Lexus’s smallest SUV yet combines a plush interior with the promise of sensible running costs
George Hill george.hill@haymarket.com
MARCH
CAR NAMES TAKE many different forms, with some having simple alphanumeric structures and others being less conventional. So, where does the Lexus LBX fit into that?
Well, there’s more than just three letters to its name, because LBX stands for ‘Lexus Breakthrough Crossover’. In other words, it’s a small SUV that the Japanese brand hopes will be a big success. At the premium end of the class, its rivals include the Audi Q2 and Mini Countryman.
The LBX is based on the underpinnings of the Toyota Yaris Cross. Like that car, it’s a hybrid, being powered by a 1.5-litre three-cylinder petrol engine and an electric motor that combine to produce 134bhp.
However, a larger battery allows the electric motor to drive the wheels at higher speeds and for longer distances than in the Yaris Cross. The motor also provides more assistance to the engine under acceleration, reducing the LBX’s 0-62mph time to 9.2sec (versus 10.7sec in the Yaris Cross).
Lexus hasn’t yet revealed fuel economy figures, but the LBX is likely to be virtually as frugal as the Yaris Cross, which is the most efficient car we’ve ever put through our Real MPG test, averaging 60.1mpg.
The LBX mirrors the look of other Lexus SUVs, with a ‘spindle’ front grille, blacked-out rear window pillars and an LED rear light bar. A high window line and pronounced wheel arches lend it a muscular look.
Inside, you can expect higher-quality materials than in the Yaris Cross, plus generous levels of kit. There’s a choice of six trim levels, with prices starting at £29,995. For comparison, the Q2 costs from £28,105 and the Countryman £29,335.
