Lexus LBX

The LBX’s cabin layout is designed using Lexus’ Tazuna concept, blending driver-centric features with comfortable, minimalist elements. At the center of its dashboard is a 9.8-inch touchscreen infotainment display that offers Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and is linked to a 6-speaker sound system. You also have physical controls for both air-conditioning and audio systems next to the infotainment display.

Meanwhile, the driver gets a TFT colour multi-information display, a multi-control steering wheel wrapped in leather, a conventional gear lever, and a seat with a 3-memory function. This SUV also comes with a multi-colour ambient lighting system, contributing to the driver’s immersive cruising experience. 

Practicality-wise, the front row is a nice place to be in, while the rear offers ample room for two individuals. To compensate for its second row’s lack of room, this SUV comes with an expansive trunk space at the back, which can effectively accommodate your family’s groceries and light luggages. For added convenience and functionality, this SUV also comes with four USB ports, two accessory sockets (lower tray and rear deck), front cubbys, and a wireless charger. 

Appearance-wise, the Lexus LBX looks elegantly-mature and approachable at the same time. At the front, it sports a “Unified” spindle grille that is both stylish and functional, designed for better engine cooling and enhanced performance. Sensors are also integrated into this grille. Its front end is illuminated by angular bi-beam LED headlamps with sharp LED DRLs. Beneath its low-slung hood, contoured panels on each side house the LED fog lamps for increased visibility, especially at night.

On the sides, it features a sporty, bulky SUV frame complemented by 18-inch aluminum wheels. Its silhouette is further defined by sleek character lines, as well as blacked-out pillars, wheel arches, and side garnishes. LED signal lamps are also integrated into its door mirrors. Meanwhile, at the rear, it flaunts L-shaped combination lamps, which exude a classy European vibe on the road. Additionally, another pair of contoured panels (with fog lamps) on its rear bumper adds more sportiness to its overall appearance.

The Lexus LBX measures 4,190 mm in length, 1,825 mm in width, and 1,560 mm in height. This SUV also has a wheelbase of 2,580 mm and an impressive minimum ground clearance of 220 mm. Overall, this SUV’s design effectively combined modern, aesthetic features with functional, aerodynamic elements.

In terms of suspension, the Lexus LBX comes with MacPherson Struts at the front and a Torsion Beam at the rear. This setup is credited for this SUV’s confident handling on sharp turns and challenging twisty roads. In the city, it is agile to maneuver for its size and soaks up bumps and other minor road imperfections quite well. That said, the LBX’s suspension setup offers a balance of comfort and performance on the road.

The Lexus LBX runs on a hybrid powertrain that combines a 1.5L, in-line 3-cylinder engine, which produces 67 kW (90 hp) of maximum power and 120 Nm of maximum torque, with a permanent magnet synchronous motor generating 69 kW (93 hp) and 185 Nm. The setup delivers a combined output of 134 hp. 

This SUV comes mated to a continuously variable transmission system and utilizes a front-wheel drivetrain. Additionally, it is equipped with Normal and Eco drive modes, as well as an EV mode.

While it may not deliver the most exciting performance in its segment, this SUV is still quite peppy on the highway. Its hybrid powertrain offers instant yet very manageable power delivery. It is also decent when it comes to sound insulation. But, one of the main highlights of the LBX is its outstanding efficiency. It boasts excellent fuel economy even when you are constantly met with stop-and-go traffic.

The Lexus LBX is equipped with the brand’s Safety System, which includes dynamic radar cruise control, safe exit assist with door opening control, blind spot monitor system, pre-collision system, lane tracing assist, and adaptive high beam system. This SUV also comes with eight clearance and back sonars (front: 4, rear: 4), multiple SRS airbags, an auto location tyre pressure warning system, and a back guide monitor, among others.

It utilizes ventilated discs for front braking and solid discs for the rear. Its braking setup is also supported by an anti-lock braking system with electronic brakeforce distribution, traction control system, vehicle stability control, hill-start assist control, drive-start control, a parking support brake, and a brake assist system.

The Lexus LBX is a great first luxury car option for those who value comfort, safety, and cost-effectiveness. It effectively balances driving enjoyment (through confident handling) with everyday city usability.