| Lexus LBX | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Overview | |
| Manufacturer | Toyota |
| Model code | AY10[1] |
| Production | December 2023 – present[2] |
| Model years | 2024–present |
| Assembly | Japan:Kanegasaki, Iwate (TMEJ) |
| Body and chassis | |
| Class | Subcompact luxury crossover SUV (B) |
| Body style | 5-doorSUV |
| Layout | |
| Platform | TNGA:GA-B[3] |
| Related | |
| Powertrain | |
| Engine | |
| Electric motor |
|
| Power output |
|
| Transmission | |
| Hybrid drivetrain | Power-split |
| Battery | 5-Ahnickel–metal hydride (hybrid models) |
| Dimensions | |
| Wheelbase | 2,580 mm (101.6 in) |
| Length | 4,190 mm (165.0 in) |
| Width | 1,825–1,840 mm (71.9–72.4 in) |
| Height | 1,535–1,560 mm (60.4–61.4 in)[4][5] |
| Kerb weight | 1,280–1,480 kg (2,822–3,263 lb) |
TheLexus LBX (Japanese:レクサス・LBX,Hepburn:Rekusasu LBX) is asubcompact luxury crossover SUV (B-segment) marketed byLexus, a luxury division ofToyota. Primarily developed for Europe and Japan,[6] it was introduced in June 2023 inMilan, Italy, as the smallest crossover model in Lexus' lineup, slotting below theC-segmentUX. It is also the first Lexus model based on theToyota TNGA-B platform, which is shared with theXP210 series Toyota Yaris Cross and theXP210 series Toyota Yaris.[3][7] It entered production by the end of 2023 and went on sale in Europe along with additional markets in early 2024.[8][9]
According to Lexus, the "LBX" name stands for "Lexus Breakthrough X(cross)-over".[10] It is the second Lexus model with a three-letter name, following theLFA which was released in 2011. It is named LBX instead of BX to avoid trademark conflicts withCitroën which produced theBX in Europe from 1982 to 1994.[11][12]
The development of the LBX was led by chief engineer Kunihiko Endo. According to Endo, achieving the desired level of refinement in the LBX to keep up with Lexus standards was challenging, as they had to adopt a different approach to the traditional use ofsound insulating materials.[7] The LBX is equipped with a bi-polarnickel–metal hydride battery for its hybrid system. In comparison to a regular NiMH battery, the battery is lighter and more compact while allowing faster charging and discharging. As a result, the battery output can be maximised to capitalise on a larger electric motor than in the Yaris Cross.[7]
At the front, the LBX is equipped withMacPherson struts, while the rear suspension features a torsion beam forfront-wheel drive models and adouble wishbone back axle forall-wheel drive variants. To enhance body control and stability, Lexus has incorporated Vehicle Braking Posture Control, a system that utilizes automatic braking to minimize pitching movements.[3]
The LBX is the first Lexus vehicle to use thefront-wheel drive,B-segment basedGA-B platform. Unlike other Lexus models, the LBX does not include Lexus’ iconic spindle grille, instead the grille is a singular trapezoid shape, similar to the style of thefifth-generation RX. The LBX follows Lexus’ "Resolute Look",[13] which was introduced onto theLexus LF-S in 2003 and has been featured as a design cue used on Lexus vehicles from the early 2000s. Following the design principle of the "Next Chapter Design", the front-pillars have been pulled back to make the cabin seem small.
Thedaytime running lamps andturn signals are integrated into bifunctional units. The L-shape face outward rather than inward to harmonise with the direction of the indicators.[14]
Available wheels consist of either 17- or 18-inch. Available trims include Emotion, Cool, Elegant, and Relax. In Japan, the Cool is fitted with 20-inch wheels, while the Relax gets 18-inch wheels, and the Elegant has 17-inch wheels.[15]
The primary goalLexus designers were going for, was a simple and refined interior. A multitude of upholsteries and trims are available, as well as high quality semi-aniline leather, a vegan-friendly interior that uses synthetic leather and vegan materials for the seat covers, steering wheel, shift lever and door trims. Ambient lighting adds to the “Omotenashi” effect, which means hospitality in English. This effect is meant to evoke being welcome and feeling at home in the car. The lighting provides features 50 colour options, with themes made for different moods.[14]
The cockpit features the 'tazuna' concept that was previewed by theLF-30 Electrified concept car. The wordtazuna is derived from the “reins” used to control horses.[16] The Tazuna concept is updated with 12.3-inch digital instrument display. Ahead-up display is optional, and different drive modes are available. The LBX features upholstered side pads and features two cupholders, multiple storage areas, and USB ports for smartphone charging. The compartment offers 332 litres (11.7 cu ft) for front-wheel drive models with seats in place.[17][14]
Additionally, a 9.8-inch touchscreen is available which runs the Lexus Link Connect system. The “Hey Lexus” assistant responds to both front seat passenger and driver commands.Apple CarPlay andAndroid Auto are both standard on the LBX, however asmart key is optional.Over-the-air update capability is standard for multimedia and safety systems. A 13-speakerMark Levinson premium sound system is available, as well as asubwoofer at the rear of the car.
| Test | Points | % |
|---|---|---|
| Overall: |  | |
| Adult occupant: | 33.08 | 82% |
| Child occupant: | 42.60 | 86% |
| Pedestrian: | 50.02 | 76% |
| Safety assist: | 14.33 | 79% |
| Test | Points | % |
|---|---|---|
| Overall: | | |
| Adult occupant: | 33.1 | 82% |
| Child occupant: | 41.1 | 83% |
| Pedestrian: | 50 | 79% |
| Safety assist: | 13.8 | 76% |
The LBX adopts a bi-polarnickel–metal hydride battery, which according to chief engineer Kunihiko Endo offers much greaterpower density and throughput potential than traditionallithium-ion cells.[7]
| Type | Engine code | Displ. | Power | Torque | Combined system output | Electric motor | Battery | Transmission | Model code | Layout | Cal. years |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Petrolhybrid | M15A-FXE[20][5] | 1,490 cc (1.5 L) I3 | Engine: 67 kW (90 hp; 91 PS) @ 5,500 rpm Front motor: 69 kW (93 hp; 94 PS) | Engine: 120 N⋅m (12.2 kg⋅m; 88.5 lb⋅ft) @ 3,800–4,800 rpm Front motor: 185 N⋅m (18.9 kg⋅m; 136 lb⋅ft) | 100 kW (134 hp; 136 PS) | 1VMACsynchronous (front) | 5-Ahnickel–metal hydride | eCVT | MAYH10 | FWD | 2023–present |
| + Rear motor: 5 kW (6.7 hp; 6.8 PS) | + Rear motor: 52 N⋅m (5.3 kg⋅m; 38 lb⋅ft) | +1MM AC synchronous (rear) | MAYH15 | E-four/AWD-i | |||||||
| Petrol (Morizo RR) | G16E-GTS | 1,618 cc (1.6 L)turbocharged I3 | 206–224 kW (276–300 hp; 280–305 PS) @ 6,500 rpm | 390–400 N⋅m (39.8–40.8 kg⋅m; 288–295 lb⋅ft) @ 3,250–4,600 rpm | - | - | - | 6-speedEA67Fmanual 8-speed UC80F "GR-DAT"automatic | GAYA16 | AWD | 2024–present |
The LBX sales target is 3,500 units per month (including 2,000 units per month just for Europe, 1,200 units per month for Japan and 300 units per month for other markets such as Australia and Southeast Asia).[21]
The LBX won the “Car of the Year” and the "Small SUV" titles at an awards ceremony, 'What Car? Car of the Year Awards 2024', in London.[22][23]
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