Volkswagen Multivan vs Lexus LM
A detailed look at how two of Australia's most popular People Movers compare on price, running costs, safety, and everyday livability.
Specifications and pricing correct at time of publishing. Prices are RRP before on-road costs unless stated otherwise. Always confirm with the manufacturer or dealer before purchasing.
Volkswagen Multivan
Price TBC
People Mover
Diesel
2.0L TDI Turbo-Diesel
110kW
6.2 L/100km
5★ ANCAP
469L
Lexus LM
From $160,888
People Mover
Hybrid
2.5L Petrol-Electric Hybrid (A25A-FXS)
184kW
5.5 L/100km
ANCAP: no data
110L
Track the Volkswagen Multivan & Lexus LM
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Price Breakdown
Pricing for one or both models is yet to be confirmed for the Australian market. We will update this comparison when official RRPs are announced.
Safety Rundown
ANCAP safety ratings have not been published for both models yet. We will update this section when crash test results are available.
Feature Showdown
The Volkswagen Multivan features a 10-inch touchscreen, while the Lexus LM gets a 14-inch display and 12.3-inch instruments. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The Lexus LM counters with heated front seats, ventilated seats and Mark Levinson audio that the Volkswagen Multivan does not offer. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The Volkswagen Multivan uses a 2.0L TDI Turbo-Diesel producing 110kW and 360Nm of torque, sent through a 7-speed dsg to a FWD layout.
The Lexus LM responds with a 2.5L Petrol-Electric Hybrid (A25A-FXS) making 184kW and 239Nm, paired to a cvt driving the front wheels.
The Lexus LM has the clear power advantage at 184kW vs 110kW. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The Volkswagen Multivan measures 4,973mm long on a 3,124mm wheelbase, 157mm shorter than the Lexus LM at 5,130mm (3,000mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Volkswagen Multivan generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 469L in the Volkswagen Multivan and 110L in the Lexus LM, giving the Volkswagen Multivan a 359L advantage.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
11.8m to 12.1m
Based on 12.1m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Based on 11.8m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Turning circle ratings
True Cost to Own
Based on 15,000km of annual driving, fuel costs roughly $1,767/year for the Volkswagen Multivan and $1,568/year for the Lexus LM. That is a $199 annual difference in favour of the Lexus LM.
Estimated annual total: $1,767 (Volkswagen Multivan) vs $1,568 (Lexus LM). The Lexus LM saves you roughly $199 per year in total ownership costs. Use our Fuel Cost Calculator to estimate based on your driving.
Warranty: 5 years (Volkswagen Multivan) vs 5 years (Lexus LM). Both match on warranty length.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Volkswagen Multivan if: You need more boot space, or prefer Volkswagen's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Lexus LM if: You prioritise performance, want lower running costs, or prefer Lexus's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Lexus LM takes 2 of 3 key spec categories. The Lexus LM will save you roughly $199 a year in fuel. If boot space matters, the Volkswagen Multivan has a clear edge. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Common questions
Which is cheapest, Volkswagen Multivan and Lexus LM?
The Lexus LM is the cheapest at $160,888 before on-road costs.
Which is the most fuel-efficient?
The Lexus LM uses the least fuel at 5.5L/100km on the combined cycle.
Which is safest?
They are evenly matched — Volkswagen Multivan all hold a 5-star ANCAP rating. Compare the active-safety features above to separate them.
Which has the most boot space?
The Volkswagen Multivan has the largest boot at 469L.
Which can tow the most?
The Volkswagen Multivan has the highest braked towing capacity at 2,000kg.
Which is the most powerful?
The Lexus LM makes the most power at 184kW.
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Disclaimer: All information in this comparison was believed to be correct at the time of publishing (20 April 2026). Prices are manufacturer recommended retail prices (RRP) and may vary by state, dealer, and options. Driveaway costs include estimated on-road costs for Victoria. Fuel economy figures are WLTP/ADR combined cycle. Specifications can change without notice. Always verify with the manufacturer before making a purchase decision. CarSorted does not accept payment for recommendations.
Auto-generated from CarSorted's specification data · 20 April 2026
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