Lexus, Toyota’s luxury lifestyle sub-brand, has announced it will launch an all-new version of the motor yacht that marked the brand’s first-ever step into the marine environment. But, while the new Lexus LY 680 will look very similar to the Lexus LY 650 it replaces, there will apparently, be significant differences between the models.

Indeed, only four of the previous Lexus LY 650 motor yachts were sold, with Lexus acting on customer feedback to introduce running changes for the updated model. Hence, the company has big expectations that the new model, will prove significantly more popular than the version it replaces. Initial plans are for at least twenty LY 650’s to be produced in the first roll-out.

Though the previous version of the LY 650, was built in the US, the new Lexus LY 680 will be built at the same Taiwan-based factory responsible for building the Horizon range of luxury motor yachts. According to Lexus, the company has already started the process of shipping the new LY 650 moulds to Taiwan. The upgraded, three state room model, is set to feature a larger flybridge and upper deck area, an extended swim deck and in all likelihood, Volvo Penta’s diesel/electric hybrid system too, in order to provide the LY 650 a sustainable USP. (The latter also benefiting from Volvo Penta’s latest, Virtual Glasshouse helm displays and all-speed, joystick steering). The first vessels off the assembly line are anticipated for late 2025/early 2026 and will be available initially in Japan before then being shipped to other territories including the US and Australia. (Original information source and pics courtesy of Boatsales).