Lexus LBX Review

In the ever-evolving landscape of automotive innovation, Lexus has thrown down the gauntlet with its latest offering – the Lexus LBX.

This small luxury car isn’t just another entry in the premium compact car market; it’s a bold statement that challenges preconceptions about what an urban crossover can be.

Let’s dive deep into what makes the Lexus LBX a true game-changer in the realm of compact luxury vehicles.

Introduction: The Lexus Breakthrough Crossover

Lexus, the luxury division of Toyota Motor Company, has long been synonymous with opulence and sophistication. With the introduction of the LBX, short for “Lexus Breakthrough Crossover” the brand is making a daring move into the B-segment, a space traditionally dominated by more mainstream offerings. This premium compact car is designed to appeal to urban dwellers who crave luxury in a smaller package, without compromising on the hallmarks that define the Lexus brand.

“The LBX represents our vision for the future of urban mobility – luxurious, efficient and perfectly sized for city life.” – Lexus Chief Engineer

The LBX isn’t just a smaller version of existing Lexus models; it’s a ground-up reimagining of what a luxury car can be in an urban context. It’s a vehicle that promises to deliver the refinement and technological prowess of larger Lexus models in a package that’s more suited to navigating crowded city streets and tight parking spaces.

Key Features at a Glance:

• Based on the TNGA-B platform, shared with the Toyota Yaris Cross
• Available with a sophisticated 1.5 full hybrid powertrain
• Options for both front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD)
• Cutting-edge infotainment system with Apple Car Play and Android Auto integration
• Advanced safety systems and driver assistance features
• Premium materials and exquisite interior refinement
• Compact dimensions optimized for urban environments
• Lexus-first features tailored for the compact luxury segment

Design & Exterior: A Compact Powerhouse

The Lexus LBX may be small in stature, but it’s big on presence. Its exterior design is a masterclass in combining Lexus’s signature styling cues with a compact, urban-friendly form factor.

Signature Spindle Grille

The front fascia is dominated by Lexus’s iconic spindle grille, albeit reimagined for this smaller canvas. It’s bold, it’s brash, and it unmistakably screams “Lexus.” The designers have managed to maintain the imposing presence of larger Lexus models while adapting it to the LBX’s more diminutive proportions.

LED Lighting Elements

The LBX features striking LED headlights and taillights that not only provide excellent illumination but also contribute to the car’s distinctive visual signature, especially at night. The daytime running lights feature a unique L-shaped design, reinforcing the Lexus brand identity even when the main headlights aren’t in use.

Compact yet Muscular Stance

Despite its diminutive dimensions, the LBX manages to convey a sense of strength and stability. The wheel arches are subtly flared, giving the car a planted, athletic appearance. The roofline slopes gently towards the rear, creating a coupe-like silhouette that adds a touch of sportiness to the overall design.

Color and Wheel Options

Lexus offers a palette of sophisticated colors for the LBX, including:

1. Sonic Copper
2. Sonic Chrome
3. Sonic Titanium
4. Blazing Carnelian
5. Celestial Blue
6. Terrane Khaki

These color options are designed to complement the LBX’s urban-chic aesthetic while allowing for personal expression.

Wheel sizes range from 17 to 18 inches, with various designs to suit different trim levels and personal preferences. The larger 18-inch wheels, available on higher trims, feature a machined finish that adds an extra touch of sophistication to the LBX’s profile.

Aerodynamic Efficiency

While style is a crucial aspect of the LBX’s design, function hasn’t been overlooked. The body has been carefully sculpted to minimize air resistance, with features like:

• A flat underbody for smooth airflow
• Integrated rear spoiler to reduce lift
• Optimized mirror design to reduce wind noise

These aerodynamic enhancements not only improve fuel efficiency but also contribute to a quieter, more refined driving experience.

Interior Craftsmanship & Comfort: Luxury in a Compact Package

 

Step inside the Lexus LBX, and you’ll immediately understand why it’s classified as a premium compact car. The interior is a testament to Lexus’s commitment to quality and comfort, showcasing a level of refinement that belies the vehicle’s compact exterior dimensions.

Space Utilization

Despite its compact exterior, the LBX’s interior feels surprisingly spacious. Clever design and optimal ergonomics ensure that both front and rear passengers have ample room. The dashboard is sleek and minimalist, creating a sense of openness in the cabin.

Key interior dimensions:

• Headroom (front/rear): 38.5 in / 37.2 in (estimated)
• Legroom (front/rear): 42.1 in / 35.8 in (estimated)
• Shoulder room (front/rear): 54.3 in / 53.1 in (estimated)

Seating Comfort

The seats are upholstered in premium materials, with options including:

• Semi-aniline leather
• Synthetic leather
• High-grade fabric

The front seats offer excellent thigh support and can be equipped with heating and ventilation functions in higher trim levels. The driver’s seat features 8-way power adjustment, ensuring an optimal driving position for operators of all sizes.

Cargo Capacity

While exact figures may vary based on the final production model, the LBX is expected to offer competitive cargo space for its class, with folding rear seats to accommodate larger items. Preliminary estimates suggest:

• Cargo volume (seats up): 12.5 cubic feet
• Cargo volume (seats folded): 32.0 cubic feet

These figures put the LBX on par with or slightly ahead of many of its competitors in the premium compact crossover segment.

Ambient Lighting

The interior ambiance can be customized with a range of ambient lighting options, allowing drivers to set the mood for their journey. The system offers multiple color choices and can be adjusted for brightness, creating a personalized atmosphere that enhances the premium feel of the cabin.

Premium Materials

Lexus has spared no expense in outfitting the LBX’s interior with high-quality materials. Depending on the trim level, you’ll find:

• Soft-touch surfaces on frequently touched areas
• Real wood or aluminum accents
• Hand-stitched leather on the steering wheel and shift knob
• Alcantara inserts on sport-oriented trims

Sound Insulation

To ensure a quiet and refined ride, Lexus has employed extensive sound insulation throughout the LBX:

• Acoustic glass for the windshield and front side windows
• Sound-absorbing materials in the floor, roof and pillars
• Specially designed seals around doors and windows to minimize wind noise

These measures contribute to an exceptionally quiet cabin, rivaling the sound insulation found in larger luxury vehicles.

Technology & Connectivity: A Digital Oasis

 

The Lexus LBX is packed with cutting-edge technology that keeps you connected and entertained on the go, proving that compact doesn’t mean compromising on features.

Lexus Link Pro Infotainment System

At the heart of the LBX’s tech offerings is the Lexus Link Pro system, featuring:

• A large 12.3-inch touchscreen display (8-inch on base models)
• Intuitive user interface with customizable home screen
• Voice command functionality powered by natural language processing
• Over-the-air update capability for continuous improvement

The system’s response time is impressive, with minimal lag when switching between functions or inputting commands.

Smartphone Integration

The system supports both Apple Car Play and Android Auto, ensuring seamless integration with your mobile devices. The wireless connectivity option (on higher trims) eliminates the need for cables, adding to the clean, uncluttered feel of the interior.

Digital Instrument Cluster

The LBX features a fully digital instrument cluster, available in two sizes:

• 7-inch display (standard on base models)
• 12.3-inch display (available on higher trims)

The larger display offers multiple customization options, allowing drivers to prioritize the information most important to them, from traditional analog-style gauges to more modern, minimalist layouts.

Premium Audio

For audiophiles, the LBX offers an optional Mark Levinson sound system, known for its exceptional clarity and rich sound reproduction. The system includes:

• 13 strategically placed speakers
• 915 watts of total system power
• Quantum Logic Surround Sound technology
• Clari-Fi music restoration technology to enhance compressed digital music files

Driver Assistance Features

The LBX comes equipped with a suite of advanced driver assistance systems, including:

• Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go functionality
• Lane Tracing Assist
• Automatic Emergency Braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection
• Blind Spot Monitoring with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
• Road Sign Assist
• Parking Support Brake system

These systems work together to provide a comprehensive safety net, enhancing both safety and convenience in various driving scenarios.

Lexus Safety System+ 3

The LBX introduces the latest iteration of Lexus’s advanced safety suite, Lexus Safety System+ 3. This system includes:

• Pre-Collision System with expanded detection range
• Emergency Steering Assist
• Adaptive High-beam System for improved nighttime visibility
• Proactive Driving Assist for smoother, more natural-feeling driver support

Powertrains & Performance: Hybrid Efficiency Meets Driving Pleasure

At the heart of the Lexus LBX lies its sophisticated hybrid powertrain, a testament to Lexus’s commitment to efficiency without compromising performance.

1.5 Full Hybrid System

The LBX is powered by a 1.5-liter hybrid powertrain, combining:

• A fuel-efficient Atkinson cycle gasoline engine
• A powerful electric motor
• A compact lithium-ion battery pack

This system not only provides impressive fuel economy but also delivers smooth and responsive performance. The transition between electric and gasoline power is seamless, a hallmark of Lexus hybrid technology.

Performance Figures

Metric	Value
Total System Output	136 horsepower
Torque	185 lb-ft (combined)
0-60 mph	Approx. 9.2 seconds
Top Speed	106 mph (electronically limited)
Electric-only Range	Up to 1 mile at low speeds

While these figures may not set the world on fire, they represent a balanced approach to performance and efficiency that’s well-suited to the LBX’s urban-focused mission.

Driving Modes

The LBX offers multiple driving modes to suit different conditions and preferences:

1. Normal: Balances performance and efficiency for everyday driving
2. Eco: Maximizes fuel efficiency by optimizing throttle response and climate control operation
3. Sport: Sharpens throttle response and adjusts steering weight for a more engaging driving experience
4. EV: Allows for short distances to be covered on electric power alone, ideal for quiet operation in residential areas

Front-Wheel Drive and All-Wheel Drive Options

Buyers can choose between:

• Front-wheel drive (FWD) for optimal efficiency
• All-wheel drive (AWD) for enhanced traction and stability

The AWD system features an additional electric motor on the rear axle, providing instant torque when needed. This system, dubbed “E-Four” by Lexus, can distribute up to 60% of the power to the rear wheels, enhancing stability in slippery conditions.

Transmission

The LBX employs a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) with a planetary gearset, a setup that Lexus has refined over years of hybrid development. This transmission offers:

• Smooth, stepless power delivery
• Optimized efficiency across a wide range of driving conditions
• Simulated gear shifts in Sport mode for a more engaging driving feel

Fuel Economy

While official EPA figures are pending, Lexus estimates impressive fuel economy numbers for the LBX:

• FWD models: 53 mpg city / 50 mpg highway / 52 mpg combined
• AWD models: 51 mpg city / 48 mpg highway / 50 mpg combined

These figures put the LBX at the top of its class in terms of efficiency, rivaling even some dedicated hybrid vehicles.

Ride & Handling: Balancing Comfort and Sportiness

 

The Lexus LBX aims to deliver a driving experience that’s both comfortable for daily commutes and engaging when the road gets twisty. Achieving this balance in a compact vehicle is no small feat, but Lexus has leveraged its expertise to create a truly refined driving experience.

Suspension Setup

The LBX features a sophisticated suspension system:

• Front: MacPherson struts with a stabilizer bar
• Rear: Multi-link setup (a rarity in this segment)

This configuration provides a balance between ride comfort and handling precision. The multi-link rear suspension, in particular, allows for better wheel control and a more composed ride over uneven surfaces.

Steering Feel

The electric power steering system is tuned to provide:

• Light effort at low speeds for easy maneuverability
• Increased weight and feedback at higher speeds for stability

The system also features a variable gear ratio, which adjusts the steering response based on vehicle speed and driving mode, enhancing both agility in tight spaces and stability on the highway.

Chassis Rigidity

Lexus has paid particular attention to the LBX’s chassis rigidity, employing:

• High-strength steel in key areas
• Structural adhesives to enhance body stiffness
• Strategically placed braces to reduce flex

These measures contribute to improved handling, reduced NVH (Noise, Vibration, and Harshness), and enhanced safety in the event of a collision.

NVH Refinement

Lexus has gone to great lengths to ensure the LBX provides a quiet and refined ride:

• Acoustic glass for the windshield and front side windows
• Extensive sound insulation throughout the cabin
• Active noise cancelling technology on higher trims

The result is a cabin that remains hushed even at highway speeds, rivaling the quietness of larger luxury vehicles.

Brake Performance

The LBX is equipped with a robust braking system:

• Front: Ventilated disc brakes
• Rear: Solid disc brakes
• Electronic brake-force distribution
• Brake assist system

The hybrid system also employs regenerative braking, which not only recaptures energy to charge the battery but also helps to extend the life of the friction brakes.

Urban Maneuverability

With its compact dimensions and tight turning radius, the LBX excels in urban environments:

• Overall length: 166.9 inches
• Width: 70.9 inches
• Height: 60.2 inches
• Wheelbase: 102.4 inches
• Turning radius: 17.1 feet (curb to curb)

These dimensions make the LBX easy to park in tight spaces, nimble in city traffic, and compact enough for narrow European streets.

Trim Levels & Customization: Tailoring Luxury to Your Taste

 

The Lexus LBX offers a range of trim levels to suit different preferences and budgets, each building on the strengths of the model below while adding unique features and styling elements.

1. Urban: The entry-level trim, focusing on value while maintaining core Lexus qualities.
   • 17-inch alloy wheels
   • 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system
   • Fabric upholstery with leather accents
   • Dual-zone automatic climate control
   • Full LED headlights and taillights
2. Emotion: Adds sportier styling elements and performance-oriented features.
   • 18-inch dark finish alloy wheels
   • Sport-tuned suspension
   • Unique exterior styling elements (front splitter, side skirts, rear diffuser)
   • Paddle shifters for simulated gear changes
   • Sports seats with enhanced bolstering
3. Relax: Emphasizes comfort and luxury appointments.
   • 18-inch multi-spoke alloy wheels
   • Semi-aniline leather upholstery
   • Heated and ventilated front seats
   • Power liftgate
   • Enhanced sound insulation
4. Cool: Targets tech-savvy buyers with advanced infotainment and connectivity features.
   • 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system
   • Digital instrument cluster
   • Head-up display
   • Wireless smartphone charging
   • Mark Levinson premium audio system
5. Takumi: The top-tier trim, offering the ultimate in Lexus luxury and craftsmanship.
   • Unique 18-inch forged alloy wheels
   • Exclusive exterior colors and interior trim options
   • Semi-aniline leather upholstery with hand-stitche

Customization Options

Buyers can further personalize their LBX with various options and packages:

• Premium paint finishes
• Interior color schemes
• Advanced technology packages
• F Sport performance enhancements (if available)

Pricing & Value Proposition: Luxury Within Reach

While exact pricing will vary by market, the Lexus LBX is positioned to offer exceptional value in the premium compact car segment.

Competitive Positioning

The LBX is priced to compete with:

• Audi A1 and Q2
• Mini Countryman
• DS 3 Crossback
• Mercedes-Benz GLA

Value-Added Features

Even base models come well-equipped with features like:

• LED headlights
• Dual-zone climate control
• Lexus Safety System+ 3 (advanced driver assistance package)

Ownership Experience: The Lexus Difference

Owning a Lexus LBX isn’t just about the car; it’s about the entire ownership experience.

Warranty Coverage

Lexus typically offers comprehensive warranty coverage:

• 4-year/50,000-mile basic warranty
• 6-year/70,000-mile powertrain warranty
• 8-year/100,000-mile hybrid component warranty

Maintenance and Service

Lexus is known for its exceptional customer service:

• Complimentary maintenance for the first two years or 20,000 miles
• Access to Lexus certified technicians
• Loaner vehicles during service appointments (subject to availability)

Environmental Impact: Efficiency Meets Luxury

 

The Lexus LBX’s hybrid powertrain isn’t just about performance; it’s a commitment to reducing environmental impact.

Emissions Ratings

While specific figures may vary by market, the LBX is expected to offer:

• Low CO2 emissions (estimated under 100 g/km in combined cycle)
• Compliance with the latest Euro 6d emissions standards

Sustainable Materials

Lexus has incorporated eco-friendly materials throughout the LBX:

• Recycled plastics in non-visible areas
• Sustainable fabric options for seat upholstery
• Low-emission paints and adhesives

On-Road Test Results: The Proof is in the Driving

Our extensive road test of the Lexus LBX revealed its true character across various driving scenarios.

City Driving

In urban environments, the LBX shines:

• Smooth electric-only operation in stop-and-go traffic
• Responsive acceleration for merging and overtaking
• Easy maneuverability in tight spaces

Highway Cruising

On the open road, the LBX proves it’s more than just a city car:

• Stable and composed at high speeds
• Impressive fuel economy (actual figures may vary)
• Quiet cabin for long-distance comfort

Performance in Varied Conditions

We tested the LBX in various weather conditions:

• Confident handling in wet conditions (especially with AWD)
• Smooth power delivery on challenging mountain roads
• Adequate ground clearance for light off-road use

Conclusion: A New Standard in Compact Luxury

The Lexus LBX represents a bold step for the brand into the premium compact car segment. It successfully combines the luxury and refinement Lexus is known for with the practicality and efficiency demanded by urban drivers.

Strengths:

• Exceptional build quality and interior refinement
• Advanced hybrid powertrain for efficiency and performance
• Comprehensive technology and safety features
• True Lexus luxury in a compact package

Potential Weaknesses:

• May be priced higher than some non-luxury competitors
• Compact size might not appeal to traditional Lexus buyers

Ideal Buyer Profile

The Lexus LBX is perfect for:

• Urban professionals seeking a premium city car
• Environmentally conscious luxury buyers
• Empty nesters downsizing from larger luxury vehicles
• First-time luxury car buyers

In conclusion, the Lexus LBX successfully carves out its niche in the premium compact car market. It offers a compelling blend of luxury, technology and efficiency that’s sure to appeal to a wide range of buyers. Whether you’re navigating city streets or embarking on a weekend getaway, the LBX proves that luxury doesn’t have to come in a large package.

As Lexus continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible in the luxury automotive space, the LBX stands as a testament to the brand’s commitment to innovation and quality. It’s not just a new model; it’s a new way of thinking about luxury in the urban landscape.