The Lexus LM 350 V6 Automatic, produced from June 2020 to August 2023, represents Lexus’s entry into the luxury minivan segment. Part of the LM I generation, this variant aimed to provide a premium transportation experience, particularly in markets where larger, more opulent MPVs are favored. Positioned as a high-end alternative to traditional luxury sedans, the LM 350 focused on rear passenger comfort and refinement. It’s built on a stretched version of the Toyota Alphard/Vellfire platform, but with Lexus’s signature attention to detail and luxury appointments. This model was primarily targeted towards Asian markets, with limited availability in other regions.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Lexus |
| Model | LM |
| Generation | LM I |
| Type (Engine) | 350 V6 (296 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | June, 2020 |
| End of production | August, 2023 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan, MPV |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 180 km/h (111.85 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.4 kg/Hp, 135.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.1 kg/Nm, 165.2 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 296 Hp @ 6600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 85.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 361 Nm @ 4700 rpm (266.26 lb.-ft. @ 4700 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | 2GR-FKS |
| Engine displacement | 3456 cm3 (210.9 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 94 mm (3.7 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 83 mm (3.27 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11.8:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.4 l (5.71 US qt | 4.75 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 10.7 l (11.31 US qt | 9.41 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2185 kg (4817.1 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2485 kg (5478.49 lbs.) |
| Max load | 300 kg (661.39 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 75 l (19.81 US gal | 16.5 UK gal) |
| Length | 5040 mm (198.43 in.) |
| Width | 1850 mm (72.83 in.) |
| Height | 1895 mm (74.61 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3000 mm (118.11 in.) |
| Front track | 1575 mm (62.01 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1570 mm (61.81 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 160 mm (6.3 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.6 m (38.06 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 8 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Double wishbone |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 235/50 R18 |
INTRODUCTION
The Lexus LM 350 V6 Automatic, launched in 2020, is a luxury minivan designed to offer a first-class travel experience. Built upon the foundation of the Toyota Alphard/Vellfire, the LM distinguishes itself through Lexus’s emphasis on refinement, comfort, and advanced technology. This variant, powered by the 2GR-FKS 3.5-liter V6 engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, was positioned as a premium offering within the LM lineup, catering to customers seeking a more sophisticated alternative to traditional luxury vehicles. The LM was initially focused on markets like China, Japan, and other parts of Asia, where the demand for spacious, luxurious MPVs is particularly strong.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the LM 350 lies the 2GR-FKS 3.5-liter naturally aspirated V6 engine. This engine is a member of Toyota’s GR family, known for its reliability and smooth operation. The 2GR-FKS utilizes D-4S direct injection technology, combining direct and port fuel injection to optimize combustion efficiency and power delivery. The engine produces 296 horsepower at 6,600 rpm and 266 lb-ft of torque at 4,700 rpm. It features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. The engine is longitudinally mounted in the front of the vehicle.
The engine is mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission, providing smooth and responsive gear changes. This transmission was chosen for its ability to balance performance with fuel efficiency. The transmission’s gear ratios are tuned to provide comfortable cruising at highway speeds while still offering sufficient acceleration for overtaking maneuvers. The drivetrain is front-wheel drive, a common configuration for minivans in many markets.
Driving Characteristics
The LM 350 V6 Automatic delivers a comfortable and refined driving experience. While not designed for sporty performance, the 296-hp V6 provides adequate power for everyday driving and highway cruising. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes approximately 7.9 seconds. The eight-speed automatic transmission contributes to smooth gear changes, minimizing disruptions during acceleration. Compared to potential higher-output turbocharged variants (not widely available), the naturally aspirated V6 offers a more linear power delivery, making it predictable and easy to control. The front-wheel-drive configuration provides good traction in most conditions, but it doesn’t offer the dynamic handling characteristics of an all-wheel-drive system.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Lexus LM 350 V6 Automatic is generously equipped with luxury features. Standard equipment typically includes leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats, a premium sound system, a large infotainment display with navigation, and a suite of advanced safety features, including Lexus Safety System+. Rear passengers benefit from individual, reclining seats with ample legroom and dedicated climate control. Optional extras could include a rear-seat entertainment system, a panoramic sunroof, and upgraded interior trim materials. The focus is heavily on rear passenger comfort, with features like adjustable headrests, massage functions, and individual lighting controls.
Chassis & Braking
The LM 350 utilizes a McPherson strut independent suspension at the front and a double wishbone independent suspension at the rear. This suspension setup is designed to provide a comfortable ride, absorbing bumps and irregularities in the road surface. Ventilated disc brakes are used on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The vehicle is equipped with an anti-lock braking system (ABS) and electronic brake-force distribution (EBD) to enhance safety. Electric power steering provides light and precise steering control.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Lexus LM 350 V6 Automatic was generally well-received by critics, who praised its luxurious interior, comfortable ride, and advanced technology. However, some reviewers noted that its price point was relatively high compared to other minivans in the market. Compared to other trims within the LM lineup (if any were offered in specific markets), the 350 V6 represented the mainstream offering, balancing performance and luxury. It offered a more refined experience than potential base-model variants with smaller engines, but it didn’t quite reach the level of exclusivity offered by potential range-topping trims with even more opulent features.
Legacy
The Lexus LM 350 V6 Automatic has established itself as a desirable luxury minivan in select markets. Its reputation for reliability, comfort, and refinement has contributed to its strong resale value. While the LM is still a relatively new model, early indications suggest that the 2GR-FKS engine and eight-speed automatic transmission are proving to be durable and dependable. As the LM ages, it is likely to become a sought-after vehicle in the used car market, particularly among buyers seeking a luxurious and spacious family vehicle.
