Hitting the Soft Middle: Lexus Is SERIOUS About Launching A Minivan

Some automakers are saying no to people carriers and instead, focusing their efforts on giving customers even more crossovers and SUVs. But not Lexus. In fact, the Japanese automaker will be launching its first-ever minivan at the Shanghai Auto Show later this month.

Named the LM, it’s likely based on the third generation Toyota Alphard. Judging by the latest teaser image released on social media, it has an almost identical profile, with sliding rear doors that facilitate ingress and egress, and long windows at the back that provide an airy feel.

Deutschland - 4/9/2019 3:17:19 PM

+4 Boost

I've seen some of the luxury Toyota minivans in Singapore they are a hell of a lot better looking then the lame Toyota minivans we get here.

qwertyfla1 - 4/9/2019 7:26:11 PM

+3 Boost

Ditto with Hong Kong and Shanghai. Toyota has some pretty cool looking minivans for that corner of the world that I can't understand why they wouldn't sell them in NA like the Helix that would sell well in bigger markets like NYC, LA etc.. Maybe they don't meet US crash specs as that is the only thing I could think of???

Truthy - 4/10/2019 1:39:35 PM

+1 Boost

I believe the crash requirements are the reason. I saw a number of good looking products we do not get here, especially the Toyota Crown line.

dumpsty - 4/9/2019 3:26:00 PM

+4 Boost

This shows that Toyota/Lexus has been doing their research. If a consumer doesn't want a sedan, they feel they need either an SUV or minivan to accommodate the needs for cargo space. And if they can get their people-mover with all kinds of luxury-techno-gadgetry...even better.

Enter the Lexus minivan.

TomM - 4/9/2019 5:32:39 PM

+2 Boost

While Minivans of various sizes do well in the markets of Europe and Asia - THe only reason why I can see such a Lexus would be that the Sienna is due for its replacement - and they want to spread the cost of development.

I still believe that it is the Stow and GO seats on the Chrysler that give IT a major headstart. Without them, Competition simply failed. (Especially the Kia)