Lexus LBX: The Urban Premium Crossover Tested

We’re test-driving the Lexus LBX in its highest trim level, equipped with the E-FOUR all-wheel-drive system. This urban crossover has quickly become a sales hit for the Japanese premium brand. Theoretically, this shouldn’t be surprising; Lexus took the well-proven and popular Toyota Yaris Cross and elevated it with premium solutions.

The result is a significantly improved finish, more comfort, and a higher price, all while retaining the same powertrain. Does this combination make sense? Join us for a comprehensive review of the Lexus LBX, where we’ll explore its advantages, disadvantages, and how it differs from its progenitor.

Advantages and Disadvantages of the Lexus LBX

Advantages:

• Unique premium offering in the urban crossover segment.
• Intuitive and easy-to-learn multimedia software.
• High-quality interior craftsmanship and ergonomics.
• Light and agile handling perfectly complements its hybrid driving characteristics.
• Economical powertrain.
• Effective and sensible driver assistance systems.

Disadvantages:

• Limited rear passenger space.
• Cabin noise at higher speeds is not ideal.
• Power deficiencies become noticeable on longer journeys.
• The E-FOUR all-wheel-drive system offers minimal benefits in most everyday driving situations.

Lexus LBX Pricing and Trim Levels

The Lexus LBX represents the smallest offering in the brand’s lineup. It is available in several equipment variants (referred to as “atmospheres”) and with two powertrain options: Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) or E-FOUR All-Wheel Drive. On average, the LBX is approximately $7,500-$12,500 USD more expensive than its Toyota Yaris Cross counterpart. Below are the approximate pricing tiers (converted from Polish Zloty for international reference, actual prices may vary by market):

• LBX (FWD): Approximately $39,100 USD
• Elegant:
  • FWD: Approximately $43,350 USD
  • E-FOUR: Approximately $48,850 USD
• Emotion:
  • FWD: Approximately $44,350 USD
  • E-FOUR: Approximately $49,850 USD
• Relax:
  • FWD: Approximately $48,600 USD
  • E-FOUR: Approximately $51,100 USD
• Cool:
  • FWD: Approximately $49,600 USD
  • E-FOUR: Approximately $52,100 USD
• Vibrant:
  • FWD: Approximately $49,975 USD
  • E-FOUR: Approximately $52,475 USD

The Vibrant trim is a limited-time variant featuring additional visual enhancements. Beyond these, a range of optional packages are available. For instance, at the time of this review’s publication, discounts of up to $7,500 USD were offered on select models.

Optional Equipment in the Tested Model

Our tested Lexus LBX, the top-tier Cool trim (excluding the limited Vibrant) with E-FOUR drive, included nearly all available options. Here’s a breakdown of additional costs (approximate USD values):

The reviewed vehicle, fully loaded, totals approximately $58,975 USD. While this is a substantial price for a small urban crossover, it reflects its positioning within the premium automotive segment.

Lexus also offers a variety of accessories, primarily for cargo transport, such as tow hitches, roof racks, cargo boxes, and protective elements like floor mats and mudguards.

Warranty and Protection

The Lexus LBX comes with a 3-year or 100,000-kilometer (approximately 62,000 miles) warranty for the entire vehicle, and a 5-year or 100,000-kilometer warranty for the hybrid powertrain’s electrical components. Extended warranty options, known as “Relax” packages, can extend coverage up to 10 years. Additionally, the vehicle includes a 3-year paint protection and a 12-year anti-perforation warranty.

Approximate Insurance Costs

Based on general industry data for a driver with several years of experience, the basic liability insurance (equivalent to OC) for a Lexus LBX could be around $220 USD annually. A comprehensive package including collision coverage (equivalent to AC) might cost approximately $2,125 USD.

Lexus LBX Technical Specifications

While the Lexus LBX shares its technological foundation with the Toyota Yaris Cross, it incorporates numerous significant changes. The powertrain, however, is largely transferred from the most powerful Yaris Cross variant. It’s important to note that opting for the E-FOUR version does not equate to a full-time four-wheel-drive system. Instead, the rear axle is driven by a small electric motor (approximately 4.7 horsepower, 52 Nm) designed primarily to assist in less favorable conditions, such as slippery surfaces. This setup does not directly contribute to overall performance.

Powertrain and Performance

• Engine: 1.5-liter, 3-cylinder gasoline engine (92 HP, 120 Nm)
• Front Electric Motor: 94 HP
• System Output (FWD): 136 HP (185 Nm)
• E-FOUR System: Adds a small rear electric motor (approx. 4.7 HP)
• Weight (E-FOUR): Approximately 80 kg (176 lbs) heavier, totaling around 1,415 kg (3,119 lbs)
• 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) Acceleration: 9.6 seconds (E-FOUR), 0.4 seconds slower than FWD. These figures are well-suited for urban driving.

Dimensions

Key differences in the LBX are evident in its dimensions; Lexus has made the model slightly wider and longer than the Yaris Cross. The interior, particularly the dashboard, has also been completely redesigned. This is where the premium segment characteristics, such as superior finishes and advanced technologies, truly shine. Despite these enhancements, the LBX remains firmly rooted in the urban crossover category.

A Brief History of the Lexus LBX

The Lexus LBX is a relatively recent addition to the manufacturer’s lineup, having been unveiled in 2023. It expands the brand’s range of elevated models, serving as its smallest representative. Interestingly, it is only the second car in Lexus history to use a three-letter designation instead of two, the first being the iconic LFA supercar.

As repeatedly mentioned, the Lexus LBX inherits all its core technologies, including the platform, from the Toyota Yaris Cross (and the standard Yaris). Since its launch, it quickly became apparent that the market, particularly in Europe, had a strong demand for such a vehicle. When examining Lexus’s overall sales figures, the LBX has positioned itself among the brand’s best sellers.

The Lexus LBX competes in the B-segment, categorizing it as an urban crossover. Its closest direct competitor might be the electric MINI Aceman. While models like the MINI Countryman, BMW X1, Mercedes GLA, or Audi Q3 could be considered, they are notably larger vehicles. Other potential rivals include the Alfa Romeo Junior and DS 3. This relatively small number of direct competitors has undoubtedly contributed to the LBX’s strong sales performance.

Lexus LBX Multimedia System: Intuitive and User-Friendly

The Lexus multimedia software, by nature, shares much with Toyota’s system, which is a positive. It’s a clear and straightforward system to operate, requiring minimal time to familiarize oneself with all its features. While some sections could benefit from additional descriptions for specific switches, overall performance is responsive and meets expectations for this segment.

Central Display and Digital Instruments

• Central Screen: All trim levels feature a 9.8-inch panel, offering good resolution and image quality.
• Digital Instrument Cluster: Our tested LBX, a higher trim, utilized a 12.3-inch digital screen for the driver’s instruments. Entry-level models may feature classic analog gauges that emulate a virtual appearance.
• Head-Up Display (HUD): An optional feature across all variants.

Seamless Central Screen Experience

Lexus allows for driver profile integration, primarily for connectivity with a mobile app that provides vehicle status insights. However, this is not mandatory for unlocking the system’s full operating functions, a refreshing approach compared to some other premium brands.

The core of the LBX’s interface is a sidebar with tabs for various software modules, enabling quick navigation to specific sections. You won’t find complex dropdown menus or hidden gestures; the system prioritizes simplicity. There is a clear pull-out menu for shortcuts. While some fonts may not be entirely consistent, readability remains excellent. Unfortunately, a built-in owner’s manual is absent, which might inconvenience new Lexus users who will have to discover some functions through trial and error or by searching online. A simple voice assistant is available, limited to essential vehicle functions.

Regardless of what’s displayed on the central screen, two rows of climate control settings are always visible at the bottom. Crucially, fundamental parameters like temperature are adjusted via physical switches, which is a welcome feature. The software offers extensive climate settings, including a nanoe X filter and an electrically heated windshield. An automatic mode for heated seats and steering wheel intelligently activates based on conditions. The system also includes standard settings for lighting and central locking. Premium additions like comfort entry/exit and advanced door handles that prevent accidental opening are particularly appreciated.

The central screen’s connectivity module is robust. The vehicle is always connected to the network, and users can access Wi-Fi (though without a hotspot function) and Bluetooth. Mobile connectivity primarily facilitates system updates and Miracast. Interestingly, a web browser application is not present in the tested vehicle. In addition to wireless connectivity, media can be connected via USB.

Premium Audio Experience

One area where Lexus distinctly differentiates itself from Toyota is the audio system. Our tested model featured the Mark Levinson sound system, comprising 13 speakers and an additional 12-channel amplifier with a total output of 1800W. Paired with the enhanced interior finish, the sound quality is exceptionally clear and enjoyable. For an urban premium segment vehicle, the listening experience is commendable, with excellent balance across all frequencies. It’s worth noting, however, that the sound stage, regardless of balance settings, distinctly focuses on the front occupants.

Navigation, Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay

The navigation system in our test Lexus LBX was not activated, but it is a familiar solution from other Toyota and Lexus models, known for its straightforward and clear maps with basic functionalities. Issues with map database accuracy are rare. Both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are supported wirelessly and operate flawlessly. Apple CarPlay offers a slight convenience by allowing the sidebar tabs to remain visible.

Digital Instruments and Head-Up Display: Japanese Simplicity

While digital instrument clusters in Toyotas often serve as a central hub for managing key vehicle functions, Lexus focuses on providing the driver with essential information without overwhelming them. However, personalization options are still available.

The LBX’s digital instrument cluster offers three display themes, adjustable via the central screen. These visualizations vary in the number of visible dials. The most elaborate simulates classic speedometer and tachometer/energy flow gauges. An intermediate option centralizes the energy flow, while the simplest completely replaces analog-style pointers with digital readings. Drivers can also choose to display either a tachometer or an energy flow meter, with the latter being more practical in a hybrid Lexus for monitoring when the combustion engine engages, crucial for optimizing fuel consumption.

In addition to the three main themes, drivers can configure up to three saved settings for what appears in three widget sections. The central area can display driver assistance system views or two map variants (when navigation is active). The side sectors offer the same set of visualizations, including multimedia information and various trip computer displays. All these elements can be turned off to minimize visual information.

For the optional head-up display (HUD), three themes are also available, allowing drivers to choose the level of detail. The HUD itself is large, colorful, and perfectly clear, effectively serving its purpose. Beyond basic functions, it also displays what actions the steering wheel buttons are currently configured to perform.

Lexus LBX Interior: A Touch of Premium

One of the most notable shortcomings of the Toyota Yaris Cross, the LBX’s platform donor, was its overtly plastic and somewhat creaky interior finish. Lexus, naturally, could not afford to replicate this. The reviewed LBX delivers a very pleasant tactile experience with high-quality materials and excellent fit and finish, unequivocally conveying its premium segment status. Crucially, Lexus has not compromised on practicality, which remains quite good.

First Row Comfort and Design

The LBX features Lexus’s characteristic keyless entry system, which doesn’t react to proximity alone. Instead, grasping one of the front door handles unlocks the central locking. Locking is achieved by touching visible indentations. The electric tailgate is also integrated into the keyless system, allowing it to be closed along with the entire vehicle, even from the outside, though it lacks a foot-motion sensor for opening.

Upon opening the doors, the ease of entry is apparent, particularly as the doors cover the sills, preventing dirty pant legs. The elevated body and wide-opening hinges further facilitate effortless entry and exit.

The door panels are exceptionally well-finished, featuring a dominant suede-like fabric that is very pleasant to touch. Even the upper section, though plastic and harder, yields subtly under pressure. Stiffer plastic is only found in the lower part, where a modest storage compartment for small bottles is also located.

Comfortable Seating

Despite the Lexus LBX being an urban crossover, it provides excellent comfort on longer journeys. The seats, while relatively firm, offer good adjustability to suit individual body types, including decent lateral support despite the car’s non-sporty aspirations. The driver’s seat offers significant benefits, with electric adjustment including 2-way lumbar support and seat cushion tilt. Lexus has also incorporated a comfort entry/exit function, though rear passengers might find it restricts their space. Seat memory is also available. The passenger seat features basic manual adjustment, including height, and both front seats offer 3-stage heating. It’s a minor遗憾 (regret) that Lexus didn’t include an additional ISOFIX mount, which would be highly beneficial in an urban car of this segment.

Lexus Signature Steering Wheel

The Lexus LBX steering wheel embodies another characteristic feature of the brand: its unique controls. The wheel itself is heated (2-stage) and leather-wrapped but relatively thin. Manual 2-way adjustment offers a limited range, but drivers of average height (e.g., 1.8m or 5’11”) should find a comfortable position. The controls are a combination of physical buttons that are also touch-sensitive, allowing for custom function assignments. While not available in all trims, this system is generally convenient. The actions performed by the arrows on both spokes can be changed on the fly and configured in settings. The left section primarily manages multimedia, while the right handles cruise control. A slight delay in the system recognizing a touch before executing the assigned action is a minor point that could be improved. Behind the steering wheel, you’ll find paddle shifters, which simulate gear changes for the e-CVT continuously variable transmission. These are unlikely to be used regularly. The driver attention monitoring system, with sensors located at the top of the steering column, performs reliably. To the driver’s left knee, buttons for seat memory, digital instrument brightness, and trip display are located, alongside switches for the fuel filler flap and tailgate release.

Dashboard: Practical Luxury

The most compelling evidence that the LBX is more than just a rebadged Yaris Cross is its thoroughly redesigned dashboard, echoing classic Lexus styling. This redesign is accompanied by superb materials, and many will appreciate its ergonomics, particularly the lower-set display that doesn’t protrude above the dash itself. The top of the dash houses part of the Mark Levinson audio system and the head-up display projector. The strip separating the plastic and suede-like material seamlessly integrates the air vents and the engine start button. Below this is the central display, along with an array of physical climate control switches and a knob for multimedia volume. Further down, you’ll find buttons useful for parking, and on the other side, two USB-C ports. At the very bottom is a storage compartment with an inductive charging pad, though its design isn’t ideal as a smartphone often protrudes and can easily slide off the charging coil. A larger storage compartment is located between the seats on a lower level, offering another USB-C port and a 12V socket. This area is rubber-lined to prevent items from shifting. Above, there’s a “1.5” cupholder, effectively accommodating one main cup and small items like a key. Moving further back, a comfortable drive selector and buttons for the electronic parking brake and drive modes are present. If a second cupholder is needed, it’s cleverly hidden under the armrest, which slides backward to reveal a less convenient but functional spot for drinks. This cupholder can also be removed if not needed. The armrest itself is comfortable but not otherwise adjustable. It can, of course, be opened to reveal a sizable and deep storage compartment, also with a rubber lining. Another storage compartment is situated in front of the passenger, but it’s not excessively large and is made of typical plastic. Overhead, touch-controlled interior lights and an auto-dimming rearview mirror (with an off switch) are found.

Second Row: Best for Children

Opening the rear doors of the LBX immediately reveals some compromises. While the door panels still feature pleasant-to-touch upholstery, there’s significantly more hard plastic. Nevertheless, primary contact points still utilize soft materials, and electric door handles are retained. The storage pockets are tiny, and the space upon opening the doors is not particularly generous. The rear bench is primarily designed for children. Sitting behind a front seat adjusted for an adult (1.8m or 5’11”), space is very tight, making short urban trips feasible but longer journeys uncomfortable for adults. Children or teenagers will be far more comfortable in the LBX’s second row. The convenient ISOFIX anchors, hidden behind easily removable covers, are a definite plus, though care must be taken not to lose the covers. For added convenience, two USB-C ports and a seatback pocket (behind the front passenger seat) are provided. There are also hooks. It’s a missed opportunity that Lexus didn’t include even a simple armrest with a single cupholder here.

Ambient Lighting: A Splash of Color

Regarding the lighting in our tested Lexus LBX, which is the highest trim, there are no additional exterior light sources, nor do any lights illuminate the ground upon opening the doors, leaving occupants to rely on their eyesight to spot puddles or mud. Inside, the basic interior lighting is effective. Additionally, there’s ambient lighting focused exclusively on the front row, divided into two zones. In wealthier trims, Lexus offers a choice of 50 colors, a simple yet effective customization. Interestingly, the manufacturer does not offer a sunroof option.

Trunk: Designed for City Needs

The electrically operated tailgate of the tested Lexus LBX features a height adjustment option. When fully open, it provides a generous loading aperture, albeit with a relatively high sill. A significant advantage is the ability to close the tailgate and lock the central locking simultaneously. Opting for the LBX with the additional rear electric motor (E-FOUR) significantly reduces trunk capacity. The basic volume in this configuration is just 255 liters (9 cubic feet), whereas the FWD version offers 332 liters (11.7 cubic feet) with a lower floor. The subwoofer also consumes an additional 3 liters. However, Lexus states that when loaded to the roof, the reviewed model offers 317 liters (11.2 cubic feet) of capacity. With the rear seats folded (40:60 split, no ski pass-through), the volume increases to 994 liters (35.1 cubic feet), allowing for suitcases or larger shopping items. Due to the raised floor, a flat loading surface is achieved when the seats are folded. Notable features in the LBX’s trunk include a dual-level floor, providing space for smaller items, a 12V socket, and well-organized wheel wells, though dedicated hooks are absent (mesh mounting points are available). A tow hitch is also an optional accessory.

Driving Impressions: Lightweight Agility

Considering the Lexus LBX primarily as a vehicle for urban driving, its ease of use is highly commendable. A sense of lightness pervades every aspect of the driving experience, especially in the steering system. The LBX also offers a comfortable ride, though it can exhibit moments of suspension stiffness.

Suspension and Steering

The suspension handles road imperfections quite well, but a quieter operation would be preferred. Larger potholes or speed bumps can lead to audible suspension noise, particularly from the rear. At the same time, it’s sufficiently firm to keep the short, elevated body in check. The overall character is quite pleasant and far from boring. Lexus has opted for its favored electric steering system in the LBX, which has its pros and cons. A nuance to adapt to is the limited feedback from the wheels, even though it’s not a full drive-by-wire system. On the other hand, Lexus has successfully implemented distinct steering behavior depending on speed. In the city, especially during parking, the steering feels incredibly light, with a perfectly acceptable turning circle of 10.4 meters (34.1 feet). When navigating slowly through urban traffic, the steering doesn’t stiffen significantly, which takes some getting used to but isn’t particularly difficult. On expressways, the system gains appropriate precision.

Driving Dynamics Tailored for the Urban Jungle

The tested Lexus LBX is not a speed demon; its powertrain is designed for urban excursions. It features a self-charging hybrid (HEV) system based on a 1.5-liter, 3-cylinder gasoline engine (92 HP, 120 Nm). This engine, combined with a front electric motor (94 HP), results in a total system output of 136 HP (185 Nm).

The addition of a second electric motor on the rear axle, part of the E-FOUR system, does not enhance performance; in fact, it slightly diminishes it. This motor generates less than 5 HP and is primarily useful for traction on slippery surfaces. The E-FOUR system adds approximately 80 kg (176 lbs) to the vehicle’s weight, bringing the total to around 1,415 kg (3,119 lbs). Consequently, the 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration takes 9.6 seconds, which is 0.4 seconds slower than the FWD version. This performance is entirely adequate for real-world LBX capabilities.

Lexus has wisely avoided excessive drive modes in the LBX. Between the seats, there’s only an Eco button, which subtly adjusts throttle response and slightly reduces air conditioning efficiency. In this setting, the car doesn’t feel noticeably restricted compared to the standard mode and more readily utilizes the electric motor. Under suitable conditions (with a sufficiently charged battery), it’s possible to force EV mode, allowing the Lexus to run on electric power alone for a few kilometers (a couple of miles) at most. For drivers keen on optimizing energy consumption, learning how to encourage the LBX’s computer to automatically switch to electric-only driving is key: accelerate smoothly to the desired speed, briefly lift off the accelerator, and then maintain the energy flow indicator within the first quarter.

The available system power of the tested Lexus LBX is perfectly sufficient for city driving, and in this scenario, the hybrid system excels. There are no complaints about the car’s behavior; its role is to provide comfortable transportation for daily commutes, errands, and school runs. Ultimately, this is a premium car designed to offer a calming experience. Naturally, there’s nothing stopping you from taking the LBX on highways or expressways for longer distances. However, this is where the LBX’s weaknesses, such as its power deficit, become apparent. The car feels strained accelerating at 140 km/h (87 mph), doing so with minimal dynamism. At these speeds, issues with engine noise and road noise become more pronounced, leading to a louder cabin. For optimal comfort, it’s best to drive calmly, ideally up to 120 km/h (75 mph).

It’s always beneficial to keep the cruise control (even if not active) engaged in the Lexus, as its radar systems continuously support the regenerative braking. The LBX will smoothly decelerate and recover energy when it detects a slower vehicle ahead. This solution is simple, efficient, and convenient. There’s no other way to manually adjust the electric motor’s braking force.

Fuel Consumption and Range: Nearly Ideal

An urban crossover like the Lexus LBX doesn’t necessarily require a large fuel tank. The tested vehicle has a 36-liter (9.5-gallon) fuel capacity. While this isn’t ideal for very long road trips, the Japanese hybrid’s efficiency largely compensates. During our tests, ambient temperatures were around 15°C (59°F).

Unsurprisingly, the best fuel economy is achieved in the city, where the Lexus LBX consistently consumes very little fuel. Our record was 3.4 L/100km (69.2 MPG) with very calm driving, but typically, in moderate city traffic, the onboard computer showed around 4 L/100km (58.8 MPG), providing a range of approximately 900 km (560 miles). At the other extreme, completely preventing the combustion engine from shutting off resulted in around 7 L/100km (33.6 MPG), which is exceptionally high for this vehicle. Dynamic but sensible driving generally yielded a maximum of 5 L/100km (47 MPG).

Suburban driving also performs very well, with consistent speeds around 80 km/h (50 mph) maintaining fuel consumption at 4 L/100km (58.8 MPG), again providing a range of approximately 900 km (560 miles). Fuel economy naturally increases on expressways:

• 100 km/h (62 mph): 5.4 L/100km (43.5 MPG) – range: ~660 km (410 miles)
• 120 km/h (75 mph): 6.4 L/100km (36.7 MPG) – range: ~560 km (348 miles)
• 130 km/h (81 mph): 6.9 L/100km (34 MPG) – range: ~520 km (323 miles)
• 140 km/h (87 mph): 7.8 L/100km (30.2 MPG) – range: ~460 km (286 miles)

These figures are still not alarming, but they are noticeably higher as the combustion engine plays a more dominant role. Remember that the E-FOUR system adds weight, impacting consumption, making the decision to invest in it one that requires careful consideration.

Lexus LBX Assistance Systems: Enhancing Driving, Not Hindering It

Lexus has approached the management of assistance systems more thoughtfully than Toyota. Instead of cryptic abbreviations, clear and sensibly described tiles are used. While additional descriptions would always be beneficial, the options are primarily on/off switches. However, some solutions allow for interesting customization, as shown in the accompanying image gallery.

Traffic Sign Recognition and Mirrors

The LBX’s traffic sign recognition system is rather average, frequently misinterpreting speed limits from adjacent roads, resulting in noticeable audible alerts that are hard to ignore. The quickest way to disable this is via the pull-out shortcut menu, where the assistant appears immediately. The mirrors in the tested Lexus are appropriately sized for the LBX’s body, offering good visibility and tilting downwards when reversing. Additionally, they feature an auto-dimming function. Blind-spot monitoring is naturally included, complemented by front and rear cross-traffic monitoring.

Adaptive Cruise Control and Lane Keeping Assist

Despite being an urban car, the Lexus LBX is equipped with a sophisticated adaptive cruise control system. While it lacks a Stop&Go function, the multitude of options for customizing its operation is impressive. Its performance quality is flawless, with the only real limitation being the car’s power during acceleration on expressways. The cruise control is enhanced by an excellent lane-keeping assist system. Regardless of conditions or speed, it quickly recognizes lanes and maintains the vehicle’s position effectively. It’s one of the best implementations on the market, notably not overly sensitive about specific hand placement on the steering wheel.

Advanced Lighting

The headlights in our tested Lexus LBX were the optional, highest-tier variant, featuring adaptive high beams. While we’ll delve into that in a moment, the basic light beam is already commendable, performing flawlessly in both urban and rural settings, offering excellent brightness, spread, and range. The adaptive high beam, while consisting of a relatively small number of segments, effectively cuts out other road users. We observed that the Lexus system reacts slightly better to other cars on the road compared to the Yaris Cross, though occasionally it was a bit slow to dim specific areas. Furthermore, front fog lights with an active cornering illumination function are included, proving to be a helpful feature.

360-Degree Camera System

Finally, the LBX offers a 360-degree camera system, a feature entirely absent in its Toyota counterpart. The cameras provide good quality images. While not groundbreaking, and theoretically, one might expect slightly more from a premium segment Lexus, overall, it performs well, allowing drivers to easily spot potential hazards in urban environments. We particularly appreciate the various display options for the camera views in Lexus’s software; even with the mirrors folded, their integrated cameras remain useful. Interestingly, opting for the 360-degree camera system means losing the rear camera washer, which is available if additional cameras are not purchased. Less practical features include the automatic parking and exit assist system, which, while functional, operates exceptionally slowly.

Lexus LBX Test: Summary and Our Opinion

Our review of the Lexus LBX concludes with the impression of a very pleasant car that excels in urban environments. It is designed to provide tranquility and a distinct premium feel. Compared to its progenitor, the difference is vast when it comes to interior finish and overall quality. Furthermore, it boasts a very economical powertrain, light handling, and useful driver assistance technologies.

The two key drawbacks of the Lexus LBX are its limited rear passenger space and the hybrid system’s constrained power. Longer journeys on expressways will reveal these deficiencies. Additionally, the value proposition of investing in the E-FOUR all-wheel-drive system is highly questionable. It’s more expensive, slightly slower, and reduces trunk space, while the benefits of this solution are unlikely to be experienced in daily driving.

Source: Self-developed content. Opening photo: Łukasz Pająk.