Lexus takes ‘flagship model’ far too seriously

Lexus issued a breathless press release this week, detailing an addition to their top-shelf “L” series of vehicles, which already encompasses the LS sedan, LC Coupe and LX SUV.

The new L model is . . . er, a luxury yacht. Um, righto.

Known as the LY 650 (one wonders whether there’s a badge on the back of it just like a car), the 20m yacht has been designed using the same “L Finesse” design language the Japanese carmaker infuses its more common roadbased fare with.

The really strange thing is, the arrival of the LY 650 doesn’t appear to be — forgive us — PR showboating. The company is talking about this massive sea-going vessel in the same sentences as the rest of its premium model line-up.

The LY 650 also picks up the baton from a concept boat Lexus showed off back in 2017. The press bumpf attached to news of the yacht’s imminent arrival suggests Lexus chief Yoshihiro Sawa’s vision of Lexus as a brand that “explores new ways to deliver innovative and amazing experiences for our guests” is clearly a goal not restricted to just landlubbers.

The LY 650 will be powered by Volvo Penta IPS1200 engines (a

12.8-litre turboed and supercharged common-rail diesel), features a beam width of

5.72m and fuel capacity of 3785-litres. Onboard are three staterooms and — naturally — a rather luxurious menu of fittings and fixtures. No mention of whether Lexus’ fiddly Remote Touch interface is required to get the sat nav working though. We wouldn’t like to use that on a choppy sea.

In the meantime, one wonders how the Lexus dealer network will react to the need for dry-dock facilities alongside their showrooms? No need to panic, Lexus of Christchurch: the LY 650 will be built, sold and serviced by US-based high-end boat manufacturer Marquis-Larson.