is that, usually, the occupants of vehicles of this nature are in a high position and have a higher center of gravity, so it is more likely that they will notice a lateral movement. That's why the LM's seats are developed to counteract head roll, which stabilizes passengers' line of sight, and reduces uncomfortable low-frequency vibrations. Everything so that the trip is luxurious in all aspects.
