The second-generation 2024 Lexus LM has launched in Malaysia. Based on the fourth-generation Toyota Alphard but decked out a whole lot more, the LM is now only available with a hybrid powertrain here.

As before the distinguishing factor are the powertrains and their seating configurations. The seven-seater LM350h is priced from RM1,228,000 on-the-road without insurance, while the four-seat LM500h starts from RM1,468,000.

The LM350h features a 2.5-litre A25A-FXS Dynamic Force naturally-aspirated engine producing 190 PS and 239 Nm of torque, and when paired with an eCVT and twin electric motors, delivers a total system output of 250 PS.

The LM350h accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in 9.1 seconds and has a top speed of 190 km/h, with a combined fuel consumption of 5.5 litres per 100 km.

For more performance, the LM500h uses a Direct4 all-wheel-drive parallel hybrid powertrain from the RX500h. It features a 2.4-litre T24A-FTS turbocharged engine producing 275 PS and 460 Nm, coupled with a six-speed automatic gearbox and two electric motors, generating a total system output of 371 PS.

This configuration allows the LM500h to reach 100 km/h in 6.9 seconds, with a top speed of 185 km/h and a fuel consumption of 6.6 litres per 100 km.

It's not just a fancier skin on the outside; the LM actually uses unique sheet metal to give it its distinct intersecting shoulder lines and truly set it apart from the range. At the front, the LM sports Lexus’ latest "spindle body" grille with a satin finish and triple-projector LED headlights with L-shaped daytime running lights.

The wheels are now 19 inches in diameter, an inch larger than before. The rear of the LM features U-shaped full-width taillights joined by an illuminated bar and the Lexus script. Tailgate buttons have been repositioned for convenience too.

Moving inside, the LM is as bespoke as its exterior, with high-end materials such as semi-aniline leather in Solis White or Black, Yabane herringbone matte wood trim, and Ultrasuede. The LM350h features a Bengala wood-trimmed steering wheel, while the LM500h has a full-leather, heated steering wheel.

The LM500h’s rear cabin includes two fully reclinable business class-style seats with ottoman, heating, ventilation, and massage functions, controlled via removable tablets. The centerpiece is a 48-inch widescreen display with split-screen functionality and twin HDMI inputs.

A partition with an electrochromic glass screen and die-cast magnesium frame separates the front and rear cabins. Additional features include a fridge, twin storage compartments, and umbrella holders.

The LM350h offers power-adjustable captain’s chairs in the second row and a 14-inch ceiling-mounted rear monitor. Both variants come with twin glass roof panels, leather-covered magnesium folding tables, and powered sunshades on all rear windows.

The Lexus Climate Concierge system provides four-zone climate control with Panasonic’s Nanoe X air ioniser, while the LM500h adds infrared sensors for precise temperature adjustments.

Standard equipment includes keyless entry, push-button start, power-adjustable front seats and steering column, a Mark Levinson Reference sound system (21 speakers in the LM350h and 23 in the LM500h), and a 360-degree camera system with a “see-through” function.

Safety features in the Lexus Safety System+ suite include autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane centring assist, blind spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert with auto brake. New for 2024 are a camera-based driver attention monitor, park assist, and front cross-traffic alert with auto brake.

The LM rides on the GA-K variant of the Toyota New Global Architecture, featuring MacPherson strut front and double wishbone rear suspension. It includes adaptive dampers with frequency-selective valving and a Rear Comfort drive mode to reduce cabin vibrations. Active noise cancellation further enhances the ride quality.

In terms of size, the new LM measures 5,125 mm in length, 1,890 mm in width, and 1,955 mm in height, making it larger than its predecessor. The wheelbase remains at 3,000 mm. The LM350h offers 1,191 litres of boot space, while the LM500h provides 752 litres.