Sophisticated technologies that take care of every aspect of your safety, comfort, entertainment and connectivity have become a central feature of today’s leading luxury cars., but if you believe such advanced systems are reserved for the largest and most expensive models, the all-new Lexus LBX will make you think again.

But if you believe such advanced systems are reserved for the largest and most expensive models, the all-new Lexus LBX will make you think again.

Right from the start of the development programme, Lexus set out to overturn any preconception that customers who choose a smaller model have to settle for something that is inferior. That’s not just in terms of craftsmanship luxury and the quality of the driving experience, but also the richness of the equipment specification.

The LBX compact SUV, the brand’s smallest model to date, is equipped as standard with an impressive array of high-tech features, with many more available as options.

Where safety is concerned, every LBX model provides the peace-of-mind of the comprehensive, third generation of Lexus Safety System+ being fitted as standard – just as it is on Lexus’s higher segment models. Its systems constantly monitor the traffic environment all around the car, giving prompt warnings when they detect an accident risk and intelligently providing assistance when needed – steering, braking and drive force – to help prevent a collision.

The technology is advanced, but operates in a way that feels natural to the driver. It can also make the job of driving less of a burden by automatically keeping the car centred in its traffic lane, at a safe distance from the vehicle ahead and at the right speed to take a bend.

The latest safety developments also include e-Latch, a smooth and refined electronic door release system with a Safe Exit Assist function which automatically prevents a door being opened into the path of traffic from behind.

The LBX comes with a fully digital package for information, entertainment and connectivity, creating a seamless and intuitive user experience. For the driver, the focused Tazuna concept features Lexus’s first 12.3-inch digital instrument display. Its appearance changes according to the car’s selected drive mode and the driver can customise the layout to suit their personal preferences.

There’s also the convenience of a digital key option: no need for a physical key fob, you can unlock and start the car using your smartphone – just having it on your person is all that’s required. Up to five people can be authorised on the app, so car sharing is made easier and more secure.

In the centre console, there’s a 9.8-inch touchscreen display for operating the Lexus Link Connect multimedia which includes cloud-based navigation that’s constantly up-to-date with the latest traffic conditions to help with easy journey planning. The system includes a voice agent that recognises commands given in everyday speech and can be used even when the audio is playing.

The Lexus Link+ multimedia package takes things to an even higher level, with more functions for intelligent journey planning and localised information.

There are up to five USB ports around the cabin and smartphones can be instantly integrated with the car’s multimedia system – wirelessly for Apple CarPlay and with a wired connection for Android Auto.

Where both safety and multimedia functions are concerned, software updates are delivered over-the-air for installing when it’s convenient for the driver, so there’s no need to visit a service workshop.

For the ultimate in in-car audio, Lexus’s exclusive partner Mark Levinson has designed a 13-speaker premium surround sound system, specifically to suit the LBX’s interior architecture.

A comfortable cabin environment is maintained whatever the weather outside, thanks to the Lexus Climate Concierge. This co-ordinates the different heating and ventilation sources to ensure temperatures are tailored to suit each person on board. Using the Lexus Link app, the cabin can even be warmed or cooled, or windscreen de-icing can be started, before you set off on a journey.

On-board wellbeing is boosted by the option of nanoe-X air quality technology. This sends a flow of microscopic water molecules into the cabin which are proven to inhibit viruses, bacteria and unpleasant odours. It also helps keep skin and hair moisturised, too.

An ambient lighting system is available, helping set the tone to suit the driver’s mood, the journey or time of day with a range of 64 different colours across a series of themed setting to evoke different atmospheres, from calm and relaxed to invigorating and energised.

Powering the LBX is a three-cylinder engine that may be small in size, but boasts impressive technical features that maximise both performance and efficiency. Some of these have their origins in the cutting-edge world of Formula 1 motor racing, such as an ultra-lightweight piston design.

Although the unit has a modest 1.5-litre capacity, it is perfectly suited to powering the LBX as part of the self-charging hybrid electric powertrain. It meets all Lexus’s stringent requirements for long-lasting reliability and being naturally aspirated, is not subject to the operating stresses of turbocharging.

Maximum output from the full system is 134bhp/100kW with peak torque of 185Nm. This is expected to enable 0-62mph acceleration in 9.2 seconds, while permitting confident towing of loads up to 750kg.

Customer peace of mind when it comes to quality and durability is guaranteed with Lexus’s market-leading warranty of up to 10 years/100,000 miles.