Test: Lexus LBX, pocket size

Desperate to win, Japanese premier Lexus is attacking the coveted B-SUV segment. A small SUV will not work against Peugeot 2008, Renault Captur or even (or should we say especially) the only two representatives on the premium market: Audi Q2 and DS 3. Taking the basis of its cousin Toyota Yaris Cross, LBX tests its place where the compact CT 200h failed: win a new client. The product promises to make its revolution in terms of style, housing, respect for the environment but also in terms of price without forgetting what makes Lexus, Lexus: an alternative to the German premium leaders.

About the style of LBX, Lexus activates the end of the cycle. Tortured period, straight lines, angles and other feelings that the car was given in the damaged end. Now is the time for gentleness, roundness and softness. It was founded by previous generation NX (read our review here), brand design is changing dramatically. The large grille has undergone a major transformation and is now in two parts, Lexus he considers himself to have “made it”. The quiet trapezoidal lower section offers a new horizontal diamond pattern that connects to the rest of the bumper. The second part of the grille causes a smile by connecting the lights that also adopt a new signature in the shape of an arrow.

In profile, the car will surprise you. The hood part is extended to give a cell that goes towards the back, not a sharp line like a knife but rounded, very smooth with sharp tongue elements and rounded wings that evoke mochis according to the brand. The glazing design chooses a contour that connects with its big brother, the RZ. The third window on the C pillar is just a decoy with a glossy black finish.

The back is even more amazing. Always and again to connect with the rest of the family Lexus,, LBX opts for headband-shaped rear eyes. The drawing is not without awakening a Dodge Charger (read here) – there is worse as memory. The brand also follows trends with the omission of the logo on the trunk for the full “LEXUS”. Finally, a few straight lines are maintained to provide a smooth transition in the design of the Lexus LBX. The opening of the trunk lid is very large despite the height between the ground and the trunk. We will also find action but fortunately the trunk provides depth. Yes, the style may seem timid or uninspired, but Lexus wants a sporty and powerful car without overdoing it.

On board, the feeling of a high car is felt by the abundance of leather. Note the choice of taupe color, which has an effect on the SUV board by bringing a lot of light. We get leather on the door panels, center console and on the dashboard. Foam plastic covers the dashboard and the steering wheel has a suede effect. Besides, a little LBX it does not contain animal skin and is covered with semi-aniline leather, ready to be seen on LC coupe (read our review here).

For the overall design of the dashboard, Lexus takes a bit of inspiration from the world of Mercedes with a gently sloping center console that mimics German or even Swedish production and a floating storage compartment between driver and passenger. Good point, the front seats offer leg and knee room that won’t hit the center console.

The finish is not just good, it’s excellent. The conventions are strict and everything looks orderly. The removal of many physical buttons makes the atmosphere on the board more pleasing to the eye. Only the physical heating buttons are saved – phew! – and very well placed. Visibility on the central screen is excellent and the sun will not disturb the view. The front seats offer excellent thigh and back support with plenty of manual adjustment.

The rear seats benefit from rear windows that let in light at the expense of legroom. But all is not lost! The seat backs are closed and there will be legroom under the front seats. However, we regret the lack of space for the knees that comes against the backs of the front seats. The back seat is suitable for two adults but especially for children. Access is good because the doors benefit from a large opening angle. The trunk, in turn, benefits from a certain depth (402 liters). However, when opening, we find a step that is not necessarily practical for many things and especially the seats that only fold 60/40. The stem is straight and no space is wasted, unnecessarily.

In terms of power … the Lexus LBX it plays the dynamic comfort card. In the city, the car is silent thanks to the electric motor but above all thanks to the double insulation installed by the manufacturer. Lexus has improved the insulation between the cell and the engine but also at roof level. On the road, the SUV is quiet and reduces harsh noise. The petrol engine is sensible and the acceleration is gentle. The CVT transmission provides a direct gearbox feel and great silence. Acceleration does not give the feeling of tightening the engine – which is always a little scary when you hear “CVT”. With 185 Nm, the Japanese starts well without being thunderous – although that’s not what we’re asking. But surprisingly, the little Japanese girl is not afraid to recover. It changes when needed, all with a comfortable mix. Depending on the condition of the road, the power side is lost for a short time of the improved zumba, slightly bumped and turned.

Lexus brings its personal touch with a car that grips the road and inspires while maintaining good looks. The customizable digital counter lets you choose the information you want to see with the greatest possible clarity. Driving aids are absent everywhere. This is especially the case with blind spot warning, sign reading or speeding, which intervene without being excessive. Finally, the use confirms the interest of the hybrid: during the test we wrote between 5.2 and 5.6l / 100 – it is under control.

The Lexus LBX so it is the best surprise and pleasant driving with great comfort. The smallest SUV in the Lexus lineup retains the power of the larger models. It will certainly be a vector to promote the brand among customers who had no idea of ​​setting foot in a retailer. Lexus’ goal is to narrow down the market with a car that respects the brand’s DNA in order to attract new customers and appeal to the German elite. Lexus surprise with a very surprising choice of colors, especially for the best effect copper – which also represents 25% of sales so far. THE LBX it can position itself with a solid argument in terms of accommodation, utility, equipment and price that positions itself as a good alternative to high-end generalists. In fact, the prices of LBX starting at €34,300 with equipment that is far from unworthy. On the other hand, DS offers its small SUV from €30,100 in Bastille finish with above all 100 hp petrol engine and manual gearbox. THE LBX will it be able to do better than CT 200h? Answer within a few years.

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Photo courtesy of @GllmP