A Rare Lexus Luxury Minivan Surfaces on California Streets: What’s the Story?
Minivans often get a bad rap as uncool vehicles, yet they remain practical choices for many families. Modern minivans deliver smooth rides, advanced features, and spacious comfort for all passengers. Interestingly, the minivan segment abroad offers some unexpected variations compared to the US market.
In Japan, the minivan has been transformed into a symbol of luxury with the Lexus LM, an abbreviation for Luxury Mover. This model offers a premium experience that's currently unavailable for sale in America.
Or is it? Recently, a latest-generation Lexus LM was spotted driving around California. Initially, it seemed like a Toyota Sienna had been modified with Lexus badges, but upon closer examination, the vehicle’s flawless build quality and authentic Lexus styling were unmistakable.
Digging deeper, it turns out the Lexus LM is being privately imported and sold in the US, albeit at a staggering price point.
Exclusive Availability at Irvine Coast Motorcars
Irvine Coast Motorcars, located in Costa Mesa, California, currently has two 2025 Lexus LM vehicles for sale. Both are the LM350h hybrid variant, each outfitted with seven seats. There's also a rare four-seat configuration known as the "Emperor Suite," which boasts extravagance that could rival a Maybach.
While the cost of the ultra-luxurious four-seat model is unknown, the seven-passenger versions carry hefty price tags: $258,888 for a model with 8,709 miles and $269,800 for one with only 1,936 miles on the odometer.
Top-Tier Comfort and Technology
Even in the seven-seat layout, the second-row seats are nothing short of first-class. These power-reclining seats feature tablet-sized controls, sunshades, audio adjustments, customizable climate control, and heated armrests, delivering an opulent ride for passengers.
Technical Foundations and Powertrain
The Lexus LM shares its platform with the Toyota Alphard, built on the TNGA-K global architecture. The current second-generation LM is exclusively hybrid, with the LM350h producing about 250 horsepower. Lexus also offers a more powerful LM500h model with 366 horsepower. The LM350h can be equipped with either front-wheel or all-wheel drive, while the LM500h features Lexus's Direct4 AWD system as standard. Despite these capabilities, spotting one with a legitimate California license plate is highly unusual.
How Did It Get Registered in California?
We contacted Irvine Coast Motorcars for details about the import process and legal registration of the LM, but they have yet to respond. Judging by the hefty price tags, it’s safe to assume that purchasing one requires a significant financial outlay.
Lexus officially markets the LM in select Asian countries, Australia, and parts of Europe. It would be intriguing to see how a US-specific model would perform, especially if priced to fit the American market.
