Lexus LM 350h MPV deliveries begin in India: Why it’s the most expensive MPV in the country

Lexus India recently launched the Lexus LM 350h luxury MPV in the Indian market. And now, the deliveries of the MPV have begun. The LM 350h is available in both four and seven-seater versions priced at Rs 2 crore and 2.50 crore, respectively (both prices Ex-showroom). The Lexus LM 350h is now the flagship Lexus model and also the most expensive MPV in the country.

So what makes the Lexus LM the most expensive MPV in the country? The first reason is because it comes to India as a completely built-up (CBU) vehicle and is subject to high import duties and taxes. The LM also has high demand in the global markets and is a niche product with limited availability in India, which enhances its exclusivity. Lexus being a premium luxury brand, and the LM positioned as a high-end MPV with a brand’s reputation for quality, reliability, and luxury commands a premium price in the market.

In terms of design, the LM features a big spindle grille with sleek LED headlamps. It also gets a large windscreen with vertical housings for the fog lamps. On the sides, it gets a large glasshouse with a subtle kink at the B-pillar and has electric sliding rear doors. At the rear, it gets full-width LED tail lights with LEXUS lettering. The LM measures 5,130mm in length, 1,890mm in width and 1,945mm in height.

In terms of features, the LM gets fold-out tables, heated armrests, USB ports, wireless phone chargers, reading lights, vanity mirrors, an umbrella holder, a small fridge, dual sunroof, a touchscreen controller for the HVAC, interior lighting, window blinds and more. The 4-seater version additionally gets a 48-inch display paired with a 23-speaker audio system and a partition between the driver and the rear compartment.

Safety features include a digital rearview mirror, a 360-degree camera, multiple airbags, ABS and a system+ 3 suite of ADAS tech that includes vehicle detection – stationary/preceding vehicle, dynamic radar cruise control, lane departure alert with steering assist, lane tracing assist, automatic high beam, blind spot monitor, safe exit assist and more.

The Lexus LM 350h is based on the same platform as the Toyota Vellfire and gets the same engine too. The luxury MPV is built on a GA-K modular platform and is powered by a 2.5-litre, 4-cylinder strong hybrid engine with a combined output of 250hp and 239Nm. It comes paired with an eCVT gearbox which sends power to all four wheels. The electric motor is paired with a nickel-metal hydride battery and it has claimed fuel efficiency of over 19 kmpl.