At just 20, Shannon is already a name to watch. Making her pro debut in Australia’s Webex Players Series Murray River, she clinched a runner-up finish. A month later, she made history as the first Singaporean to win on the Ladies European Tour (LET) with her triumph at the Magical Kenya Ladies Open.

She wrapped up the season with four additional top-10 finishes, securing sixth place on the LET Order of Merit, and punching her ticket to the final stage of the LPGA Q-Series. To top it off, she proudly represented Singapore at the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris.

Reflecting on this new partnership, Shannon remarked, “I’m grateful for the support from Lexus, who have shown a real commitment to women’s golf. It is a privilege to represent Singapore and hopefully inspire the next generation of young female golfers coming through. I hope to continue doing that through their support and belief.”

Shannon will be playing at the upcoming HSBC Women’s World Championship (HWWC) at Sentosa Golf Club from 27 February to 2 March 2025. One of Asia’s most prestigious tournaments, the HWWC will see Shannon compete against the world’s best on home turf.

Stanley Chia, General Manager of Lexus Singapore, shared his excitement: “Lexus Singapore is honoured to welcome Shannon as our Golf Ambassador and extends our heartfelt congratulations as she takes on the HSBC Women’s World Championship 2025. Shannon’s relentless pursuit of golfing excellence embodies the very essence of Lexus – precision, craftsmanship, and an unyielding passion for performance.”

For the fifth consecutive year, Lexus stands as the Official Automotive Partner of the HSBC Women’s World Championship. Adding to the excitement, Lexus is offering an all-electric RZ450e Luxury SUV as a Hole-In-One prize.

Lexus has also extended its partnership with the Singapore Golf Association (SGA) until 2026, further deepening its investment in nurturing young talent and growing the sport locally. Since 2021, this collaboration has played a pivotal role in supporting emerging players and elevating Singapore’s presence in the global golfing community.

A major highlight in 2025 will be Singapore’s hosting of the World Amateur Team Championships (WATC) at Tanah Merah Country Club from 1–11 October 2025. Lexus will once again step up as the Official Automotive Partner.

The tournament will feature two premier competitions: the Espirito Santo Trophy (Ladies) from 1–4 October and the Eisenhower Trophy (Men’s) from 8–11 October.

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On a brisk morning, we had the pleasure of visiting the newly revamped Lexus boutique at Leng Kee, an establishment that promises to reshape the luxury automotive experience on our shores. We also managed to catch Mr Ng Khee Siong, Managing Director of Borneo Motors Singapore, for a delightful discussion regarding the new space.

Over the course of our chat, Mr Ng revealed not just the transformation of the boutique but the philosophy that keeps Lexus at the forefront of premium automotive excellence.  

A Boutique That Breathes Luxury  

Walking into the Lexus boutique, you’re greeted by a symphony of understated elegance. Think of it as less of a showroom and more of an art gallery, where each vehicle is a masterpiece carefully curated under warm ambient lighting. 

Mr Ng shares, “We wanted to create a space where our customers feel an immediate sense of calm and exclusivity. It’s about inviting our guests into the Lexus lifestyle.” And true to his word, the boutique exudes a Zen-like atmosphere, a sanctuary in the bustling heart of Leng Kee.  

The waiting lounge is a testament to this philosophy. Plush seating, curated artwork, and a coffee bar serving premium brews, all designed to make waiting an experience rather than an inconvenience.

Lexus calls it “Omotenashi“, a Japanese hospitality concept that anticipates a guest’s needs before they even realise them.  

Keeping Up With The Times  

Luxury without innovation is like a shell without substance. Fortunately, the Lexus boutique is no relic of old-world charm; interactive touchscreens dot the space, allowing customers to explore every detail of their dream car, from colour options to bespoke interior finishes.  

For those more traditionally inclined, there’s also a dedicated customisation area where swatches of leather and wood trims are laid out like a designer’s atelier. Here, customers can feel the materials that will eventually grace their vehicle, adding a personal touch to their purchase.

Lexus is also actively evolving to meet the needs of a more discerning and environmentally conscious clientele. Mr Ng mentions the brand’s commitment to sustainability, a word that’s become almost as synonymous with Lexus as luxury itself.  

“Lexus has long been a pioneer in hybrid technology,” he added. “Our goal is not just to provide cars that are luxurious but also responsible.”

The new boutique features a section dedicated to hybrid and electric models, showcasing Lexus’ push towards a greener future without compromising on performance or opulence.  

Maintaining A Legacy Of Excellence

When asked how Lexus continues to maintain its standing as a premium automotive brand in Singapore, Mr Ng’s answer is both humble and insightful. “It’s about staying true to our core values (craftsmanship, reliability, and innovation) while also listening to our customers. They are the ones who drive us to constantly improve and innovate.”  

He illustrates this point with a personal anecdote. “Just the other day, a long-time customer came in and mentioned how his first Lexus, bought over a decade ago, is still running smoothly. It’s stories like these that remind us why we do what we do.”  

A New Chapter Awaits

Every detail in the new Lexus Boutique, from its curated menus to its concierge services, redefines what it means to be a luxury car brand.

While other manufacturers are shifting towards a more digital and direct-to-customer sales approach, Lexus Singapore has stuck to their brand philosophies and doubled down on the physical showroom experience.

This approach has not only kept an active pool of loyal owners, but it has also allowed the brand to expand and reach out to more key demographics.

By blending tradition with modernity, Lexus Singapore has set a benchmark in redefining luxury, positioning itself as both an automotive brand and a lifestyle choice that resonates with the evolving expectations of its clientele.

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This flagship space is designed to offer an immersive journey into the brand’s philosophy of Omotenashi – a unique Japanese art of hospitality that engages all five senses.

Lexus Singapore Managing Director Ng Khee Siong encapsulates this ethos: “Our vision at Lexus is to redefine luxury mobility. We want every guest to feel the essence of Lexus in every detail, from sights and sounds to the warmth of our hospitality.”

From the moment you arrive at the boutique, there’s a dedicated parking spot awaiting you. As you step out, a concierge (umbrella in hand if it’s raining) welcomes you with a warm towel and a drink.

The boutique itself has been given a complete transformation. You’re greeted by the soothing aroma of white tea, a scent chosen for its calming properties.

The interiors are a harmonious blend of Japanese and Peranakan aesthetics, from wooden fusuma-style doors to indoor Zen gardens. Even the ambient music is carefully selected to create a serene environment.

A “Lexus – Poetry in Motion” digital installation now sits front and centre. This two-minute visual symphony captures the brand’s journey from dawn to midnight, celebrating craftsmanship, innovation, and the relentless pursuit of perfection.

The redesigned Customer Lounge has curated food and beverages. For those ready to embrace Lexus ownership, a bespoke car delivery service is designed to mark the beginning of a journey in style.

Aftersales guests arriving in the morning are treated to a specially curated breakfast menu. From the Lexus Flagship Bento to a delectable nasi lemak, each dish reflects a blend of Japanese heritage and local flavours.

All of this is paired with a custom blend coffee crafted by Brawn & Brains, ensuring every visit feels special.

Lexus has also partnered with local artisans to create exclusive culinary experiences. The current highlight is the Lexus Aichi Miso Cake, crafted by Pâtisserie CLÉ.

For the exclusive L-Series owners, they are able to tap into Lexus Concierge Care.

Whether it’s managing aftersales appointments, handling insurance renewals, or offering eight complimentary airport transfers annually, every aspect is designed to cater to the most discerning clientele.

Every detail in the new Lexus Boutique, from its curated menus to its concierge services, redefines what it means to be a luxury car brand. 

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What is it?

Now, that’s a particularly important question when it comes to the Lexus LM, or “Luxury Mover” as it’s officially dubbed. From a glance, you might mistake it for an MPV, and yes, those van-like proportions don’t lie. But underneath, the LM is built on the same modular global architecture that underpins the Lexus NX and RX SUVs.

For those who care about such things, it’s the GA-K passenger car platform, so while it may not boast the sharp reflexes of a sports car, it does offer better structural rigidity and body control than your average minivan.

But, let’s be honest, no one’s buying the LM for its sporty handling. The real action, as we all know, happens in the back. This vehicle is a celebration of luxury travel, and if you’re familiar with Japan’s domestic car scene, you might already know the Toyota Vellfire or Alphard, an icon in this niche.

So, when Lexus first announced the LM was coming to Singapore, they had our attention. 

Striking yet subtle at the same time

The Lexus LM manages to prowl through traffic with some cloak-and-dagger discretion. It’s the fourth model in Lexus’s so-called “Next Chapter” of design; they’re leaning heavily on “dignified elegance” and what they call a “Resolute Look.”

With a massive frontal area, they’ve got plenty of room to play with. The signature spindle grille is as bold as ever, now body-coloured on the LM. There’s a deep windscreen, sliding doors on the sides, and a full-width L-shaped light bar around the rear, giving it an unmistakable stance.

At 5.1 meters long, 1.9 meters tall, and just under 1.9 meters wide, it’s got presence in spades. Some folks may prefer something flashier, but the stealth wealth x-factor is what makes the LM special to me.

What is it like on the inside?

This is where the LM shines. Chief engineer Takami Yokoo envisioned the LM as a space where “guests who lead busy, active lifestyles can return to their natural selves.”

Sounds like a tall order, but the LM pulls it off beautifully, channelling the traditional Japanese hospitality philosophy Omotenashi. Lexus was into wellness long before it became a buzzword, and the LM’s rear cabin is designed to soothe you in ways that rival even a Rolls-Royce.

Let’s start with the seats. Lexus drew inspiration from first-class air travel, and dare I say, they may have surpassed it. The headrests cradle not just your neck but the upper back too, keeping your core comfortably in place. And of course, they’re heated and ventilated, with seven different massage settings.

Heating even extends to the leg rests and armrests. The seats also recline nearly flat, creating a cocoon of relaxation.

What else is in this Krisflyer Gold lounge?

The LM’s rear compartment is a masterclass in understated luxury. No gaudy embellishments here, just peerless materials and a clean, calming design.

Lexus has tucked away any sign of hard plastics, even in areas you’d expect them. Each passenger gets their own tablet to control the seats, audio, climate, lighting, and blinds.

The lighting, by the way, is customizable with 14 shades and 5 mood themes. A roof panel above replicates some of these functions, adding to the private jet-like atmosphere.

If you opt for the 500h four-seater Takumi version, there’s even a cabin partition with a massive 48-inch ultra-wide screen that can be tilted for optimum viewing.

What about your driver?

While the back of the LM steals the show, the front seats haven’t been neglected. Lexus’s Tazuna cockpit philosophy keeps everything intuitive and within easy reach, with physical controls (hooray!) for the climate system.

The Yebane herringbone wood trim and special red pigment details lift the cabin’s aesthetic, making it clear that even the driver (or rather, the chauffeur) isn’t forgotten.

It’s a nice place to be, and everything from the materials to the seating comfort reinforces the idea that this is a well-thought-out vehicle. Even parking this big beast isn’t too much of a challenge, thanks to its suite of cameras and sensors.

Smooth as silk

To no surprise, the Lexus LM ignores dynamism in favour of a more relaxed, leisurely approach on the roads. Built on a passenger car platform, sure, but this is a tall, hefty vehicle that doesn’t demand you rush. Any driver with a job to keep will take a measured, smooth approach. 

Lexus has done a commendable job with NVH (Noise, Vibration, and Harshness), making the LM class-leading in this regard. The suspension, a double-wishbone setup at the rear paired with adaptive dampers, is designed less for precision handling and more for keeping the rear compartment serene. And that, of course, is the real priority.

Any drive modes?

Of course. There are five, but the one you’ll care most about is Rear Comfort mode. This is all about making sure the back-seat experience is as smooth as possible, minimising the squat and dive under acceleration and braking.

The braking system comes with tech like Braking Posture Control to reduce roll and pitch, and Smooth Stop Control to keep the LM from rocking like a boat when coming to a halt. A chauffeured experience in every sense.

In the right hands, it’s wonderfully tranquil. The powertrain, a 2.5-litre four-cylinder Atkinson-cycle petrol engine paired with two electric motors, churns out 247bhp and 237Nm of torque. It’s not quick by any means, with a century sprint time of 8.7 seconds and a top speed of 190km/h, but that’s hardly the point here.

The hybrid powertrain is smooth enough, but no one’s going to fall in love with the CVT gearbox. It’s efficient, but when pushed to accelerate or overtake, the noise is less than inspiring.

Still, in urban driving, the switch between EV and petrol modes is seamless, and the rear passengers won’t be the wiser.

And everyone’s safe too

Lexus doesn’t skimp here. The LM packs the latest in driver assistance and safety systems, including Safe Exit Assist for the sliding doors.

What’s more, the warning alerts are subtle, unlike the overly intrusive ones that have you frantically searching for the mute button in some cars.

Are there rivals?

In today’s world, the truly famous don’t flaunt their status with traditional limousines. They want something that blends luxury with discretion, and that’s where the luxury minivan or SUV comes in.

There really isn’t anything else on the market that comes close to the Lexus LM. Probably the closest cross-shopper would be the Mercedes V-Class, but while you can doll up the aesthetics, the V-Class can never fully escape its utilitarian roots.

Bow before the king

Lexus has always been about quality, even if it didn’t always prioritise driver engagement. 

But that’s the emphasis here: in the LM, the driver isn’t the point. The only interaction that truly counts is the one between the rear-seat passengers and the chauffeur up front. 

This is a game-changer in luxury, a vehicle that puts Lexus back on the map in the world of opulence, where it first staked its claim with the original LS sedan over three decades ago.

A fantastic choice for those who want nothing but the best.

Technical Specifications

Lexus LM (Luxury 350h)

Engine: 2,487cc 4-cylinder in-line 16-valve DOHC
Drivetrain: All-wheel drive
Power: 184kW (247 bhp)
Torque: 239 Nm
Gearbox: CVT (A)
0-100km/h: 8.7 seconds (claimed)
Top Speed: 180km/h
Fuel Tank Capacity: 65 litres
Energy Consumption: 18.5 km/litre (claimed)

Price: S$661,800 with COE (accurate at the time of this article)
Contact: Lexus Singapore

Photo Credits: Sean Loo (@auto.driven)

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This new LM 500h sets a fresh benchmark in the luxury MPV segment and is designed with a laser focus on passenger well-being and the essence of Lexus’ Omotenashi hospitality.

The exterior design of the LM 500h exudes dignified elegance. The iconic Spindle Body at the front creates an aerodynamic form that optimises cooling and manoeuvrability.

At its core, the LM 500h is about supreme ride comfort and functionality. The driver enjoys direct and precise manoeuvrability, while rear-seat passengers benefit from a serene environment free from unwanted noise and vibrations.

Honestly, serene is an understatement when you look at this interior.

To segregate you from the chauffeur, the LM 500h features a partition that separates the front and rear seats. The upper section has a retractable glass window with a dimming function, offering two levels of privacy while maintaining an open ambience. 

A 48-inch widescreen display, retractable frosted glass partition, and integrated amenities like speakers, refrigerators, and storage compartments ensure that passengers travel in utmost tranquility and convenience.

The rear seats’ ottoman extension and retraction range have been increased compared to the LM 350h 7-seater variant. Lexus has thoroughly analysed passenger body movements to ensure a naturally relaxed state for both body and mind.

To enhance passenger comfort, a dedicated rear seat Warmth-Sensing IR (Infrared) Matrix Sensor is positioned on the upper centre portion of the partition. This sensor detects the temperature of occupants and key areas affecting ambient temperature, such as windows, trim, and the ceiling.

It estimates the warmth or coldness felt by passengers in four specific areas — the face, chest, thighs, and lower legs — and adjusts the air-conditioning to maintain a comfortable temperature. Talk about excessive engineering.

There’s more. Lexus has devoted careful attention to creating a tranquil environment for rear-seat passengers; noise frequency bandwidths and noise sources were analyzed, and a three-step approach to noise reduction was adopted:

1. Reducing generated noise
2. Preventing noise from entering the vehicle
3. Reducing noise inside the vehicle.

In simple English, the cabin is as quiet as a car can get.

Underneath, innovative technology like “AVS Suspension with Frequency-Sensitive Piston Valve” ensures a smooth ride. This system combines an Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) actuator with a frequency-sensitive piston valve in the shock absorber, dampening and reducing vibration over a wide range of frequencies.

The dampening force characteristics of the AVS are set to prioritise rear-seat comfort, while integrated control of the gas pedal and brake reduces posture changes during acceleration and deceleration.

“The Lexus Singapore team has been deeply dedicated to crafting extraordinary experiences for our esteemed customers. This ethos mirrors Lexus’ steadfast principle of ‘Making Luxury Personal’ as together, we redefine luxury,” remarks Ng Khee Siong, Managing Director of Inchcape Singapore.

“With the debut of the Lexus LM 500h in Singapore, we herald in a new era of prestige and luxury, where unrivalled Comfort, Control, and Confidence converge.”

The Lexus LM 500h is available in four colours, and interested clients may view it in the Lexus showroom.

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Inchcape has recently rolled out its inaugural sustainability report. This document sketches the strides Inchcape has made towards its ambitious 2023 sustainability goals, while also highlighting its pivotal role in fostering the green mobility transition.

At the heart of its ethos, Inchcape asserts that operating with integrity is fundamental to enhancing the performance of its mobility partners and fortifying ties with essential stakeholders. The report is a deep dive into the fruits of their labour across four critical pillars of their Responsible Business framework.

The past year has been marked by notable achievements: a commendable 6.6% reduction in Scope 1 and 2 emissions, the installation of solar power systems at over 40 locations, and the engagement of 800 colleagues in an Early Careers program designed to foster the next generation of leaders.

Additionally, the Women into Leadership program has seen 100 graduates, boosting female leadership from 22% in 2022 to 28% in 2023. Inchcape has also refreshed its Code of Conduct across 35 countries and initiated 21 road safety programs.

On the local front, Inchcape’s collaboration with Singapore Polytechnic birthed the Singapore Future Mobility Academy, aimed at upskilling the workforce to navigate the burgeoning electric vehicle sector.

They’ve also launched Toyota’s first car-sharing program, FlexiGo, in Tengah. A new initiative sees the introduction of water-recycling car wash gantries, set to save a staggering 7.5 million litres of water annually.

These initiatives place Inchcape on a solid path towards its long-term sustainability targets, which include slashing its absolute Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 46% by 2030, from a 2019 baseline, and achieving net-zero emissions in these categories by 2040.

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So at last, Lexus makes a fashionably late entrance to the Cat A COE party of premium SUVs. BMW and Mercedes-Benz got here some time ago. The question is, has the Japanese luxury brand timed its arrival to perfection, or are the guests starting to make their excuses and head somewhere else?

The cooling of COE premiums might suggest this, but it might be too early to tell. In any case, the barrier to entry is an engine output of less than 1,600cc and 130hp. 

Like some of its German friends, Lexus has had to trim the output from its 3-cylinder 1.5-litre hybrid unit by around 5hp so it can be sold with a Cat A COE, which allows the brand to access a customer base that Audi, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz, have been selling to in droves last year.

LBX hybrid theory

Nonetheless, the Lexus LBX’s party trick is that it eschews the turbocharging route of its German competitors in favour of a petrol-electric hybrid drivetrain. This adds an interesting dimension to the driving experience. The proverbial zig, when the others zag.

Adopting a hybrid drivetrain may well find buyers who are flirting with the idea of electrified driving but aren’t ready to fully commit yet. At least from a dollars and cents perspective, the savings in fuel costs of running a petrol-electric hybrid work out to be roughly the same as an Electric Vehicle if it is solely charged from public charging points.

The additional benefit of a hybrid is that you can refuel anywhere there are petrol stations and do it in a fraction of the time it takes for an EV to fully charge its depleted battery.

Driving impressions

It is no secret that the Lexus LBX shares its drivetrain and much of its underpinnings with the Toyota Yaris Cross hybrid. However, you would be sorely mistaken in assuming that the LBX is merely a rebadged version of the compact crossover.

Having driven both cars, this writer can confidently report that the difference is worlds apart. None of the noise and vibrations of the Yaris Cross are apparent in the LBX. It feels like Lexus put all their know-how into the LBX’s suspension tuning, as well as noise and vibration suppression to make it feel altogether more grown up.  

As a result, the Baby Lexus manages to impart the iconic smoothness and quietness that its bigger siblings are known for. Up to a point. 

In moments where full-throttle applications were required, the LBX betrays its calm demeanour with enough gruffness to remind its driver that it’s not in its element. Happily, such occasions are extremely rare in the context of Singapore roads. It is in the city where this car shines. 

Thanks to its compact dimensions, the LBX fits into even the tightest of parking spaces. The model tested the brand’s Advanced Park system which uses an array of cameras and ultrasonic sensors to provide a virtual overhead view whenever Reverse is engaged. Additionally, the driver could also leave it to the automatic park function for parallel, or reverse parking.

Pleasure craft

While entry models typically feel like cut-price versions of their flagships, the LBX comes across as a concentration of the larger and more, luxe Lexus models such as the full-electric RZ 450e and hybrid-powered RX 350h.

Pretty much every highlight of the larger models can be found in the LBX, down to the sumptuous leather and microfibre seats, interior panels, and the 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen that features wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. The placement of the singular cupholder however could be a challenge for those who use Plus or Pro Max-sized smartphones larger than 6.1-inches. As it is, my iPhone 15 Pro on the wireless charger butts right up against a cup when placed in the said holder. 

Just as well then, that the LBX features no less than five USB-C sockets throughout its cabin.

LBX vs The Competition

The LBX has its work cut out in finding its place in the market. On one hand, there are mainstream hybrid models from Hyundai and Kia that are more accessible but they can’t quite match the level of refinement, quality, and snob appeal of the Lexus. 

EV offerings from BYD and ORA give much pause for thought with their combination of value and sophistication. However, switching to electric, cold turkey and the question of depreciation presents too many unknowns at this point. 

Then you have the MINI Clubman. It may not have the frugality of the LBX hybrid system, but its design and brand identity mean that none of it matters. Its customers want one simply because it’s a MINI and nothing else will do.

This leaves us with the Big Three from Germany (G3); Audi, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz. As Lexus has done with the LBX, the G3 have adapted their models to qualify for a Cat A COE and the gamble has paid off. 

The record-high COE prices last year made for the perfect storm of buyers from both ends of the market. One group sees value in upgrading to an entry-level luxury car, while those priced out of Cat B also look to the Cat A premium segment as the next best alternative. 

The sheer numbers of BMW X1 sDrive16i that can be seen on the road, for example, attest to this. It is also complete enough to be judged 2024 AutoApp Car Of The Year by my colleagues and I. 

The Mercedes-Benz GLA 180 isn’t too far off either. Technically, the Audi Q3 doesn’t play in the same Cat A ballpark, but the A3 hatchback and forthcoming Q2 will.

Looking at the chart below, the Lexus LBX offers an appreciable amount of savings both up-front as well as throughout ownership when you’re paying at the pumps. It’s only the comparative lack of rear legroom and luggage space that means BMW and Mercedes-Benz won’t be losing any sleep over the LBX as a family car. 

However, the LBX offers an entirely different experience thanks to its hybrid drivetrain and cosy interior.

Like a business-class pod on wheels, it offers a more intimate sense of luxury. Like it’s made exclusively for you.

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Lexus, the Japanese epitome of automotive prestige, is now hitting the streets of Singapore as taxis. ComfortDelGro just dropped a fleet of 30 ES300 Hybrid taxis on November 30, making them the first taxi operator to roll out the Toyota luxury brand as cabs in our sunny city.

This move wasn’t a spur-of-the-moment decision. It’s been brewing for about five months since ComfortDelGro dropped the rumour of it putting in a hefty $10 million order for these luxury hybrids. 

But what sets these Lexus taxis apart? The most obvious part is they’re not rocking the typical rooftop taxi sign. Instead, they’ve got a sleek LED sign chilling behind the windscreen. The Land Transport Authority (LTA) is letting them test-drive this look for six months. 

Mr. Ang Hin Kee, adviser to the National Taxi Association and National Private Hire Vehicles Association, thinks this LED sign is a good fit for drivers cruising the streets with a touch of limousine flair.

But, Mr. Ang also wisely notes that we need to ensure street hail and other passengers aren’t left in the lurch because of this new fancy sign placement.

A rival taxi operator, who remained anonymous, thinks all cabs should stick to the traditional rooftop signs. Why? To avoid befuddlement, especially for our friends from foreign lands. 

Think about it – you’re in Singapore, you spot a cab, but wait, it’s not the usual silhouette. Confusion reigns supreme, especially when private-hire cars are already playing hide-and-seek with their tinted windows and elusive decals.

As stated above, LTA has already announced that this new LED sign is a trial. Safety is a top priority, and they’re keen on knowing how commuters and drivers feel about this avant-garde signage.

Oh, and let’s not forget the digits – these Lexus chariots will cost you $4.80 to flag down, with fares rising by 36-cent intervals. Need a posh ride to the airport? That’s a cool $65.

These rates are on par with the elevated limousine taxi fares that ComfortDelGro just unveiled. It’s not just about flash and style; it’s about helping cabbies cope with the ups and downs of living expenses.

Photo Credits: ComfortDelGro

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On Friday 6 October 2023, the new Lexus LM was launched at the Lexus Boutique at 33 Leng Kee Road. Also newly introduced was the Lexus VIP Lounge.

Ng Khee Siong, Interim Managing Director of Inchcape Singapore, said, “From the very onset, the Inchcape Singapore team has been wholeheartedly dedicated to creating exceptional experiences for all our valued customers.”

“This is in line with Lexus’ core principle of ‘Pushing Boundaries’, as we collectively redefine standards. The all-new Lexus LM represents the pinnacle of ride comfort, and we are delighted to introduce unparalleled Comfort, Control and Confidence to our prestige customers in Singapore. This is also paired with the Lexus VIP Lounge, a private suite exclusively designed to elevate our customer experience at our showroom.”

Gracing the event was Lexus International LM Chief Engineer Mr. Takami Yokoo, who flew in from Japan for this launch. “The all-new Lexus LM was conceived with the concept of a mobile space where individuals can truly be themselves in comfort,” Mr. Takami Yokoo said. Under the guidance of Mr. Yokoo, the Lexus LM was tailored to create a deluxe interior that is as relaxing as a living room with all the convenience of a productive mobile office – exemplifying the brand’s pursuit of Making Luxury Personal. This high-end private oasis of relaxation brings forth the next evolution in luxury transport, reflecting Lexus’ commitment to delivering exceptional experiences.

In keeping with the Lexus Omotenashi hospitality philosophy of welcoming and caring for guests as one would in their own home, Lexus Singapore unveiled the first-ever Lexus VIP Lounge. Designed as an exclusive space to accommodate privileged customers during previews and deliveries, the Lexus VIP Lounge offers a touch of personalised service, and access to the suite will be exclusively by invitation and appointment only.

Built upon Toyota’s GA-K platform and powered by a 2.5-litre hybrid engine that puts out a combined 247hp and 239Nm of torque, the LM 350h has been tuned for quietness and comfort of its occupants. To counter road noise around the tyres, the engine and its related mounts underwent precise tuning to reduce vibrations while acoustic glass was used to help reduce high-frequency wind noise.

In a first for Lexus, the LM features an “AVS Suspension with Frequency-Sensitive Piston Valve” and “Rear Comfort” drive mode. The former combines an Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) actuator and a frequency-sensitive piston valve in the shock absorber to provide excellent ride quality regardless of speed, achieved by meticulously dampening and reducing vibration over a wide range of frequencies.

The latter enables an emphasis on rear-seat comfort through the dampening force characteristics of the AVS, while integrated control of the accelerator pedal and brake is said to reduce occupants’ posture changes during acceleration and deceleration. We’ll know more when we drive the LM.

The middle row features two captain’s chairs for supreme comfort and VIP-ness. For example, “Rear Climate Concierge” is a one-stop integrated control that ensures the luxurious cabin environment is precisely controlled for elements such as air-conditioning, sunshades, ambient illumination and seat position.

The chairs themselves feature two types of shock-absorbing materials for gentle support from standstill to motion.

A 14-inch ceiling mounted high-definition rear screen, in combination with the bespoke Mark Levinson Reference 3D Surround Sound System with 21 speakers allow rear seat occupants to indulge in their favourite tunes or movies while on the move.

Furthermore, a panoramic roof with dual individual panoramic glass located just above the rear seats lends airiness to the cabin.

Passengers can control either of the roof windows or both effortlessly via switches on the front or rear overhead console and the rear multi-operation panel.

The Lexus LM 350h is priced from $510,800 without COE (accurate at the time of article). For more information, contact Lexus Singapore.

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2021 marked the dawn of a new era for Lexus, with the introduction of the new NX and LX. The path to carbon neutrality also accelerated plans for electrification, and Lexus has kicked things off with plug-in hybrid variants of the NX and RX, followed by the all-electric RZ.

Now, in 2023, Lexus is expanding its lineup even further with three new models – the LM, GX and this LBX.

The driving force behind the LBX was none other than the visionary Lexus Master Driver, Akio Toyoda. Driven by a desire to redefine the very essence of luxury cars, Toyoda aimed to surpass the limitations imposed by a compact platform. The goal was to create a vehicle that would resonate with discerning customers shopping for luxury crossovers.

Design wise, the LBX embodies the “Premium Casual” philosophy. Its exterior is bold and dynamic, donning Lexus’ latest “Unified Spindle” front fascia design.

Likewise, the cabin’s main focus was a premium environment that exudes top-tier quality. The goal was to create an inviting and serene space that ‘fosters seamless connectivity between the driver and the car’. Whatever that means.

Lexus is also introducing a “Bespoke Build” program, empowering customers to tailor their LBX to their individual lifestyles and preferences.

There isn’t a date as to when the Lexus LBX will come to Singapore, but given the mad craze for crossovers here, it’s only a matter of time.

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