Lexus is breaking new ground with the 2024 Lexus LBX, its first-ever compact crossover. The LBX, which stands for Lexus Breakthrough Crossover, is designed to appeal to younger and more style-conscious customers who want a luxury car that is also efficient, practical, and fun to drive.
The LBX luxury car is based on the same platform as the Toyota Yaris Cross, but it has a distinctive look and feel that sets it apart from its mainstream sibling. The LBX features a bold and dynamic design, with a large spindle grille, sharp LED headlights, muscular fenders, and a coupe-like roofline. The LBX also offers a range of customization options, including 10 exterior colors, three-wheel designs, and four interior themes.
A Hybrid Powertrain with Plenty of Pep
The Lexus LBX is powered by a 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor and a continuously variable transmission. The hybrid system produces a total of 136 horsepower and allows the LBX to run on electricity alone for up to 50% of the time in urban driving. The LBX can accelerate from 0 to 62 mph in 9.2 seconds and has a top speed of 109 mph. The LBX also boasts impressive fuel economy, with an estimated 54 mpg combined.
The LBX is not just efficient but also engaging to drive. The LBX features a sport-tuned suspension, a low center of gravity, and a rigid body structure that enhances its handling and stability. The LBX also offers three driving modes: Normal, Eco, and Sport, which adjust the throttle response, steering feel, and hybrid system operation according to the driver’s preference. The LBX also has a four-wheel drive system that automatically distributes torque between the front and rear wheels depending on the road conditions and the driver’s input.
A Luxurious and Tech-Savvy Cabin
The LBX may be small, but it does not skimp on luxury and technology. The LBX has a spacious and refined cabin with high-quality materials, leather upholstery, and Ultrasuede accents. The LBX also has a sliding and reclining rear seat that can accommodate up to three passengers or fold flat to create more cargo space. The LBX has a trunk capacity of 332 liters, which can expand to 1,031 liters with the rear seat folded.
The LBX is also equipped with a host of advanced features, including a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, a 7-inch digital instrument cluster, a head-up display, a wireless charging pad, and a 10-speaker sound system. The LBX also has a range of safety and driver assistance systems, such as adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, blind spot monitor, rear cross-traffic alert, pre-collision system, road sign assist, and parking assist.
A Game-Changer for Lexus
The LBX is expected to be a game-changer for Lexus, as it will open up a new market segment and attract new customers to the brand. The LBX will compete with other premium compact crossovers, such as the Audi Q2, the Mini Countryman, and the Volvo EX30. The LBX will have an advantage over its rivals in terms of its hybrid powertrain, which offers a unique combination of performance, efficiency, and environmental friendliness.
The LBX will also have a competitive price, starting from $40,000 in the US and €30,000 in Europe. The LBX will be available in three trim levels: LBX, LBX Premium, and LBX F Sport. The LBX will go on sale in March 2024 in Europe and Asia and in June 2024 in the US.
The LBX is a bold and innovative move by Lexus, as it shows that the brand is not afraid to challenge the conventional concept of a luxury car. The LBX is a compact crossover that offers a refined and fun driving experience, a luxurious and tech-savvy cabin, and a hybrid powertrain that delivers both performance and efficiency. The LBX is the smallest and most affordable Lexus yet, but it is also one of the most exciting and appealing.
