So far, only the hybrid version LM 300h is available for order with a base price of 1 million 166 thousand yuan (about $170,000). For comparison, the Toyota Alphard with an identical powertrain in China costs from 800 thousand yuan (about $117,000).
The Lexus LM is based on the current Toyota Alphard — the minivans have the same wheelbase of 3000 millimeters and a similar interior layout, but due to the difference in body panels, the Lexus is 65 millimeters longer than the Toyota. Technically, the LM differs from the Alphard only in recalibrated shock absorbers.
At the start of sales, the LM is available in only two trim levels and two color options — black and white. The base seven-seat Elegance version has a seat configuration of 2+2+3, while the luxurious four-seat Royal Edition has 2+2. The top trim will cost 1 million 466 thousand yuan (about $214,000). Unlike the Alphard, the second-row seats in the LM are separated from the front by a partition.
In the Royal version, the partition between the cabin and the driver consists of electrochromic glass with a built-in 26-inch screen. The multi-contour second-row seats are equipped with ventilation, heating, massage, ottoman, and many electric adjustments. A special niche can cool a couple of bottles of champagne. In addition, the minivan's interior can be turned into a mini-cinema: 19 speakers are responsible for the audio setup.
The hybrid powertrain of the LM 300h version consists of a naturally aspirated 2.5-liter gasoline engine and two electric motors. The system's output has not yet been announced; likely, on the "three-hundredth" Lexus, the hybrid produces the same 197 horsepower as on the Toyota Alphard. In the future, the lineup will include the LM 350 modification with a 3.5-liter V6 gasoline engine producing about 300 horsepower. The minivans can be ordered with front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.
Delivery of the Lexus LM to Chinese customers will begin in February. Within a year, Lexus may expand sales beyond China, but it is unlikely the model will be offered outside Asia.
