Segmen kereta mewah di Malayia rata-rata memfokuskan gaya dan prestasi berbanding praktikal dan selesa.
Bagi memenuhi kriteria pemilik yang mahukan ciri mewah, penuh gaya namun selesa seakan terbang dalam ‘business class’, Lexus Malaysia kini menawarkan LM 350.
Tergolong dalam kategori ‘Luxury Mover’ (LM) Lexus, LM 350 ini menggabungkan ciri mewah, selesa serta layanan berkonsepkan ‘Omotenashi’.
Rekaan keseluruhan LM 350 sememangnya melambangkan kemewahan terutamaya penggunaan kemasan jenis krom yang memenuhi ruang gril.
Penggunaan lampu jenis triple-beam LED dengan DRL (Daytime Running Light) serta lampu belakang yang bersambung menimbulkan ciri elegan dan unik.
Sementara itu, LM 350 ini tampil dengan rim aloi 18″ yang berkemampuan mengurangkan gangguan bunyi bising daripada memasuki ruang dalam sekaligus meningkatkan tahap keselesaan penumpang.
Sebagai sebuah MPV mewah, LM 350 ini hanya boleh menempatkan empat individu pada satu masa dengan ruang tempat duduk belakang hanya menawarkan dua tempat duduk sahaja.
Ruang tempat duduk belakang sememangnya menetapkan petanda aras baharu bagi sebuah kereta MPV mewah dengan ruang kabin yang luas dan mnyelesakan.
Bukan setakat bertindak sebagai kerusi biasa, sebaliknya dua tempat duduk dibelakang menawarkan fungsi urutan dan mampu menyalurkan udara sejuk/panas mengikut ketetapan.
Ruang belakang juga dipisahkan dengan penggunaan cermin jenis eletrochromatic yang menyalurkan aliran elektrik bagi mengkaburkan pemandangan sekaligus mewujudkan privasi di antara tempat duduk depan dan belakang.
Antara ciri lain ditawarkan:
paparan HD 26″ dengan pelbagai fungsi
skrin 12.3″ dengan ciri ‘touchscreen’
19 sistem pembesar suara Mark Levinson
peti sejuk mini
Meskipun berkonsepkan MPV, LM 350 ini dilengkapi enjin berkuasa dengan 3.5L V6 yang menjana 269hp dan 361Nm.
Lexus LM 350 ini kini dibuka untuk pembelian dengan harga RM1,148,000 (sebelum cukai jalan dan insurans) dan didatangkan dengan waranti lima tahun.
Menariknya, meskipun mencecah harga tujuh angka, Lexus Malaysia telah pun menerima lebih 10 tempahan bagi model ini.
The launch of a model that costs a million ringgit (actually more) usually means it is from one of the premium luxury brands, typically a flagship model and usually a limousine unless it’s a super sportscar. But the million ringgit model (RM1.148 million without insurance) launched today is not a limousine – it’s a MPV… the Lexus LM350. While there are already some SUVs that cost over a million ringgit, a MPV at the price level would raise eyebrows although there are probably customized units that cost that much with a lot of additional equipment.
Only for a few Asian markets
However, the LM350 is not a customized Alphard – which Lexus does not deny is a similar model sold under the Toyota brand – and is a fully engineered model with super luxurious equipment. While the LX SUV model, which is a Lexus version of the Toyota Land Cruiser, is sold in quite a number of markets, the LM350 was conceived for customers in just a few Asian markets, Malaysia included. Interestingly, the MPV is not offered in the Japanese market where they probably have very luxurious versions of the Alphard anyway.
The other thing about the LM350 which may also have some saying the price is ‘outrageous’ is that it is a 4-seater. Yes, a giant vehicle with just two seats in the passenger area that occupies three-quarters of the 5040 mm overall length. Having two large seats at the back is not unusual since the LS also has such configurations although in a MPV, that gives a whole new meaning to spaciousness and comfort.
First Class experience on wheels
The way the cabin is set up has led Lexus Malaysia to liken it to the experience of being in a one of those First Class suites in an Airbus A380. And instead of oval windows along the side, there are large glass panels (suitably tinted, of course) which provide a panoramic view of the world passing by. The ambience can be enhanced at night with a large glass Twin Moonroof overhead.
Besides this, the cabin lighting is subtly recessed around the moonroof in the ceiling and can be illuminated in 16 colours and four brightness levels. This enables occupants to personalize the ambience of their private space to match their mood, from working to a power nap, at the touch of a switch.
Access to the cabin can be from either side through doors that quietly slide open or close. The crafted interior, installed by the takumi craftsmen of Lexus, reflects the ‘omonetashi’ spirit of Japan which refers to utmost hospitality.
The most comfortable MPV seats?
The 2-seats have semi-aniline leather upholstery and feature AdaptiPedic rate-sensitive response foam, its use in the LM350 said to be a world-first. This is an innovative seating foam which conforms to each passenger’s physique, promoting correct lumbar posture and a snug fit while mitigating pressure points to provide exceptional comfort and support. It also has excellent vibration absorption characteristics.
While the seats cannot fold flat into a bed, they can be stretched out and reclined in an Ottoman configuration which would provide exceptional comfort. An example of the Lexus attention to detail is the height of each seat – this has been carefully determined so that the position of the occupant’s face relative to the window is at a comfortable level.
The seats are also ventilated for enhanced comfort and they don’t just have fans blowing but also a suction system to draw cabin air cooled by the air-conditioning system through the seat surface. This more effectively reduces heat and moisture, giving a direct refreshing feel. A standard 3-mode cabin partition with a glass dimmer provides additional privacy when desired.
The standard sound system is from Mark Levinson, a leading brand in audio systems which has worked with Lexus for decades. As with every Lexus model, Mark Levinson specialists studied the cabin extensively to identify the best locations for each of the 19 speakers of the QLI Reference Surround Sound System.
Besides the Mark Levinson system, the rear occupants also have a 26-inch Full High Definition 720p display panel mounted on the partition. Various connectivity options allow playing from other media and devices for entertainment or to do a presentation while on the move.
If a deal has been discussed and concluded positively, the two occupants can celebrate with drinks from a 14-litre refrigerator. The rest of the cabin air is kept comfortably cool and clean at all times with the automatic air-conditioning system that incorporates a Pollen Filter and Nanoe Negative Ion Generator. The ion generator is able to deactivate viruses so they do not cause infection, a good thing to have these days.
While the focus has been on passenger comfort, the front occupants haven’t been forgotten although, with the partition, seat adjustment backwards is limited. The driver has everything to maintain full command of the LM350, with the Lexus Safety System+ (LSS+), a sophisticated system that integrates a number of advanced active safety systems. The rearview mirror is a high-tech type – a Digital Inner Mirror which is a Lexus First. It shows a real-time image from a rearview camera and apart from being clear in all conditions, the visibility is also not blocked by the rear headrests.
The LM350 is powered by a 3.5-litre 24-valve DOHC naturally-aspirated V6 petrol engine (the proven 2GR-FKS unit also used for other models) which generates 296 ps/361 Nm – more than enough to move four persons around speedily and comfortably. A Direct Shift 8-speed automatic transmission delivers power smoothly and efficiently to the front wheels.
Differentiating the LM350
Although the Lexus designers had a MPV design from which to start, they nevertheless ensured that in every aspect, the design of the LM 350 would conform to the design language of the brand. This, of course, meant incorporating the spindle grille that is found on every Lexus model. It’s huge but the proportions are properly matched to the size of the vehicle, with slim LED headlamps that have the distinctive arrowhead shape of Lexus Daytime Running Lamps. At the rear, LED lamps extend across the entire width of the rear door, also a visual signature of the brand.
The signature Lexus spindle grille provides clear differentiation from the Toyota Alphard (below).
There may be some who will say that they can customize a RM465,000 Alphard to be similar to a LM350 and save a lot of money. True, but Lexus engineers often point out that while some of their models have equivalents in the Toyota range, there is still much ‘under the skin’ that is different. This can be in the materials used (higher-grade insulation, for example), engineering enhancements in certain areas to push NVH even lower, and even the way the engine is tuned. So while there is the notion that a Lexus just ‘a more expensive Toyota’, it is not really the case.
For those wondering if anyone would buy the LM350, we’re told that demand for it has been strong in all the markets where it is sold and there are more than 12 Malaysian customers who are waiting for delivery of their MPV.
Lexus Malaysia’s range consists of 9 models from sedan to SUV to MPV, with the lowest-priced model being the UX. This compact SUV is available in 3 variants – Urban, Luxury and F SPORT – with prices starting from RM236,444 (excluding insurance and sales tax exemption of 5%).
For those who have had their eye on owning a UX, Lexus Capital Services (a division of Toyota Capital Malaysia Sdn. Bhd) offers a financing scheme that starts off with a much lower monthly instalment rate. It’s called Lexus Next Step Financing and can provide up to 90% financing for the purchase.
Lexus Next Step Financing is a simple 3-tier scheme spread over a 9-year period. During the first 3 years, the owner would pay RM1,938 a month for the UX Urban variant, or up to RM2,381 for the sharper-looking F-SPORT version.
From the fourth year until the sixth year, the instalment amount will be 37.6% higher, and then from the seventh year to the end of the term, the instalment will be 27.4% higher.
Based on 9-year repayment term. Terms & conditions apply.
Besides a warranty of 5 years (unlimited mileage), the UX will come with all the benefits of Lexus ownership and the well known hospitality of the brand. Buying from an authorised Lexus dealership also means having the full range of aftersales support available at 6 locations nationwide as well as availability of replacement parts.
Additionally, all owners can have peace of mind with Lexus Assist, which is available 24 hours a day, every day. Whether it’s a flat tyre or an empty tank, a call to the nearest Lexus Centre will bring assistance anywhere in Malaysia and up to 25 kms from the borders with Thailand, Brunei and Singapore.
To know more about Lexus Next Step Financing and Lexus products in Malaysia, visit www.lexus.com.my.
2021 sees the ranges of two of Lexus Malaysia’s popular models – the RX300 and ES250 – gaining additional versions. These are the new RX 300 Luxury Special Edition and ES 250 Limited. Orders are accepted at all 6 authorised Lexus outlets nationwide from mid-January, with sales beginning in February 2021.
Without insurance premium, the RX 300 Luxury Special Edition is priced from RM421,909.50, while the ES 250 Limited is priced from RM327,510.50. As the government has extended the exemption of sales tax under the PENJANA program, the savings (5% of the sales tax amount) will be available until the end of June 2021. You also get a 5-year warranty with unlimited mileage.
ES 250 Limited
“The Lexus RX and Lexus ES have suitably played a key role in the Lexus family by developing a strong interest in the Lexus brand. They have continuously delivered an overall package that not only impresses from its design, but the high level of quality finish, equipment and luxurious drive have made these the best-selling models in the Lexus stable,” said President of Lexus Malaysia, Ravindran K.
The new RX 300 Luxury Special Edition that joins the line-up alongside the Premium and F Sport variants has an exclusive bodykit which give a sportier outlook while providing aerodynamic benefits. The front bumper design is new along with that of the side skirts and rear bumper diffuser.
RX 300 Luxury Special Edition
Those buying the RX Luxury Special Edition can choose from 4 main colours – Sonic Quartz, Sonic Titanium, Graphite Black Glass Flake and Red Mica Crystal Shine, while ES 250 Limited Edition buyers have a choice of Sonic Quartz, Sonic Titanium, Graphite Black Glass Flake or Deep Blue Mica, Depending on the exterior colour, the interior colour theme will be either Topaz or Black.
Bamboo wood trim
For the new ES 250 Limited Edition, there is an inlay of bamboo wood trim in the doors, dashboard, centre console and steering wheel. While offering a unique texture and a fine finish to the luxurious interior, the bamboo trim perfectly illustrates the role of the Takumi craftsman who painstakingly sculpts and finishes each piece by hand.
Bamboo trim in ES 250 Limited.
Lexus upholds its duty to be environmentally responsible and the bamboo used is hand-picked from sustainable forests in Kochi in southern Japan.
Powertrains
Powering the sleek coupe-like ES 250 is a 2.5-litre 4-cylinder engine (2AR-FE) with Dual VVT-i and ACIS-III, a variable acoustic induction system for higher torque. With a compression ratio of 10.4:1, the engine produces 204 ps/247 Nm. Power delivery to the wheels goes through a 8-speed automatic Super ECT transmission with AI Shift.
ES 250
For the RX 300, the powertrain is the 8AR-FTS 2-litre 4-cylinder engine with a twin-scroll turbocharger. This proven engine produces a maximum of 235 ps/350 Nm, thanks to ESTEC (Economy with Superior Thermal Efficient Combustion) technology as well as D-4ST Direct Injection. Power goes to all 4 wheels through a compact and lightweight 6-speed automatic transmission, Super Electronically Controlled Transaxle with AI (Artificial Intelligence) Shift.
RX 300
Lexus Safety System +
Both the Lexus models come with Lexus Safety System + (LSS+), a package of active safety systems that help the driver to avoid an accident. These include a Pre-Collision System, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Lane Tracing Assist, and Adaptive High-Beam System. The lighting system also has the world’s first BladeScan where blade-shaped mirrors in the headlights spin at high speed to vary the spread of light away from other road-users while providing optimum illumination of the road ahead.
“The Lexus RX and the Lexus ES have proven to be capable, sophisticated and impressive performers in their segments and they continuously exceed expectations by delivering a level of distinctiveness that cannot simply be ignored,” said Deputy Chairman of Lexus Malaysia, Akio Takeyama.
Finally, the Lexus range gets a MPV after 31 years of existence. Unveiled at the Shanghai Motorshow in China last year, the new model is designated LM350, the ‘LM’ referring to ‘Luxury Mover’. It’s no secret that the LM350 is adapted from Toyota’s Alphard model, a practical move for the luxury brand. In earlier years, it had also adapted the Land Cruiser to become the LX SUV before it developed its own SUV, the RX.
The new LM350 has been progressively introduced in various Asian markets and will be launched in Malaysia in May 2021 (deliveries to commence in June 2021). Orders are now accepted by Lexus Malaysia with a deposit based on the price of RM1,148,000 (without insurance, Peninsular Malaysia registration).
“In true Lexus fashion, the engineers have crafted a vehicle that heralds a new level of dignity in luxury motoring. From the immense road presence of the vehicle to the finite details of each interior component, the all-new Lexus LM350 is crafted to exceed the desires of those who appreciate the highest level of style and comfort on the move,” said the President of Lexus Malaysia, Ravindran K.
There are two powertrains for the LM range and as the hybrid LM300h would be more expensive, Lexus Malaysia has decided to focus on the LM350 which is powered by a 3.5-litre quad-cam V6 petrol engine that delivers 296 bhp/361 Nm through a direct-shift 8-speed automatic transmission to the front wheels.
Biggest Lexus spindle grille
In adapting the Alphard, the LM350 gets Lexus styling elements on the exterior, notably the signature spindle grille with a chrome frame. Given the large frontal area, this is the largest version of the spindle grille in the Lexus range. Like the Alphard, it has ultra-compact 3-beam LED projector headlights on either side of the short bonnet.
Inside too, the Lexus treatment is evident with Omotenashi hospitality being the guiding philosophy. While the Alphard already offers a luxurious interior, the LM350 goes further to offer a mobile first-class lounge on wheels. If privacy is required, a standard glass partition can be raised or lowered at a touch of a button.
Only 2 seats at the back
To provide plenty of space in the cabin, there are just 2 VIP lounge seats for the passengers behind the front occupants. With the 5-metre body length and 3-metre wheelbase, this means that very generous legroom is available even when the Adaptipedic seats are fully reclined. The semi-aniline lounge seats are adjustable in numerous ways to achieve the most comfortable seating position and also have an Ottoman massage function with air-cooling within the seats.
Lefthand drive version for Philippines shown above.
The equipment and fittings installed ensure that every journey will be a pleasure with large cubicles on both sides of the cabin for stowing a handbag or even an attache case, as well as a mini fridge. A 26-inch full HD display panel is mounted ahead of the seats and the infotainment system has numerous functions and connectivity options.
On the dashboard in front is a 12.3-inch touchscreen with controls that be activated through a touchpad, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity and a 19-speaker Mark Levinson reference sound system for superlative sound quality.
Lexus Safety System +
Occupant protection is a high priority and the LM350 comes with advanced active and passive safety systems. These include the Lexus Safety System + with its integrated driver-assistance systems such as the Pre-Collision System, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Lane Tracing Assist, Lane Departure Alert, Adaptive High-Beam System and Rear Cross Traffic Alert. There are 7 airbags around the cabin with 2 curtain airbags that will cover the side window areas and provide protection against injuries during side impacts.
Adaptive High-Beam System (above) and Lane Tracing Assist (below) are two of the active driver-assistance systems in the Lexus Safety System +.
Commenting on the new model, UMW Toyota Motor’s Deputy Chairman, Akio Takeyama, said: “Lexus has once again delivered on the promise of elevating executive-class travel on the road. Whether your journeys are for urban commutes or inter-state travels, the notion of being transported in sophisticated elegance, top-level comfort and advanced safety is not compromised. Few vehicles on the road today are able deliver you in such a capable and dignified manner as the LM350 does.
Why buy an official import?
Although some may say that they can get lower prices at independent dealerships, they may not realise that there are some important points which can affect their ownership experience. One is the technical specifications which may seem the same for every market but according to a Lexus engineer, specific tuning is necessary for each market. For the Malaysian market, the tuning takes into account the higher cruising speeds as well as higher air temperatures.
Then there is aftersales support which Lexus Malaysia is committed to provide as the authorised importer and distributor. This means not just maintenance but also warranty coverage which is 5 years (unlimited mileage) and the provision of genuine replacement parts. And should there be a recall to rectify an issue, only those who have officially imported units will be able to get the support as the ‘unofficial’ imports may actually be recorded by Lexus as being in another country.
Lexus Malaysia has introduced its latest model – the LC500 Convertible. The model is the Japanese luxury car maker’s first convertible model to be officially for sale in Malaysia and is now the flagship model of the entire Lexus line-up in Malaysia.
The LC500 Convertible with its dramatic presence remains true to the defining features of the LF-LC concept car (shown above) that inspired it. Despite that, it still offers the very same design elements that make it a true Lexus, such as the signature low, sharp front design, 3-beam LED projector headlights and the now iconic Spindle Grille.
In true Lexus spirit, the LC500 Convertible oozes sophistication and brilliant engineering. Take the soft top convertible roof for example, it folds away in just 15 seconds and takes 16 seconds to fold back in place. It is operational at speeds of up to 50km/h, so in case it pours, which it does a lot in Malaysia, you don’t need to clumsily look for a place to stop, you just need to slow down for 16 seconds.
The soft top is also constructed from a four-layered material that includes three layers of fabric and a NVH deadening material. And despite it being designed to look great, operate quickly and lower the NVH levels of the cabin, the soft top is extremely lightweight. In fact, the Convertible model with all of its hydraulic roof mechanism, weighs just 90kg more than its coupe sibling.
The LC500 Convertible does however share the same powertrain with the coupe – a massive 5.0-litre naturally-aspirated V8 engine that puts out 470hp and 540Nm of torque. This impressive powertrain helps the LC500 Convertible see off the 0-100km/h sprint in just 4.9 seconds while top speed is electronically limited to 270km/h.
You would think that such a massive engine would probably be a really thirsty one, as the two usually go hand in hand. But not with this car, Lexus claims that the LC500 Convertible returns a fuel efficiency level of 12.7 liters per 100km on the combined cycle. Lexus says that this is achieved in part by how the engine is supposedly designed, as well as the 10-speed Artificial Intelligence Shift Control transmission which studies your driving behavior and predicts which gear you should be in, hence creating a more efficient drivetrain that puts out power quicker with lesser effort.
And of course, being a Lexus, comfort is of top priority here, and the beautiful cabin features the very best of refinement and quality. The semi-aniline leather seats are beautifully crafted and hug you ever so gently and are easily among the most comfortable seats in their class.
In terms of creature comforts, there’s a 10.3-inch high-resolution split-screen display that is integrated with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Just in the driver’s line of sight sits a 8-inch Digital Combination Meter as well as a Heads-Up display. The entertainment system is courtesy of a Mark Levinson Reference Surround Sound System and sound is fed to the cabin through 13-speakers. And in true Lexus Omotenashi spirit, the system automatically adjusts the acoustic design based on the ambient sounds, and the sound remains crisp and consistent whether the roof is up or down.
The other engineering and design element that is supposed to keep the cabin serene is a unique transparent wind deflector located behind the rear seats (seen above) that helps reduce wind buffeting, keeping the cabin quiet at speeds of up to 60km/h.
The suspension of the LC500 Convertible too plays a huge role in creating a perfectly poised, comfortable ride quality. Called the Lexus Adaptive Variable Suspension, this is not just your regular suspension system but rather it offers 650 different levels of damping force. Which basically means it is ready for just about any type of road you can throw at it.
And of course it comes with all the safety systems you would expect of such a car. Called the Lexus Safety System+ (LSS+), the system comes with a Pre-Collision System, Lane Departure Alert with Lane Keep Assist, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control and Automatic High Beams. It also offers six airbags and a Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert. All of this is offered as standard.
The Lexus LC500 Convertible can be yours for a cool RM1,350,000 after sales and service tax without insurance. Buy this car and you will enjoy a five-year unlimited mileage warranty plus free service throughout the five years or for the first 100,000km. As long as you continue to service your car at a authorised Lexus service centre. Buy it now and you will receive your LC500 Convertible by February 2021.
Lexus, like most carmakers, saw the SUV trend surging upwards in the 1990s and to quickly have a representative in the growing segment, it introduced the LX in 1995. Largely adapted from the Toyota Land Cruiser, a well-proven model, the LX had all the qualities of a Lexus, especially luxury, and also off-road capability.
Meanwhile, Lexus was also developing an entirely new SUV which, like the Toyota RAV4, would start a new segment almost overnight. It was the RX and it introduced the premium SUV and other premium manufacturers would quickly follow.
However, the LX remained as part of the Lexus range, continuously being improved and refined. Lexus has found there were still customers who wanted larger SUVs with up to three rows of seating, and the LX was an ideal product to offer.
“The Lexus LX 570 raises the level of sophistication of a very competent platform, ensuring that each journey you take, you remain ensconced in the pinnacle of automotive engineering. The Lexus logo on the characteristic spindle grille ensures you arrive in fashionable comfort and elegance,” said the Deputy Chairman of Lexus Malaysia, Akio Takeyama.
The third generation of the LX has been part of the Lexus SUV range in Malaysia since 2015, complementing the RX, NX and more recently, the UX. For 2020, the model has received updates and an additional variant – the LX 570 Sport – is also available. Prices are expected to start from RM1,225,883 (excluding insurance with sales tax exemption applicable until the end of 2020) and bookings for the new model are now being accepted at all 6 authorised Lexus Centres nationwide.
Cosmetic updates
The LX570 has a clear brand identification with its spindle grille, appropriately sized to match the traditional SUV form. Measuring 5 metres in length and almost 2 metres in width, it is obviously a large vehicle and the engineers have done whatever is possible for aerodynamic efficiency.
For 2020, the turn signals glancing the LED headlights now have sequential illumination, a feature usually found on premium models. When activated, the driver’s intentions are more clearly relayed rather than just flashing amber lights.
Customers have a choice of exterior colours that now include Terrane Khaki Mica Metallic. The interior colours of Garnet, Sun Flare Brown and Ocher are used according to the choice of exterior colour.
LX570 Sport
The LX570 Sport has sportier bumpers and the spindle grille gets a different L-shaped block mesh design. Its 21-inch forged rims are also exclusively styled with a more open pattern for a sportier look.
Inside, the Lexus LX 570 Sport also gets an exclusive illuminated scuff plate, aluminium sports pedals with rubber inserts and door courtesy lamps with logo projection.
Biggest Lexus engine
The 3UR-FE engine is similar for the LX 570 and LX570 Sport. At 5.7 litres, it is the largest engine in the Lexus range and has a V8 configuration with advanced Dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (Dual VVT-i). At its peak output, the engine generates 362 bhp with 530 Nm of torque and can reach up to 210 km/h, it is claimed.
The engine is mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission which delivers power to all 4 wheels via a robust 4×4 system. The driver has a choice of up to 6 driving modes to suit personal preference or driving conditions.
With the LX 570 Sport, there is also a Front Performance Damper. This additional accessory enhances body rigidity for better handling and stability without sacrifice to the overall comfort of the vehicle. The Adaptive Variable Suspension adjusts the ride according to terrain and has four electronically-controlled off-road modes.
Lexus Safety System Plus
The LX 570 has Lexus Safety System Plus (LSS+) as standard and the active safety features now included as standard include Pre-Collision System (PCS), Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, and Lane Departure Alert (LDA).
“The Lexus LX 570 is truly an understated SUV. It is impressive in every aspect of its capability, be it as a people-mover, rugged explorer, safe tourer or a luxurious city dweller. It performs remarkably well everywhere and does it with the true finesse of a Lexus product,” said the President of Lexus Malaysia, Ravindran K.
Besides its Toyota branches around Malaysia, UMW Toyota Motor (UMWT) is also transferring its Lexus retail operations to dealers. Although this may seem something new to Malaysians, dealers are usually the ones who manage retail outlets in other countries. It’s only in Malaysia that distributors have established their own branches to do retail as well and it goes back many decades. Back in the 1960s, only the large distributors had the money so they started the retail outlets themselves and the trend remained for a long time.
The Lexus Centre in Mutiara Damansara, Petaling Jaya, Selangor, has been transferred to Hiewa Auto Gallery (Lexus) Sdn Bhd. This outlet was the first official Lexus outlet in Malaysia when it was opened over 10 years ago.
By transferring retail responsibilities to dealers, UMWT will be able to increase intensity on high value-added upstream activities such as product development, marketing and dealer network support.
“It is essential for Lexus Malaysia to continue achieving high customer satisfaction standards,” said Lexus Malaysia President, Ravindran K. He gave assurance that the typically high quality of customer care that Lexus is well known for will be maintained.
“I am extremely excited about working even more closely with our dealers to achieve a shared vision for Lexus Malaysia, which is to develop the concept of ‘Best In Town’ that focuses more on one-to-one customer engagement. Although this arrangement signifies an important change for Lexus Malaysia, our customers should rest assured that our service will not be compromised but gets even better in the future” he added.
Lexus UX
Information on the Lexus network of sales and aftersales locations in Malaysia can be found at lexus.com.my.
