Lexus Release LBX

The Lexus LBX is the latest all-new car from the Japanese firm and is set to be their entry-level offering, under the UX300h

It seems that Lexus are keeping true to their crossover onslaught as they act as the brands biggest sellers. That’s why we were not surprised when Lexus teased that a new model was coming out, dubbed the LBX. Nomenclature aside proved that it would be a crossover, as all Lexus models that end with an ‘X’ have always been.

So, here we have the LBX, which stands for Lexus Breakthrough Crossover. It’s based on a modified version of Toyota’s GA-B global architecture platform, which itself is used on the Yaris Cross. It seems fitting that Lexus would want an even more entry-level, entry-level car – seeing as the UX starts at just under £35K. The UX is also an interesting one, seeing as though it’s incredibly small and surprisingly not that practical.

The Yaris Cross is a decent car to start with, seeing as that is a practical little city car (and we actually love it) and so being tarted up by Lexus is no bad thing at all. You do get the same 1.5 three cylinder hybrid engine that the Yaris has, except you are graced with 134bhp (which is up from 116bhp in the aforementioned) and 185Nm of torque.

You also get the option of either FWD or AWD, so it should have some basic off-road credentials, even it will be used for going up a curb in London.

Design

The exterior actually looks very good, and it does a good job of differentiating itself from the Toyota sibling. Sure, the dimensions are the same, but the bumpers, bonnet, wheel designs, lights and of course the interior are all different.

It certainly looks much better and much more aggressive than the Yaris at the front end. The LBX stays true to the current design language of Lexus, with the assertive styling, ‘Z’ accents used throughout and the now standard diamond grille on F-Sport models.

The biggest improvement, however, is on the inside. This is a radical departure from the Yaris. Mainly because the 9.8 inch central screen is now housed further down the cabin as opposed the floating screen of the Toyota. It does (thankfully) have physical climate control buttons for both the driver and passenger and is situated on a beautiful alcantara-clad centre console. It also uses the new style of electronic Lexus gear selector which the brand new RX and RZ use.

Behind the steering wheel is the digital drivers display, dubbed the ‘Tazuna’ concept that was first introduced in the NX. Down on the doors, you can see the new style of door latches, that again, are used on the new RX and RZ. Being a Lexus means that the interior quality will be absolutely top notch with a fantastic attention to detail.

Speaking about the LBX, Chief Engineer Kunihiko Endoh comments: “Our aim was to challenge the conventional concept of a luxury car. We have thoroughly pursued a driving experience that enables a natural dialogue between the driver and their vehicle and a design that has a refined presence.” 

According to Lexus, the LBX will go into production in late 2023. UK customers will be able to place reservations from July this year, ahead of pricing being confirmed and orders being accepted from October. With first vehicle deliveries to be expected from March 2024.