Lexus’ smallest model is a premium crossover with low running costs thanks to hybrid power
- Lexus’ most affordable SUV is on its way
- Hybrid powertrain with 60-plus MPG
- Based on the same underpinnings as Toyota Yaris Cross
The all-new Lexus LBX is on its way – an upmarket small crossover that’s set to rival models like the Audi Q2 and MINI Countryman. Based on the same foundations as the Toyota Yaris Cross, the LBX will be available to pre-order from July, before full details are announced in October. In a speedy rollout, the first cars should arrive with customers in March 2024.
Designed to appeal to European buyers, the LBX ushers in a shift in design for Lexus. Its polarising ‘Spindle grille’ has been simplified and reduced in size so it now only has a lower trapezoid shape – a move that’s likely to stick for new Lexus models. The LBX has slimmer headlights and a lower bonnet than the Yaris Cross, along with a contrasting black roof and door pillars on higher trims for a sleek look.
It also looks striking when viewed from behind, thanks to an intricate full-width lightbar with ‘L-shaped’ rear graphics set above a ‘Lexus’ script badge across the boot. Chrome detailing flanks the rear bumper – mimicking the front fog light housings – and the LBX is fitted with 17 or 18-inch alloy wheels.
2023 Lexus LBX interior
Inside, the LBX is said to have a simple layout with “the feel and atmosphere of a higher segment model” thanks to the liberal use of soft-touch and premium materials. It also features a new 12.3-inch digital instrument panel that changes its appearance depending on which driving mode is chosen. The information it displays can also be customised by the driver.
Ahead of the centre console, there’s a 9.8-inch touchscreen running the latest Lexus Link Connect software that’s compatible with “Hey Lexus” spoken commands, along with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Users of Apple and Android devices can also use a digital key to unlock and even start the car, just by having the phone on their person. The digital key can also be shared with other people who need to use the LBX.
Other highlights will include over-the-air updates, ambient lighting with up to 50 different colours and optional extras like a head-up display and 13-speaker Mark Levinson sound system with a subwoofer integrated into the back door.
Practicality isn’t likely to be an LBX strong point, however. Measuring 4,190mm long and 1,545mm tall, the front-wheel drive version offers 332 litres of boot space behind the rear seats, which is roughly 60 litres down on the Toyota Yaris Cross, and some way behind the 405 litres of the Audi Q2. The all-wheel-drive E-Four version of the LBX is expected to be even tighter on luggage space, with a 255-litre volume.
Lexus LBX performance and specs
Like the Toyota, the Lexus LBX will only be available with a full-hybrid powertrain based around a 1.5-litre three-cylinder petrol engine and a CVT automatic gearbox. It’s not a carbon copy of the Yaris, however, because changes to the battery and electric motor mean the LBX offers more combined power (134bhp to be precise), for a 0-62mph dash in 9.2 seconds.
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Lexus has also taken steps to make the LBX feel quieter and smoother on the move, in keeping with its premium image. The brand also claims improvements to the powertrain mean it can “run more than 50% of the time in electric mode in city driving”, although it hasn’t yet released fuel economy figures.
Expect a small improvement on the 62mpg figure the Yaris Cross can manage, while further details on the four-wheel drive E-Four version with a second electric motor are expected this autumn. Pricing should arrive at the same time, and a figure of just under £35,000 is likely to position the LBX just beneath the Lexus UX.
Keyword: New Lexus LBX is a hybrid entry-level SUV