New Lexus LBX (2024): First test drive

With a length of 4.19 m, the new Lexus LBX (2024) is the most refined model of the Japanese brand to date and was developed locally and for Europe. We continue with our first experiment!

Base Lexus LBX (2024) it is a Toyota Yaris Cross. However, the Lexus development department has put a lot of work into the modification to provide not a 1:1 copy, but a completely independent car for the target group of young and urban people. The needs of the European market set the system: LBX is a short path with low consumption and many support systems. A crowd pleaser is guaranteed by the stylish Lexus. Instead of a variety of accessories, Luxury, Sensational, Relaxing and Cooling “atmospheres” are available to choose from. Depending on the situation, the Japanese then move forward with 17- or 18-inch wheels or with a roof in a different color. On request, you can have a vegan or leather interior with different seams.

Driving range of the new Lexus LBX (2024) On the other hand, it offers two controllable options: front wheel or all-wheel drive. Propulsion is always produced by a 1.5-liter three-cylinder and a compact electric motor. As a full hybrid system, a combustion engine and an electric motor drive the wheels. If you choose an all-wheel drive, an additional electric motor works on the rear axle. Since this system is self-charging, it does not require any charging breaks – however, electric driving is only possible for a few meters. Also interesting: Tips for our products on Amazon

Leslie & Cars drive the Lexus LBX (2024) in the video:

First test with the new Lexus LBX (2024)

The perfect combination shows its advantage in the city. With 136 hp (100 kW) it flies quickly from traffic light to traffic light. In stop-and-go traffic, the electric motor replaces the car until the combustion engine fires up as you drive harder. This ensures a smooth and quiet driving experience as well as low fuel consumption. According to the WLTP, it is 4.4 to 4.7 liters per 100 kilometers – at the end of our test, the on-board computer reported 5.3 liters. Still a low value, which increased mainly due to the ratio of roads on our route.

This is where the weak point of the drive lies: The continuously variable CVT transmission with six simulated gears causes the engine speed to increase rapidly during high-speed driving, which increases the noise level and consumption in equal measure. Smooth acceleration and a light foot on the accelerator suit the latest Lexus LBX (2024) best. The agile crossover can also be driven hard on hilly country roads. The steering provides communicative responses and you feel connected to the car. Uneven road surfaces cause the car body to be a little unstable, but this is quickly eliminated.

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High-quality interior and easy-to-use operation

The brand’s premium claim is also reflected in the interior of the new Lexus LBX (2024). with high quality surfaces and fine craftsmanship. The seats offer adequate lateral support and you can quickly find the right position. At the back, the available space for fellow passengers is very little: space can be controlled, and from a height of 1.65 m it becomes hard on the heads. The trunk holds 402 to 992 liters of cargo.

The operation is not secret. The infotainment system is logically and clearly designed and offers directly selectable shortcuts along with some physical buttons. Lexus doesn’t skimp on assistance systems either; almost everything is already included in the base price of 32,990 euros (from December 2023). A reversing camera with parking assist or rear cross traffic alert is especially useful in the city. Wireless smartphone connectivity is provided for the youth target group There are also ample storage spaces in and under the center console, with only a small bottle fitting in the door pocket. The door release lever button takes some getting used to, but it separates the Lexus from the Toyota again.

Technical data of the new Lexus LBX (2024)