Lexus has unveiled its all-new, self-charging hybrid electric model. It’s called the LBX and is the company’s smallest model to date.

LBX stands for Lexus Breakthrough Crossover and it is a compact SUV that will extend Lexus’ brand appeal into new market territory. It also breaks new ground by giving owners a wider range of design specifications, providing them with more freedom to express their individual taste and sense of style. 

Full details of the UK line-up will be confirmed in due course but the LBX will be offered in different, refined, dynamic or sporty themes through styling details, colours, textures and finishes. 

The LBX is also a breakthrough for Lexus as a business in Europe. For the first time, Europe has been the lead global region for the development of a new Lexus vehicle. This influence will help the LBX become one of the best-sellers for the brand in Europe. 

The use of a three-letter name is significant too – previously only the LFA supercar has enjoyed that distinction. The choice of the name LBX demonstrates Lexus’ commitment to and trust in its new model. Just as the LFA showed a different side to the brand in terms of attitude and performance, so the LBX will in its own way expand its reach and profile.  

As a new entry point to Lexus’ well-established SUV line-up, it offers strong appeal to a younger audience and those who may not have considered a Lexus before. It will be an attractive proposition to customers seeking to downsize or purchase a second vehicle, meeting their new lifestyle requirements. 

The LBX’s styling establishes a new Lexus identity with a frontal design that reinterprets the famous spindle grille. While the exterior dimensions are more compact than any other Lexus, the look is muscular and powerful.

The seamless, frameless grille generates the lines of the LBX’s spindle body, contributing to the car’s strong, dynamic stance. It is also aerodynamically efficient, helping smooth airflow over and around the car. The new headlight design creates a strong visual signature, with the daytime running lights and turn indicators integrated in bi-functional units. With this new arrangement, the lights’ distinctive L-shape has been changed to face out rather than inwards, to match the direction of each indicator light. 

The front pillars have been pulled back, making the cabin appear compact and the bonnet longer for a sporty profile. The flared wings express power and accentuate the large 17 or 18-inch wheels and tyres, while short overhangs and a bold tightening of the area around the rear doors evoke nimble, dynamic performance.  

The rear of the car also projects a strong stance. The licence plate has been moved down to the bumper so that the LEXUS lettered signature on the back door is more prominent. Similarly, the latest evolution of the Lexus signature L-shaped light bar has greater visual impact, with the turn signal and reversing lamps having a subdued presence when not illuminated. 

Lexus designers sought to create a simple and refined interior that creates the feel and atmosphere of a higher segment model. This effect is founded on three elements: good visibility with an open view out and a simple, smooth instrument panel; the sense of wide interior space; and a centre console with a commanding presence. 

The driver’s cockpit is an interpretation of Lexus’s Tazuna concept, first introduced on the NX mid-size SUV. This positions principal controls and information sources immediately around the driver, so their operation only requires minimal movements of hand or eye. This helps keep the driver focused on the task of driving, with least distraction. The position and angle of the steering wheel were precisely calculated to give the driver a rewarding sense of control. 

The Tazuna concept is enhanced on certain versions with a new, 12.3-inch full digital instrument display, featured in a Lexus for the first time. The lay-out and prominence of the meters and data change according to the drive mode selected and can be customised to suit individual preferences. A head-up display is also available on certain models. 

The centre console has a strong presence with the large multimedia touchscreen tilted back so that it integrates smoothly with the structure. The unit has upholstered side pads and houses two cupholders and multiple storage points and USB ports for device connection and charging. 

The LBX is equipped with the latest Lexus Link Connect system, operated via a 9.8-inch touchscreen. The system provides cloud-based navigation, optimising journey planning with real-time information on traffic events and delays. Further convenience is provided by the “Hey Lexus” on-board assistant which responds to voice commands from both driver and front seat passenger. 

Smartphone integration is enabled using wireless or wired connections for Apple CarPlay, or a wired link for Android Auto. Further convenience is provided by an optional digital key. Compatible with both Apple and Android smartphones devices, this allows owners to use their smartphone to unlock and start their car. They don’t have to take their phone out of their pocket or bag, just having it on their person is sufficient. They can also share the digital key when other people need to access or use the vehicle. 

The LBX is powered by a new generation, self-charging Lexus hybrid electric system featuring a compact and lightweight 1.5-litre three-cylinder engine. The principal hybrid system components have undergone a substantial redesign, including the transaxle and power control unit, to improve efficiency, reduce losses, save weight and reduce size.

The technology developments have allowed Lexus to focus on more rewarding performance and a level of driving pleasure that was not possible with previous systems. Maximum output from the full hybrid system is 134bhp/100kW with peak torque of 185Nm. 

The LBX’s authentic SUV quality includes the option of Lexus’ E-Four all-wheel drive, which introduces an additional electric motor on the rear axle. When pulling away, cornering and driving on low-grip surfaces, the system automatically directs drive force to the rear wheels, helping keep the vehicle stable and maintaining driver confidence. 

The LBX is the first Lexus model to be constructed on a variation of the GA-B small car global architecture platform. It has been fundamentally adjusted to meet Lexus’s requirements, giving the new car the core benefits of a low centre of gravity, wide tracks, short overhangs and a highly rigid body

As far as storage goes, the boot offers 332 litres (FWD models with rear seats in place) of space, which is enough room for two 75-litre cases to be carried beneath the folding tonneau cover. 

The UK line-up will be designed around a choice of four trims – Elegant and Relax which focus on a refined feel, and Emotion and Cool which have a sportier, more dynamic character. Each has been designed with a different type of customer in mind. 

Following its world debut, 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. First vehicle deliveries are expected from March 2024.