a great stage to play

This first impression, through the external structure, still remains a special interpretation for each person. Where there is no doubt is on the board. Beyond the basic finish that remains sharp to reduce the initial price, the following more detailed finishes are divided into two atmospheric categories called modern or dynamic. All are generously covered with soft materials, even on the sides of the center console, giving a pleasant immediate effect. Obviously, it is on the Winter range that the result is more interesting, with a combination of leather and suede. However, from the second level of Luxury finishing, it is possible to choose between trims called Tahara Cream or Taupe, which already contributes a lot to the quality effect. Control also has very soft synthetic covers, imitating nappa leather.

Even if we immediately recognize something common to other models, the gearbox control knob in this case, similar to that of the CH-R, the LBX still has its ergonomics in terms of the control distribution on the dashboard. Which is not always the best, as this central touchscreen is not always responsive, but above all it is placed lower than in the Yaris Cross, forcing you to look down. Some heating controls are also added to the screen via touch keys, which won’t please everyone. On the other hand, Lexus has clearly improved over the course of its models, the delivery of buttons in general, and better and better, even the tactile keys on the steering wheel (arg! too many touches maybe).

Improvements also for passengers and cargo

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Lexus LBX Cool finishPhoto Credit – Lexus France

In terms of pure comfort, the cabin is filled with additional insulation for better sound insulation (acoustic glass is also provided on the top finish). The upholstery is pleasantly soft as well as providing excellent lateral support (front in any case). An important detail, the driving position has been modified by stretching the steering wheel more vertically and thus getting a more sedan feel than an SUV. The crankset is also mounted on the floor, again the usual premium brand.

Rear passengers also benefit from the same seating comforts but, miraculously, in terms of accommodation. Knees are quickly restricted by the front backrests, even if the space deep enough under the front seats to raise your legs allows you to gain a few precious centimeters of freedom.

Finally, the trunk has received a plan to freeze 400 liters, which is 3 liters smaller than the Yaris Cross. Remember that the 4×4 version loses no less than 85 liters and that opting for the Mark Levison sound system means losing several liters due to the presence of the subwoofer.

Smart driving

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Lexus LBX cool finishPhoto Credit – Lexus France

Lexus probably could have used a 196 hp 2.0 hybrid to meet the higher power requirements, but the Japanese preferred to adjust the price/performance ratio of the LBX as best as possible. So we get the 3-1.5 cylinder, with 130 hp when installed in the recently updated Yaris Cross, but tuned to 136 hp in the LBX after Lexus preferred a NiMH battery instead of Lithium Ion. Which also allows us to improve the speed of recharging and more generally combat the 105 kg of extra weight of the LBX compared to the Yaris Cross. In terms of emotions, this hybrid hybrid unit remains the same as what we are used to: linear impulse, without much emotion, but enough for the range of LBX action. And again, it is impossible to mention the tolerance that must be shown regarding the sound of the engine during strong acceleration. The excitement caused by the CVT box but it is clear that it contributes to the overall reliability and utility marks of the model that have made its reputation. Without even paying attention, we settled for 5.5 l/100 km, on a country road without a road.

Worst behavior

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Lexus LBX cool finishPhoto Credit – Lexus France

Between the widened wheel (2 cm), widened tracks (6 cm), lowered center of gravity, McPherson-type front suspension, reinforced chassis and even a wider tire mount, the LBX is more powerful than the Yaris Cross. Course maintenance and road placement are more aggressive, while maintaining a comfortable ride that, at any time, seemed to have an effect on us. That being said, the miserable weather during our test didn’t allow us to push the Japanese premium to its limits. The Lexus LBX also benefits from the Stability Braking System, an innovative technology to keep the vehicle as flat as possible when braking. Nissan also tried it on the Qashqai, applying the handbrake very lightly, thereby seating the rear axle when going over a speed bump for example. Lexus shifts the brake distribution to the rear as the pressure on the pedal increases. We think that in the event of an emergency brake, the system disengages to let the more powerful front brakes do most of the work.

And

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Lexus LBX Cool finishPhoto Credit – Lexus France

With its design and warm interior, the LBX definitely keeps its promises in terms of an enhanced, premium experience. However, you have to deal with the same rear space and loading limits as the Yaris Cross and do it with the same engine, which is not elite, but which has the reputation of being among the most efficient of the market.

Its price is between 34,300 euros (2-wheel drive) and 44,800 euros (4-wheel drive), so the Lexus LBX takes on the Audi Q2 (from 33,300 euros to 41,310 euros) and the DS 3 (33,100 euros to 36,100 euros). ) The German, whose last reform dates from 2022, has a better housing and a more efficient engine (150 hp), but at a higher utility cost. It is also less natural and cozy in our eyes. Unlike the French one, whose interior is the most unique of the three, even if not necessarily unanimous, as well as being the lowest sitting area of ​​the three for passengers and cargo. Its engine performance is slightly lower than the Japanese one (130 hp) and its utility cannot compete with a full hybrid. For its part, the EAT8 box of the French small SUV/crossover does not offer the thrill of a CVT.

Summing up

To help Toyota customers get a premium or steal market share from the DS 3 Crossback and Audi Q2, Lexus has given the popular Toyota Yaris Cross a facelift after a major facelift. Test the Lexus LBX, which has a difficult task of reaching 25% of the sales mix in Europe.