This “Luxury Mover” – is the fourth model in the Lexus Next Chapter, following the successful introduction of the all-new NX, RX and all-electric RZ SUVs. It is the latest stage in a complete product line-up renewal that includes new platforms, new powertrains and innovative technologies.
THE ALL-NEW LEXUS LM
Lexus’ aim was to create a first-class interior that’s as a comfortable as a living room and has all the convenience of a mobile office, a dual quality unmatched by any other vehicle on the market. This is a space where passengers can enjoy complete relaxation and be their natural selves.
In developing the LM concept, Lexus conducted research with private jet manufacturers and hyper-affluent customers. Their findings confirmed that customers perceive the highest standard of luxury to be when their surroundings make them feel completely rested, both physically and mentally. This quality is rated even more highly than having access to advanced technologies and functions.
Lexus has applied this learning to designing a vehicle where occupants feel just completely relaxed with “no hassle,” personalised comfort. This is the Lexus Omotenashi hospitality principle of making people feel as welcome and cared for as you would guests in your home.
Development of the LM, in common with all new Lexus models, has been wholly human centred.
The primary focus has been on the comfort and well-being of passengers with a cabin that takes Lexus’ Omotenashi hospitality to an unprecedented level. Every detail is designed to make passengers feel completely at home and perfectly cared for, whether they want to relax or work while on the move. Seats are designed for perfect support and comfort; the cabin environment is precisely controlled for temperature, air quality and lighting; and there is easy, intuitive access to connectivity and entertainment, including a 48-inch HD widescreen monitor and bespoke Mark Levinson 3D Surround Sound reference audio system.
Quick and intuitive adjustment of multiple cabin features and functions is provided by a controller, designed like a smartphone. This can be used to manage the audio system, climate control settings, seat functions, interior lighting and the window blinds.
The new LM is also the world’s first model to provide a voice recognition function that responds specifically to commands from rear seat passengers.
In the four-seat LM, the lower section of the cabin partition houses a 48-inch widescreen HD monitor, positioned at the optimum angle for viewing. There are three viewing modes: full screen, cinema and separate left and right screens showing independent content (with individual left/right headsets).
Users can project content directly from their smartphone or tablet, or connect to the screen via two HDMI ports. The system can be used for entertainment, or for online business meetings.
In the seven-seat model there is a 14-inch rear multimedia display which can be operated independently from the one in the front console.
Lexus has developed its Climate Concierge system for the new LM, extending its features and functionality beyond air conditioning to cover more aspects of the cabin environment. The breadth of service it provides can be compared to a personal “butler” ensuring everything meets the user’s requirements.
Personal preferences for the air conditioning, the rear cabin lighting, the window shades and the seat recline position can be selected with one-touch control, with operation tailored for each individual occupant.
With the new LM, Lexus is delivering “ultimate Omotenashi,” with personalised luxury, comfort and well-being in every detail.
The centre partition in the four-seat model has a clear glass upper section, giving rear seat passengers a direct view of the road ahead. This can be opened or closed, and, when privacy is desired, it can be dimmed at the touch of a button.
The cabin is illuminated by indirect, ambient lighting in the ceiling and side trim, with further ceiling-mounted spotlights and, in the four-seat model, shadow lighting at floor level. The interior can be enhanced with a wide range of different ambient lighting colour settings, include 14 shades curated in five different mood themes: Healing, Relaxing, Arousing, Focusing and Exhilarating.
True to the principles of Omotenashi, the driver’s cockpit is designed with same attention to detail as other new Lexus models. Thus, the arrangement of the principal controls, meters and information sources follows the Tazuna concept, so the driver needs only to make small hand or eye movements and can keep their attention focused on the road ahead. “Tazuna” is the Japanese word which describes the same sort of intuitive control a rider has of their horse, through gentle adjustment of the reins.
The cockpit layout contributes to the Lexus Driving Signature, helping the driver enjoy a constant sense of control and connection with the vehicle and comfort on any journey. To help make the driver feel at one with the car, the steering wheel being moved closer to the driver and set at a more upright angle, and the position of the pedals and foot rest has been precisely calculated.
The new LM displays Lexus “Next Chapter” design, developed on the theme of “dignified elegance.” The result is unique and confident road presence with proportions that make for ease of use and manoeuvrability. Overall length is 5,130 mm, width 1,890 mm and height 1,945 mm. The generous width, height and 3,000 mm wheelbase are key to maximising space for rear passengers.
The bold frontal treatment introduces a new Lexus identity with a “breaking” of the familiar spindle grille. The spindle shape has been compressed to create a large lower grille section beneath a slim aperture below the leading edge of the bonnet, linking the headlights. The LM’s flowing lines are accentuated by blacked-out front and rear pillars while an open feel is generated by the large glass area all-round. Easy access is provided by large sliding side doors.
Wheel options are 17 cast or 19-inch forged alloys and colour choices reflect the LM’s prestige, including three deep-lustre “sonic” finishes.
The latest portfolio includes expanded functions for the Pre-Collision System, including emergency Steering Assist, and the Adaptive Cruise Control, together with Proactive Driving Assist for safer driving in slower, urban traffic. A Driver Monitor keeps a constant check on the driver’s alertness and will bring the car gently to a halt and trigger the eCall system to summon help if there is no response to warning alerts. The doors – including the sliding rear doors - are fitted with Lexus’ smooth e-latch electronic opening system, with Safe Exit Assist to warn of approaching traffic from the rear and prevent inadvertent opening that might cause an accident.
With the benefit of over-the-air technology, software upgrades can be seamlessly delivered, ensuring owners enjoy the benefits of the latest developments without having to take their vehicle to a service centre.
A COMPLETE LEXUS SAFETY SYSTEM + PACKAGE
The LM is equipped with the latest generation of Lexus Safety System + active safety and driver assistance systems, as also featured in the new NX, RX and RZ models. These are able to detect an even wider range of accident risks and provide alerts and steering, braking and drive force support when required, to help avoid or mitigate an impact. They are tuned to operate in a way that feels natural and reassuring to the driver. The operating scope also reduces the burden of driving, helping reduce fatigue and maintain driver alertness.
