A blend of opulence, craftsmanship, and sleek sophistication defines the Lexus LM 350h, now available in India. The ultra-luxury multipurpose vehicle (MPV) gives a new meaning to luxury travel with its imposing presence, exceptional performance, and unparalleled comfort levels. Offered at a price window between Rs. 2 crores and Rs. 2.5 crores, this sophisticated automobile is set to revolutionize the luxury car segment.
The much-anticipated four-seater and seven-seater ride is now available for Indian consumers who appreciate understated elegance coupled with expansive interior space. Lexus launched the first-generation Lexus LM in 2020, setting a precedent for chauffeur-driven luxury vehicles in Asian markets. As luxury tastes evolve, the new generation Luxury Mover has been appropriately upgraded and redesigned by Lexus to appease the discerning clientele's contemporary needs.
The exterior design of the Lexus LM 350h exudes a blend of elegance with aerodynamic influences, keeping consistent with the Lexus acclaimed design ethos. The design emphasizes functionality without sacrificing dynamic performance, thus ensuring a seamless and unparalleled driving experience.
As you enter the cabin, you'll witness a carefully crafted balance of luxury and convenience. The expansive rear suite is decked with plush trim and seating options, intensifying the aura of refinement. The Lexus LM 350h goes a step further in vehicle luxury technology, boasting numerous pioneer features like a 48-inch ultrawide display screen and a ground-breaking infrared rays matrix sensor A/C system. Other luxury features like power seat long slide rail, multi-position tip-up seats, and frequency-sensitive piston valve shock absorbers add to the vehicle’s unique appeal.
The LM 350h introduces exclusive features that are first in the automobile industry. These include a removable remote panel to manage rear seat functions, heated armrests and ottomans, and a rear climate concierge. Prioritizing safety, the LM 350h comes with the advanced Lexus Safety System+ that features an advanced driving aid system with pre-collision warning, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring.
The vehicle is equipped with a powerful 2.5L Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV) engine that integrates with the E-FOUR AWD technology, delivering a combined power of 184kW. The combination of the potent engine with the hybrid system guarantees smooth and efficient output, excellent fuel efficiency, and low emissions.
Experience the fusion of luxury, technology, and innovation by reserving your Lexus LM 350h. Lexus India’s Guest Experience Centers have opened the bookings. The much-awaited deliveries are set to kickstart soon.
Tanmay Bhattacharya, the Executive Vice-President at Lexus India, stated that the new Lexus LM resonated well with Indian consumers after announcing its bookings in the previous year. The luxury automobile further reiterates India's ultra HNIs' desire for superior indulgence and experiences. Lexus India is thankful for the patience and trust placed in their brand by the consumers. The company is assured that the majestic new LM will commence with its deliveries by the mid of the year.
Design Highlights:
Key Features:
Variant Pricing: The Ebony Edition is approximately ₹15,000 more than the standard AX7 and AX7 L variants.
Safety Update:
Rear Seat Belt Reminders: All Mahindra XUV700 variants now come standard with rear seat belt reminders, enhancing passenger safety.
The XUV700 Ebony Limited Edition is now available for bookings, offering customers a unique blend of style and performance.
Mercedes-Benz has unveiled the 2025 CLA, introducing both electric and hybrid variants to its lineup. This move signifies a shift from developing separate electric models to integrating diverse powertrains within a single model range.
Electric Variant:
Porsche is working on an all-new SUV that will be available with both petrol and hybrid powertrains, expanding its portfolio beyond its existing electric and internal combustion engine (ICE) offerings. This upcoming model is expected to provide customers with a blend of performance, efficiency, and adaptability to evolving market trends.
New Model Strategy and Market Positioning
Engine Specifications:
New Turbocharged Engine: The foundation of this hybrid system is a newly developed 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, internally designated as the G20E. This engine is engineered to support both plug-in hybrid and mild-hybrid configurations.
Compact Design: Featuring a shorter piston stroke and lightweight construction, the Toyota G20E engine is optimized for hybrid integration without significantly increasing the vehicle's weight.
Performance Expectations:
Power Output: In standard road versions, the G20E engine is anticipated to produce over 400 horsepower and 500 Nm of torque. For motorsport applications, outputs exceeding 600 horsepower are projected.
Motorsport and Production Integration:
Versatile Application: The G20E engine is designed for both competitive motorsport and consumer vehicles, aligning with Toyota's strategy to enhance fuel efficiency and reduce emissions across its performance lineup.
Prototype Testing: The engine has been showcased in the mid-engined GR Yaris M Concept, indicating ongoing development and testing efforts.
Future Outlook:
By integrating hybrid technology into its GR sports cars, Toyota aims to balance high performance with environmental responsibility, ensuring compliance with stringent emission standards in various markets.
As development progresses, more detailed specifications and launch timelines for these hybrid-powered GR models are expected to be announced.
Aston Martin is set to introduce its latest flagship grand tourer, the 2025 Vanquish, to the Indian market on March 22.
This new model succeeds the DBS Superleggera and positions itself as a direct competitor to the Ferrari 12Cilindri.
Performance and Powertrain:
At the heart of the Vanquish lies a formidable 5.2-litre twin-turbocharged V12 engine, delivering an impressive 835 horsepower and 1,000 Nm of torque. Paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission that channels power to the rear wheels, the Vanquish accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in a swift 3.2 seconds and reaches a top speed of 345 km/h.
Design and Features:
Exterior:
The 2025 Aston Martin Vanquish is anticipated to be priced above ₹6 crore (ex-showroom) in India, excluding optional features. This pricing positions it as a premium offering in the luxury sports car segment.
With its blend of performance, luxury, and cutting-edge technology, the Vanquish aims to set new benchmarks in the Indian automotive landscape.
Tesla is advancing its plans to enter the Indian market by submitting homologation applications for its Model 3 and Model Y electric vehicles (EVs). This crucial step ensures that the vehicles comply with India's regulatory standards before their official launch.
Progress Towards Indian Market Entry:
The Indian government is considering reducing import duties on specific EVs from the previous range of 70%–110% to 15%. This reduction aims to encourage foreign manufacturers like Tesla to enter the Indian market. However, to benefit from these concessions, manufacturers are required to commit to domestic production by investing at least $500 million within three years.
Implications for the Indian EV Market:
Tesla's potential entry is poised to invigorate the Indian EV sector, offering consumers advanced electric mobility options. The Model 3 and Model Y are expected to appeal to a broad audience, aligning with India's push towards sustainable transportation solutions.
As Tesla progresses through the homologation and certification stages, further details regarding the official launch dates and vehicle specifications tailored for the Indian market are anticipated.
Design and Dimensions:
Despite the heavy camouflage, the Tata Sierra's distinctive boxy silhouette is reminiscent of the original model. When observed next to the Hyundai Creta, the Sierra's larger dimensions are evident, suggesting a more spacious interior and commanding road presence. The test vehicle was equipped with alloy wheels, indicating a focus on both style and functionality.
Powertrain Options:
The upcoming Tata Sierra is expected to offer both internal combustion engine (ICE) and electric vehicle (EV) variants:
ICE Version: Anticipated to feature a 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine delivering 168bhp and 280Nm of torque. Additionally, a 2.0-litre diesel engine, currently powering the Harrier and Safari models, may be available, producing 168bhp and 350Nm of torque.
EV Version: Set to utilize Tata's Gen2 EV platform with the acti.ev architecture, the Sierra EV is expected to debut later this year, aligning with Tata's commitment to sustainable mobility.
Market Positioning:
The Tata Sierra aims to blend nostalgic design elements with modern features, targeting consumers seeking a robust and versatile SUV experience. Its availability in both ICE and EV formats reflects Tata Motors' strategy to cater to a diverse customer base in the evolving automotive landscape.
As testing progresses, more details regarding the Tata Sierra's specifications, features, and launch timeline are anticipated, generating excitement among automotive enthusiasts and potential buyers alike.
