Lexus LBX – small, economical and practical in a premium package

Having been writing about all things automotive for a very long time I have been lucky enough to attend many press launches. I well remember the launch of the Lexus LS400, which was the first Lexus to arrive in the UK, back in 1990. It was a revelation in so many respects due to the power, smoothness and refinement of its engine, the luxury and the impeccable build quality. It was no understatement to say it shook the established European premium car makers.

For those not aware Lexus is the upmarket arm of Toyota and over 35 years since it launched Lexus remains a top flight player in terms of quality and reliability. Their range has expanded somewhat and now encompasses a broad range of models including the small, premium LBX SUV.

It carries the underpinnings of the Toyota Yaris Cross and designed to be both an entry point to Lexus and also attract younger buyers. It is more than a mere re-badge though, as can be seen from its quality and more sophisticated look and feel, both inside and out.

Prices start from €34,710/£29,995 with all models in the line-up being self-charging hybrids with a 136 bhp, 3-cylinder, 1.5-litre petrol engine and a choice of either front or all-wheel-drive. Standard fare across the range includes high beam assist, tyre pressure monitoring system, heated, powered and folding door mirrors, front and rear parking sensors, keyless entry and start, dual-zone climate control and Apple Car Play and Android Auto. The higher-level models can increase the specification to luxury car level standards.

On the road the Lexus is a smooth and refined drive, unless you push it hard when the usual CVT automatic gearbox characteristics (any CVT not just Lexus) of briefly high revs, before everything catches up and calmness resumes, rears its head. It is most un-Lexus-like. The secret is smooth and progressive acceleration, you soon pick up the knack, and when you do it’s a nice drive. There’s a lot of seamless switching between electric and petrol power and a lot of the time it’s difficult to tell whether the engine has actually kicked in such is the refinement, especially at low speed.

It’s no sports SUV but you can enjoy a brisk drive along mildly twisty cross-country routes and in normal daily use it’s a nice place to be whether commuting, doing the shopping, the school run or a long-distance holiday drive. If you want small, economical and premium, then the LBX might just be the answer.

Facts at a glance

• Model: Lexus LBX Premium Plus
• Engine: 1.5-litre, 3-cylinder, petrol self-charging hybrid developing 134 bhp/100kw
• Gears: e-CVT automatic
• Price: €40,728/£35,195
• Performance: 0-62mph/100kph 9.2 secs 106 mph maximum speed
• Economy: 61.4mpg/3.83 litres per 100km
• Emissions: 103 g/km

Model tested was UK-specification and equipment levels and prices may vary in other markets