Unveiling the pinnacle of luxury people carriers, Lexus presents the second iteration of the coveted LM model, expected to make its grand entrance on Australian soil within the next year. This deluxe mover, officially unveiled in Shanghai, aims to fill the niche market for plush people movers.

Offering an impressive silhouette, the all-new 2024 Lexus LM stretches to 5125mm in length, 1890mm in width, and stands 1945mm tall on a 3000mm wheelbase. Its dimensions position it slightly compact compared to its contemporaries, including the Toyota Granvia and the Kia Carnival, without compromising the luxury interior space Lexus is renowned for.

Lexus took the LM a notch higher by trading its previous 3.5-litre V6 engine with a more refined 2.4-litre turbocharged hybrid powertrain, akin to the one found in the Lexus RX500h F Sport Performance, adorning the LM500h badge in its flagship model. However, the three-row versions of the LM will continue to feature a 2.5-litre four-cylinder hybrid engine.

A highlight of the new Lexus LM is the exquisite interior, offering a "personal luxury suite," as described by Lexus Australia's Chief Executive John Pappas. Depending on the chosen variant, buyers can indulge in four-, six-, or seven-seater arrangements. The exclusive four-seater model sports a lavish partition between the two rows, equipped with a 48-inch widescreen display designed for entertainment or business interactions.

In the realm of comfort, Lexus outdoes itself with individual captain’s chairs complemented by retractable ottomans and armrests that feature a non-slip leather-trimmed table. The new LM also introduces a Rear Climate Concierge that masterfully controls various cabin features, such as air-conditioning, lighting, seat positioning, and sunshades.

Boasting 64-colour ambient lighting and a keen focus on reducing noise and harshness, the new LM ensures a tranquil cabin environment. Lexus promises a "gently enveloping" seat design using two types of shock-absorbing material for the second-row seats and thickened cushions in the third-row seats.

Externally, the new LM carries forward Lexus’s iconic design language, with the striking spindle grille and a choice of 17- or 19-inch alloy wheels. The sleek and enclosed grille design shares a distinct similarity with the latest RX, while the floating effect on the D-pillar echoes the same vibe.

This "L-Series flagship" model marks a significant milestone in Lexus's global expansion strategy, with plans to make the LM available in over 60 countries. Its launch in Australia places it as a competitor to the Mercedes-Benz V-Class, opening up a new segment for luxury movers.

Details on the LM's exact Australian launch date, specifications, and pricing are yet to be released. However, with its opulent features and refined hybrid powertrains, the Lexus LM stands as an epitome of luxury and performance in the people mover segment.