Lexus is set to unveil the successor to its luxurious minivan, the LM, exactly four years after its original debut. The new LM will make its grand entrance at the upcoming Shanghai Auto Show on April 18 and has been teased by the automaker with a single photo. Notably, this unveiling marks a milestone for the LM as it will be the first time the opulent minivan is made available in Europe, having been exclusively offered in select Asian markets such as China until now.
The exact nature of the teased model, whether it is a facelift or an entirely new generation of the Lexus LM, remains unclear. Nevertheless, from the shadowy photo revealing the rear profile, it appears that the exterior has undergone significant revisions. Most notably, the D-pillar and taillight clusters have been completely reimagined, alongside a bold new rear spoiler.
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The outgoing Lexus LM, which stands for Luxury Mover, is based on the third-gen Toyota Alphard / Vellfire. The large minivan measures 5,040 mm (198.4 inches) long and is available in either a seven-seater or four-seater configuration, with the latter featuring a large screen for the rear passengers. In terms of powertrains, the LM 300h is equipped with a hybrid 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, while the LM 350 is powered by a 3.5-liter V6.
With the arrival of the new LM in Europe, it is expected that the minivan will be electrified to comply with the continent’s stringent emissions regulations. According to Lexus, the new model is set to deliver the “ultimate hospitality and comfort,” and will serve as its “flagship MPV.” As the brand’s only minivan offering, the LM stands out in a lineup dominated by SUVs.
We’ll know more about the new LM at the upcoming Shanghai Auto Show on April 18th. Minivans are a popular choice in China and other Asian markets, where the Lexus LM will face plenty of competition. However, in Europe, the market for luxury minivans is more limited with only a few light commercial van-based proposals as potential rivals to the new Lexus model.
