Lexus Minivan Could Be The Best Thing Since The Mercedes R-Class

The premium sector is all about unlocking niche markets before anyone else does.

Toyota and Lexus are more than just corporate siblings - many of the latter's models share underpinnings with Toyota models from both the US and abroad, and often, a look at one is as good as an insight into what's coming next for the other. But what if that were the case for the latest Toyota Sienna minivan? What if Lexus took the humble minivan upmarket and transformed it into the most luxurious executive office on wheels around? That's exactly the thought Sugar Chow, a digital artist with a penchant for strange automotive mashups whose latest creation takes the all-new 2021 Toyota Sienna and gives it a premium look and some premium badging.

In order to complete the makeover, relatively few changes were actually required, meaning the possibility of a real-life version isn't all too far fetched. Of course the most noticeable of the changes is a new face, with the Toyota family grille replaced by a black mesh F Sport-inspired grille in the signature hourglass shape as seen on other Lexus models. The headlights have also been changed, with what looks like LED units from the Lexus ES, while the wheel arches are filled with F Sport styled alloy wheels. The overall shape remains unchanged, however, although there is additional chrome exterior trim on the C-pillar, and the roof rails look to have been treated to the same.

Just like the Lexus ES and Toyota Avalon share a platform and an engine, it's fair to imagine the Lexus version of the Sienna would share the latter's powertrain. That would mean the implementation of a hybrid system comprising a 2.5-liter four-cylinder, two electric motors, and a CVT automatic gearbox to handle the combined outputs of 243 horsepower. With Lexus being the more upmarket brand, we wouldn't be surprised to see the 302-hp 3.5-liter V6 from the ES also finding its way under the hood, if the minivan ever went to production.

A premium minivan is unlikely, however, and the last time a brand in this segment played with the idea - the Mercedes-Benz R-Class - it was short-lived. Still, it could hold merit as an ultra-elite airport shuttle for the wealthy businessman.