Remember when Lexus officially launched the LM back in April 2019? Essentially a more luxurious version of the Toyota Alphard, the luxury van gets the Lexus treatment with its grander-looking exterior and interior, and optional four-seat configuration complete with a rear entertainment system.

Surely, interested buyers all over the world have already flocked to their nearest dealership right about now. As a matter of fact, there's already a line for it already here in the Philippines. Do note that it has yet to be officially launched in the country.

However, nine months since its launch in Shanghai, Lexus has officially announced that presale of the LM has officially begun...in China that is. To be available in two variants, the flagship MPV can be had with the standard seven-seat configuration, or with the more lavish four-seat setup. The seven-seater version has a price tag of RMB 1.166 million (about Php 8.576 million) while the four-seater is selling at RMB 1.466 million (about Php 10.783 million).

However, despite the presale already starting for the Lexus LM, the luxury marque will officially be launching it on February 20, 2020. The China-spec LM will only be available as a hybrid via the 300h.

With the Lexus LM soon to be available in China, could it mean that it is set to arrive in the Philippines in the not so distant future? Perhaps it is only a matter of time as there are already numerous buyers waiting to get their hands on one in the Philippines. As to what engine the PH-spec LM will have, we won't be surprised if it will have a hybrid powertrain, or maybe even the 3.5-liter V6 as it can take advantage of the JPEPA trade agreement.

Either way, the Lexus LM might just be what the automaker needs to tap into the luxury van market in the country. Here's to hoping that it arrives sooner than later.