With the LBX, the firm prime The Japanese Lexus wanted to demonstrate that luxury does not necessarily have to be accompanied by large vehicles. The newcomer to its range is in fact the smallest model ever to leave its factories, but without giving up the standards of glamour and refinement to which we are accustomed.
The body and interior of the Lexus LBX convey a premium quality, the style that can be expected from a larger car, from a higher segment to which it belongs due to its exterior dimensions. At the same time, its design presents a fresher and more luxurious appearance. casualwhich reflects contemporary taste, and its remarkable manufacturing quality is served in a more relaxed manner.
Considered by the Japanese brand as a kind of mini-RX —currently the flagship of its SUV catalog—, the LBX has revealed itself from the first contacts as a vehicle that also surprises by its driving sensations. It stands out above all for its acoustic and rolling comfort, as well as for the quality of its finishes.
In line with today’s tastes, Lexus has chosen to offer its customers more options, in line with its commitment to delivering the most personal luxury possible. Far from the traditional structure of model versions, the priority is now on style and sensory appeal, which translates into several environments to choose from: Elegant, Relax, Emotion And cool.
Each of them evokes a different character – refined, dynamic, sporty – through different colours, as well as the feel and image of the coverings and finishes. And in line with the environmental concerns of a growing part of the population, it is possible to choose a leather-free interior as an alternative to Ultrasuede or the exclusive semi-aniline leather, a material previously exclusive to the LS executive sedan.
The car is powered by a 136-horsepower hybrid system powered by two main components: a 1.5-liter three-cylinder gasoline engine whose components have been redesigned to improve efficiency, on the one hand; on the other, a 69-kilowatt (kW) electric motor powered by a new bipolar nickel-metal hydride battery, capable of offering greater power absorption during acceleration and extending the range in 100% electric mode.
The quality of the LBX is accompanied by a demonstration of technology that includes, among other elements, a 12.3-inch digital dashboard, a 9.8-inch central screen, a parking assistance system, an electric gate and wireless charging for mobile phones. If we pay attention to the details that can only be considered primeIt is mandatory to mention the head up displayOptionally, a Nanoe X air purifier, the ultra-refined electronic door opening device e-Latch and configurable ambient lighting.
As for the driving sensations, the driver enjoys the commanding view so appreciated today in all SUVs, in addition to a dashboard located lower than usual and a large windshield. At the same time, the seating position is more reminiscent of that of a sedan, which provides an enriching feeling of control.
Thanks to the concept Tazuna by Lexus that governs the design of the driver’s environment, controls and information sources can be operated with minimal hand and eye movements, so as not to take your eyes off the road. The shape and angle of the steering wheel, as well as the position of the pedals, have been precisely determined, while the fully digital instrument cluster display can be customized in terms of both appearance and content, depending on the driver’s preferences or priorities. trip in question.
Obsession with detail
To enjoy an even more fluid and intuitive user experience, the LBX is equipped with the multimedia system Lexus Link Connect, which is controlled via the aforementioned central touchscreen, or via a voice command system that responds to requests with a more natural intonation. The attention to detail is reflected, meanwhile, in the simple physical controls for the audio system and air conditioning.
At 4.19 metres long, the latest Lexus is the smallest model produced so far by the brand. Despite these very contained dimensions, it has a boot capacity of 332 litres; this in the front-wheel drive versions, because those with all-wheel drive, E-Four According to the nomenclature of the Japanese firm, they remain at 284 liters. This latest variant introduces a small additional electric motor, located in the rear wheels, which starts automatically, up to 70 kilometers per hour, in case of lack of grip or when cornering.
Lexus’ attention to detail is evident in the many panels scattered throughout the cabin. Perhaps the most sophisticated are the design of the dashboard, which flows into the doors to create an enveloping feel, or the use of soft-touch materials, including the padded sides of the center console. The influence of craftsmanship Takami Lexus and traditional Japanese aesthetics are also visible in the new inserts Tsuyasumiwith anthracite finish and trendy stitching option Tatami mats in the coating.
The LBX range finally offers a wide range of equipment that stands out from the crowd, such as the climate assistant that continuously optimises the heating and cooling sources for each occupant, as well as the possibility of installing an exclusive Mark Levinson audio system equipped with 13 speakers and designed expressly for the interior architecture of the LBX.
