Personal exam. Lexus LBX: project manager

17th century lady of letters, Antoinette des Houlières certainly did not have the pleasure of driving a Lexus. However, let us dare to repeat one of his thoughts when welcoming the arrival of the LBX with a more relaxed design than those of the ambassadors of the brand. “To be happy, to be wise, you have to know how to put the brakes on your desires…” Those at Lexus obviously remain sharp, but when it comes time to wear this “small” that they are betting big, the managers. he voted with elegant wisdom, he chose a line that should not cause conflicts in couples and families.

With this “first”, despite the memory of the clever CT 200h (sold until 2020), the Japanese company continues in front of the small competition for the DS3, Audi Q2, Mini Countryman and BMW Series 1 with real ambition. By retaining local standards, their payment codes, we should not expect a discount price, the guest is not cheap but for Lexus we believe that this “fair price” will not be an obstacle to its success.

Respectful material

Based on the Yaris Cross platform (but produced in Japan despite its European aims, the capacity of the Valenciennes-Onnaing site is taken by the success of Toyota…), the LBX benefits from extended tracks (6 cm), extended wheelbase. (2 cm) with a reduced center of gravity. It uses the same hybrid power which increases to 136 hp due to the improvement of the electric unit. Future customers who are not interested in taking care of themselves with a “Toy” at the price of Lexus can be assured, the urban SUV that has just arrived shows its differences behind the most attractive trapezoidal grille, reduced headlights that give it a certain “arrowhead” . ” “look” and many details such as the light strip now connecting the rear lights.

Inside, a delightful display of high-quality materials, regardless of the chosen finishes (chic and Relaxed, Sportier and Cool). Soft and velvety plastic on the dashboard and doors, combined leather or Alcantara upholstery, aluminum shards in excellent taste, good workmanship. Well placed and a good size (12”3), the center screen takes a little practice and few try to master it.

Silence and gentleness

On the road, the handling is more than adequate, the health, and the comfort of the suspension worth it. We can’t talk about real agility, but the car, sitting comfortably, adapts to all styles of travel. In the city, the working silence is impressive, and the discretion of the three cylinders that “comes and goes” when traveling is appreciated. Strong opponents of the CVT box will not fail to complain, but this system has made real progress, there is no need to go back to the control of old models to realize this.

Another advantage, like the Toyota’s cousin, is low consumption, we noted less than five liters in the city and a little more on the mixed route. Despite the excellent value of the torque, the “three legs” must find length (and it does not fail to inform us, fortunately the soundproofing is very careful) to take its place on the highway. From the excellent driving position, well maintained in the perfectly designed seats, we appreciate the adjustment of the steering wheel and the good overall balance improved by the new brake assist (see elsewhere).

Finally, when we are talking more about the tax than the sale price, the first offer is in the position of 350 euros.