This is the brand new LBX - and it’s the smallest Lexus yet.
The LBX is a compact SUV that’s underpinned by the same architecture platform you’ll find in the Toyota Yaris Cross. The Lexus brand is, after all, owned by the Toyota Motor Corporation.
The LBX will also have to compete against a glut of other small SUV-hatchback crossovers, including the MINI Countryman, Audi Q2 and the Volkswagen T-Cross.
And while the LBX is smaller than the Lexus UX, it’s packing a hefty punch.
At the heart of the LBX is a self-charging hybrid powertrain that features a 1.5-litre three-cylinder engine, power of 134 bhp, and peak torque of 185 Nm.
While Lexus hasn’t revealed fuel economy figures just yet, the hybrid UX returns upwards of 50 miles to the gallon, so you can expect an improvement on that with the lighter LBX.
Lease customers have the option of equipping the LBX with Lexus ‘E-Four’ all-wheel drive, which adds another electric motor to the rear axle.
And Lexus says the LBX has been built to offer some decent driver enjoyment.
A spokesperson says:
“The powertrain is tuned for enjoyable performance, whether driving around town or on winding country roads, with faithful handling and a linear acceleration feel that is more closely aligned to the driver’s use of the accelerator pedal. Drivability is also enhanced by Hybrid System Control that closely matches engine sound and acceleration. Thanks to the hybrid system upgrades, all-electric EV driving can be enjoyed at higher speeds and over longer distances, maximising the LBX’s efficiency.”
The LBX features some impressive exterior styling touches, too, with flared wings and short overhangs giving it a ‘sporty profile’, according to Lexus.
You get 332 litres of luggage space, a 9.8 inch infotainment touchscreen with sat-nav and voice operation, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a premium sound system.
And because this is a Lexus, it’s obviously absolutely rammed full of driver assistance and safety wizardry.
Even the most affordable, entry-level LBX models get the ‘Lexus Safety System+’, which includes pre-collision with pedestrian detection, lane departure warning and lane trace assist, and dynamic radar cruise control.
A Lexus spokesperson adds:
“The all-new, self-charging hybrid electric LBX is the smallest Lexus yet, but fully deserving of its status as a landmark model, one which breaks down the traditional luxury hierarchy and which will be a game-changer for the brand in Europe.”
We’ll bring you leasing prices for the Lexus LBX when it becomes available later this year.
In the meantime you can lease the Toyota Yaris Cross hybrid from £248 per month*.
*Prices include VAT. Credit is Subject to Status, Ts and Cs and Arrangement Fees apply. Excess mileage may apply. Stock levels and prices correct as of 07/06/23.
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