Lexus could add considerably to its sales figures with the debut of the LBX. This all-new compact crossover is set to go on sale in 2024 and will serve as a direct rival to other premium models such as the Audi Q1, BMW X1 and Mercedes-Benz GLA. The LBX (Lexus Breakthrough Crossover) is also the first Lexus to use three letters since the LFA supercar, so in the eyes of the Japanese car maker, this is a hugely important model. The LBX has been designed with the European market in mind primarily, though it will be sold in Japan, too.
The styling of the Lexus LBX marks something of a departure from the angular, sharp lines we've seen on the Japanese company's more recent models. It ushers in a new era of design language for Lexus, one that it hopes will entice new buyers to the brand. At the front, the slim headlights rise towards the outer edges, while the front of the bonnet drops down, giving a wider appearance. One of the brand's signature design elements - the spindle grille - has been reworked, sitting below a narrow aperture that runs along the lip of the bonnet.
Three trim levels
To improve outward visibility, the designers made the decision to shift the A-pillars on either side of the windscreen further back. In terms of dimensions, the car measures 4,190mm in length, 1,822mm in width and 1,545mm in height. Along the side profile, the LBX wears cladding around the wheel arches and along the sills. The Irish market will receive models with 18-inch wheels. The LBX will be available in three versions: a base model and two specification grades referred to as 'atmospheres' by Lexus. These grades are named Elegant and Emotion, with the latter featuring a striking black roof as a distinguishing feature.
Despite being noticeably smaller than other models in the current Lexus line-up, the LBX has many of the same materials and technology inside. In front of the driver is a 12.3-inch digital instrument display, and there's an option to supplement the screen with a colour head-up display that projects onto the windscreen. As part of Lexus' Tazuna design strategy ('reins of a horse'), the ergonomics are quite driver-focused. The engine-start button is up high next to the instrument display, while a 9.8-inch touchscreen fills the centre console.
Running the latest Lexus Link Connect system, it features smartphone mirroring with wireless Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto. Usefully, there are little physical buttons for adjusting cabin temperature. The system can also provide cloud-based navigation with real-time traffic information, and an onboard assistant can be summoned by saying, "Hey, Lexus".
The centre console is a slender affair, with the same drive selector that appears in other Lexus models. An electronic parking brake is standard and there is also an auto hold function and the option to select a pure EV driving mode. A single cupholder sits ahead of the drive selector, with a second available beneath the sliding centre armrest. As a compact crossover, the LBX has limited rear passenger space, particularly in the lower section. This can pose challenges for entering and exiting the vehicle. Legroom is about average for the segment and headroom is quite good. The boot holds 332 litres of luggage up to the parcel shelf.
Hybrid powertrain
Under the skin of the LBX is the 'GA-B' architecture that also underpins the Toyota Yaris Cross, though Lexus makes some powertrain and chassis changes to ensure it meets its own standards. The engine is a 1.5-litre three-cylinder petrol unit, to which Lexus adds a balancer shaft in the name of reduced vibration. Maximum power output is quoted as 136hp and there's 185Nm of torque available. While the full technical details are undergoing final validation, Kunihiko Endo, the LBX's Chief Engineer, told CompleteCar.ie that all versions of the car should have CO2 emissions below 120g/km.
Irish pricing for the Lexus LBX is still in the process of being confirmed ahead of order books opening towards the end of the year. The car will be touring Ireland as part of a Lexus LBX roadshow between July 22 and August 4 this summer, so check in with your local dealer if you want to see it in the metal.