Lexus to launch 1 new model in Malaysia in 2024; is it the all-new LM, RZ BEV, or LBX?
Sanjay · Dec 5, 2023 11:20 AM
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Lexus will be introducing at least one new model in Malaysia next year, according to the company's latest press statement.
However, that one-liner in the release doesn't tell all too much about what model it could be, though realistically it could be either the all-new 2024 Lexus LM, Lexus LBX, or the battery-electric (BEV) Lexus RZ.
These are the three most plausible ones, given that the rest of the range have either not been updated yet or, not quite suitable, or no longer offered. For example, the Lexus LX has been taken off Lexus' local site and isn't sold here anymore.
The IS? As covered in an earlier report, sales of sports sedans aren't the strongest here, and coupled with the CBU (fully-imported from Japan) status of the car, prices wouldn't be very favourable for it.
Anyway, here's a quick recap of what the Lexus LM, LBX, and RZ offer, though of the trio, it's the LM that's the most likely as its preceding generation was also offered here.
2024 Lexus LM
The second-generation LM was introduced to the world in April 2023, and since then it has gone on sale in various markets around the world, Japan and more recently, Thailand. As we know it, it's the AH40 Alphard's ultra-luxury twin, coming with a 4-seater setup, and all sorts of comforts inside.
Key features include a trick Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) that minimises vibration for the passengers, a 48-inch screen at the back for meetings or entertainment, and chairs with massage functions.
Sitting on the TNGA-K platform, the LM comes with a hybrid-only powerplant, at least in Japan and Thailand. That is the 2.5-litre naturally-aspirated 4-cylinder A25A-FXS unit, paired to a hybrid battery and electric motors, to make a combined 250 PS and 239 Nm.
Prices? Expect it to go up significantly over the last-gen model, which was sold here for upwards of RM 1,208,000.
2024 Lexus LBX
Lexus' smallest crossover yet, the LBX is essentially a Toyota Yaris Cross (Specs | News) turned up all the way to 11. It's the brand's entry-level model, and that's reflected in it being the carmaker's first model to offer a torsion beam rear suspension.
It appears that the LBX will be available exclusively as a hybrid, with models overseas getting both front wheel- and all-wheel drive versions. Under the hood is a 1.5-litre 3-cylinder engine, producing 134 PS and 185 Nm.
But its B-segment roots doesn't mean it will be the 'cheapest Lexus', literally or figuratively. Short-pitch spot welding, and expanded use of structural adhesives were applied, while high-dampening adhesives were put on in areas closer to occupants, to reduce vibration.
This is in addition to revised engine mount locations, dampeners, revised exhaust piping, and more sound absorption layers to bump it to Lexus' typical quality.
2024 Lexus RZ
The Lexus RZ is the marque's first dedicated BEV, sitting on the same e-TNGA platform that underpins the Toyota bZ4X.
It has the DIRECT4 all-wheel drive setup, so there's one electric motor (204 PS/265 Nm) on the front axle, and another one (109 PS/170 Nm) at the back, for a total system output of 313 PS and 435 Nm.
Underneath it all is a lithium-ion (Li-Ion) battery with 71.4 kWh of capacity, rated at 402 km of range following the WLTP standard. It supports AC charging at 11 kW max, with a full charge taking 6.5 hours, while 150 kW DC fast charging (Type 2) can bring the battery from 0-80% in just half an hour.
8-way powered front seats that are also heated and ventilated, as well as a 14-inch infotainment touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay, and a 10-speaker Lexus Premium Audio sound system are some of the standard kit inside the RZ.
With humble beginnings collecting diecast models and spending hours virtually tuning dream cars on the computer, his love of cars has delightfully transformed into a career. Sanjay enjoys how the same passion for cars transcends boundaries and brings people together.