Lexus LBX Review: Proving the Need for Small Premium Cars

The Lexus LBX, tested here in its top-tier trim with E-FOUR all-wheel drive, is an urban crossover that has quickly become a significant sales success for the Japanese premium brand. Its popularity is perhaps unsurprising, as Lexus built upon the highly successful and well-regarded Toyota Yaris Cross, elevating it with a host of premium features and refinements. The result is a significantly upgraded interior finish, enhanced comfort, and a higher price tag—all while retaining the familiar powertrain. This raises the question: does the premium transformation truly justify the cost? Join us in this comprehensive review of the Lexus LBX, where we explore its advantages, disadvantages, and key distinctions from its Toyota counterpart.

This review delves into various aspects of the Lexus LBX, covering everything from its pricing and technical specifications to its infotainment system, interior design, driving impressions, and advanced safety features. We aim to provide a thorough understanding of what makes the LBX a unique offering in the compact premium segment.

Lexus LBX Pricing and Trim Levels

The smallest offering in Lexus’s lineup, the LBX is available in several trim levels, known as “atmospheres,” and with two powertrain options: front-wheel drive (FWD) or E-FOUR all-wheel drive. Typically, the LBX commands a premium over its Toyota Yaris Cross sibling, with prices generally ranging from approximately 30,000 to 50,000 local currency units higher.

Estimated starting prices for the Lexus LBX are as follows (actual prices may vary by market and current promotions):

• LBX (FWD): Approximately 156,400 local currency units (LCU)
• Elegant:
  • FWD: Approximately 173,400 LCU
  • E-FOUR: Approximately 195,400 LCU
• Emotion:
  • FWD: Approximately 177,400 LCU
  • E-FOUR: Approximately 199,400 LCU
• Relax:
  • FWD: Approximately 194,400 LCU
  • E-FOUR: Approximately 204,400 LCU
• Cool:
  • FWD: Approximately 198,400 LCU
  • E-FOUR: Approximately 208,400 LCU
• Vibrant:
  • FWD: Approximately 199,900 LCU
  • E-FOUR: Approximately 209,900 LCU

The Vibrant trim is a limited-time, limited-edition model featuring exclusive visual enhancements. In addition to these trim levels, various optional packages are available. It’s also worth noting that manufacturers often offer regular promotions; at the time of this publication, discounts of up to 30,000 LCU were available on select models.

The tested vehicle, a top-tier Cool trim (excluding the limited Vibrant variant) with E-FOUR drive and nearly all available configurator options, had additional features:

• Advanced Package: Includes cross-traffic alert, Mark Levinson sound system, Head-Up Display (HUD), 360-degree cameras – approximately 17,000 LCU
• Premium Package: Includes full LED lighting with adaptive high beams – approximately 6,000 LCU
• Metallic Paint: Sonic Quartz Bitone – approximately 4,500 LCU

With these additions, the reviewed Lexus LBX had an estimated total price of approximately 235,900 LCU. While this is a significant price for a small urban crossover, it reflects its positioning within the premium automotive segment.

Lexus offers a 3-year warranty on the entire LBX and a 5-year warranty on the hybrid drivetrain’s electrical components, both limited to 100,000 kilometers (approximately 62,000 miles). Extended warranty packages, known as ‘Lexus Relax,’ can extend coverage up to 10 years. Additionally, a 3-year paint protection and a 12-year perforation warranty for the body panels are included.

Estimated Insurance Cost

Based on aggregated data for drivers with several years of experience, a basic third-party liability insurance policy (similar to OC in some markets) for the tested LBX could be around 870 LCU annually. A comprehensive package including collision coverage (similar to AC) might cost approximately 8,500 LCU. Actual insurance costs will vary based on driver profile, location, and coverage choices.

Technical Specifications

While the Lexus LBX shares its technological underpinnings with the Toyota Yaris Cross, it features numerous modifications. The powertrain, however, is largely carried over, especially in its most powerful configuration. It’s crucial to understand that opting for the E-FOUR version does not mean a full-time, robust all-wheel-drive system. Instead, the rear axle is powered by a small additional electric motor, producing approximately 4.7 horsepower (4.7 PS) and 52 Nm of torque. This motor is primarily designed to provide assistance in low-traction conditions, rather than enhancing performance. Consequently, it does not significantly impact overall acceleration, which remains adequate for city driving.

Key differences in the LBX are found in its dimensions; Lexus has made the model slightly wider and longer, and has thoroughly redesigned the interior, particularly the dashboard. These changes contribute to the premium feel through enhanced finishes and advanced technologies. Despite these upgrades, it remains firmly positioned as an urban crossover.

Brief History of the Lexus LBX

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

As mentioned, the Lexus LBX inherits its core technologies, including its 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. The LBX has rapidly climbed to the top of Lexus’s sales charts, demonstrating its immediate appeal.

Positioned in the B-segment, the Lexus LBX is an urban crossover. Its closest premium competitors are few, potentially including the all-electric MINI Aceman or, theoretically, the MINI Countryman, although the latter is noticeably larger. Similarly, models like the BMW X1, Mercedes GLA, or Audi Q3 are significantly larger. However, the Alfa Romeo Junior and DS 3 are more direct rivals. This limited competition has undoubtedly contributed to the LBX’s strong sales performance.

Lexus LBX Infotainment System

Intuitive and User-Friendly

The Lexus infotainment software, by design, shares many characteristics with Toyota’s systems, which is a positive. It’s a clear and straightforward system to operate, requiring minimal time to familiarize oneself with its various menus and functions. While some areas could benefit from additional descriptions for specific switches, overall performance is robust and meets expectations for this vehicle segment.

Regardless of the trim level, the central display is a 9.8-inch panel offering good resolution and image quality. In the tested LBX, the digital instrument cluster is a 12.3-inch screen. Lower-spec models feature classic analog gauges that simulate a virtual appearance. A Head-Up Display (HUD) remains an optional feature across all variants.

The Deceptively Simple Central Screen

Lexus allows for driver profile integration, primarily for connectivity with a mobile app that provides vehicle status oversight. Crucially, this is not mandatory to unlock the full functionality of the operating system itself, a refreshing contrast to some other premium brands.

The core of the LBX’s infotainment interface is a persistent side-bar with tabs for different software modules, ensuring quick access to any section. You won’t find complex dropdown menus or hidden gestures; simplicity is key. There is a slide-out menu for shortcuts, but it’s clearly indicated by an icon. Minor inconsistencies in font styles are present, but overall readability remains excellent.

One notable absence is a built-in owner’s manual. New Lexus users might find themselves exploring functions through trial and error or resorting to online searches. A basic voice assistant is available, limited to essential LBX functions.

Regardless of what’s displayed on the central screen, two rows of climate control settings are always accessible at the bottom. Fortunately, primary parameters like temperature are controlled by physical switches, which is a welcome feature. The software itself offers a comprehensive range of climate settings, including a nanoe X air purification filter and an electrically heated windshield. An automatic mode for heated seats and steering wheel intelligently activates based on conditions. Standard settings for lights and central locking are also present. Premium touches like comfortable entry/exit functions and advanced door handles that prevent improper opening are highly appreciated.

The connectivity module of the central screen is well-equipped. The vehicle is constantly connected to the network, and Wi-Fi (without hotspot functionality) and Bluetooth are available. Mobile connectivity primarily facilitates system updates and Miracast. Interestingly, a web browser application is not found in the tested vehicle. In addition to wireless connectivity, multimedia can also be connected via USB.

A standout feature distinguishing the Lexus from its Toyota counterpart is the audio system. The tested model was equipped with a Mark Levinson sound system, comprising 13 speakers and a dedicated 12-channel amplifier, delivering a combined output of 1800W. Paired with the improved interior finishes, the sound quality is exceptionally clear and enjoyable. For an urban premium segment vehicle, the listening experience is commendable, with excellent balance across all frequency ranges. However, it’s worth noting that the sound stage, regardless of balance settings, tends to focus prominently on the front seats.

Navigation, Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay

While the built-in navigation system in the tested Lexus LBX was not activated, it is a familiar solution from other Japanese conglomerate models. Users can expect straightforward and clear maps with essential functions and generally up-to-date databases.

Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are fully supported and function flawlessly. Apple CarPlay offers a slight advantage by allowing the side-bar with tabs to remain visible, enhancing convenience. These integrations provide a seamless experience for smartphone users.

Digital Gauges and HUD: Japanese Classic, Uncluttered

Unlike some Toyota models where digital gauges are central to managing many vehicle functions, Lexus focuses on providing the driver with essential information. However, this doesn’t mean a lack of customization options.

The LBX’s digital instrument cluster offers three distinct themes, adjustable from the central screen. These visualizations vary in the number of visible dials. The most comprehensive mimics a classic speedometer and a tachometer/energy flow indicator. An intermediate option centralizes the energy flow indicator, while the simplest completely abandons analog-style pointers for digital readouts.

Drivers can choose to display either a tachometer or an energy flow view. The latter is more sensible in a hybrid Lexus, allowing observation of when the internal combustion engine engages, which is crucial for optimizing fuel efficiency.

In addition to the three main themes, the digital gauges allow for customization within three widget sections. The central part can display an overview of assistance systems or two variants of the map (when navigation is active). The side sections offer the same set of visualizations, including multimedia information and various trip computer displays. All elements can be switched off to minimize displayed information.

For the optional Head-Up Display (HUD), three themes are also available, allowing drivers to select the desired level of detail. The HUD itself is large, colorful, and perfectly clear. It’s simple yet highly effective in its purpose. Beyond basic functions, the windshield also displays an overview of the current functions assigned to the steering wheel buttons, which we’ll discuss shortly.

Lexus LBX Interior: A Premium Experience

A significant improvement over the Toyota Yaris Cross—the LBX’s predecessor—was the Yaris Cross’s notably plastic and somewhat creaky interior finish. Lexus, however, has set a higher standard. The reviewed LBX boasts very pleasant-to-touch materials and excellent fit-and-finish throughout. At every turn, the premium segment quality is palpable. Simultaneously, practicality hasn’t been overlooked, performing quite well for its class.

The LBX features a keyless entry system typical of Lexus. The car doesn’t react simply to approach; instead, grasping one of the front door handles unlocks the central locking. Locking is achieved by touching the visible indentations on the handle. The electric tailgate is also part of the keyless system and can be closed along with the central locking, even with an additional external button. However, a foot-swipe gesture for opening the tailgate is not available.

First Row: Unique Fixed Door Handles

Lexus has long featured unconventional electric door handles. Instead of physically pulling them, you press a button on the inside to electronically release the latch. The interior handles operate similarly, though a traditional pull mechanism is also present as a backup. This system also allows the doors to be locked if sensors detect a hazard, such as an approaching vehicle.

Once the doors are open, the ease of entry and exit is appreciated. The doors cover the sills, preventing dirty trousers. The raised body and wide door hinge articulation further facilitate getting in and out of the LBX.

The door panels impress with a predominant suede-like fabric that is very pleasant to the touch. Even the upper section, though plastic and harder, yields slightly under pressure. Stiff plastic is only found in the lower part, which also contains a modest storage compartment suitable for smaller bottles.

Comfortable Seats, Especially for the Driver

Despite the Lexus LBX being an urban crossover, it proved comfortable on longer journeys. The seats, though relatively firm, offer good adjustability to suit different body types. Even without sporting aspirations, sensible side bolstering is present.

The driver benefits significantly from the available seat features. The driver’s seat is electrically adjustable, including 2-way lumbar support and seat cushion tilt. Lexus also includes a comfortable entry/exit function, though rear passengers might find their legroom compromised if the driver’s seat moves too far back. Seat memory settings are also included.

The front passenger seat features basic manual adjustments, including height. Both front seats share a 3-stage heating function. It’s a missed opportunity that Lexus didn’t include an additional Isofix anchor point, which would be highly beneficial in an urban car of this segment.

Steering Wheel: A Classic Lexus Feel

Moving to the Lexus LBX steering wheel, we encounter another characteristic feature of the brand: its unique controls, which we’ll discuss shortly. The wheel rim itself is heated (2-stage), leather-wrapped, but relatively thin. Manual 2-way adjustment offers a limited range, but at 1.8 meters (approximately 5 feet 11 inches) tall, finding a comfortable driving position was not an issue.

The aforementioned controls consist of physical buttons that are also touch-sensitive, allowing users to assign functions to them. While not available in all trim levels, this solution is generally convenient. The meaning of the arrows on both spokes can be changed on the fly and adjusted in the settings. The primary task of the left section is multimedia management, while the right handles cruise control. A habit needs to be developed: instead of immediately clicking a button, one must wait for the software to recognize the touch before the assigned action is executed. This slight delay could be improved.

Behind the steering wheel are paddle shifters, which, with the continuously variable e-CVT transmission in the Lexus LBX, provide a simulated gear change experience. These are not likely to be used regularly. However, the driver attention monitoring system, with sensors located at the top of the steering column, works effectively.

To the left of the driver’s knee, buttons control seat memory, digital gauge brightness, and trip meter type. There are also switches for opening the fuel filler flap and the tailgate.

Dashboard: Practical Luxury

The most striking evidence that the LBX is more than just a rebadged Yaris Cross is its thoroughly redesigned dashboard, clearly styled in the Lexus tradition. This redesign is complemented by excellent materials and commendable ergonomics. Many will appreciate the lower-set display, which does not protrude above the dashboard itself.

At the very top, part of the Mark Levinson sound system and the Head-Up Display projector are integrated. The air vents and the engine start button are neatly incorporated into the strip separating the plastic from the suede-like material. Below this is the aforementioned display, along with a series of physical switches for climate control and a rotary 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, there’s a storage compartment with a wireless charging pad. Its design is not ideal, as a smartphone placed there tends to protrude 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. The surface is rubber-lined to prevent heavier items from shifting. Returning to the upper level, there’s a 1.5-cup holder—effectively accommodating one cup and small items like a key. Moving further back, a comfortable gear selector and buttons for the parking brake and driving modes are found.

Missing a second cup holder? It’s hidden under the armrest, which slides back to reveal a slightly less convenient space for drinks. If not needed, it can be removed entirely. The armrest itself is comfortable but not otherwise adjustable. It also opens to reveal a generously sized and deep storage compartment, also with a rubber lining.

Another storage compartment is naturally located in front of the passenger, but it’s not excessively large and is made entirely of plastic. Overhead, touch-controlled interior lights and an auto-dimming rearview mirror (with a deactivation switch) are present.

Second Row: Designed for Children

Opening the rear doors of the LBX reveals some compromises. While the door panel still features pleasant-to-touch upholstery, there’s significantly more hard plastic. Nevertheless, the primary contact points remain soft, and the electric door handles are retained. The storage compartment is tiny, and the space after opening the door is not particularly generous.

The rear bench seat is primarily designed for children. Sitting behind a driver’s seat adjusted for a 1.8-meter (5 feet 11 inches) tall person, legroom was minimal, making it suitable mostly for short urban trips. Children or teenagers will undoubtedly find the second row of the LBX more accommodating. The convenient Isofix anchor points, hidden behind easily removable covers, are a welcome feature, though care must be taken not to lose the covers.

For rear passengers, two USB-C ports and a seat-back pocket behind the front passenger seat are available. There are also hooks, but little else. It’s a pity Lexus didn’t include even a simple armrest with a single cup holder here.

Interior Lighting: A Colorful World

Regarding the lighting in the tested Lexus LBX, which is the highest trim level, there are no additional exterior light sources. Upon opening the doors, no lights illuminate the ground, leaving occupants to rely on their vision to spot potential mud or puddles. The interior lighting is more impressive, with adequately bright standard illumination complemented by ambient lighting focused exclusively on the front row across two zones. In higher trims, Lexus offers a choice of 50 colors for this ambient lighting—simple, without excessive flamboyance. Interestingly, a panoramic sunroof is not an option for the LBX.

Trunk: Optimized for Shopping

The electrically operated tailgate of the tested Lexus LBX includes a height-adjustable opening feature. When fully open, it provides a substantial loading aperture with a relatively high sill. A significant advantage is the ability to close the tailgate simultaneously with locking the central doors.

Choosing an LBX with the additional rear-axle electric motor (E-FOUR) results in a noticeably smaller trunk. The basic capacity in this configuration is just 255 liters (approximately 9 cubic feet), whereas the front-wheel-drive version offers 332 liters (approximately 11.7 cubic feet) with a lower floor. The subwoofer further reduces capacity by 3 liters, being mounted on the tailgate itself.

However, Lexus states that when loaded up to the roof, the reviewed model offers 317 liters (approximately 11.2 cubic feet) of capacity. With the rear seatbacks folded (40:60 split, no ski pass-through), the volume expands to 994 liters (approximately 35.1 cubic feet), allowing for luggage or larger purchases. Thanks to the raised floor in the E-FOUR model, a flat loading surface is achieved when the seats are folded.

Notable features in the LBX’s trunk include a double floor concealing space for smaller items, a convenient 12V socket, and well-organized wheel arches. Hooks are absent, but tie-down points for a cargo net are present. A tow hitch is an optional accessory in the configurator, allowing for trailer towing.

Lexus LBX Driving Impressions: Emphasizing Lightness

Viewing the Lexus LBX primarily as a vehicle for urban driving, its ease of operation is highly commendable. A sense of lightness pervades every aspect of the driving experience, particularly with the steering system. The LBX also earns its comfort designation, though not without caveats, as the suspension occasionally reveals a degree of stiffness.

Regarding the suspension, it handles road imperfections quite well, but a quieter operation would be preferred. Larger potholes or significant speed bumps result in audible suspension work, especially from the rear. Concurrently, the suspension is adequately firm to control the short, raised body. The overall driving character is quite pleasant—certainly not boring.

For the steering system, Lexus has opted for its favored electric power steering in the LBX, which presents both advantages and disadvantages. A nuance requiring adjustment is the limited tactile feedback from the wheels, even though it’s not a steer-by-wire system. On the positive side, the manufacturer has implemented distinctly different steering behaviors depending on speed.

Consequently, in the city, and particularly in parking lots, the steering feels incredibly light and effortless. The turning circle of 10.4 meters (approximately 34.1 feet) is perfectly acceptable. When navigating slowly from traffic light to traffic light, there isn’t a noticeable stiffening of the steering, which takes some getting used to but isn’t particularly difficult. On faster roads, however, 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. This self-charging hybrid (HEV) system is built around a 1.5-liter, 3-cylinder internal combustion engine producing 92 horsepower (68 kW) and 120 Nm of torque. Paired with this, an electric motor (94 horsepower) drives the front wheels, resulting in a combined system output of 136 horsepower (101 kW) and 185 Nm of torque.

The addition of a second electric motor on the rear axle for the E-FOUR all-wheel-drive system does not translate into improved performance; in fact, it has the opposite effect. This motor generates just under 5 horsepower and is useful only for assisting with traction on slippery surfaces during acceleration. However, the entire E-FOUR system adds approximately 80 kg (176 lbs) to the vehicle’s weight (totaling 1415 kg or 3119 lbs), leading to a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 9.6 seconds—0.4 seconds slower than the FWD version. This figure accurately reflects the LBX’s real-world capabilities.

Lexus has wisely avoided overcomplicating the LBX with numerous driving modes. Between the front seats, there’s only an “Eco” button, which slightly modifies throttle response and reduces climate control output. In this setting, the car doesn’t feel significantly constrained compared to the standard mode; rather, it prioritizes electric motor usage. While an “EV” mode can be forced under ideal conditions (sufficient battery charge) to run solely on electricity for a short distance (a few kilometers), the optimal approach for maximizing electric driving is to learn how to encourage the LBX to automatically switch to EV mode. This typically involves accelerating smoothly to the desired speed, briefly lifting off the accelerator, and then carefully maintaining the energy flow indicator within the first quarter of its range.

The available system power of the tested Lexus LBX is perfectly adequate for urban driving, a scenario in which the hybrid system excels. There are no complaints regarding the car’s behavior, as its role is to provide comfortable transportation for daily commutes, shopping, or school runs. Fundamentally, this is a premium car designed to offer a calming driving experience.

Naturally, there’s nothing preventing the LBX from venturing onto highways or expressways for longer journeys. However, in such cases, the LBX’s weaknesses become apparent, particularly its power deficit. The car struggles to accelerate dynamically at speeds around 140 km/h (87 mph). Concurrently, engine noise becomes more pronounced, as does road noise from the tires. For optimal comfort, it’s best to maintain a relaxed driving style, ideally up to 120 km/h (75 mph).

When driving the Lexus, it’s beneficial to keep the cruise control (not necessarily active) engaged, as the radar system continuously supports the regeneration process. The LBX will smoothly decelerate and recover energy upon detecting a slower vehicle ahead. This solution is simple, efficient, and convenient. There is no alternative for manually enforcing a specific electric motor braking force.

Fuel Consumption and Range: Nearly Ideal

As an urban crossover, the Lexus LBX theoretically doesn’t require a large fuel tank. The tested vehicle has a capacity of 36 liters (approximately 9.5 gallons). This is not a capacity designed for long-distance travel, yet the Japanese hybrid doesn’t entirely rule out extended trips. During our tests, the ambient temperature was around 15°C (59°F).

Unsurprisingly, the best fuel economy figures are achieved in the city, where the Lexus LBX consistently consumes very little fuel regardless of driving conditions. Our personal best was 3.4 liters per 100 kilometers (approximately 69.2 MPG US) during very calm driving. More typically, in moderate urban traffic, the on-board computer showed around 4 liters per 100 kilometers (approximately 58.8 MPG US), providing a range of about 900 km (560 miles). At the other extreme, constantly preventing the internal combustion engine from shutting off resulted in approximately 7 liters per 100 kilometers (approximately 33.6 MPG US)—a truly inefficient scenario. Dynamic yet sensible driving typically yielded a maximum of 5 liters per 100 kilometers (approximately 47 MPG US).

Suburban driving with the LBX also performs very well, with steady speeds around 80 km/h (50 mph) easily maintaining fuel consumption at 4 liters per 100 kilometers (approximately 58.8 MPG US) and a similar range of 900 km (560 miles). Efficiency decreases on highways and expressways:

• 100 km/h (62 mph): 5.4 l/100 km (43.6 MPG US) – Range: ~660 km (410 miles)
• 120 km/h (75 mph): 6.4 l/100 km (36.8 MPG US) – Range: ~560 km (348 miles)
• 130 km/h (81 mph): 6.9 l/100 km (34.1 MPG US) – Range: ~520 km (323 miles)
• 140 km/h (87 mph): 7.8 l/100 km (30.2 MPG US) – Range: ~460 km (286 miles)

While these figures are not terrible, they are noticeably higher, as the internal combustion engine plays a more dominant role at higher speeds. It’s also important to remember the increased weight associated with the E-FOUR drivetrain; the decision to pay extra for this system should be carefully considered.

Lexus LBX Assistance Systems: Designed to Simplify Driving

Lexus has implemented a slightly more refined approach to managing assistance systems compared to Toyota. Instead of cryptic abbreviations, the LBX features clearly described tiles, although additional detailed explanations would still be beneficial beyond simple on/off switches. Some solutions do allow for further parameterization, and here the LBX offers interesting customization options.

The LBX’s traffic sign recognition system performs moderately, frequently misreading speed limits from adjacent roads, leading to noticeable and unavoidable beeping alerts. The quickest way to deactivate this is via the slide-out shortcuts menu, where the assistant appears immediately.

The mirrors in the tested Lexus are appropriately sized for the LBX’s body, offering good visibility. They also tilt down automatically when reversing and feature an auto-dimming function. Naturally, a blind-spot monitoring system is included, complemented by front and rear cross-traffic alerts.

Despite being an urban car, the Lexus LBX is equipped with a sophisticated adaptive cruise control system. While it lacks a full stop-and-go function, the extensive options for customizing its operation are impressive. Its performance is impeccable, with only the limited power being a constraint during acceleration on highways. The cruise control is enhanced by an excellent lane-keeping assist system. It quickly recognizes and adheres to lane markings regardless of conditions or speed, making it one of the better implementations on the market. Crucially, it’s not overly sensitive about hand placement on the steering wheel.

The headlights on the tested Lexus LBX are the optional, top-tier adaptive high beam system. Even the basic light output is commendable, performing flawlessly in both urban and rural settings, offering excellent brightness, spread, and range. The adaptive high beam system, while having a relatively small number of segments, effectively cuts out other road users. It feels slightly more responsive to other vehicles compared to the Yaris Cross, though occasionally it was slow to dim specific areas. Furthermore, front fog lights with an active cornering illumination function are included, proving to be a helpful feature.

Finally, a 360-degree camera system is available—a feature entirely absent in its Toyota counterpart. The cameras provide good quality images. While not revolutionary and perhaps slightly less than what one might expect from a premium Lexus, it’s generally effective, allowing drivers to easily spot potential hazards in urban environments. The Lexus software offers a variety of camera views, and even with folded mirrors, the integrated cameras remain useful. Interestingly, opting for the 360-degree camera system removes the rear camera washer, which is present on models without this option. Less useful is the automatic parking assist system, which, while functional, operates at an exceptionally slow pace.

Conclusion and Our Opinion on the Lexus LBX

The Lexus LBX proved to be a very enjoyable car, exceptionally well-suited for city driving. It is designed to offer peace of mind and a tangible sense of premium quality. Compared to its predecessor, there’s a significant leap forward in interior finish and overall quality. Furthermore, it retains a highly fuel-efficient powertrain, light handling, and useful driver assistance technologies.

The two primary drawbacks of the Lexus LBX are the limited rear-seat space and the hybrid system’s constrained power output. Longer journeys on highways will highlight these deficiencies. Additionally, the value proposition of investing in the E-FOUR all-wheel-drive system is questionable. It increases the price, slightly slows acceleration, and reduces trunk space, while its benefits are rarely felt in everyday driving. For most urban drivers, the FWD version offers better value without significant compromise.

Source: Our own work. Opening photo: Lukasz Pajak