Lexus LM vs BMW i7
The ultra-luxury vehicle segment has evolved dramatically, with manufacturers reimagining what ultimate automotive luxury means for discerning buyers. Two vehicles that represent radically different approaches to luxury transportation are the Lexus LM—a purpose-built luxury MPV offering limousine-like rear-seat comfort—and the BMW i7—the all-electric flagship sedan representing German engineering excellence and cutting-edge electrification. While one prioritizes maximum space and passenger pampering, the other emphasizes dynamic luxury with zero emissions. As we navigate through 2025, let’s explore how these luxury flagships compare across comfort, technology, features, and value to help you choose your ultimate luxury conveyance.
Table of Contents
Brand Philosophy and Market Positioning
Lexus LM: The Ultimate Luxury Lounge
The Lexus LM (Luxury Mover) represents Toyota’s luxury division’s answer to ultra-luxury MPVs—creating a mobile first-class lounge that redefines automotive luxury. Initially launched for Asian markets where rear-seat luxury is paramount, the LM combines limousine-level comfort with MPV practicality, targeting ultra-wealthy buyers who prioritize being driven over driving.
Lexus’s philosophy with the LM emphasizes “omotenashi”—the Japanese concept of wholehearted hospitality. Every element prioritizes rear-seat passenger comfort, privacy, and luxury. The LM targets business executives, dignitaries, and wealthy families seeking maximum comfort and presence without traditional sedan constraints.
BMW i7: Electric Flagship Excellence
The BMW i7 represents Bavaria’s vision of the electric luxury flagship—combining BMW’s legendary driving dynamics with cutting-edge electric propulsion, advanced technology, and sophisticated luxury. As BMW’s most advanced sedan, the i7 showcases the brand’s commitment to electrification without compromising the “Ultimate Driving Machine” philosophy.
BMW’s strategy with the i7 emphasizes holistic excellence—not just zero-emission luxury, but dynamic performance, advanced technology, and the driving engagement BMW is renowned for. It targets progressive luxury buyers seeking flagship prestige with environmental consciousness, accepting no compromise between sustainability and luxury.
Design and Presence: MPV Elegance vs. Sedan Sophistication
Lexus LM Design Language
The LM showcases bold, distinctive luxury MPV styling:
- Massive signature Lexus spindle grille dominating the front
- Chrome-heavy exterior communicating premium positioning
- Tall, van-like proportions with elegant surfacing
- Power sliding doors (rear) for easier access
- Large alloy wheels (19-20 inches)
- Privacy glass and curtains throughout
- Available in sophisticated colors including Sonic Quartz and Graphite Black
- Commanding road presence
The LM looks unmistakably luxurious and distinctive—immediately communicating its ultra-premium positioning. The design doesn’t apologize for MPV proportions but instead embraces them with elegance and presence. Lexus’s legendary build quality is evident throughout with flawless paint, perfect panel gaps, and materials that exude quality.
The interior is where the LM truly distinguishes itself—divided into front and rear compartments by a partition wall with power privacy screen, the rear cabin is a mobile luxury lounge with business jet-inspired seating, premium materials, and meticulous attention to detail.
BMW i7 Design Language
The i7 showcases contemporary luxury sedan elegance:
- Distinctive large kidney grille (illuminated, though not functional for cooling)
- Sleek, aerodynamic sedan proportions
- Split headlamps with distinctive LED signatures
- Clean, flowing body lines emphasizing length
- Flush door handles and aerodynamic optimization
- Large alloy wheels (19-21 inches)
- Available in exclusive BMW Individual colors
- Sophisticated, understated presence
The i7 looks elegantly modern and unmistakably premium without ostentation. The design balances BMW’s design language with electric-specific elements, creating a sedan that looks contemporary and sophisticated. BMW’s build quality is exceptional with precision engineering evident in every detail.
The interior showcases BMW’s latest luxury philosophy—curved dual-screen display, premium materials including sustainable options, theater screen for rear passengers, and meticulous craftsmanship throughout. The design emphasizes sophisticated technology integration with traditional luxury.
Seating Configurations and Space: Different Priorities
Lexus LM Space Configuration
The LM prioritizes ultimate rear-seat luxury:
4-Seater Configuration:
- Front: Driver and front passenger with premium materials
- Partition wall separating front and rear compartments
- Rear: Two Ottoman-style captain seats with exceptional space
- Individual rear seats with power adjustment, heating, ventilation, massage
- Extendable ottomans creating near-bed-like comfort
- Enormous legroom (limousine-class)
- Privacy screens, curtains throughout
- Refrigerator, premium audio, rear-seat controls
7-Seater Configuration:
- Traditional MPV layout with three rows
- Less luxurious than 4-seater but more practical
- Second-row captain seats with good comfort
- Third row suitable for adults
The LM’s 4-seater configuration represents ultimate luxury—the rear seats offer business-class airline seating with automotive-leading comfort. The partition creates complete privacy, and the space feels more like a luxury lounge than a vehicle interior.
BMW i7 Space Configuration
The i7 offers traditional luxury sedan accommodation:
5-Seater Configuration:
- Front: Excellent space with multi-contour seats, heating, ventilation, massage
- Rear: Generous limousine-like space with executive seating
- Rear seats with power adjustment, heating, ventilation, massage (on xDrive60 Excellence)
- Theater screen (31.3-inch) descending from roof for rear entertainment
- Flat floor creating spacious feeling
- Lounge seating package available with extended rear seat features
The i7’s rear seat offers exceptional luxury sedan accommodation—genuinely limousine-like space with seats that rival dedicated chauffeur sedans. The theater screen is a distinctive feature, providing cinema-quality entertainment for rear passengers.
Space Verdict:
The LM’s 4-seater configuration offers superior ultimate luxury with partition wall, ottoman seats, and dedicated rear luxury focus. The i7 provides excellent luxury sedan space without the LM’s extreme rear-seat prioritization. Choose based on whether sedan elegance or ultimate rear-seat lounge matters most.
Powertrain: Hybrid Efficiency vs. Electric Performance
Lexus LM Powertrain
The LM features Lexus’s proven hybrid system:
Hybrid System:
- 2.5-liter four-cylinder petrol engine + electric motors
- Combined output: Approximately 250 bhp
- E-CVT (Electronic Continuously Variable Transmission)
- Front-wheel drive or E-Four all-wheel drive (depending on variant)
Performance:
- 0-100 km/h: Approximately 8-9 seconds (adequate, not sporty)
- Top speed: 190 km/h (limited)
- Smooth, refined operation prioritizing comfort
- Hybrid efficiency and range
The LM’s powertrain prioritizes refinement over performance. The hybrid system operates nearly silently, switching seamlessly between electric and petrol power. Acceleration is adequate rather than exciting—perfectly suited to chauffeur-driven luxury where smooth progress matters more than sprinting.
BMW i7 Electric Powertrain
The i7 features BMW’s advanced electric drivetrain:
Electric System (xDrive60 variant):
- Dual electric motors (front and rear)
- Combined output: 544 bhp, 745 Nm torque
- All-wheel drive (xDrive)
- Single-speed transmission
Battery:
- Capacity: 101.7 kWh (usable)
- Range: 590-625 km (WLTP)
- DC fast charging: 195 kW maximum (10-80% in approximately 34 minutes)
- AC charging: 11 kW (22 kW optional)
Performance:
- 0-100 km/h: 4.7 seconds (impressively quick for a large sedan)
- Top speed: 240 km/h (electronically limited)
- Instant electric torque delivery
- Whisper-quiet operation
The i7’s electric powertrain delivers remarkable performance—the instant torque makes acceleration effortless and surprisingly brisk. The silence is profound, enhancing the luxury experience. The range is excellent for a large luxury EV, covering most users’ weekly driving easily.
Powertrain Comparison:
The i7 delivers significantly more power and dramatically quicker acceleration (4.7 seconds vs. 8-9 seconds to 100 km/h). However, both prioritize refinement and quiet operation. The i7’s zero-emission operation appeals to environmentally conscious buyers, while the LM’s hybrid offers unlimited range without charging anxiety.
Technology and Features: Digital Luxury
Lexus LM Technology Suite
Lexus equips the LM with comprehensive luxury features:
Infotainment:
- Large touchscreen display (12.3-inch+)
- Mark Levinson premium audio system (rear cabin focused)
- Rear-seat entertainment with large display screens
- Smartphone integration
- Rear-seat controls for all functions
Luxury Features:
- Power partition wall with privacy screen
- Rear-seat ottoman seats with massage, heating, ventilation
- Refrigerator in rear cabin
- Premium ambient lighting
- Rear-seat power sunshades
- Climate control with zones for ultimate comfort
- Lexus Safety System+ (comprehensive driver aids)
Comfort Elements:
- Ultra-quiet cabin with extensive sound insulation
- Air purification system
- Premium materials including semi-aniline leather
- Wool carpeting
- Japanese hospitality-inspired details
The LM’s technology emphasizes rear-seat passenger comfort and entertainment. The systems are comprehensive though perhaps not as cutting-edge as some competitors—Lexus prioritizes reliability and intuitive operation over bleeding-edge features.
BMW i7 Technology Suite
BMW equips the i7 with cutting-edge technology:
Infotainment:
- Curved display (12.3-inch driver display + 14.9-inch central touchscreen)
- BMW Operating System 8 with iDrive controller
- Theater Screen (31.3-inch 8K) for rear passengers
- Bowers & Wilkins Diamond Surround Sound (optional)
- Augmented Reality navigation
- BMW Digital Key Plus
Luxury Features:
- Executive Lounge rear seating (on Excellence trims)
- Rear seats with heating, ventilation, massage, power adjustment
- Rear-seat entertainment with theater screen
- Sky Lounge panoramic glass roof with LED lighting
- Ambient lighting with multiple themes
- Four-zone climate control
Advanced Systems:
- BMW Driving Assistant Professional (Level 2+ autonomous)
- Active suspension with adaptive dampers
- Integral Active Steering (rear-wheel steering)
- Parking Assistant Plus
- Comprehensive safety systems
The i7’s technology is state-of-the-art with features that push boundaries. The theater screen is genuinely impressive, the curved display is beautifully integrated, and the overall tech experience feels cutting-edge. BMW’s iDrive system is intuitive once learned, offering deep customization.
Technology Verdict:
The i7 offers more advanced, cutting-edge technology with features like the theater screen and augmented reality navigation. The LM focuses on passenger comfort technology with less emphasis on digital innovation. Both provide comprehensive luxury features—choose based on whether tech sophistication or passenger pampering matters most.
Ride Quality and Dynamics: Comfort vs. Engagement
Lexus LM Ride Quality:
- Air suspension providing exceptional comfort
- Ride prioritizes isolation and smoothness above all
- Minimal body roll despite tall profile
- Steering is light and easy
- Driving dynamics prioritize comfort over engagement
- Whisper-quiet cabin
- Exceptional refinement
The LM delivers exceptional ride quality—the suspension soaks up imperfections beautifully, creating a magic carpet-like ride. The cabin is profoundly quiet with extensive sound insulation. This is transportation at its most comfortable and refined.
BMW i7 Ride Quality:
- Adaptive air suspension with active roll stabilization
- Executive Drive Pro (active suspension) available
- Ride balances comfort with control
- Rear-axle steering improving maneuverability
- Driving dynamics remain engaging despite luxury focus
- Quiet, refined, but retains BMW dynamic character
- Impressive handling for a large sedan
The i7 delivers exceptional comfort while maintaining BMW’s dynamic competence. The ride is plush and controlled, the handling is composed and confidence-inspiring, and the overall experience balances luxury refinement with driving engagement. It’s a BMW first, luxury sedan second.
Dynamics Verdict:
The LM prioritizes pure comfort and isolation—perfect for being driven. The i7 balances comfort with engaging dynamics—excellent for both being driven and driving yourself. Choose based on whether you’ll primarily be chauffeur-driven or enjoy driving.
Price Comparison: Ultra-Luxury Investment
Lexus LM Pricing (Ex-showroom, approximate where available)
- LM 350h (4-seater): ₹2.00-2.50 crore
- LM 350h (7-seater): ₹1.80-2.20 crore
- Ultra-luxury positioning with corresponding pricing
BMW i7 Pricing (Ex-showroom India, approximate)
- i7 xDrive60: ₹2.00-2.20 crore
- i7 M70 xDrive (performance variant): ₹2.50+ crore
- Flagship pricing reflecting advanced technology
The pricing is comparable with both occupying the ₹2+ crore ultra-luxury segment. Actual pricing varies by market, specifications, and options selected.
The Verdict: Which Ultra-Luxury Vehicle Should You Choose?
Choose the Lexus LM if:
- You’re primarily chauffeur-driven
- Ultimate rear-seat comfort is paramount
- You want mobile lounge/business-class experience
- Partition wall and privacy appeal
- Ottoman seating with extreme comfort matters
- You prioritize passenger luxury over driving dynamics
- MPV versatility with luxury is desired
- Japanese hospitality philosophy resonates
Choose the BMW i7 if:
- Zero-emission luxury appeals (pure electric)
- You enjoy driving yourself occasionally
- Sedan elegance preferred over MPV proportions
- Cutting-edge technology matters (theater screen, AR navigation)
- Driving dynamics alongside luxury are important
- Electric range and performance are priorities
- BMW brand prestige and heritage matter
- You want luxury with environmental consciousness
Final Thoughts: Different Luxury Philosophies
The Lexus LM and BMW i7 represent fundamentally different approaches to ultra-luxury transportation. The LM is the ultimate chauffeur-driven luxury—prioritizing rear-seat passengers with business-class comfort, privacy, and space that surpasses traditional sedans. It’s perfect for executives, business owners, and wealthy families who view vehicles primarily as luxury conveyances.
The i7 is the progressive luxury flagship—combining electric propulsion with dynamic luxury, cutting-edge technology, and BMW’s driving heritage. It’s ideal for buyers seeking flagship prestige with environmental responsibility, enjoying both driving and being driven.
Your decision should reflect how you’ll use the vehicle:
- If you’re primarily chauffeur-driven and prioritize rear-seat luxury, the LM’s extreme passenger focus is unmatched.
- If you value driving dynamics alongside luxury or want electric propulsion, the i7 delivers more complete excellence.
- If privacy and partition matter, the LM’s dedicated rear lounge is unique.
- If technology and innovation are priorities, the i7’s cutting-edge features are superior.
Test experience both vehicles if possible, spending time in rear seats to appreciate their different approaches to luxury. Both represent the pinnacle of their respective philosophies—choose the one that aligns with your definition of ultimate automotive luxury and how you’ll actually use these magnificent machines.
