Luxurious Lexus LM 350 Launched In Malaysia
Lexus Malaysia has launched the new Lexus LM 350 MPV, slightly earlier than previously scheduled. The MPV term is used quite loosely here as this has more of a single purpose i.e. as a business-class ‘Luxury Mover’. This flagship suite on wheels from the Japanese premium marque arrives fully imported and has a retail price of RM1,148,000 (on the road without insurance).
The Lexus LM 350 raises the stakes in the luxury transportation segment with the refinement and craftsmanship offered, in line with the brand’s ‘omotenashi‘ philosophy of providing hospitality and service beyond expectations. With an overall length of 5,040 mm, width of 1,850 mm and height of 1,895 mm, the LM 350 offers plenty of room for a maximum of four occupants.
The ultra-premium interior of this chauffeur-driven vehicle is designed to pamper the rear occupants with privacy and relaxation. With only four seats in the vehicle, the LM 350 provides a luxurious, personal space for those constantly on the move. Accessed through powered sliding doors, the rear features just two VIP lounge seats with ottomans, allowing for plenty of legroom and more. The seats can recline fully and are made with Adaptipedic memory foam to provide the highest level of comfort. The seats feature 7-mode massage function as well as individual cooling and heating.
Lexus engineers had added a partition between the front and rear seats to increase privacy. A unique glass panel sits in this partition, and can be raised to provide further acoustic isolation. Electronic particles within the glass panel can also change the opacity to ensure greater privacy. With the view to the cabin’s rear obscured, the driver relies on a camera in the tailgate for rear visibility. Additionally, the interior wood ornamentation is inspired by the intricate ‘gin-sui-boku‘, the Japanese art of ink wash painting. While the twin moon roofs provide the option of a more open ambience. Cabin ambience also benefits from the 18″ aluminium noise-reducing wheels.
Entertainment for the rear occupants is provided by a 19-speaker Mark Levinson QLI Reference Surround Sound System with a dynamic full-bodied sound stage, as well as a 26″ HD display panel with multiple playback functions (including Blu-ray) and connectivity options set into the partition.
Other key features in the cabin include a 3-zone climate control with pollen filter and Nanoe negative ion generator, fold-out magazine rack, a 14L mini fridge, LED ambient lighting, as well as large cubicles on either side of the vehicle.
For the driver, there is a 12.3″ Electro Multi-Vision touchscreen display to access the vehicle’s functions, navigation and entertainment; these can be accessed via the touch pad as well. Furthermore, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and Qi wireless charging are available.
“With its outstanding comfort, sophisticated beauty and exceptional functionality, the Lexus LM 350 has single-handedly redefined the luxury MPV segment by taking fine automobile experiences where no luxury automobile has been,” said Mr Ravindran K., President of Lexus Malaysia.
Moving this Luxury Mover is a 3.5L quad cam V6 2GR-FKS engine with an output of 296 hp @ 6,000 rpm and 361 Nm @4,700 rpm, that is paired with a direct shift 8-speed automatic transmission to ensure a smooth and effortless ride. Ride quality is also enhanced by the Lexus-engineered suspension system that employs swing valve shock absorbers. With the ultra-low velocity valves within the shock absorbers, the Lexus LM 350 is able to finely control there oil flow thus allowing it to be more responsive to compensate for road imperfections.
“The LM 350 undoubtedly evolves the concept of the luxury chauffeured vehicle,” said Mr Akio Takeyama, Deputy Chairman of Lexus Malaysia. “By infusing the Lexus’ innovative approach in vehicular manufacturing, cutting-edge technology and Takumi craftsmanship, the model exudes a fresh expression of model luxury that is second to none. It is a vehicle that places a premium on precious personal time by providing the ultimate relaxing space to ease the mind, restore energy and inspire the spirit while on the move,” he elaborated.
Safety is enhanced by the Lexus Safety System+ suite which includes Front Pre-Collision System (PCS) with automatic emergency braking, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC) with Stop & Go function, Lane Tracing Assist (LTA), Lane Departure Alert (LDA), and Adaptive High-beam System (AHS). Other safety features include Blind Spot Monitor, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Vehicle Stability Control, Traction Control,d Tyre Pressure Monitoring System and 7 SRS airbags.
Lexus has also fitted a Panoramic View Monitor as well as a Reverse Parking Assist Monitor with Clearance and Back Sonar, to assist in parking this large MPV.
The front of the LM 350 is dominated by the large signature spindle grille with chrome surround, and a pair of slim 3-beam LED projector headlights with the distinctive Lexus daytime running lights.
The Lexus LM 350 comes in either White Pearl Crystal Shine or Black exterior, with interior in either White or Black. It is covered by a comprehensive 5-year unlimited mileage warranty and is now available at all authorised Lexus Centres nationwide. The early buyers of the LM 350 are expected to receive their brand new luxury mover shipped from Inabe, Japan as early as July.
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