Why the 2025 Lexus LM Hybrid is the Ultimate Luxury Ride for VIPs

Why is the 2025 Lexus LM Hybrid, specifically the LM 500h, recommended as a ceremonial vehicle?

Hello, I’m Double Look, an automotive influencer.

Recently, I attended the 2024 Lexus Masters tournament held at A1 CC in Yangsan, Gyeongnam,

where I got to see all Lexus models and experience their ceremonial service from the exclusive parking area to the golf course.

Lexus continues to receive steady love as a premium brand,

and with the rise of electric vehicle phobia, the popularity of hybrid models has increased

so naturally, more people are seeking them out.

On this day, I encountered the Lexus hybrid model LM 500h at two main exhibition locations at the golf course.

The LM 500h launched in two versions: the Executive, which seats six, and the Royal, which is a four-passenger ceremonial vehicle.

On this occasion, I directly experienced the four-passenger model.

At a glance, it may resemble a minivan, but

once you take it for a test drive, it delivers an unparalleled luxury experience akin to first-class on an airplane.

Specifications and estimated pricing for the 2025 Lexus LM Hybrid

Since many people may not be familiar with the LM 500h, let’s first share its specifications and estimated pricing before diving into the detailed test drive review.

Overall Length: 16.9 ft (5,135 mm)

Overall Width: 6.2 ft (1,890 mm)

Overall Height: 6.4 ft (1,955 mm)

Wheelbase: 9.8 ft (3,000 mm)

Engine: Inline 4-cylinder 146.5 cu in (2,393 cc)

Drivetrain: AWD / Transmission: 6-speed automatic

Max Power: 275 ps / 6,000 rpm

Max Torque: 33.5 lb-ft / 2,000 ~ 3,000 rpm

Tire Size: 225/55R 19

Curb Weight: 5,446 lbs (2,470 kg)

Combined Fuel Efficiency: 23.7 mpg (city 22.9 / highway 25.4)

Estimated Driving Range on Full Tank: 364 miles (586 km)

The gasoline turbo 2.4L hybrid model achieves a combined fuel efficiency of 23.7 mpg, making it a competitive option for ceremonial vehicles in terms of maintenance costs.

There are forecasts that the upcoming Palisade full-change model will also feature a 2.5 gasoline turbo hybrid engine,

and considering performance and economic factors, it becomes clear why automotive brands are rushing to launch these models.

Now, let’s check the estimated pricing for the 2025 Lexus LM hybrid 500h.

What can we expect?

To cut to the chase, it comes equipped with all the basic options, so you likely won't incur additional costs for extra options.

Vehicle Price: 79,600,000 KRW (approximately $59,800 USD)

Acquisition Tax: 12,470,000 KRW (approximately $9,400 USD)

Bond Discount: 2,410,000 KRW (approximately $1,800 USD) (based on Seoul)

=> Estimated Actual Purchase Price: 210,930,000 KRW (approximately $159,900 USD) (including additional costs)

While it’s labeled a premium ceremonial vehicle, the estimated actual purchase price exceeding 200 million KRW showcases its luxurious class.

What makes me recommend this model for ceremonial use?

First, although it seats four, it features a partition that perfectly separates the first and second rows,

providing a private atmosphere for second-row passengers.

It’s not just a partition; it also provides soundproofing, creating a conducive environment for business conversations in the second row.

Thus, you can place drivers in the front row and accommodate one or two owners and business partners in the second row.

The second row includes a refrigerator, a 48-inch wide monitor, and ample storage space for various items.

Moreover, the seats can recline over 150 degrees, and there’s a leg support for comfortable lounging during travel.

The massage function is also a delightful feature I experienced firsthand, and it was incredibly relaxing.

While I didn’t take indoor photos that day due to filming a YouTube video,

if you’re curious about the features of the second row and the ride comfort, please check the video below.

Personally, I can confidently say this is the best ceremonial vehicle I’ve ever experienced.

In Korea, typical ceremonial vehicles include the Carnival Hi-Limousine, Staria, or Solati, and Starcraft.

However, no matter how luxuriously the interior is decorated, nothing seems to compare to the 2025 Lexus LM Hybrid model.

This model stands out for its exceptional fuel efficiency, unique hybrid engine quietness, and first-class comfort,

making the LM 500h a unique offering in the market.

This luxury class model is indeed a rare sight on the roads.

I honestly didn’t expect much difference from a ceremonial vehicle, but after experiencing it firsthand, my perspective completely changed.

A friend who joined me for the test drive also expressed that the feeling while sitting in the second-row seat exceeded expectations.

It’s not just because it’s branded as LEXUS; the attention to interior space feels superior to other brands.

For these reasons, I highly recommend this model to many business operators involved in client transportation.

While it may look like a minivan, the presence of the LEXUS logo signifies that it’s not just another common ceremonial vehicle.

Since it hasn’t been long since its arrival in the country, not many people have experienced it yet,

but for those who need an owner-driven model, I recommend taking it for a test drive to make your own judgment.

I saw three colors that day: black, gray, and matte white. Each color has a distinct style, so I can’t recommend just one.

Personally, I think black suits this first-class model best, while my friend recommends the unique matte white.

Since individual preferences vary regarding color, I’ll leave that decision up to each person.

Many individuals and business operators require a first-class level ceremonial vehicle, but the estimated purchase price exceeding $159,900 can be a significant financial burden.

For those individuals, I recommend the KS Autoplan's new car long-term rental or leasing options, which allow you to use the vehicle without an initial deposit.

The models I previously mentioned are also in operation under corporate leases exceeding $60,000 (approximately 80 million KRW),

KS Autoplan collaborates with over 20 financial institutions and has an extensive nationwide network related to automobiles,

enabling them to provide competitive price comparisons and immediate delivery.

In 2020, KS Autoplan won the Asia Economic Brand Power Award, so if you have a vehicle in mind, it’s worth getting a competitive estimate before making a decision.

Individuals and corporate operators can also benefit from tax savings through cost management,

and it would be beneficial to consult with KS Autoplan's business consultants for more competitive and convenient terms.

If you’re interested in the 2025 Lexus LM Hybrid model or any other vehicle, I recommend taking advantage of KS Autoplan's summer party discounts for affordable options.

This post was created with support from KS.