Car Test: Lexus LBX SUV – DECIDEURS MAGAZINE

Lexus has recently released a compact SUV designed and built primarily for the European market. From the start, it stands out as much for its identity as for its stated desire to connect with the tastes and lifestyles of its consumers. “Our goal was to challenge the conventional concept of the first car.” We carefully sought out a driving experience that allowed for a natural dialogue between the driver and their car, as well as a design with enhanced presence.explains Kunihiko Endoh, the brand’s chief engineer.

The new Lexus LBX SUV combines performance, design and European refinement. In addition to its style, which breaks with the usual rules of the manufacturer, mainly thanks to its front panel that includes a grille.improved“, remember under power, long hood and attractive wheels. As for the interior, it has what it takes to attract the most demanding customers. Not only for its great comfort, because Lexus, faithful to its promise, has thought of everything, even for the smallest details, although we don’t think about them voluntarily, in which the driver and passengers will have a choice between fifty different colors, divided into 14 groups and five themes, according to the mood of the moment: Calm, Relaxation, Awakening, Focus and Better Elevation Furthermore, the Lexus LBX offers the possibility to choose four atmospheres according to our desires and our use: refined and Elegant and Relaxing or sporty and dynamic with Emotion and Cool. This is the Cool version that we tested this month.

Driving for a fee

In terms of performance, the Lexus LBX does not disappoint. With a new self-driving hybrid engine, 1.5 liters and 136 hp, this SUV adapts perfectly to urban driving, offering, moreover, a very easy road experience, without missing a punch and surprisingly quiet. Up to the point of competing without blushing with models from the top places. Not to mention its low consumption (less than 5 liters per 100 km) nor the many and innovative driving aids and the fully digital user interface. The central dashboard is dominated by its large 9.8-inch screen and the latest cloud-based Lexus Link navigation system.

Although the first deliveries have only just begun, there is no doubt that this compact LBX will quickly become one of Lexus’ flagship models. The Japanese do not doubt for a moment. His intention? Reach the target of 25,000 sales in Europe, for the year 2024 alone.

Laurent Fialaix

Lexus LBX 4X2 COOL (Advanced Pack)
– Engine power: 100 kW (136 ch), 185 Nm
– Engine: 3 cylinders in line 12 valves
– Displacement (cm3): 1490
– Maximum power (kW/rpm): 67/5500
– Maximum torque (Nm/tr/minute): 120/3600-4800
– Battery: Nickel Metal Hydride
– Maximum power (kW/hp): 100/136
– Combined cycle use (WLTP): 4.6
– Combined cycle CO2 emissions (WLTP): 102-106 g/km
– Maximum speed: 170 km / h
– Acceleration (0-100 km/h): 9.2 seconds
– Model price: from € 34,300 including tax; €46,200 including tax for the tested model